Chapter 24: big day, even bigger changes

It's the week of the draft and Zach is watching some coverage leading up to the even on the tv when Lisa joins him.

Where's Rebecca?

Packing for Vegas.

She's taking a long time.

Most girls tend to spend a significant amount of time on something like that.

I'm not like most girls.

Don't I know it. I think she's nervous about the "red carpet", she's trying on every dress she owns.

What about you? did you pick up your suit yet?

Yup, I went to get it yesterday. Along with an impulse buy...

Why are you acting so secretive?

Fine, I'll tell you. but you can't say anything to anybody.

Lisa leans in close.

I can keep a secret.

Ok, I'll trust you. I bought a bow tie in stead of a regular tie.

She sighs and shoves Zach away.

That was super lame, I don't get why you're keeping a secret all of a sudden.

I know, I don't like it either. But it's a big deal... you'll be on the front row when it happens, I promise.

Fine. Look, they're talking about you on tv.

Zach raises the volume.

What about Zachary Gray?

Well, he's from a small school and he went there for a reason.

True, he's not a flawless prospect. There are some question marks about his character, a player with his talent should have played for a big school.

How early do you think he could go?

Despite those question marks he's still considered the number one quarterback prospect in this class. The Jets at number two could take him.

It would be a miracle if the Marauders don't take him at five. I wouldn't do it though, you don't take risks like that with a top ten pick. Spencer Dunham from Ohio State is the more sensible pick.

Lisa grabs the remote and turns off the tv.

That's enough bullshit for one day, they don't know what they're talking about.

But they're badmouthing me on national tv...

That doesn't matter. In the end Sam knows who you are and that's all that matters.

Thank you for always being there for me.

You've done same for me, and we always will. Now go check on your girlfriend.

Zach gets up and starts walking towards the stairs.

Time for a confidence boosting intervention.

When he walks into the room, he finds Rebecca posing in front of the mirror in a black dress that stops just above the knees and some tasteful cleavage.

You look amazing, I've never seen that dress before.

Glad you like it. I went shopping with Elle and Ruby... not Lisa, she made it pretty clear that she's not a fan of shopping.

Yeah, it's never been her thing. That does explain the "riskier" look.

Is it too much?!

Zach playfully puts his arms around her waist.

No, you look sexy yet tasteful.

I like the sound of that. So I look good enough to go on the red carpet with you?

I'm proud that you're my girlfriend, never ever doubt that.

Then I won't. Tasteful you said? Do you mean that literally?

Is that an invitation?

Maybe we should lock the door...

By the end of the week, they're in their hotel room getting ready to go to the draft venue. Rebecca grabs her travel bag and heads for the bathroom.

I'm going to hop in the shower, then do my hair and makeup.

Sounds like you're going to be busy for a while.

Probably, I want to look my best.

Ok, I think I'm going to go for a walk and clear my head.

He walks down the hallway and knocks on the door of Ryan and Charlotte's room.

Hey Zach, you're early.

I'm not here for that yet. I wanted to talk to you and Ryan about something, is he here?

He's on the balcony, come in. Ryan? Zach wants to talk to us.

Is something wrong?

No, everything is fine. Ryan, do you remember our conversation in Yosemite? I would like to revisit it.

Charlotte is at a loss.

Do you want to fill me in?

When you, Rebecca and Natasha were sunbathing Zach and I went off on our own for a bit.

Right, when you played that "prank" on us.

Yes... anyway, we talked about Zach and Rebecca's relationship and I basically gave my "approval".

Zach smiles.

I also joked about how I would one day come ask for his blessing... today is that day.

Ryan falls silent so Charlotte takes charge of the conversation.

Are asking what I think you're asking?

Yes, I am. I love Rebecca more than I can put into words. In truth, without her I would never be in the position I am today. She was there for me when I got injured and saved me from breaking down mentally more than once. I want to be with her for the rest of my life... I hope that you find me worthy.

Charlotte wastes no time and embraces him.

Of course you are. My daughter has never been happier than when she met you.

