A Shot at Love

A Toast at Soho House

"Wait, wait, wait! There's no way that was set up by your publicist?" I ask Russ, laughing in disbelief.

"Guilty as charged," Russ chuckles, taking a sip of his Blue Label whisky. "Look, I'm not proud of it, but there's a method to my brand's madness. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the company of the ladies, but things aren't always what they seem."

"No judgments here, I totally get it," I continue, sipping my tequila on the rocks. "So then, where are you off to tomorrow?"

Russ pauses, meeting my gaze. "Quick trip to San Francisco. Ever been?"

San Francisco. He is meeting with the Warriors!

I recall my conversation with Noah on the night we first met, a soft smile spreading across my face. "Only briefly passing through, but I hear Fisherman's Wharf has out-of-this world clam chowder in sourdough bowls. And Ghirardelli Square is a must-stop if you're a chocolate lover. Have you ever been to either?" I ask casually. 

"I can vouch that the clam chowder is tight! I haven't had much free time there, though. I'll have to send my assistant to Ghirardelli." Russ replies.

"You most certainly will," I begin. "So what brings you up that way?"

Russ smoothly answers, "A little business, a little pleasure. You know."

I study Russ intently. "Actually, I think I do know, but I haven't had confirmation yet," I say, pausing. "You're meeting with the Warriors, aren't you?" I whisper.

He takes a sip of his Blue Label, taking a quick peek at the crowd surrounding us mingling inside Soho House. "My publicist is gonna be pissed," Russ blurts. "But I like you, Kingston. You keep it real and that's important to me. We were going to give Sports Illustrated  the exclusive once the contract was officially signed, but I think Sports Digest is a better fit." He leans in and softly confides, "You're looking at the newest addition to the Golden State Warriors!" Russ excitedly raises his glass to cheer me and signals the bartender.

"Russ! Congratulations!" I cheer. He is giving us the story! Keep your cool, Kingston. "How do you feel? You've been with the Lakers for so long."

"It's definitely a mix of emotions. I'm stoked, but my time with the Lakers was special to me. It allowed me to make my mark in this industry. Those guys are my brothers and always will be. But sometimes in life, we gotta step out of our comfort zone and do things that scare us to get results we've never had. I'm excited to see what this next chapter brings," Russ says, his voice heartfelt.

"Truer words have never been spoken. When do you officially sign?" I inquire.

"Thursday morning," he replies with a smile.

"Well, again, congratulations! If it's cool, I'll link up with your publicist to arrange the first official photoshoot at your new arena. We can drop the feature Thursday once you've signed," I propose.

"Sounds dope. What's your number? I'll send you her information right now." He smoothly transitions, handing me his phone.

"Perfect," I respond, entering my number and returning his iPhone. A moment later, a notification chimes on my cell, displaying his 323 area code and the publicist's details. "Received! Thank you so much, Russ. It's been a pleasure getting to know you and interviewing you. Any final thoughts before we go off the record?"

"Yeah, yeah, sure. To anyone reading, remember, the things you're passionate about aren't random; they're your calling. If you believe in yourself enough and know what you want, you're going to make it happen. You've got this," he shares sincerely.