“I can’t think of anything better.”
* * *
Our blissful bubble lasts until we enter the lobby to exit the hotel. Hand in hand, we exit the lobby to a commotion outside the main entrance. Someone screams Luke’s name and immediately I’m aware of the mass of people that have gathered not far from the entrance. Security is keeping them at bay, but it doesn’t keep them from noticing our presence.
A man in a suit steps close to get our attention. “If you’ll excuse me, Mr. Leighton. I’m Darren Markus, head of security. I think it might be best if you follow me.”
Wide eyed, I look to Luke for guidance. He nods, and we follow Darren through a set of double doors and away from the mass of people waiting outside. Once we’re alone in a hallway with Darren, Luke speaks. “I’m sorry. I had no idea this would happen.”
“It’s quite fine, Mr. Leighton. We respect the privacy of our guests and took the proper precautions when your situation was brought to our attention. As a rule, we keep the press and any loitering fans out of the lobby when instances like this occur. I assume your car is with the valet service? If you’ll come right this way, we can bring your car here to avoid anyone noticing you. If you’ll give me your ticket, I’ll be happy to get it for you.
“Thanks. I appreciate your help. I’ve never had the press bother me before. I had no idea this would happen.”
“I’m a huge fan of the Rainier Renegades, and I’m happy to assist you in any way I can,” Darren offers.
Luke gives him his ticket, and the car is brought to us in minutes. This must be a shortcut to the parking garage because our things are loaded into the trunk, and we are on our way before anyone has the faintest idea we’ve even left the building. We take a side-street exit from the parking garage and are on in the hustle and bustle of Seattle city traffic within minutes.
As we make our way to the freeway, my mind reels with what we’ve just experienced. Having read too many books, I also suggest, “You may want to take the scenic route to your loft. God forbid someone follow us.” Though I’m joking, Luke can sense the hint of truth.
“No kidding.” Luke reaches his hand to mine and holds it on his lap. “I have the perfect place in mind.”
It turns out, Luke knows every back road from Seattle to Tacoma. We zoom down side streets, zigging and zagging our way to his loft. We opt not to stop anywhere, in fear of being recognized, and we make our way into his home within the hour. He points out some of his favorite places as we get closer to his home. It sheds a light on who Luke is, when he’s not coaching. It’s obvious he loves local businesses and does his best to support them when he can. He mentions that he’ll send Darren some tickets to a game as a personal thank you for helping us avoid the crowds, and my heart soars. Luke is possibly one of the kindest people I know. I open up to him and let him know I am nervous about going with him to the meeting tomorrow. I don’t want to be a burden to him or the franchise, and Luke being Luke, assures me everything will be okay. I just hope he’s right.