Same goes for me, with what is ahead of me today... I don't think I would be able to do it without her.

They turn to Ryan who is still just standing there with a blank look on his face. Zach takes a moment to gather himself before addressing him.

Ryan? I know how much Rebecca means to you, but I promise that I'll always do my best to make her happy.

He shakes his head and gives Zach a short hug.

Sorry, I needed a moment to process it. My biggest fear in life was that my daughter would never find the right man and experience and incredible bond like the one I have with her mother. You have taken that fear away... I'm grateful.

That was beautiful, thanks... dad.

Dont push it, I'm still adjusting.

Zach laughs.

Fair enough. You better start working on that though, I already bought the ring earlier this week and I'm planning on "popping" the question on stage when I get picked later today.

Charlotte immediately bursts with excitement.

Oh my god! That would be memorable to say the least!

After a player is picked, they always take a picture on stage with his family. That got me thinking. Since all my favorite people in the world are there, what better time to ask her?

She's not going to know what hit her. You should hurry back so she doesn't suspect anything.

Alright, I'm just going to pass by my mom's room to share the news with her and then I'll head back. See you in an hour.

He walks down the hall and knocks on Natasha's door.

You're early, I'm not ready yet!

Relax, you still have almost an hour to get ready.

She lets Zach into the room.

Then why are you here so early? Are you nervous?

Yes, but I'm here already because I need to tell you something before we leave. Later today when I get picked and we're all on stage together for our group picture... I'm going to propose to Rebecca.

Natasha gasps and some tears start to well up in her eyes.

Don't cry mom, today is a happy day.

I am happy... I just wish that your father was here to see it.

Zach puts his arms around her.

I know, me too. Even though he's not here physically, he's always with us. Every pass I throw, every hug we share and every smile on our face is because of the impact he had on us.

I'm so proud of you. There are so many things that he passed on to you that have helped you grow, not only as a football player... but as a man. I don't know if he can see us but he's with us, one way or another.

Exactly. On another note, are you ok handing me over to Rebecca?

No... but I still have some time to mentally prepare until the ceremony, it's not like you're getting married today.

We are in Vegas...

No you are not young man!

I was just kidding, relax. Don't say anything to Lisa, she's terrible at keeping secrets.

What about Ryan and Charlotte?

I went to ask for their permission before I came to you.

That was the right thing to do. Now go, I have to fix my makeup since you made me cry.

Then I'll leave you to it, see you in a bit.

A couple hours Zach and Rebecca are in the back of the car that picked them up at the hotel and on their way to the draft venue.

Zach... I'm really nervous.

I can tell, you're shaking a bit.

He pulls Rebecca against him and holds her close.

There's nothing to worry about. You look incredible in that dress, all you have to do is whip out that amazing smile of yours for a couple pictures and it's over.

A faint smile appears on her face.

I guess I can manage that, as long as I can hold your hand.

It's all yours.

During the red carpet pictures Zach can feel Rebecca squeezing his hand tightly, but she ends up making it through in one piece.

That wasn't so bad right?

I guess not... I'm just not used to people paying that much attention to me.

It's going to happen from time to time after today, are you ok with that?

I don't think that its ever going to be something that I enjoy, but I would do anything for you.

So would I, lets go find the others.

They get escorted to the green room where they find Lisa and their parents at a table with Zach's name on it.

Finally made it in here. Does it all look familiar mom?

Not really. A lot has changed since I was in this situation with your father. Back then there weren't so many cameras and screens everywhere.

Ryan nods in agreement.

I've never been in the green room myself, but I've been watching the event for a long time. It has definitely become more of a media circus or spectacle every year.

Zach decides to go to the bathroom before the draft officially starts, on his way he runs into Matt Mcaddy.

Hey Matt, long time no see.

Good to see you again stud! I started my own solo project, that's why we haven't seen each other for some time. I called it the Matt Mcaddy show. Original name, I know.

You are the reason why the people watch so it makes sense to me. Let me know if you're ever looking for a guest.

I was just about to ask you that, I definitely will. I'm not going to distract you too much right now, good luck!

