Chapter 1

"Isn't it too much?" Erin asked, straightening the invisible wrinkles of her burgundy dress, who elegantly arrived at half of her calf. The high dark heels were torturing her and she wasn't even arrived yet at the palace where the event would take place.Actually,she was still in her own apartment, debating if what she was wearing would make her look not appropriate for the occasion.

"It's not too much." Kim,her best friend since they met in fifth grade almost seventeen years and terrible teeth braces ago, "It's beautiful Erin, so stop moping around!"

"Those shoes are already killing me." Erin sighed, as she quickly put on her gold button earrings,wincing at the she accidentally put too much weight in one foot and she almost lost balance. "Please remind me,why we're going and why I accepted to do this?"

Kim shocked her head in disapproval,"It's for a good cause and you know it.Plus,it's also about your book!"

"I know,I know.And I'm willing to go for that." Erin answered in defence. "But couldn't I wear less killing shoes?"

"The invite said elegant tie event.So,i'm sorry,but that shoes are the perfect choice." Kim stated, ash she grabbed her own coat,that she out over her dark green off shoulder dress.

"Didn't you study to direct television? I don't recall a fashion designer degree."Erin teased her best friend as she also grabbed her dark coat and small purse,breathing hard as she closed the door of the house.

"We're right on time,the taxi is here."

"Well then let's go before I grab these heels and walk barefoot."

The taxi ride to the gala was short, but Erin spent most of it adjusting the straps of her heels and mentally preparing herself for the overwhelming sea of high society that awaited her as she stared out of the car window, the cold Chicago night sky looming over her. She had never been one for these events, preferring the quiet of her own space, but as her books kept going so well, she knew she had to make exceptions. Plus what she really made her accept the invite was the fact that the charity was a cause close to her heart, and the book sales would help raise money for kids in need.

When they arrived at the venue, the grand building stood like a towering beacon of wealth, glittering lights reflecting off the massive windows. Erin couldn't help but feel a little out of place as she stepped out of the cab, her heels clicking sharply against the sidewalk as flashes were almost blinding her hazel eyes.

Kim, however, was practically glowing as she led the way up the steps. "You'll be fine. It's all for a good cause. Just keep your head high."

"Right," Erin muttered under her breath, adjusting her purse. "Keep my head high, not trip on these shoes."

Kim shot her a playful grin over her shoulder. "You'll survive, I promise."

They entered the ballroom, and Erin felt her nerves kick up a notch as the opulence of the space hit her. Velvet curtains, golden chandeliers, and tables draped in white linen were scattered throughout. The guests mingled in designer gowns and tuxedos, their laughter floating through the air as waiters passed by with trays of champagne.

Erin felt the sharp contrast between her own simple elegance and the extravagance around her. She could practically feel the eyes of the guests scanning her, though it wasn't for any reason other than curiosity. She wasn't exactly a stranger to the spotlight—her books had sold millions—but this was a different world entirely.

"Let's just get to the bar and grab a drink," Kim said, nudging her gently. "It will loosen you up a bit,okay?"

Erin gave Kim a pointed look. "You just want a drink, don't you?"

Kim shrugged with a grin. "Maybe. But you need one too."

Erin shook her head but couldn't suppress a small smile. "I remind you that I'll have to talk on that stage, so I won't have more than one, no drunk speeches at this kind of events."

Kim chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "Oh, don't worry, we wouldn't want you embarrassing yourself, would we?" She added with a wink. "But a drink is definitely going to take the edge off."

Erin couldn't help but laugh softly at Kim's teasing. "One drink, that's it. And then I'm making a quick escape before I do something ridiculous."

They reached the bar, where Kim immediately ordered two glasses of champagne. Erin took the glass gratefully, the cold bubbles fizzling in her mouth as she sipped, trying to settle her nerves. She glanced around the room, her gaze skimming the sea of polished faces.

She was used to being in the spotlight—book signings, interviews, media attention—but this felt different. It wasn't just her books anymore; it was the world she had to navigate now, filled with people who didn't really care about her story, only the persona they had in their heads.

