Slinging bullets, p.23
Slinging Bullets, page 23
The Bears took advantage of the good field position to put the ball in the endzone yet again. A rare missed extra point made the score 20-3. After the kickoff, the Wheels offense took the field again ready to take ownership of the game. Tayson got things going with a 32 yard scamper. Luke made throws to Davis and Colton for gains of eight and fifteen yards. With the team in the red zone, Luke looked off Davis in the endzone and found Ben in a crossing route. Ben easily scored. I smiled knowing that Tracy would be proud. That was virtually the same play as the Saints game.
With Detroit now only behind by ten, the Wheels fans perked up again. The defense forced a three and out and the offense had another opportunity to make up some points. Tayson shouldered the load for most of the drive. Richie came in for a few plays in relief. The ground game was working as Detroit’s reenergized offensive line dominated the Chicago defensive group. With the run game working so well that opened up opportunities to pass and Luke took advantage of that a few times. Back in the red zone again, Luke threw a bullet to Davis who powered through two potential tackles to score a touchdown. McDreamy kicked the extra point and the crowd was electric.
Chicago still held the edge, up 20-17. Detroit’s fans were wild and the extra noise helped draw Chicago into two false start penalties on their next drive, making the crowd seemingly even noisier if that were possible. The Bears crossed midfield but only got far enough to attempt a long field goal. When that was missed we jumped up and down and Emily, Carmen and I all hugged each other. Baby Maria was confused by all of the activity but she looked so sweet in her Wheels shirt and big ear protectors. Miguel and Mark clinked their beers together in a celebratory toast. Detroit scored again on their next drive on a run by Tayson giving the Wheels a 24-20 lead.
Between the third and fourth quarters we all hurried to take bathroom breaks and get beverage refills. There were some appetizers out but the fare was light today in anticipation of Thanksgiving feasts later. The room was abuzz as everyone was hopeful that the Wheels could hold the lead. The teams both had unsuccessful drives and then traded field goals. Up 27-23, Detroit wanted to put the game out of reach with a touchdown. They moved the ball well to Chicago’s 33 yard line. Then Tayson did something he rarely does. As he took the handoff from Luke his attention was focused on a blitzing defender. Tayson failed to secure the ball properly and it was knocked out. A collective gasp was released by those in the stands. Luke was still following the play and dove for the ball. I winced as several players piled on to fight for the ball. The officials blew their whistles and started pulling players from the stack. The referee signaled that it was Detroit’s ball and the relief in the stadium was palpable. Luke finally came out of the pile holding the ball and Tayson was quick to give him a fist bump as they huddled up for the next play.
The Wheels worked their way to another first down with some short runs as they tried to eat up some clock. With first down on the 21 yard line, Luke dropped back to pass but nothing was open. He scrambled and was forced out of bounds at the 14 yard line with 1:57 on the clock. During the two minute timeout, Carmen asked me politely to stop breaking her fingers. Oops, I hadn’t realized I was squeezing her hand so tightly. Emily laughed and said it was probably good that she wasn’t holding Carmen’s other hand. I apologized and glanced down at Maria looking so angelic as she slept through the excitement in her stroller.
On the ensuing play, Luke handed off to Tayson for a five yard gain. Chicago stopped the clock with a timeout at 1:50. With Chicago expecting the Wheels to run again to burn more time, the offense surprised them with a pass to Mikala. He evaded defenders enough to barely get the ball across the goal line while being taken down. The crowd was in a frenzy and could taste victory. After the successful extra point, Detroit was up by two scores, 34-23. Chicago had one more timeout in their pocket but had to work against some insane crowd noise. They got within field goal range and settled for three points with just 46 seconds left on the clock. They set up for an onside kick in hopes of getting the ball back for a potential touchdown drive and two point conversion to tie it up. The kick got a good bounce but veered safely out of bounds. Detroit fans relaxed and cheered on the team as they lined up in victory formation. Two snaps later, the game was over and we shared more hugs and high fives.