Thanks, talk to you on your show.

Lisa is anxiously checking her phone when Zach gets back.

It should start any minute now. Elle and Ruby are rooting for you from home.

Say thanks for me.

I will... so, what do we do now?

Now we wait.

Really?! That's it?

Pretty much. The commissioner should kick things off soon, the rest is out of our hands.

The commissioner walks onto the stage not long after Zach finished his sentence and gets behind the microphone.

Hello and welcome to the NFL draft in Las Vegas. The Cincinnati Bengals have the first pick and are now on the clock.

All the screens in the green room turn orange and Lisa reacts in her usual animated way.

Why is everything orange all of a sudden?

Zach cant help but laugh a bit.

The Bengals play in orange and black.

Oh... that makes sense. Could they pick you?

No, they picked a quarterback last year. He played well for them, they will probably look to surround him with talent.

The clock keeps ticking down dangerously low and Ryan speaks up.

You would think that after knowing that they were picking first for months that they already knew who they are going to take.

Zach nods.

You're right, this is indeed strange.

Suddenly the Bengals logo disappears from the screens and they stay blank.

What the hell is going on?!

Ryan takes out his phone and tunes in to the live coverage of the event.

Let's see if they know what's going on.

They're all glued to the screen with hopes of getting some information. The commentators are looking for answers just like they are.

We are just getting word that the Bengals have traded their pick.

With which team? And for who?

Less than five seconds go by and all of the screens in the green room go black, followed by the Marauders logo.

The trade details are coming in. In exchange for the first overall pick the Bengals are receiving... the Marauders fifth overall pick this year, they're also sending their first round pick next year and two veteran players. This is a massive trade!

You can say that again!

Letting go of those veteran players means that they are hitting the reset button.

Whoever they moved up for is somebody they must believe in a lot. The Marauders are now on the clock!

Natasha gasps.

I think you better get ready.

Zach's heart starts beating faster than ever before and he visibly starts shaking. Rebecca immediately puts her hands on his.

Shh, it's going to be fine.

He barely has any time to gather himself before the phone on their table starts ringing.

Hello...?

Hey Zach. I had to do some serious negotiating, but I managed to get it done.

Hearing Sam's voice is too much and his emotions overwhelm him.

I told you that I would do my best to get you.

Zach can no longer hold himself together and he falls into Rebecca's arms with tears streaming down his face.

Thank you so much, I won't let you down.

I know. Are you ready to continue your father's legacy?

Yes. We are winning a Superbowl, I promise!

That's what I like to hear. Enjoy your moment on stage and we'll see each other tomorrow at Marauder stadium downtown.

Looking forward to it.

Rebecca wipes the tears off of his face and kisses him.

Congratulations.

I love you.

Zach hugs his mother after getting congratulated by everybody.

From this moment on you will never have to work again. It's my turn to take care of you.

I'm so proud of you, and grateful. Now go out there, it's your moment.

He walks onto the stage and shakes the commissioner's hand.

Welcome to the NFL Zachary.

Thank you sir. I'll do my best to represent the sport in a positive way.

The commissioner hands Zach a black and gold Marauder jersey.

It has your name on it. Makes it feel real, doesn't it?

It sure does.

They pose together for the press as is tradition before Zach is ushered to the side of the podium where he's approached by hall of fame player Leon Sanders.

How does it feel to finally be here in this moment Zach?

First of all, it's an honor to meet you. Second, its beyond anything I could have imagined. Just looking at my name on this jersey... I can't stop smiling.

How are you going to approach your first season in the NFL?

Work hard at practice and build chemistry with my new teammates. Besides that, study hard I guess.

Is there anything you want to say to the fans?

Absolutely!

Out of the corner of his eye he sees Rebecca and the others come onto the stage for their group picture. Zach turns to the crowd.

Marauder nation! How amazing is it that we have this event here in Vegas this year? It truly feels like I'm coming home, thank you for the warm welcome. As you can see, my family has joined me here on stage and we're very excited for the future here in Vegas. This is the moment I start my Marauder journey, but that's not the only journey I want to start today.

