15. Charlie

The moment Marissa and I enter the conference room, it’s clear this meeting with the San Antonio reps is different from the others. It’s not just the fact that there are more people here than in the other meetings, although that certainly adds to the tense atmosphere. No, it’s something else, like a cloud of expectation hanging in the air.

And it makes sense. People have been sending me and Marissa the articles about us. We’ve made blogs and posts all over the internet. Everyone has noticed that I’m in a new relationship and that I have a new agent.

Just like Marissa said we would, we’re making waves.

“Calm and focused,” Marissa whispers into my ear.

“Got it,” I reply, my chest tightening as we take our seats at the head of the table.

The reps exchange glances, their faces a mix of skepticism and curiosity. It already feels like I’m on trial, fighting for my future.

“Let’s get started,” says the lead rep, a stern-looking woman with sharp cheekbones and an even sharper gaze. “We’ve received reports about your recent improvements, Charlie. However, we want to hear from you directly. Where is your headspace right now?”

“Thanks for asking,” I say, taking a deep breath. I focus on Marissa’s advice, reminding myself that sincerity is key. “To be honest, I’ve been through a lot lately, but I’ve come out of it stronger and more determined than ever. I realized that I owe it to myself and my fans to take control of my life, both on and off the field.”

“Interesting,” she says, her eyes narrowing slightly. “And how do you plan on turning your image around?”

“Firstly, by being more open about my journey,” I explain, the weight of their gazes on me. “I want people to know that I’m striving to grow and improve, both as an athlete and as a person. That means engaging with the media and the public in a positive way, as well as getting involved with community initiatives and giving back to those less fortunate.”

“Commendable,” another rep interjects, a man with salt-and-pepper hair. “But what will you do to stay focused if we decide to take you on?”

“Simple,” I say, looking him dead in the eye. “I’ll surround myself with people who believe in me and my potential. Like Marissa here. She’s been instrumental in helping me get back on track. And I’ll continue to work hard, both mentally and physically, to ensure that I’m always at the top of my game.”

“Very well,” says the lead rep, her expression inscrutable. “Thank you for your candor, Charlie. We’ll be sure to take all of this into consideration.”

“Of course,” I reply, feeling a surge of pride.

I did it; I tackled their questions head-on without letting nerves or doubt get the best of me. And it’s all because of Marissa. Her unwavering support has made me believe that I can overcome anything. And maybe, just maybe, these reps will see me in the same light.

“Charlie.” A rep who hasn’t said anything yet studies me. “We’ve heard some rumors about you and Marissa. Can you confirm if there’s any truth to them?”

I glance at Marissa, and she gives me a subtle nod. We had prepared for this question, but it still feels oddly exposing to discuss our relationship — fake as it is — in front of these strangers.

I clear my throat. “Yes, it’s true. Marissa and I are together.”

“Interesting,” the rep murmurs, scribbling something down on her notepad. “And how has that affected your professional relationship?”

“Actually, it’s enhanced it,” Marissa interjects smoothly. “Our personal connection has allowed us to communicate more effectively and trust each other implicitly. I think it’s only strengthened Charlie’s commitment to bettering himself and his career.”

As she speaks, her knee grazes my knee ever so lightly, sending a flood of warmth through me. I know it’s an accidental touch, but it still affects me.

It’s strange. Even though our romantic relationship began as an act, the lines between reality and pretense have started to blur. Our laughter no longer feels forced; instead, it comes naturally, as if we’ve been doing this for years. And now, sitting here in front of these people, I realize that my feelings for Marissa might not be entirely fake.

“Thank you for sharing that,” the lead rep says, nodding thoughtfully. “It’s always good to see that personal relationships can have positive effects on one’s professional life.”

“Absolutely,” I say. “I truly believe our relationship has made me a better athlete and person.”

As the meeting continues, I steal glances at Marissa, her eyes bright and focused as she listens intently to the conversation. The way she advocates for me, the confidence she instills in me… it’s something I’ve never experienced before.

As the meeting starts winding down, the reps exchange knowing glances, their initial skepticism replaced by warmth and genuine interest. Their change in attitude is palpable.

“Charlie,” one of the reps begins, her tone softer than before. “We had our doubts, as I’m sure you know. We’ve all heard the stories, seen the headlines. But seeing you here today, listening to your answers, and witnessing the bond you share with Marissa… it’s clear that there’s more to you than what we see in the tabloids.”

“Thank you,” I say, my chest tightening with emotion. “I’m committed to proving that I’m worth your investment and support.”

“We still have some deliberation to do, but I think it’s safe to say that things are looking positive,” another rep chimes in, nodding in agreement. “We’ll be in touch soon with an official decision.”

As the meeting comes to a close, handshakes and pleasantries are exchanged, and Marissa and I make our way out of the conference room. The moment the door closes behind us, relief and elation wash over me like a tidal wave. Without thinking, I sweep Marissa into my arms, spinning us around in celebration.

“Charlie!” she exclaims, laughing, her cheeks flushed from the sudden embrace.

Our eyes lock, and I’m tempted to lean down and kiss her, to express my gratitude in a way that words can’t. But just as quickly as the urge appears, I force myself to step back, placing a professional distance between us once again.

“Sorry,” I mutter, running a hand through my hair. “I just… Thank you, Marissa. Seriously. I couldn’t have done this without you.”

She shakes her head, though she’s wearing a smile. “Charlie, this was all you. You’re the one who answered those questions and showed them the real you.”

“Still, I wouldn’t have even made it this far without your guidance,” I insist, my heart swelling with appreciation for the amazing woman standing before me.

“Teamwork makes the dream work,” she jokes, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

But beneath her lighthearted demeanor, I see a genuine pride in her gaze. Pride for me, for us, for what we’ve accomplished together.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” I say, trying to tamp down my excitement. “We still have to wait for their official decision.”

“True. But no matter what happens, I… I’m proud of you. And I know that if you keep pushing forward like this, great things are in store.”

Her gaze locks onto mine, and for a moment, I see something flicker behind her eyes. A vulnerability that she quickly disposes of.

I want to probe deeper, to ask her if she feels what I am. But she’s already turned away and pulled out her phone.

“I’ll order a car,” she says, her tone prompt and professional.

A strange emptiness takes hold of me. My career is finally looking up again, and I should be ecstatic. Instead, my mind keeps drifting back to Marissa… to the way her hand fits so perfectly in mine, the sound of her laughter, and the warmth of her embrace.

I miss her already, even though she’s standing right next to me. The realization is a cold, hard truth that settles in my gut. I want more than just a professional relationship with her; I want her friendship, her support, and maybe… even more.

But as she taps away on her phone, focused on her job, I suspect she’ll never see me as anything other than a client. Once our tour of interviews is over, she’ll go back to work, and I’ll become just another name on her long list of future successes.

“Car will be here in five,” she announces, snapping me from my thoughts.

“Great,” I reply, forcing a smile onto my face.

What am I thinking, anyway? Marissa is my agent, and I don’t do relationships. There would be no future there for us. So everything is as it should be.

…Right?