"See?" Kim said, taking a sip from her glass, clearly more at ease in the setting. "This isn't so bad."

"Yeah, easy for you to say," Erin muttered, scanning the room.

"Just remember why you're here," Kim said, her tone softening. "It's for the kids. And your book. This is all worth it."

Erin nodded, but her gaze kept drifting across the room. "Trudy's not here yet."

"Oh no,she actually is here." Kim said,pointing with her head towards a group of four people. One of them was the one and only Trudy Platt, editor and owner of the Editor Company Erin was in. Arm linked to her husband Mouch, Trudy was slightly engaged in a conversation with a grey haired short man, whose wrist was adorned by a watch that probably costed as much if not even more than Erin's selling of her best seller book.

Ah, I see! Let me adjust the scene to reflect that the older man is the president of the Chicago Bears, an old friend of Trudy's, and also involved in something work-related. Here's the revised version:

Erin took another sip of her champagne, her nerves not completely dissipating but slowly being replaced by a sense of determination. She scanned the crowd again, feeling a little more settled in the sea of tuxedos and gowns.

"There she is," Kim's voice was barely above a whisper as she nudged Erin, pointing directly to Trudy. "Mouch's a lucky guy."

Erin chuckled softly. "I don't think it's luck when you're married to someone who can make a grocery list sound like a bestseller."

Kim smirked. "True. Now, are you going to say hi, or do I need to drag you over there?"

Erin rolled her eyes, but the hesitation was there. It wasn't that she didn't like Trudy—far from it. Trudy had been a constant presence in her career, always offering advice and making sure Erin stayed grounded. Still, the idea of being surrounded by so many people, all eyes on her, made her want to shrink back. It felt like a pressure she wasn't quite ready to handle.

"Fine. I'll go say hello," Erin said, setting her glass down on the bar and steeling herself.

Kim winked at her. "I knew you'd come around."

Erin took a deep breath before walking toward the group, her heels clicking louder now, the sound mingling with the chatter and laughter around her. As she approached, she could hear snippets of the conversation Trudy was having with the gray-haired man. The words "funding," "partnership," and "vision" floated through the air.

"Erin!" Trudy's voice cut through the noise as she spotted her approach. "I was wondering when you'd get here. Come on over."

Erin forced a smile as she joined the group, feeling all eyes on her for a brief moment. Mouch gave her a friendly nod, his easygoing demeanor providing a small comfort. The man next to Trudy—an older gentleman, his hair silver but his face full of warmth—smiled as she arrived.

"This is, um…" Trudy began, glancing at the man beside her. "Erin, meet Walter. He's an old friend of mine, and, well, let's just say he's a very influential person in Chicago."

The man extended his hand with a friendly smile. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Erin. Trudy's spoken highly of you."

Erin shook his hand, trying not to feel too self-conscious. "Nice to meet you,Walter. And thank you for supporting this event."

"Absolutely," He said with a grin. "Anything for a good cause, especially one like this. Trudy and I go way back. You could say I owe her a few favors," he added with a wink, his tone warm and slightly teasing.

Erin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Well, I'm glad we could all come together for a good cause."

Trudy laughed, but there was a hint of pride in her eyes as she spoke. "Walter has been a longtime advocate for the charity, and he's helped organize a few of these galas. We're lucky to have him involved."

Erin nodded, trying to keep up with the conversation. She'd never been one for high-society politics, but the importance of this night, of this cause, kept her grounded. She wasn't just here as a guest. She was here to make a difference.

"So, Erin," Walter said, his smile broadening, "let me introduce myself properly. I'm Walter Westbrook—president of the Chicago Bears."

Erin's eyes widened slightly. "Wait, the Walter Westbrook? The president of the Bears?"

"That's me," The man said with a modest smile, though there was a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Trudy and I go way back—used to work together on projects before the Bears."

"If I remember correctly your marketing book was a best seller in his geno for like months!" Erin felt her jaw drop for a second as she remembered the detail.

"Oh yeah," he smiled,"And I have to thank the one and only Trudy Platt for that."

