Page 71 of Scored

The Texans beat the Chiefs in overtime. That meant the Coopers would play the Texans in the early game next Sunday—our third matchup.

We called for dinner from the restaurant downstairs and were eating when the Lions and Eagles’ game kicked off.

During the NFC game, the AFC championship round was a topic of conversation with the talking heads. They said that statistically, the Coopers had a sixty-five percent chance of sweeping the Texans next week.

“I hope they’re right,” I said.

Vee looked up from her sandwich. “They are. I’m convinced.”

“The AFC has been predictable. The Vikings are the bracket buster. A No. 5 seed is playing in the championship.”

“Have you called Zane?”

“I texted him last night. We always text one another before the other plays.”

“Does it bother you that your parents are going to his game?”

“No.” I shook my head. “Not at all. It would be nice if they could see me take the field in person, but going to Zane’s game is the right thing for them to do.”

Vee turned toward the television. The camera showed an aerial view of Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The field was clear of snow, but white patches were visible in the parking lots and beyond.

“For your parents’ sake, I hope the Lions win.”

I chuckled. “The part of me that spent six years in Green Bay can’t find it in myself to cheer for the Lions.”

Vee stood and reached for the half-full mug of cold coffee and her phone. Her forehead furrowed as she stared down at the screen.

“What is it?”

“A text message from earlier. Cammy wants to meet with Trish and me tomorrow.” She shook her head. “I don’t know when I can fit that in.”

“Do you know what it’s about?”

“No. If it’s not vital, I’ll ask to postpone it. My schedule is packed.”

CHAPTER 28

Vee

“We’ve been reviewing film on Houston,” Don said, seated in my office, his cup of black coffee in hand.

The sun had yet to rise, but my day had begun. I sipped my coffee with cream. “Last night, the talking heads said the Coopers had a statistically higher chance of winning.”

Don shrugged. “I don’t trust stats. We need to play the Texans like we played them before, only better, stronger, and faster.” He turned to me. “What did you think about Saturday’s game?”

“It was amazing. Honestly, standing on the sideline, feeling the energy from the players and the fans, it was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. There’s just an electric current during the playoffs.”

“I kept wanting to pick up the phone and call your daddy.”

I nodded. “I wanted to run up to the suite and hug him.”

“He sure would be proud.”

“I hope he would. What were your thoughts on offense and defense?” I asked.

“Defense was damn good,” he said. “After how the Bills outscored the Jags, Darius Brown had his work cut out for him. I would’ve liked to see more scoring from the offense. The Bills beat the spread.”

A smile lifted my cheeks. “We won, Don. I don’t give a damn about the spread.”