Chapter 33 – Jordan
CHAPTER
THIRTY-THREE
JORDAN
It’s been a grueling week of away-game travel, and I’m missing my girl, something fierce. She has her thirty-eight-week appointment on Monday, and since I’m going to meet her for that, I’ve decided to stay at my place this weekend.
Even though I’d rather be curled up with Mack, I pull my truck into my reserved spot at the arena.
I may not have a game tonight, but March Madness is in full swing, and CTU has found themselves deep in the tournament for the second year in a row.
I had to come support my former teammates and coach as they hope to secure a spot in the Final Four tonight.
My sister and parents are sitting in my dad’s box, but I want to be behind the bench, closer to the court.
It’s surreal that I was suiting up with these guys one year ago, and a wave of nostalgia hits me.
As a Sting player, I’m able to sneak in without being noticed by going through private areas and sliding into my seat, whistling to catch my guys’ attention as they warm up.
Carter and Williams give me a nod and continue on with their routine, but my soon-to-be brother-in-law saunters over with a wide grin on his face.
It still shocks me that Riggs decided not to pursue a professional basketball career.
He’s beyond capable and talented, but his heart has always been set on coaching.
When he found out my sister was sticking around at CTU, he knew he’d made the right choice.
Ball is life—but for Riggs, he learned that nothing comes close to the love of the right woman.
“J, I thought you’d be up in the box, avoiding all the press and cameras.”
“Nah, I thought I’d do a little behind-the-bench coaching tonight.”
“I’m sure Coach will love that.” We both laugh and I see coach Jake Hart look over, smiling at me before walking over to shake my hand.
“Jordan, it’s good to see you, son. You’re having a great rookie season.”
“Thanks, Coach.”
“You can call me Jake. You’re in the league now.”
“I don’t think so. You’ll always be Coach to me.” He pats me on the shoulder, then heads to mid-court to chat with the officials before the game starts.
We’re nearing halftime and CTU has brought their best game tonight. It’s a ten-point lead for my Titan brothers and the arena is buzzing with excitement. I’m texting with Mackenzie when I get a tap on the shoulder and I turn to find CTU radio broadcaster Dale Layton, waiting to talk to me.
“Jordan! I thought that was you. I’m so glad you’re here to support the boys.”
“Mr. Layton, it’s good to see you.” I shake his hand and we chat for a few minutes.
“Now, listen. I’d like to pull you over for a little chat during halftime. I know that our listeners would love to have you on. What do you say?”
Hesitantly, I agree and follow him down to the press area, taking a seat beside him. I’m fitted with the mic, something I’ve done many times in the past, as a player. It’s wild to be here commentating on the game in front of me instead of playing it.
“Welcome back to Titan radio, Dale Layton coming live from Charlotte where the CTU Titans are leading by ten at halftime. I have the pleasure of being joined by our very own Jordan Mills. He led the team to a national title last season and is now having a stellar rookie season right here with the Sting. Welcome, Jordan.”
“Wow, Dale. That was quite an introduction. I appreciate it. It feels good to be here, supporting CTU.”
“Tell us what you’re seeing out there so far.”
“Well, I can tell you that Theo Williams has become a force on the court this year, commanding the team vocally and in his performance every game. He’s completely unstoppable out there.”
“You’re right about that. Theo is leading the nation in rebounds and is nominated for College Player of the Year.
Our former quiet big man has become an outstanding leader.
Pairing that with the sharp shooting of Carter Smith and our freshman point guard Zee Levy, the team has been entertaining to watch. ”
“I couldn’t agree more, Dale.”
“I have to ask—have you spoken to Eric Moore since he left the team?”
“No, he’s been busy with his new responsibilities, but we all love and support him, as well as his family. He’s certainly missed, both as a player and a friend.”
“Speaking of friends, there’s a rumor we need to address.”
“Now, Dale, you know how I feel about gossip.” He laughs at that.
“All our female listeners out there want to know if it’s true that you are off the market, dating longtime friend Mackenzie Banks.” I’m shocked this is circulating, but not mad. I’m more than happy to publicly claim the woman of my dreams.
“I can confirm that rumor is one hundred percent true. Mackenzie and I are together and I’m off the market—permanently, if I have a say in it.”
“Well folks, the grin on Jordan’s face says it all, but he just confirmed and you heard it here first. And are congratulations in order?
You’re going to be a father?” For a split second, I don’t know how to answer that.
I can say no comment and ignore it, but what message does that send to Mackenzie about how I feel?
No—this is my chance to set the record straight moving forward.
“I appreciate that, Dale. Yes, Mackenzie is pregnant, and we’ll have a baby joining us in the coming months.”
“Well, if they’re anything like their dad, they’ll be a phenomenal athlete.
We at CTU can’t wait to have another generation of Mills join our ranks.
I’ll let you get back to your seat for the second half, but thank you for taking the time tonight, Jordan.
Good luck with the rest of your season and with the birth of your first child. ”
“Thank you. It’s my pleasure, and Go Titans!”
Dale sends the show to commercials and we shake hands.
“When your playing days end, I’d love to have you as my partner. You’re great on the radio, Jordan.”
“Thank you, sir. I’ll keep that in mind.”
I head back to my seat, gearing up for the second half. Before the team comes back out, I get a text that makes my smile grow and peace settle in my heart.
Mack
You claimed us on the radio. I heard the whole interview. That means the world to me. I love you.
I told you, baby, you’re mine and I want the world to know it.
CTU ends up taking the win by over twenty points, sending the Titans to back-to-back Final Fours for the first time in school history. I congratulate the guys quickly and let them bask in the glory of winning.
As I walk into my penthouse, I can’t help but smile thinking about how incredible my life is. There is one loose end I need to tie up and I’m dreading it. I send a text to the one person I need to have a conversation with and pray it goes well.