Page 68 of Scored

Two kids.

Memories came to mind. “We were kids the first time.” I pointed to Fin’s messy mop of hair. “Did you see your son is turning gray?”

“He must get that from you, Theo,” Lisa replied with a scoff. “The truth is, if I didn’t have my monthly hair appointments, I’d be completely gray.”

“What are your plans for today?” I asked.

Theo and Lisa looked at one another. “Today,” she said, “after breakfast, we’ll head back to Bowling Green. And…”

Fin turned away from his vegetables to his mom.

“Your dad and I were talking about next weekend. We’re not sure where Zane will be playing.”

“We’ll find out tonight,” Theo said, “either Detroit or Philadelphia. Either way, we think we’re going to go to his game next week. Maybe in three weeks we watch you both play.”

“What an amazing conundrum,” I said with a grin, “having two sons playing in the postseason.”

“That will be good for Zane,” Fin said.

“We really do appreciate all you’ve done,” Lisa repeated.

The egg mixture Fin had whipped up sizzled as he added it to the sauteed vegetables.

“Our pleasure,” I said. “If you need help finding tickets to the Vikings’ game, let me know.”

“I spoke to Ashley this morning,” Lisa said. “She has a connection from her cheering days.”

“I’m still happy to help.”

Fin added Swiss cheese to his scramble. “As much as it pains me to say it, you better cheer for the Lions. Ford Field is covered.” He peeked over his shoulder with a grin. “You’re going to be cold in Philadelphia.”

“We know,” Lisa said with a shiver.

I took silverware and napkins to the dining table as Fin filled a large serving bowl with the egg scramble. From the microwave, he brought out a platter of bacon. I poured orange juice for anyone who wanted it, and we refilled our coffee cups.

The conversation was mostly about yesterday’s game and Troy Dennison.

The eggs were delicious.

“Do either of you need to be to work today?” Theo asked.

Fin and I shook our heads.

“One day to relax,” I said, “and then six days to cram for either the Chiefs or Texans.”

“Today,” Fin added, “we’ll watch the games and find out who the Graham brothers will play next weekend.”

Theo lifted his glass of orange juice. “You and your brother make us proud.”

We all lifted our glass or cup.

It wasn’t until the Grahams left for Bowling Green that Fin pinned me with his stare. “What are you going to do about the flowers?”

CHAPTER 27

Fin

Vee pursed her lips. “I want to spend today here with you watching the two playoff games.”