Matteo and Emily looked like proud parents as they accepted everyone’s congratulations. They had packed the suite with extra friends and family today so there were many enthusiastic people to share in the elation. Emily gave me a hug and told my family how much she enjoyed meeting them. She held her arms out for Maria who cooperated nicely by reaching out to accept Emily’s goodbye snuggles. Miguel and Mark couldn’t express their gratitude enough. Both said it was the most fun they have ever had at a sporting event.
We headed directly for the VIP parking lot today instead of the guest waiting room downstairs. Everyone was eager to get home for the holiday meal and Luke knew that he should come home instead of meeting up in the stadium. I shared Luke’s address with Mark to put in his GPS. Miguel and my parents rode with me. It didn’t take long for big brother mode to kick in. I was surprised he beat my father to it.
“So, Emilio tells us that Luke is a pretty good guy. Is he treating you right?”
“Yes, Miguel, I couldn’t ask for anyone better. I am so glad that you will have a chance to meet him today. I have been wanting him to get to know all of you for a while now. Luke’s family is really great too.”
Papá says, “We greatly enjoyed watching the game with Ryan and Tess. They were fun hosts. Tess kept sharing interesting details about the Wheels players and Ryan was helpful whenever we needed explanation about the plays. As you know, we do watch a little football but are not regular viewers. After today’s game that might have to change. That was exciting. It was impressive to watch in person, especially knowing that Luke is special to you.”
“Hopefully Tess didn’t hurt either of you. She gets a little rambunctious when cheering.”
“You have that right,” agrees my mother. “She is so sweet though that her enthusiasm is endearing. Some of it rubbed off on us for sure. I was right there with her by the end of the game which is why my voice is now hoarse.”
We arrive at Luke’s house and I can tell my family is impressed as we walk to the front door. My parents have a very nice house too but this one is bigger and looks so inviting in its wooded setting. I tell them that Luke hopes that this will be his home for many years to come if he can continue with the Wheels. He built it with family in mind which makes Mamá smile in that motherly way.
The door opens before I can let myself in and we are greeted by Rob and Lois. We move out of the cold and then everyone is introduced and shares handshakes or hugs. Mark and Carmen arrive then, starting a whole new round of introductions. I ask Lois about Katie and she explains that Kate is stirring gravy in the kitchen. Just as I am about to go check in on Katie, Ryan and Tess make their entrance. They share greetings with Carmen’s family and Miguel. That should do it for now until Emilio and Luke arrive. My family knows Katie well although I do need to make a point to have her meet Tess and Ryan.
The whole crew make their way into the kitchen and living room areas, with the exception of Carmen who goes off in search of a bathroom to change Maria’s diaper. Drinks are served as everyone gets to know each other. I pitch in to assist Lois and Katie with meal prep. They assure me that things are coming along well. The turkey should come out of the oven in about a half hour to rest. Then they need to mash potatoes. Everything else is either warming in the second oven or keeping cool in the fridge. With things under control, we each fill a wine glass and move into the living room for a few minutes to visit.
Chapter 47
Luke
I meet all of my post game commitments and then make my escape as quickly as possible. Fortunately, I have no injuries to be treated and will get by tonight with some ibuprofen to help dull the general pain from being hit pretty hard today. It brings me joy to pull up to the house and know what awaits inside. Although I probably should be nervous about meeting Ava’s family, I am not. Knowing what a great daughter they have, I am confident that Ava’s parents will be wonderful too.
I open the door to an incredible aroma. I am very hungry despite being served a celebratory on-field snack of turducken, which is chicken stuffed in a duck stuffed in a turkey. The atmosphere is loud and cheerful as the gang visits in the living room. Ava looks up and sees me first. She rushes over to hug and kiss me while simultaneously trying to avoid spilling wine down my neck.