She had worked on countless successful projects, but it was fascinating to hear about her past collaborations with someone so influential in the city.

Trudy grinned, clearly proud. "You have no idea. Walter here is one of the smartest people I know. He's been instrumental in everything from sponsorships to charity events. And let's not forget his knack for getting the right people in the room."

Erin couldn't help but feel a bit of awe. The night, despite her nerves, was shaping up to be something she hadn't expected—full of people whose lives were so intricately woven into the fabric of Chicago's power circles.

"Well, it's an honor to be in such good company," Erin said, offering a small smile.

"I can say otherwise," he responded, his voice warm. "It's all about the kids. And I'm sure your book's going to make a huge impact tonight."

Erin smiled, a little humbled. "I hope so. It's really about raising awareness and helping in any way we can."

Trudy leaned in, giving Erin a knowing look. "Frank's been instrumental in making this event a success. You're in good company."

Frank raised his glass, a glint of approval in his eyes. "Let's make sure tonight's a success, then. Cheers, Erin."

"Cheers," Erin said, raising her glass to meet his.

"You have to excuse me,but my the team should have already been here, I have to go check it's all good." He sighed,"You know,players!"

Erin nodded understandingly as Walter excused himself, his deep voice cutting through the chatter as he moved through the crowd. She turned back toward Trudy, who was watching her with a knowing smile.

"Not bad, huh?" Trudy said, a hint of pride in her tone. "You were holding your own out there."

Erin gave a small laugh, trying to shake off the tension. "I didn't know I was going to meet the president of the Bears tonight. That was a surprise."

"Yeah, Frank's kind of a big deal around here," Trudy said, sipping her drink. "But he's always been down to earth, especially when it comes to charity events like this."

Erin nodded, but the weight of the event was still there, lingering in the back of her mind. She could feel the energy of the room, the importance of it all pressing against her chest.

Just then, Mouch came over, his kind face offering her a reassuring smile. "Everything's good to go. We're just waiting for the speeches to start."

"Thank you, Mouch," Erin said, offering him a small smile. "I'll be ready when it's my turn."

Kim appeared beside them, having gone off to mingle for a bit. She leaned in and whispered, "Are you okay? You look like you're about to pass out."

Erin shot her a look but couldn't help the small laugh that escaped her lips. "I'm fine. Just… a little out of my element."

Kim grinned. "You'll do great. And I'll be right there, cheering you on, as always."

Erin gave her a grateful smile, feeling a little more at ease.

A soft murmur swept through the room as the event's host stepped up to the podium. "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice clear and steady, "thank you all for joining us tonight. We're here for an important cause—helping those in need, giving a voice to the voiceless, and ensuring that every child has the chance to grow up safe, loved, and supported."

Erin felt a lump form in her throat as she listened, her heart swelling with the meaning of the evening. This was why she had agreed to be here—to make sure this message reached as many people as possible.

"I would like to welcome on stage one of our greatest supporters,Walter Westbrook!"

A soft murmur swept through the room as Walter, stepped up to the podium. He adjusted the microphone and cleared his throat, his voice carrying with ease as he addressed the crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen, good evening. I want to thank you all for joining us tonight. We gather here not just to celebrate the work of this incredible charity, but to show our collective support for a cause that is close to all of our hearts.I am a father, and I believe with all my heart that all children and kids deserve the same opportunities to live in happiness and to do the things that every child should do.School,sports,games.It should all be normality and I truly hope that little by little we can all together make this happen."

He paused for a moment, scanning the room with a soft smile. "Now, it's my pleasure to introduce someone whose work has touched so many. Not just through her books, but through her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. A true advocate for change. Please welcome the author, Erin Lindsay."

A round of applause filled the room as Walter gestured toward Erin, who, widened her eyes.

It wasn't her turn yet.

It should've been first the Bears Team, then another sponsor and then her.

God,she was about the pass out.Kim elbowed her as a few seconds passed,so Erin breathed hard and look at Trudy's confident eyes as she nodded.

So despite the millions of nerves fluttering in her chest, stood up straighter and made her way toward the stage. The soft clink of her heels on the floor seemed loud in the silence as she walked, her heart racing with every step.

