He high-fived the kids in the front row. Mascots didn’t speak. They waved, did backflips, danced, and tried to get the crowd excited. The kids were thrilled. I kept the smile on my face even though Parker was fifteen feet away. We made eye contact several times and even though her smile was hesitant, it still stirred something inside me. It was the same light, fluttering joy I got when I knew somebody was interested in me.

“Students, let’s give Coach McCoy and Champ a round of applause for taking time out of their day to spend it with us.” The principal got the children to clap for our short, but fun visit.

I stood back while Champ took photos with the different classes. A young teacher with long dark hair and hazel eyes slid over to me.

“Congratulations on your accomplishments. I love football and respect what you’ve done so much.” She tilted her head and looked at me coyly. I found everything about her charming from her crooked smile to the small smattering of freckles across her nose.

“Thank you. Are you a Cheetahs fan?” It was a stupid question because we had played only one regular season game.

“Believe it or not, my family has season tickets. We were at the game so we saw your first win.”

I could tell she was not only excited about the team, but I got the feeling she was interested in me. “Where are your seats?”

“Section one forty, ten rows up,” she said.

I nodded. “Those are good seats. How do you like the team?”

“I’m so excited. Good quarterback, great coaches, especially the offensive coordinator. I mean, I can’t imagine you won’t get us to the playoffs. You’re going to slaughter Miami. They are a hot mess on the field.”

She really did get it, and as much as I wanted to relax and talk football with her, I knew better than to open up quickly. Besides, I was working and a cameraman was lurking about ready to pick up anything interesting, not to mention the teachers with their iPhones out recording everything.

“We certainly hope to bring home another win.”

She touched my arm lightly. “We’re rooting for you, Coach. My friends and family are going to be watching on the big screen.” She bit her bottom lip and smiled at me.

“Our first official fan. It’s nice to meet you. I’m Sutton.” I held out my hand and she shook it.

“I’m Ruby. I teach kindergarten.”

“Do you have children that go to school here?” When she laughed at my question, I automatically looked around hoping we weren’t being loud. I locked eyes with Parker. She didn’t look amused. I quickly looked away, guilt pricking my conscience.