31. Chapter 31

Chapter 31

Tripp

The Cosmos add another win to the column. We might have traded touchdowns throughout the entire game, but we had a special teams turnover that favored the Cosmos. There's nothing better than an electric special teams play.

The locker room is deafening. You'd think we just made the playoffs but it's just a bunch of guys pumped after a solid game—it feels fucking great. Not only did we win, but I had 156 yards, 13 receptions, and two touchdowns. This means I can cash in on Willow's bet. I can't wait to listen to her new music before anyone else.

During warmups, I knew she was there, but I was too nervous to even look at the suite. I only let myself a single glance when we were waiting for the anthem.

There she was. Wearing a Cosmos blue top, sitting in the front, right next to my mom. I couldn't look for long because it fucking filled my eyes with tears. Happy ones. But no one wants to be crying before an NFL game.

Plus, the second I found her, so did everyone else. There were multiple times she, Emilie, and my mom were shown on the Jumbotron. Cat's out of the bag. It's been roughly two months and I can't believe word hasn't gotten out before this.

I'm itching to get out of the locker-room. I turn my phone on and it's a barrage of text messages from friends, family, and old teammates. Almost all of them have something in common: Willow. Some just ask me how I've held out, but some include clips of her celebrating when I scored during today's game.

Fuck me. Is this for real? She's jumping up and down, hugging my mom, random friends and family from the team, like she's having the time of her life. Emilie is right with her, always screaming. They're so into it and I can't get enough.

"Huddle up, it's time to give away the team ball," Coach says, trying to get us all to pay attention.

"Hell of a game today. Our defense was flying around in the way we know it takes to win football games. Special teams, you pulled off some trick plays that I never would've allowed if I knew what was happening." Coach laughs and looks at the coordinators. "But we have got to give it up for our guy, Tripp Owens. Over 150 yards, two touchdowns, and he may have been showing off for his girlfriend but if that's how you play when she's here, she's welcome any time." He winks at me. "Game ball goes to Tripp."

A ball of emotion is in my throat. Our guy, Tripp Owens . I figured news about Willow would spread quickly throughout the team, but I didn't think about coach. Why do I feel like my dad is calling me out for having a girlfriend?

When the guys start clapping and hollering, I go from borderline crying to pumped. The moment is quick, but it feels like I'm living it in slow motion. It may not be as significant as others, but this means something to me. Some guys hit my back and shake my shoulders while others give me shit for not telling them about Willow.

Today, I'm not boring. I know this much. I'll always remember this game, taking home the game ball, and my girl in Cosmos blue.

Once the hype dies down, everyone starts leaving to meet friends and family before we go to team dinner. I let the locker room empty, hoping it will be less chaotic when I go out there. The thought of Willow out there with the other family members, and my mom, has me itching to get out of here.

When it's finally time, I walk into the friends and family area. Before I can look for anyone, my mom runs up and wraps me in a hug. I know it's her by the touch.

"Tripp! Two touchdowns. You were SO GOOD TODAY. I mean, you're good most days, but you really had it going." She squeezes me tight. I can feel and hear her pride.

"Thanks, Mom. I try," I joke because I don't really know what else to say. She praises me no matter how much of a dud I play.

She gives me a kiss on the cheek and steps away. That's when I see her.

Willow. Leather skirt. Boots. Cosmos Blue. A signature pink lip. And a smile that makes time fucking stop.

I walk towards her and she meets me—wrapping her arms around my neck.

"You were incredible! I just, ugh, I can't get my heart to stop racing. I can't imagine what it's like playing!" Her words come a mile a minute and the enthusiasm doesn't go unnoticed.

"Means a lot that you came. I had about a hundred text messages sending me clips of you at the game," I say into her ear; it's just for me and her.

"Well, in that case…" she says before brushing her lips on mine. Kissing me in front of all these people. Winning a game is a good time but kissing your girl after is much better.

"Tripp, I'm going home. You guys have fun at team dinner. Call me tomorrow," my mom says knowingly.

"Love you, Mom." I wrap her in a final hug.

"Willow, such a pleasure. Hope we can do lunch or something soon. I'll bring you some knitting needles!" my mom says while reaching for Willow's hand .

"Sounds good, Wendy. Text me what day works best for you."

Text her? What is happening? She must sense my question.

"Your mom and I sort of hit it off." She shrugs like it's common knowledge.

"Wow, okay. Hope you'll still have time for me."

"I'll see if I can fit you in," she says while planting a sweet kiss on my mouth.

"All right, lovebirds. I'm out of here. Tripp, great game. Hope to see another one soon," Emilie says, trying to make her exit.

"I'll put you on the suite list for the rest of the season. You're always welcome. If you ever need a plus one, let me know and I can make it happen," I say and shake her hand.

Emilie shoots Willow a look. One that says, I know what you're about to do and have some fun. Someone else from Willow's security detail will follow us to the team dinner and then to my apartment before calling it a night.

"Are you ready?" I ask.

"More than ready, Mr. MVP," she tells me, and I try not to blush.

I reach for her hand and we walk to my car. She and I both know this is where some of the media will be waiting to get a picture of us together. We talked about it before the game and I can't wait for people to see her with me. I'd see her in secret if I needed to, but I love that we're going public.

The media is respectful and quiet. They mostly take our pictures without saying anything and Willow smiles and waves when we pass.

My girl's so good at this.