She cleared her voice, firmly but with a hint of vulnerability. "First of all, I just want to thank you all for being here tonight. It's an honor to be a part of this event and to support a cause that means so much to me. As many of you know, I've been lucky enough to see my book reach people, but tonight it's about more than just the book. It's about giving back."

She paused for a moment, scanning the room. The faces in front of her were expectant, but she could feel their warmth.

"I wrote The Light Within with the hope that it could inspire others, but tonight, I see that we're all part of something even bigger. We're here to make sure that children who've experienced unimaginable hardship have the support and resources they need to heal and grow. Every child deserves a chance, and together, we can give them that."

Erin took another breath, the words coming more easily now. "I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be here with all of you tonight, and I hope that we can continue to make a difference—one step, one donation, and one child at a time. Thank you."

She gave a final, small smile and stepped back from the podium, her heart pounding in her chest. The room erupted into applause, and Erin felt a rush of relief wash over her. She had done it.

As she made her way back to her seat, Kim was already waiting, her grin wide. "See? Told you you'd be amazing."

"It was a great speech indeed." Trudy complimented her, squeezing her shoulder.

The rest of the night unfolded with laughter and conversation, Erin speaking with several people who expressed their admiration for her work. She found herself in a conversation with Walter again, who had come over after the speeches, his charm and warmth a comfort.

"Erin, I have to say, that speech was perfect," he said, his eyes twinkling with approval.

"Thank you," Erin replied, still trying to shake off the lingering nerves. "It was a little intimidating, but I'm glad it seemed to go well."

"Well, you've got nothing to worry about. That was solid." The older man's smile faded slightly as he added, "But I owe you an apology. The Bears' team was supposed to go before you—at least that was the plan—but, well, they got held up. Something came up with their schedule, and they ended up stuck in traffic." He gave a small shrug, clearly frustrated by the change. "I didn't mean for it to mess with the flow."

Erin glanced over at the door just as the Bears team finally entered. They looked a little disheveled, some of them still trying to adjust their suit as they made their way toward the back of the room.

"Looks like they finally made it," Erin said with a slight chuckle. "I didn't mind going first, honestly."

Frank let out a small laugh. "Yeah, well, the plan was for them to go before you, but traffic is a beast. I'm sorry about that—it wasn't the smoothest of transitions."

"I really didn't mind."

Walter nodded again as he looked at the team that was settling down what Erin imagined to be their reserved table. "Excuse me but I have to go,hope to see you again Erin."

Before she could even response Walter was gone,but in not even few seconds replaced by Kim,who tugged at her arm impatiently. "Did you see them?!"

Erin smiled at Kim's eager expression. "See who?"

"The Bears! I mean, did you see how good they looked walking in?" Kim's voice practically vibrated with excitement as she glanced over her shoulder at the team members, who were taking their seats at a nearby table.

"Kim,you could go talk to them."

"Or we could go."

"Uh,nope.I need fresh air and another drink,good luck!"

Erin had barely taken two steps onto the terrace when she collided with what felt like a brick wall.

"Whoa—!" She gasped, stumbling back a step, her hands instinctively reaching out to catch herself.

Before she could regain her footing, a hand shot out, gripping her arm with a firm yet brief pressure. "Sorry," a deep voice murmured, and Erin glanced up, meeting the gaze of a man who was already pulling away from her.

He was tall, with short brown hair, and his eyes lingered on her for a fraction of a second longer than usual, the slightest furrow of confusion on his brow. His expression softened as he gave a quick, apologetic smile. "Didn't see you there. My bad."

Erin took a moment, the sudden closeness catching her off guard. There was something in his eyes, something almost unreadable, before he quickly glanced over his shoulder and then back to her.

"Halstead!"

"Uh, I've gotta go," he added, his voice still warm but a little rushed. "Speech time," he said, already stepping around her to move past.

Erin watched him walk away, still feeling the odd weight of his gaze on her even as he disappeared into the crowd. She couldn't quite put her finger on it—just a random bump in the hallway—but for some reason, her heart had skipped a beat.

