The Player

Away

Michael and I talked every day after that 1st date. It was probably the best first date I had ever had. Who decides to take someone bike riding on a first date?! I get giddy just thinking about the possibilities. There was something innocent in the way Michael went about our relationship. It was like he was afraid to put himself out there to get hurt but he also just wanted to live life and have fun. 

The Nuggets had their next 5 games on the road so I wasn't sure when I would see Michael again. I made sure not to miss any games despite being a Pelicans fan. But these people in Denver are serious about their basketball. I got a call from Michael about 2 hours before the last of the road game against the Utah Jazz. 

"Hey Ava, I'll be back tomorrow morning, can I take you to lunch?" I smiled but immediately got annoyed that I have an actual job. It's a Friday and school is in session. 

As much as I would like to skip, I can't just for lunch with Michael. "I'm sorry it's a school day I'll be at work" I made sure to sound as sad as possible. 

"I completely understand. You said you teach at Denver Prep?" he asked.

"Yes. 1st year there but so far so good!" 

"That's good. hey I gotta go warm up I just wanted to hear your voice. I'll text you after the game."

"OH! Ok good luck! I'll be watching" I said blushing more than I ever have.

These last few weeks getting to know Michael were so much different than I expected. He made sure I was ok every day and that if I was struggling he wanted me know he was there to support me. I don't think I ask for much as I grew up with a fairly simple life but Michael proves everyday just how different he is. Sometimes I questioned if this is just a Façade. 

Dee thinks I'm getting into my head too much and that I just need to enjoy the time I spend with him. "Better said than done, girl." I told her. So for we've only had one date and I'm excited to see him again. But at this rate who knows when that will be. I never thought dating an athlete would be so difficult. 

I spent the next couple hours thinking about Michael. Thinking about his smile and his laugh while simultaneously looking for something to wear for the game. The Nuggets were doing pretty good this season and every game day The Cajun Brewery turned on the game. The regulars all pack in around the T.V. and watch and yell at the game. I didn't think I would get as into it as I have but watching Michael always made me happy and if they win I know he's happy too. 

"I need to get more Nuggets gear." I said to myself. I have 3 shirts and they have run their course since I started paying attention to the games. Maybe I'll invest in a jersey next. Would it be weird to get Michael's jersey? No. I can't do that. That's creepy. Maybe I'll just get a bunch of t-shirts. That will work for now. 

I put on my favorite of the 3 shirts I already owned and headed out the door. I was going to be a little late for tip off but that's ok. I'm never on time most days anyways. I hopped into Rollie, my Corolla, and made my way towards the restaurant. After about 15 minutes of driving I pulled into the parking lot. There were a lot more people here than I remember last game. Luckily I was able to find a parking spot and I ran inside about 5 minutes after the game started. 

"Well looky here!" Sidnie said laughing, "Look who finally decided to grace us with her presence. I will never know how you are habitually late to everything."

"I mean, what can I say, it's a gift. A very special talent, if you will," I said as I bowed towards her. I walked towards the group watching the game and said hello to everyone. They're filling me in on the 5 minutes I missed like it was the most epic beginning to the game. We were up 17-12 but knowing how fast a lead can change I knew this could easily turn. The group had been growing over the past few weeks with fans finding out the team comes here to eat. 

I walked over to the bar to bother Nate who was cleaning some glasses. 

"I see they have you on bartender duty tonight." I said playfully.

He smiled, "what can I say, I'm a man of many talents. Can I get you something?"

"hmm," I thought for a second, "Can I have Rum.... but with Dr. Pepper?" It's a weird ask for some but I love Dr. Pepper and Rum tastes better in it than Vodka. It was NOT going to be a Vodka night.

"AAAAAWWWWWWW!" The whole crowd went up at the same time as the Jazz took the lead. 

"Your boy isn't playing too well." My eyes shot up, I was completely caught off guard by his comment. I haven't told anyone and definitely not Sidnie because I learned the hard way that she can't hold water. 

"I don't know who you're talking about Nate." I said trying to hide my blushing face.

"We all saw it that night Ava. You don't have to say anything. Here's your drink." He passed me my drink and walked away. He was visibly upset at my answer but to be completely honest, I don't owe him an explanation. 

I grabbed my drink and walked back towards the group. It was a close game the whole night but in the end the Jazz ended up with the win by 6. Michael didn't play bad but there's always room for improvement. As much as I wanted them to win, I was happier knowing that Michael was going to be coming home and I couldn't wait.