He turns around and takes Rebecca's hand.

I want to ask you something.

He pulls the ring out of his pocket and drops to one knee.

You have made my life better from the moment we first met. I can't... don't want to do this without you. Will you marry me?

Rebecca's jaw drops in shock as the Marauder fans erupt into loud cheers. Her voice trembles as she tries to speak.

Are you serious?

Of course I am. Without you I would only be half the man I am today. You make me the best I can be.

I can't believe this is happening... yes, yes!

Zach slides the ring around her finger and she jumps into his arms with childlike joy.

They stay for a couple more pictures together and head back to the hotel. Zach and Rebecca go up to their room for a little break before the celebratory dinner.

Oh my god, look at this ring!

I'm glad you like it.

How did you afford this?!

It's a bit like a loan. The jeweler recognized me and since I was projected to go in the first round today, he was confident that I would be able to pay for it eventually.

What a day, I've never felt so many emotions in such a short amount of time.

Same, but I think we handled it well.

I'm surprised my parents were so calm, I expected my dad to freak out a bit.

That's because I went to ask for their permission earlier today while you were in the shower.

Look at you being sneaky. How did they react?

Your mom was very happy about it immediately. Your dad took a bit longer, mostly surprised. He ended up giving me a hug.

He did?! Maybe it isn't to late to teach an old dog new tricks.

Wait until he finds out that you called him a dog.

So you're a tattletale now huh?

Rebecca pushes him onto the bed and straddles him.

You will keep your mouth shut.

Yes ma'am. We aren't even married yet and I'm already under your boot.

She giggles and lays down on top of him with her head on his chest.

I still can't believe that this is my life now.

What do you mean? Didn't you believe me when I told you that I love you?

No, that's not it. When I was young I never thought that I would ever end up marrying a handsome man that loves and treats me like a princess. I always assumed I would end up alone with a bunch of cats.

You have to let go of these negative thoughts about yourself. You have so many amazing qualities that you should focus on, they're the reason I fell for you after all.

We are going to have such an incredible life together, I just know it.

I fully agree. The upcoming months are going to be a bit crazy though, lots of transitions.

We have your mom to help us, and I'm sure Sam will too.

You're right, we can ask him tomorrow. But first it's time for dinner... fiancée.

That's going to take some getting used to, but I like it.

You better, or I'll trade the ring for a bunch of cats.

Very funny, let's go before we're late.

They're the last ones to arrive downstairs in the restaurant.

Sorry for the wait, we needed a bit of a break to recharge our batteries.

That's ok, perfectly understandable.

Natasha has barely finished her sentence before Lisa punches Zach in the arm.

Careful now, or I'll have to my new employer tomorrow with an injury.

That's what you get for not telling me that you were going to propose!

I told you that there would be a surprise, and you know well enough that you're terrible at keeping secrets.

Fine... you're not wrong, this is a big deal though.

You don't have to explain that to me, I'm well aware. Tomorrow I'm signing a contract that changes our lives forever, after that we move here.

He places his hand on Rebecca's.

And then we get married.

Yes we are. There's a lot to do though, I don't even know where to begin.

Charlotte takes her other hand.

Don't worry. We will all be there to help you in any way we can.

They enjoy the evening in each other's company and decompress from today's excitement.

When they get back to their rooms Lisa taps Zach on the shoulder. She clamps onto him tightly as soon as he turns around.

Are you ok?

I am. I just didn't want to do this in front of everybody tomorrow.

You're acting as if we're never going to see each other again.

Rebecca nudges him.

You've been together for half your lives, give her a break.

Sorry, but you'll still have Elle and Ruby there with you. And I'm only a couple hours away, I'll be there any time you need me.

I know. I'm just going to need some time to adjust, that's all.

After you graduate you can always move here with us.

Depends on how things progress with Elle... and with my parents of course.

One step at a time. Just make sure to communicate well with Elle and I have no doubt that you'll figure it all out.

Thanks, I feel a bit better already. I'm very happy for you two, goodnight.

Goodnight, see you tomorrow.