Still, before she could dwell on it, Kim appeared at her side, a grin on her face. "That was definitely a football god you just ran into."

"Yeah I think so too."

"Well,that happened to be Bears' quarterback Jay Halstead."

Erin blinked, her thoughts still a little scattered from the brief encounter. "Jay Halstead?" she repeated, trying to piece it together. "Yeah,I think you're right,that was him."

Kim nodded eagerly, a wide grin spreading across her face. "Yep, that's the one. You're lucky, you know. He's one of the best despite his bad temper. And also, ridiculously good-looking."

Erin raised an eyebrow, still processing the interaction. "Mh and exactly how do you know all of this stuff?"

Kim grinned knowingly. "Because I'm the director for the late-night talk show where the Bears' team was guests last week. I've worked with him a few times. He's… complicated, to say the least. But he definitely knows how to turn on the charm when the cameras are rolling."

Erin frowned slightly. "Bad temper, huh?"

Kim nodded, her tone a little more serious now. "Yeah, he's got a reputation for being a bit… unpredictable. On the field, especially. He's the type to get fired up easily, but when he's off the clock, he's pretty cool. A little rough around the edges, but I think he's just got a lot of pressure on him."

Erin processed the information as she raised an eyebrow towards her best friend. "You scare me sometimes.You basically just psychoanalysed him."

Kim grinned mischievously, clearly proud of herself. "Hey, it's my job to read people, Erin. Plus, I've seen it all up close. You start to pick up on the little things."

"Yeah,sure…" Kim, meanwhile, had already moved on, excitedly pulling Erin toward the stage where the Bears' team was about to give their speech. The room had quieted as the lights dimmed slightly, and a few murmurs of anticipation rippled through the crowd.

The team stood at the podium, a collective sense of pride and gratitude in the air. Erin and Kim listened intently, their eyes flicking between the players as they spoke. Jay was first up again, but this time, his tone was different, more grounded.

"Before we get into the usual thanks, I just want to say that tonight is about more than just us," Jay began, his voice carrying the weight of the evening's cause. He glanced at the crowd before continuing. "We're here tonight to support a cause that is bigger than football. It's about giving back to this community, making sure the kids who need it most have the resources and the support they deserve. This gala is about helping kids who've faced situations that no child should have to go through."

Erin's heart squeezed slightly as she heard the sincerity in his words. Kim's hand instinctively brushed against Erin's as they exchanged a knowing glance.

Jay's gaze softened as he looked out at the crowd, and the room fell silent. "I know we're out there on the field doing our thing, but what really matters is what we do when we leave the field. We have a responsibility to these kids—to show them that no matter where they come from, they can rise above their circumstances. And that's what this is all about tonight."

He paused, his eyes sweeping over the room again. "So, thank you to everyone who's here tonight, supporting the cause. Thank you for helping make sure these kids have a chance at a better life. This is what it's all about. We're just the lucky ones with the platform to help bring attention to it. Let's keep pushing, keep doing what we can, and let's make sure the next generation has the chance they deserve."

Erin's chest tightened, and she could tell the sincerity of his words was not lost on the crowd. There was a shift in the room as everyone seemed to connect to the cause in a deeper way, their applause echoing with a renewed energy.

Kevin Atwater was next, his tone just as earnest. "We're here because we know that every kid deserves a shot. Whether it's a roof over their head, food on the table, or just someone who believes in them. We've seen what this community can do when we come together, and tonight is a perfect example of that. So let's raise the bar, not just for football but for the kids who need us the most."

He paused for a moment, his eyes scanning the room. "Thanks to everyone here for your support—this is just the beginning. We've got work to do, and we're doing it for the future of these kids."

The room erupted in applause again, but Erin couldn't help but be lost in thought, reflecting on the gravity of their words. Kim gave her a small nudge, her own eyes a little glassy from the emotion in the room.

Walter Westbrook stepped up once more, his voice commanding as always. "Tonight's about making a difference. We've been given a lot in this life, and it's our job to use that to give back. So let's not forget the reason we're here. It's about the kids—their future, their hope. And together, we can make sure they get the chance they deserve."

