More Than A Game

Chapter 37

A/N: A quick note to thank you for keeping up this far with the story, it's been an exciting time already. Many of the events within this chapter are based around last year's Brownlow ceremony and an edit of Chad & Carmen at the awards is up the top. Enjoy. xx

'Are you ready babe?" Chad said as I intertwined my fingers with his before slowly placing my feet against the long, red carpet and rising from the seat of the black limousine.

I moved my head around and scanned the outside of Crown Casino; the venue was brightened from the lights, the silver beams of moonlight danced across the water and camera crews were placed everywhere awaiting for a glimpse of various WAG's fashion choices.

As I walked alongside Chad on the red carpet, I could feel his warm breath brush across my ear. I blushed at the sound of his rather raspy tone.

"You look beautiful tonight Carmen."

Getting closer towards the door, we were both greeted by two reporters, Hamish McLachlan and Rebecca Maddern, who I remember are a sport commentator and a reporter for the breakfast show, Sunrise. Chad and I both answered a couple of questions and shared some laughs with the hosts before they allowed us to pass through into the actual venue of Crown.

The inside of Crown had made me speechless and I was unsure whether it was because the interior design was one of the most beautiful I had ever seen or because every time I looked around, I could see players either just chilling or chatting with somebody. My heart started to beat rapidly as I forced myself to stay calm, this was in fact Chad's night.

"I heard it was fantastic but I had no idea Crown would be this beautiful and extravagant."

"What exactly are you referring to that's beautiful and extravagant Carmen, the interior or something else?" He replied as I gave him a bitter look and rolled my eyes, as I fixed the arms of his suit jacket. Before he could say a word, a rather loud voice emerged from behind us that surprisingly didn't sound familiar to me.

As I turned around, I came face to face with a rather tall figure with spiky blonde hair and seriously sharp jawline. I could feel my cheeks start to warm up in excitement knowing exactly who came to greet Chad, Luke Parker.

"Hey Chad, what's up man? I haven't seen you ages, how's everything been going?"

"Nothing much man, just chilling during the post season, what about you and your lovely lady?"

"She's wonderful, really. She unfortunately couldn't show up tonight because she had work commitments but she isn't exactly my girlfriend anymore." Luke retorted as he began explaining about the engagement and their future wedding plans.

"Congratulations Luke, I couldn't have been more prouder."

"Speaking about being proud Wingard, who's this beautiful woman standing by your side?"

"Hi Mr Parker, I'm Carmen." I said, introducing myself as Luke flashed a huge grin showcasing his pearly white teeth to me. I could feel myself mentally melt within this moment. We finished up the conversation with Luke before saying our goodbyes and leaving with another person. Chad began taking me around the area, introducing me to various players other players and their super kind girlfriends and wives.

Looking around, I was surprised. Ollie was nowhere to be seen although he said he was coming here tonight. I looked around once more before pushing the thought out of my mind, I'll probably see him during the medal count.

I noticed Chad looking over his shoulder before turning his attention on me as he bit his lip. I raised my eyebrow, wondering what was getting him so bothered.