“McCoy, Pierson, and Trust. We’re meeting with the media in ten. Pierson, remind Moats he’s expected in twenty,” Bill said.

We all knew he was retiring. Now that we were a proven winning team, players were going to line up to play for us. I fixed my makeup and brushed my hair. I was hyped up. I waited with Marcus outside the press room. We both knew our résumés just got way more attractive. I wasn’t going anywhere, but I wasn’t so sure about him.

“I can’t believe it’s over,” he said.

“What an incredible season.” I gave him a hug. When Bill and Jamal showed up, we walked in together. It was a quick question-and-answer session. I stayed when Grayson took the podium.

“Yes, the rumors are true. I’m retiring. It’s been a hell of a ride but it’s the best move for me and my family.” Grayson answered each question with poise and positivity. I was weirdly proud of him. After twenty minutes, he stepped away from the podium and away from football.

The team threw him a retirement party the Friday before the Super Bowl. News of his divorce was quickly swallowed up by the hype of the big game. Now that Grayson was retired, his personal life wasn’t in the limelight. It was the best result the Moats could have hoped for.

Every single teammate and coach showed up for Grayson’s party. The girls stuck by his side. For the first time in Grayson’s career, Parker hung back. She stayed close because of the girls, but she was distancing herself from him. Change was happening. I kept my distance and spent the evening hanging out with Matt. I got to hear his side of the story and the hardships he muddled through while waiting for Grayson. He had tried other relationships but failed. Grayson was his true love and he said he was worth the wait. I wondered if he knew about me and Parker until he caught me watching her across the room.

He nodded at her. “She’s happier than I’ve ever seen her.”

“What?” I smiled and bumped my shoulder against his. “I mean, we’re not together. Yet. Officially.”

“You might be keeping a respectful distance, but love looks good on her.” Matt glanced my way. “And on you.”

For the first time, I let myself feel happiness about me and Parker around another person. It blossomed inside me and burst into a kaleidoscope. I blushed at how liberating it felt. “Thank you.”

Archie approached us and Matt gave him a bland smile. “Coach McCoy, do you want to come to my Super Bowl party? Lots of people, huge screen, great food,” Archie said.