“I guess I should have set my glass down first. I was a little too excited to see you,” she says enthusiastically as the rest of the room watches on. “Luke, I would like you to meet my family. This is Carlos and Gabriela Castillo, my brother Miguel Castillo and my sister Carmen Roberts. Along with Carmen we have her husband Mark and this is the adorable Maria who I always gush about.”
“It is wonderful to meet all of you and I am so happy to have you here to share in the special occasion,” I say as handshakes are shared all around.
Ava’s father says, “That was quite some game you had today. I think Gabriela and I are now football fans.”
“Thank you, sir. I am glad you enjoyed the game. The team was thrilled to pull that one out. Tess didn’t accidentally hurt you, did she? Everyone who sits by her during games knows they need to assume a defensive posture as she cheers very enthusiastically.” Tess tries to look offended by my comments but then laughs it off, knowing I am right.
“That may be an understatement but Ryan sacrificed himself by serving as a buffer. And let’s not have any of that ‘sir’ nonsense. Call me Carlos.”
Everyone excitedly discusses the game for a while. Then we talk about our families. Lois interjects with a question, “Ava, if you don’t mind me asking, why is your last name Morales instead of Castillo?”
Ava and I glance at each other in surprise. We apparently didn’t think that one through ahead of time. Ava nods at me as if to indicate that we should go ahead and tell the truth so I gesture my approval. Both families appear as if they very much require an explanation. Ava says, “That is something I do want to explain to everyone, but with the turkey out of the oven we need to finish up the rest of the dinner prep and eat. Let’s wait until after dinner because what I have to say will take some time. It relates to my job so don’t worry. Let’s go enjoy our turkey.”
Everyone appears a little unsure of my answer but Emilio arrives at that moment. I am appreciative of the distraction. After more very quick introductions, Katie, Ava and I head to the kitchen with Lois and Gabriela right behind chatting up a storm. Katie quietly says, “You didn’t tell your families about this whole thing? The after dinner conversation is going to be an interesting one today.”
I am sure it will be. First things first though. I carve the turkey while the rest of the kitchen crew serves up the side dishes on the bar. We are doing this buffet style because we have to split up the group between the main dining table and a portable table that is off to the side. My main table is large but isn’t enough to fit everyone comfortably. Dinner is fantastic as I knew it would be. The sweet potato casserole is my favorite but should probably qualify as a dessert. Everyone has seconds even though we will likely regret that later. Compliments to the chefs are shared frequently. Everyone agrees to hold off on the pies for an hour or so in order to let our stomachs have a break.
Dad, Ryan and I nudge everyone out of the dining room and kitchen area. It is a standing tradition in my family that the guys handle Thanksgiving clean up duties. Ava’s brothers offer to assist but I suggest that Ava give everyone a house tour while we do dishes. Tess opts to help as well because she did not help Mom cook this year as she typically does. I accept that offer and we quickly get to work.
Ava leads everyone else upstairs and then works her way down. I can hear some complimentary chatter when they make it to my room and master bath. After a tour of the main level areas they haven’t seen yet, they all disappear into the man cave but do not return. After we finish in the kitchen and put away the extra table and chairs, the kitchen crew goes downstairs. I had a hunch that everyone would make themselves at home down here and I am correct. My mother, Carmen, Gabriela, Katie and Ava are gabbing away in the couch seating area. Maria is nestled in my mom’s arms fast asleep and my mom couldn’t look happier. I will definitely need to make her a grandma someday. Emilio and Miguel are busy at the pool table with Carlos and Mark as spectators. They are also keeping an eye on the football game that is on one of the large televisions. We join in on the fun. Ryan and I challenge Carlos and my dad to a game of foosball. Tess goes over to talk to the other guys at the pool table. Everyone enjoys each other’s company.
After a while, Ava and her mother bring the pies downstairs. In addition to multiple pumpkin pies there are also an apple pie and two Mexican chocolate pies. Gabriela and Ava cut them all into small slices so people can serve themselves multiple flavors. A big bowl of freshly whipped cream provides the finishing touch. Once everyone has their pie plates filled and finds a seat, my mother reminds us that there is still a question to be answered.
