"When we get to the stadium, there will be a VIP room. All the player's wives, family and significant others along with our agents will be in there. My mom and dad know the routine so they can show you the flow. I will be down on the field doing autographs, photos and interviews. I'll meet you all back in the VIP room when its over."

"Okay."

I tried texting Sean again but he didn't respond. I was starting to feel sick to my stomach again but I was trying to shake it off. Maybe Shae had finagled him into changing his mind about getting back together. I swear if he did, I wouldn't know what to do.

Don't cry Lizzy, you're a big girl. I batted my tears away quickly. Aries looked over and held my hand. We were the only two in the backseat as our driver weaved us in and out of traffic.

I remained quiet. My life completely sucked at this moment. I'm in love with one man, but he's with a sicko chickenhead ex and then I have a guy whose in love with me but I can't give him my heart because it belongs to chickenhead's man. Ugh! I swear I want to hit something.

Aries phone rang. He looked down at it and quickly declined the call. He slid it into his pocket. I could hear another buzz probably them leaving a message.

He rubbed the outside of my hand with his thumb as he looked out the window. He didn't have to say a word but I could tell he was giving me what I needed. Peace, quiet and time to get my thoughts together which I was thankful.

We finally made it to the stadium and I had calmed down. I turned my phone off and slid it in my purse. Security escorted us inside the parking garage and another attendant opened our doors when the driver pulled up to the ramp.

We got out and his parents along with Denetra, got out the car behind us. He passed me my purse and wrapped his arm around my waist. A guy gave us purple lanyards identifying us as guests of Aries and purple wristbands.

"This will give you access to the VIP suite, the field and to any activities designated for guests. Everything in the VIP suite is on the house so enjoy yourselves," the guy said.

"Marvin take care of my family."

"Yes sir Mr. Aries. Coach Peterson wants all players in the film room."

"Okay." He gave his mom a kiss on the cheek and then he kissed me on mine and gave me a tight hug.

"I will see you soon," he whispered in my ear walking away.

Marvin took us up in a private elevator. When the doors opened we were in a large cocktail room. His mother was right. Red bottoms, designer attire, handbags and bling were everywhere. This was definitely not my kind of crowd.

There were two chefs in the back. One was stir frying and the other an Itamae, known as a sushi chef. There were literally two bars flowing with alcohol. People seem to be happy and a few were even dancing. The room was huge with tables and bartops set up. Scantly-clad women wearing jerseys and short miniskirts waited on the patrons.

"Mr. Aries table is in the front by the window. Heidi will be your hostess."

"Thanks Marvin."

"You can follow me," the leggy blonde said.

We had a great view of the field. People were lining up to get their chance to see the players up close and personal. The cheerleaders were getting in formation as the music started to play and the players came running out on the field. People started standing and clapping and I did the same. It didn't make sense to be miserable. This was Aries's day and although he had ticked me off, along with Sean, I wouldn't ruin his day.

The announcer called out each player's name. When they got to Aries, the crowd went wild. I clapped and whistled and so did a couple of other women in the room. I sat down and looked out onto the field.

A tall nice looking guy with short brown hair and hazel eyes came over to our table. Mildred recognized the man immediately and gave him a hug. Her husband shook his hand.

"Elizabeth, this Kyle Gardner, Aries's agent."

"Nice to meet you." He shook my hand.

"So you're the girl of his dreams that he speaks about on the daily. Welcome."

"I guess. Thank you."

"Aries said you were beautiful and I couldn't agree more. Loved the editorial of pictures in Vanity Fair."

Okay sue me. I pushed my hair behind my ear and blushed. "Thank you."

"Stop flirting Kyle. She's a taken woman," Mildred said.

"I know. Aries would have my ass. She's a keeper. Well I have to go, it's good to see you all and a pleasure to meet you Lizzy." He walked off and was stopped by some guys.

"He's married but nosy. Jill his wife would have that butt if she knew he was flirting. He's a salesman, I have to admit a pretty good one too. Aries gave him his start and he has done well over the years. He trusts him and Kyle hasn't led him wrong yet. He even helped Aries avoid some things that could have ruined him especially with these vultures around here."