As the speeches wrapped up, the crowd gave one last round of applause as the team left the stage.

Kevin Atwater,Adam Ruzek and Jay Halstead walked directly towards the appetiser table,knowing that soon they'll also make a stop at the drinks one. "Man I have to tell you,I can't wait for those three week off."

Kevin laughed, grabbing a plate of appetizers and handing it to Adam. "Tell me about it. I'm seriously looking forward to some downtime. It's been a long season."

Adam, always the sarcastic one, shot them a grin as he popped a piece of food into his mouth. "Downtime? You mean time to play video games and eat pizza, right? Because that's all I'm doing when I'm off."

Jay grinned,"Oh, and Wendy will be cool about it?" He asked, addressing Adam's fiancée and making his friend's face go pale in mere seconds.

"Man don't do that face,you're the one who wanted to settle down so fast."

Adam quickly recovered, but his tone was playful, even if a little defensive. "Yeah, yeah. But seriously, who knew the fiancée card would come with so many rules?"

Kevin laughed and clapped him on the back. "You made your bed, now lie in it, my man."

Jay, still grinning, took a sip of his drink. "Yeah, but we all know who's really in charge here. It's not you, bro."

Adam shot Jay a side-eye, but his lips curled into a reluctant smile. "I'm learning that the hard way, apparently.And you two could make me company in the taken man department."

"Oh no,i'm right where I stand." Jay said and,as his glance turned at a table near them, he recognised the girl he bumped into before.

Jay chuckled lightly, taking another sip of his drink. "Nah, nothing like that. Just realized I bumped into one of them earlier. Almost knocked her over, actually."

Adam, halfway through a bite of his appetizer, froze. "Wait, which one? The red dressed girl?"

"Yep.Brunette,burgundy dress," Jay replied casually. "Didn't get her name or anything, just apologized and kept moving. Why?"

Adam's eyes widened, and he nearly dropped his plate. "Dude, are you serious? That's Erin Lindsay."

Jay frowned. "Should I know who that is?"

"Yes!" Adam exclaimed, lowering his voice as he gestured toward her. "Wendy's favorite writer. She's got all her books, man. Keeps quoting them at me like I'm supposed to be enlightened or something. Our anniversary's coming up, and if I could score an autograph—"

Kevin cut him off with a laugh. "You're seriously about to use Jay's accidental clumsiness to get an autograph for your fiancée?"

"Damn right I am," Adam said without shame, already scheming. "This could be my shot to make up for the disaster that was her birthday last year."

Jay shook his head, smirking. "You're unbelievable. You really think I'm walking over there to tell her I almost knocked her over just so you can get an autograph?"

Adam leaned in, pleading. "Come on, man. I'm not asking for much. Just a little conversation, a quick signature. She won't even remember you knocked her over. You'll be doing Wendy and me a solid."

Kevin chimed in, grinning. "I mean, Jay, it's kind of the gentlemanly thing to do. Smooth over your clumsy moment and play wingman for Ruzek here."

Jay rolled his eyes, his lips twitching upward in reluctant amusement. "Oh no,I won't do that alone man."

Adam leaned back, narrowing his eyes suspiciously. "What do you mean, 'not alone'? Don't drag me into this—you're the one who bumped into her!"

Jay smirked, pointing a finger at him. "Exactly. You're the one who wants the autograph. We're in this together."

Kevin burst out laughing. "Oh, this is going to be good. Two clowns approaching one of the biggest writers in the country. Can I watch?"

"No," Jay and Adam said in unison, glaring at Kevin.

Jay, still feeling a little awkward, walked up to the table with Adam trailing behind. Erin was seated next to Trudy, their heads tilted toward each other in quiet conversation.

As they approached, Erin glanced up, her hazel eyes sharp and inquisitive, while Trudy quickly excused herself and bolted toward the drinks.

Jay cleared his throat, offering a small, apologetic smile. "Hey, sorry to interrupt. I realized I owe you an apology for earlier—I wasn't paying attention and kinda knocked you over."