I squeeze Ava’s hand and begin the explanation. Katie and Emilio are the only people in the room who already know the background. “Back in August, I started to receive some concerning threats.”
My mom jumps on that, “And you are only telling us now!”
“Sorry, Mom. We were asked to keep this quiet. Let me run through what happened and then I can answer questions. Because it turned out to be an ongoing thing, my team owner asked the police chief for assistance. She assigned Ava to my case. She and her partner, Bennett, have been trying to find the person responsible.”
Tess jumps in with, “How is a travel writer able to help?” Then it appears she answered her own question as a look of understanding washes over her face. “Oh, she is not really a travel writer.”
Ava responds, “I am sorry I had to lie to you but I am a detective. The travel writer is just my cover story. In fact, I used to be terrible at packing for trips and would always forget something.”
Her dad laughs in agreement. “We could pretty much plan to visit a store every time we went out of town. I think Ava has improved over the years though.”
“Thank you, Papá, I have. So as part of my assignment I was pretending to be Luke’s girlfriend so that I would have reason to be around him and the team. I could be nosy when possible and provide extra protection when it was reasonable to be around Luke. I was working part time on this as I still had regular homicide cases to investigate.”
That set off Mom again. “Homicide! How serious have the threats to you been, Lucas?”
“Calm down, Mom. Some have been nastier than others and they have come in different formats.” I go on to explain all of them while sparing the worst wording from the social media posts.
Gabriela now takes a turn. “So you and Ava are not really together? You sure seem like you are. I know my daughter and she has been in seventh heaven all evening because of you.”
“Mamá, I do love Luke and he loves me. What started out as pretend has turned into something real. We understand that me dating someone involved in a case is not professional.” I hear a grumbly noise coming from Emilio in response. “Luke has been very respectful of my desire not to cross the lines too much. We’re doing our best to put the brakes on our real relationship until the case is closed.”
I suppose that was a tactful way of telling our parents that Ava and I are not having sex yet. Katie snickers but everyone else seems content with that response. “Carlos and Gabriela, I love your daughter more than I ever thought possible. I respect her greatly and want her in my life forever.”
That causes most of the women in the room to sigh happily. Carlos and Ava’s brothers visibly relax as well. Apparently I have been accepted.
Ryan has questions. “So how is the investigation going? Do you have any leads?”
Ava tackles that one. “The evidence hasn’t led us too far but we have been looking at potential suspects. Emilio also was consulted about what we know so far. I would rather not go into more detail at this time.”
My dad asks, “So how can you stay safe? You just had an attempted robbery. Are you sure that was not related?”
Ava responds, “We have confirmed with Northville police that the intruder was from an unrelated string of burglary attempts. It was just bad luck but Luke has a nice house that enticed the would-be robber. I recently moved into Luke’s guest room to provide protection although I temporarily went back to my house to make everything work well for all of you. We ramped up the home security system which obviously worked well in the recent incident. Matteo Cannas has also backed the funding for a private security detail which monitors the house 24-7.”
Ryan asks, “So Luke is safe at home but what about all of his time away from home?” My parents nod along with that question.
“Ava is spending additional time with me. She carries her service weapon at all times when we go out. She is going to most away games now and has been permitted more access to me around the team. We still are being careful of keeping her cover of a girlfriend instead of the appearance of a bodyguard.”
Ava is quick to add clarification. “If we get to the point where we feel the danger level is higher we will absolutely put someone with Luke around the clock. Right now it seems more like the person is messing with Luke to make him nervous.”
“Well I sure am nervous,” my mom says. “I don’t like this at all.”
“That is part of the reason I haven’t told you about this, Mom. The other reason is that Mr. Cannas and the police determined that keeping this quiet is critical. If the media gets hold of this it will get crazy and we could be flooded with false tips, copycat threats and other stuff that will make it even harder to deal with.”