"That's good somebody has his back."

"There are some evil people out here that are ready to take advantage once the opportunity presents itself. Be careful honey, these snakes are always willing to strike. You have to keep a look out for them. They come in both female and male and different colors. You have to be prayed up so you don't lose your sanity."

"Thanks for the advice." I thought about Sean and Shae. Why did my heart began to ache? What we could have had was probably over before it got started anyway, right? I fanned myself so my emotions wouldn't take over. I just stared out looking at the field.

"Are you okay Elizabeth? Do you need a restroom?"

"No, I'm okay."

"Honey will you get me a class of Merlot and Elizabeth some water?"

"Be right back," James said.

"Denetra there are some snacks over there. Why don't you go fix us a plate."

"Yes grandma."

"Are you Dr. Elizabeth Johnson?" I turned to see a young guy walking over to me.

"Yes."

"I'm Tommy Walker, the head trainer of the team." He raised his hand and I shook it.

Tommy had muscles for days. He looked and reminded me of Dwayne Johnson from Ballers. The suit looked to be custom made probably to fit his muscles. He looked like a straight up playa and I was sure he was.

"Mind if I have a word with you?"

"Sure have a seat."

"The reason why I stopped by is that I'm losing an orthopedic doc. He's retiring and I'm looking for someone to replace him. Aries and I were talking a few days ago and he said that his girlfriend could possibly be interested. I've read your background and its impeccable."

"Thank you."

"You don't believe in surgery unless it's necessary and your natural healing methods could really help us out."

"Ah, you have been spying on me," I chuckled.

"Busted. I like to do my homework."

"I'm flattered but I don't think so. I have a practice back home and I don't have a Georgia medical license."

"The Georgia license is easy and I could make it worth your while. At least just think about." His phone started to ring.

"Here is my card. Hopefully I will be hearing from you soon and we can set up a meeting." He reached it to me. He stood up and shook my hand.

"I will be in touch." He walked off answering his phone. I twirled the card between my fingers before sliding it in my purse. Maybe if I wasn't breaking it off with Aries I would consider but the way things were going who knows.

"I hope you consider. Long distance relationships can be difficult," Mildred said turning her attention to me. I swear Aries mama has been on my ass since I arrived.

I just smiled.

"Mrs. Wilson is that you? Oh my, you look absolutely radiant in that dress," some attractive young woman said. She hugged Mildred but she didn't return the embrace. I turned my head back to the window. Mildred looked confused or was she uncomfortable?

I had noticed the young woman when I first walked in the room. She was cute with her black and red fitted dress on. Her make-up looked professionally done, didn't look like she had one ounce of fat and she looked to be really high maintenance.

"Aries told me you were coming. He's been talking about the family coming since the barbecue you all had a few weeks ago at your house. I really hate I missed it. Mr. James knows his way around a grill. Aries said that Denetra and Mr. James were coming today but I haven't seen them. Where are they?" she asked looking around.

"Do I know you young lady?"

"Your son and I dated well was engaged. My hair is longer but it's me Rue."

I whipped my head around so fast I thought I had whiplash. Mildred looked from me to the woman.

"Yes I remember you now. You were the one that cheated on my son with the ex-trainer. Aries broke off the engagement. It's been a few years now. Let me introduce you to Aries's new girlfriend, future fiancée, Dr. Elizabeth Johnson. She's an orthopedic surgeon if you didn't know and very successful at it. What are you doing these days Ruthie?"

"It's Rue. I'm a model."

"So is Elizabeth but she does it in her free time. As a matter of fact she was in the current issue of Vanity Fair and several other magazines this month. What about you? I don't think I've seen any of your work and I haven't heard Aries mention anything."

Rue looked pissed.

"If you must know I do runways."

"The ones that have a stripper pole at the end or the ones in Paris or Milan?"

Low blow Mildred. I snickered.

"In Europe."

"Really? I guess you're missing the Spring and Summer debuts. Maybe you will make the cut for the Winter and Fall lines in the spring. As a matter of fact I was in Paris two weeks ago at the Louis Vuitton show and I didn't see you. Marvelous collection I might add."