Erin raised an eyebrow, her expression a mix of recognition and amusement. "Oh, it's you. The hallway sprinter."

Jay chuckled,"Yeah,I'm sorry,I was about to miss out the speech.I'm Jay Halstead by the way."He extended his hand, his gaze meeting hers.

Erin shook his hand with a firm but casual grip. "Erin Lindsay," she said. There was something about her tone, a little playful but also warm, that made Jay feel instantly at ease. "My family's a big fan of your team."

Jay smiled, his hand still lingering for a moment after the shake, feeling the warmth of her grip. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. You're making me feel less awkward about almost knocking you over." His tone was light, teasing, though he couldn't quite shake the feeling of how natural it felt to talk to her.

Erin tilted her head slightly, studying him with a faint, knowing smile.

"Talking about fans.." Adam elbowed Jay,as Erin looked at them awkwardly.

She looked at the other guy who she recognised as the tight end of the Bears, who had a look of mock innocence, then back at Jay, who was now doing his best to look nonchalant.

Jay smirked, trying to act casual despite the strange feeling of being caught off guard by Adam's antics. "That's my teammate Adam and he's just… trying to figure out how to get his fiancée an autographed book of yours for their anniversary."

Erin's eyes softened a little, her interest piqued. "Well, that's a sweet gesture. I'd be happy to help.". Erin's eyes softened a little, her interest piqued. "You know," she said, her tone thoughtful, "if Wendy's really that big of a fan, I could send her a preview of the new edition of my last book. It'll have a short story sequel inside. I can sign it and send it to whatever address you want."

Adam's eyes widened in surprise, clearly caught off guard by the offer. "Wait, really?" he asked, his voice a little incredulous but with a grin tugging at his lips. "That would be amazing, honestly. Wendy would freak out."

"Of course."

Erin smiled warmly, her expression genuine. "It's the least I can do, really. I'm always happy to do something special for someone who's such a big fan."

Adam's grin widened, his excitement palpable. "Seriously, thank you. Wendy is going to lose it when she hears about this. I can't wait to see her face."

Jay, who had been standing quietly, watching the exchange, couldn't help but feel a little lighter seeing Adam so excited. But there was something else—a subtle feeling that seemed to grow the more he spoke to Erin. It wasn't just her kindness—it was the way she made everything feel so easy, so natural.

"That was really nice of you,considering I almost run you over."Jay's words hung in the air as he glanced at Erin, his voice softer now, a little more earnest than before. His playful tone had faded into something a bit more sincere. "That was really nice of you, considering I almost ran you over."

Erin met his gaze, her smile still warm but with an edge of understanding. "Well, I'm not one to hold a grudge over a little collision," she said, her tone light, but her eyes twinkling with a hint of amusement. "Besides, you were rushing to make your speech. I get it."

"Thanks.I-" Jay started to respond, but his words faltered for a moment as he caught the softness in her gaze. It wasn't just the polite way she spoke—it was something more, a quiet understanding that made him feel like he wasn't just another guy she had to brush off. He cleared his throat, pushing the moment aside. "I really appreciate you being so cool about it," he finished, his voice steady, though his mind was still lingering on that connection.

Erin nodded, her smile never wavering. "It's no big deal. We all get a little clumsy sometimes." She gave him a playful wink, then glanced over at Adam. "So, this is my email,you dan send me the address, okay?"

Adam, still beaming, gave a thumbs-up. "You bet! She'll be over the moon." As he saved the email Erin gave him to join Kevin at the table.

Jay watched the exchange, a smile tugging at his lips, but there was still something in the air that made him hesitant to break the moment. He had been so used to the constant hustle of the NFL and the routine of his life, but talking to Erin felt different. It was easy, and yet, it wasn't. There was something about her that made him want to hold on to this moment a little longer.

"Thanks again."

"No big deal."

He hesitated for a moment before adding, "Maybe next time, we can skip the running into each other part and just have a conversation?"

Erin's eyes sparkled with amusement, and she gave him a nod. "I'd like that."

As the words hung between them, Jay found himself wishing for just a moment that the night wouldn't end just yet.