"The 'shrink it and pink it' approach to women's sportswear," I agree with a grimace. "Not exactly my style."
"You should design a line for us," Zayn suggests, and I can't tell if he's serious or just making conversation. "God knows our licensing department could use the help."
"Don't let them hear you say that," Jax warns, though there's amusement in his eyes. "They're very protective of the brand guidelines."
"Which is why everything looks the same and sells for three times what it's worth," Zayn counters with a dismissive wave.
"I'm glad you guys like it," I say, smiling, though I doubt I'll be mass-producing Grizzlies sweaters anytime soon. This was a one-off, a gesture of support for Darren and his team.
His pack. My... whatever they are to me.
The conversation flows easily after that, with Luke gradually finding his voice to ask insightful questions about the game, judging by everyone's reactions. Jessica charms everyone with her straightforward humor, and I find myself relaxing into the dynamic. It's strange how comfortable it feels, being here with these men who are simultaneously larger-than-life professional athletes and also just...guys. Guys who tease each other mercilessly, who argue about plays and passes, who congratulate each other on a game well played.
Guys who keep looking at me when they think I won't notice, with varying degrees of subtlety.
It's a lot of attention. More than I'm used to. But not unwelcome.
After about twenty minutes of mingling, Darren gently touches my elbow. "Can I steal you for a second?" he asks quietly.
I nod, following him to a slightly more private corner of the room while the others continue chatting with Jessica and Luke.
"I'm really glad you came tonight," Darren says once we're relatively alone. "It means a lot. To me. To all of us."
"I wanted to support you," I tell him honestly. "And the others. You played great out there."
"Yeah?" His smile is almost shy, a contrast to his physical presence. "I was worried I might be off my game, knowing you were watching."
"Performance anxiety?" I tease, unable to resist.
His laugh is low and warm. "Never been a problem before," he assures me with a wink that sends heat rushing to my face. "But this is different. You're different."
The sincerity in his voice catches me off guard. We've known each other such a short time, yet there's an intimacy between us that feels earned rather than rushed. Maybe there is something to this scent match business after all.
"Good different, I hope," I say, aiming for lightness but hearing the vulnerability in my own voice.
"The best different," he confirms, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. The gesture is tender, almost reverent. "Listen, we were thinking… We'd love to take you out tonight. To celebrate the win. If you want to, that is."
I hesitate, glancing back at Jessica and Luke. "I came with them," I remind him. "I can't just ditch them."
"Of course not," he agrees quickly. "They're welcome too. Or..." He pauses, considering. "Jones and Peterson could show them around. VIP treatment at all the best spots in the city. They're good guys, they'd make sure your sister and brother-in-law have an amazing night."
The offer is thoughtful, but I'm still uncertain. "I don't know..."
"Think about it," Darren suggests. "No pressure. We just thought it might be nice to spend some time together. All of us."
All of us. Not just Darren, but the whole pack. The thought sends a flutter of nervous excitement through me.
Before I can respond, Jessica appears at my elbow, a mischievous glint in her eye that immediately puts me on alert.
"So," she says, loud enough for everyone to hear, "Did I eavesdrop correctly? You boys want to steal my sister for the evening?"
I groan internally. Subtle as a sledgehammer, my sister.
"Only if that's okay with all of you," Jax says smoothly. "We completely understand if you had other plans."
"Are you kidding?" Jessica laughs. "Luke and I would kill for a night out without the kids while we already have the sitter. And Lexie deserves some fun after working so hard lately."
"We were thinking Jones and Peterson could show you around," Darren explains, gesturing to two players who have just entered the room. "They know all the best spots in the city."