Rue looked as if she wanted to strangle Mildred. It was taking all of her strength not to knock her out. Mildred turned and took a bite out of her creme brûlée. Rue turned her attention to me. She was trying to size me up.

Don't start nothin won't be nothin. Turn and walk away girlfriend. Today is not the day. I stared back at her popping my neck from side to side. I would become the reincarnated Layla Ali in this piece. Keep it moving; I narrowed my eyes at her.

"Rudy it was nice seeing you again but Elizabeth and I are trying to enjoy the festivities. I hope you find a sponsor here today, but when you see Aries, keep it moving dear. I don't want any drama, this is a classy event. Hope not to see you anytime soon, have a great day Ruby."

Through gritted teeth she said, "it's Rue."

"My apologies Rue."

"Apology accepted. So Elizabeth you are the current girlfriend, how cute? He's mentioned you. Yes he mentioned you the last time I saw him."

"Count down Lizzy Bear," I could hear Sean's voice in my head.

This heifer had some nerve. Okay why did I want to drop kick this chic in the throat? I remained quiet. She was trying to start something but I was trying so hard to behave. Fighting Shae got my ass chewed out. I will take the high road with this thot.

"Just a word of advice, you may want to keep an eye on your boy. Ask him about how he got those scratches on his back recently. He likes it rough so I do hope you can hang. I always leave my mark. Mrs. Wilson it was good seeing you, hopefully I will see you soon." Rue walked away with a satisfied look on her face.

"Don't mind her. She was just trying to get in your head. These golddiggers will try anything. They are like a pack of wolves ready to strike at anytime."

"How did she know about the barbecue at your house that you had a few weeks ago? Even I didn't know about it."

"She probably heard it through the grapevine."

"It just seems convenient that she threw that out there. She basically was saying she and Aries have been in contact over the last few weeks. I thought he's been busy with camp?"

"She's just trying to get in your head I'm telling you. I had a barbecue one weekend they had a break. He brought several of his teammates over to relax. Nothing big."

"Is that so?"

"Don't mind her."

"Aries never told me he was ever engaged."

"It was brief. I met her a few times and always knew she wasn't right for him."

"I see."

"Aries adores you Elizabeth. I can tell you are not like them. You carry yourself differently. Aries is lucky to have found you. Look I'm sorry if I've come off a little strong earlier. It wasn't my intention and hopefully we can be friends."

"Of course. I'm just a little taken back about this engagement."

"She treated him bad, cheated on him and she used him up. He was heartbroken but he managed to get over her. He seems to be happy when he mentions you."

Yeah right. I wondered how many more chicks in this room he had been with to help him ease that pain? Hell I probably needed to get tested.

"Dr. Johnson? Mr. Aries would like you to come to the field." I looked up to see Marvin. I stood up and followed him. This Rue situation just wasn't sitting right with me.

"Why am I going to the field?"

"Since the team won the Super Bowl last year, the owner and staff are making a special presentation and the players get to choose a person to be on the field with them as they get honored. Mr. Aries wanted you to be his guest."

We got to the field and the stadium had become packed. Fans were cheering and screaming. Music was playing and everyone was getting in place. Banners were being dropped from the corridors and the trophy was placed on the stage. Aries met me at the steps of the stage with a huge smile on his face. He reached out his hand and I took it. He kissed it and continued to smile.

"I don't know if I'm the right person to do this. Maybe your mother should be the one standing in my place."

"No, it has to be you. You were the only logical choice. This is the reason I didn't want you to wear the jersey. I wasn't trying to be mean it was because of this. I meant what I said earlier."

"You're pushing Aries."

"I'm sorry. I just want you to share in my successes. I'm okay with just being friends. We can take it slow."

"Aries..."

"Ladies and gentlemen I present to you your current Super Bowl champions your Atlantaaaaaaaaa Vikingsssssss," the announcer yelled out.

The crowd went wild. More cheers and horns blasted. The owner came on stage thanking the players for a fantastic season and that he prayed they would have another winning season this year.

"Gentleman it's time for you to celebrate. Please wear your rings proudly."

That was our cue to slide the rings on their fingers. Aries smiled down at his and I could tell he was proud. They did have an amazing season and he had worked hard for it. He pulled me in his arms, dipped me and kissed me, catching me off guard. I could see flashes and confetti along with balloons falling from the ceiling. The fans were going crazy and the sounds had the stadium shaking.

"See it wasn't so bad."

"Congratulations Aries." I pulled back a little.

"Thank you."

"Aries they are ready for you," some guy with headphones around his neck said.

"I have to go but I won't be long."

"Who's Rue?"

His expression changed in a blink of an eye when I said her name. I could see him biting the inside of his jaw. "No one important."

"Really? That's not what she said."

"Mr. Aries..."

"I'm coming damnit!" he yelled out to the guy.

"We will talk tonight and I will tell you anything you want to know. I have to go."

He walked away leaving me there. I didn't want to bring it up but I just couldn't help it. I walked off the stage and heard someone calling my name.

"Elizabeth Johnson?"

I looked around to see a tall brown skin woman around the same height as me. I squinted and realized it was Charlene.

"Charlene oh my goodness it's been years."

"I thought that was you." We hugged.

"Brandon, my hubby told me he met you at the football camp. Small world."

"I know right."

"I saw you and Aries on the stage. I was all the way on the end. So you two have finally made it official. Aries been talking about you for weeks."

I just smiled.

"Are you in the VIP section?"

"Yes. I was headed there. We can walk together. I was late getting here. With two kids it can get hectic at times."

"Understandable."

We walked across the field and I felt eyes watching me. I looked around but with so many people I couldn't pinpoint who it could have been. Charlene's phone rang. She walked off a little while I stood there.

I looked in the crowd and noticed the little boy from Aries's football camp. What was his name? Ah yes, AJ.

I looked and I saw his mother staring in my direction. It was the lady that was talking trash at the peewee game back home. She had this sinister grin on her face that made me a little uncomfortable.

"Elizabeth do you mind waiting here for just a moment? One of the ushers is bringing something to me."

"Sure. I see someone I know, I'll be right back."

I walked away headed to the lady. Her eyes widen as I came closer. She looked around maybe a little nervous but she stood her ground. She was holding AJ's hand while standing in a line to go out on the field. They had called for VIP's so I assumed, Aries had invited them. As I got closer she held on to AJ pulling him closer to her.

Each step I took my stomach started to ache. I hoped my nausea wouldn't make an appearance.

"Hi AJ."

The little boy looked at me strange.

"You played for Aries this summer." His face lit up and he nodded.

I looked at his mother. "Hi I'm Elizabeth Johnson. I watched your son play and he is an awesome player."

"Thank you. He gets it from his dad. I'm Sharon." We shook hands.

"Nice to meet you Sharon. I'm sure he's a proud papa. AJ has real talent."

"He is. I would have to agree with that."

"Oh did he come with you all?" I looked around searching.

"No but he lives here. We aren't together but who knows things could be changing."

"Good luck, I hope things work out. Does Aries know you're here at the stadium?"

"I texted him. The last time he was in town he told us he wanted us to come to his Fan Day. He paid for us to come and even offered for us to stay with him but I was against it. It wouldn't look right you know."

I was about to say something until AJ spoke.

"Mom why is the line so long?"

"Not sure honey."

She turned her attention back to me.

"Aries said he had given us special tickets but the line isn't moving."

I leaned back and it wasn't.

"I'm hungry mom. It's hot out here and the line is still not moving."

"If we leave we will have to give up our spot AJ. I'm sure it will move soon."

"How about you two come with me? I'm in a suite and there is plenty of food in there. I'm sure they won't be able to eat it all."

"Can we mom?"

"Are you sure?"

"Aries said he wouldn't be long. Maybe our attendant can get you in."

"Okay."

They got out of line and I found Charlene and Marvin.

"Marvin I really need a favor."

"Yes Dr. Johnson."

"This is AJ and his mother, Sharon. He played on Aries's summer football league and he is an outstanding player. I was hoping they could come to the suite and wait on Aries. I know he would be excited to see them."