Monday had been busy. From washing off graffiti on my ex girlfriends car, to being reprimanded by my sister Wren for throwing away her kids shoes.

"Moira was not happy about the missing shoes" Wren greeted as she opened her front door.

"Lovely to see you too" I jibed "did she go poof into a lavender haze though?! I heard that's a concern"

She reached out with a small laugh, and hugged me "I missed you"

Little Alba ran out in her pyjamas. "Awnty O"

I had arrived later in the day than expected, having spent hours with my Momager going over the next few jobs I had on. She had some offers come in for me that she needed an okay or a no way on. I said no way to the offer of crazy money abroad. I knew my Mom had played in Turkey one year, but I had no interest in that. I had seen a lot of the world already, and I didn't need the money. What I needed was to settle a bit, and I let her know that I was hoping to stay on the west coast. I was free agency, having just finished my contract in Connecticut. I loved my team mates there, but I didn't love being so far from those that I loved. Mom was looking at soliciting offers from the west coast teams, but our interest was with my Moms team, and the team she had not long stopped coaching. The Portland Fire. They had folded decades ago and vanished from the WNBA, but my Mom had done everything to bring them back, and with her help they were back on top. She played for them, coached them, and now she had shares and an interest in their survival. They were fondly known in the media as the "Teddy Nomikos" team too, and her jersey and number had long been retired with her. It hung proudly in the stadium. I had always dodged talk of joining them, because I had run from my Moms legacy to create my own, but now that I was three years down with success in my own name, I was warming to the idea of it. It would mean I could look at putting down some roots in Portland, and be close to my family. I honestly just wanted a home to call my own, and to feel a lot less alone. My family would never allow one of us to feel lonely, and I think it was somewhat impossible in a Greek family to ever feel that. Everyone was in each others business constantly. I had shied away from it and lived somewhat secretly as the years went by, and I knew it was my fault how obsessed they all were now with my love life. I hadn't shared much, and so I became the focal point for my family's attentions, a mystery to be unfolded. They searched for any mention of me online, like the FBI. I had made myself a little too intriguing. I think the secrecy had started with Bonnie, because we had to be so careful not to be seen together, and then it became a learnt behaviour, and I kept more and more secret, but unnecessarily so. Now I looked back and I see how I had pushed everyone away little by little until I wasn't even talking to my parents from week to week. It shocked me now that I had time to sit back and think about it, how far I had drifted from them all. I think if I could go back in time I wouldn't have engaged in that relationship with Bonnie. Despite how I was obsessed with her and enjoyed it at the time, in the long term I can see how toxic it was. She quite literally isolated me for a few years there, before we saw one another less, and we both moved on to others. I don't know why, but as the years passed and I got older, I saw it all a little differently now. She enjoyed being the dominant force, and the person I wanted to be, until I actually eclipsed her and grew into the woman and the player she had been, and more. I got wealthy, and successful, and she got distant. Maybe she thought her distance would provoke a reaction from me, but I didn't run after anyone. Never had. Funnily enough though, only yesterday, I had run after ms Daisy Darling. Perhaps my feet only moved for one person.

I bent down and lifted Alba onto my hip, her red hair was wet at the tips "did you just get out the bath tub"

"Yes" she answered, snuggling into me "can you read our bedtime story Awnty O"

"Nothing crazy" Wren warned me, having probably remembered the fiasco of my last story telling disaster.

As it turned out I wasn't good at telling stories for little ears. They always ended up in a nightmare. Not my fault. I hadn't realised that Hansel and Gretel was so dark, and Red Riding hood too. I mean, he ate the grandmother for goodness sake.

"I'll pick a book from their book shelf" I promised.

"Hey" Millie greeted, waddling to the door with her adorable bump "Thanks for throwing away a pair of perfectly good shoes"

I lifted up the bag in my spare hand "new shoes" I announced. "I checked with Mom to find out his size. These are brand new and sold out everywhere. I got some for all of you. They owed me. I worked on the last ad campaign"

"Oooh" Wren said excitedly, taking the large bag and looking in to see the shoe boxes inside. "Oh my god it's the special edition. They only made a small batch of these"

Millie peeked inside too "I want the lilac trim ones"

"What colour are mine?!" Alba asked.

"What's your favourite colour??" I asked her.

"Yellow" she told me "but I do like black too. Moira only wears black. Did you know she even has black pyjamas?"

I looked to Wren and Millie "Why do the Sproglets still call her Moira? Its so strange when they say it"

Millie was inspecting her new sneakers. They were sexy as sneakers go. I wished I'd kept them. I was a sucker for a sneaker. My collection would need its own room when I finally got my own place. "You get used to it" Millie mumbled, eyes on the prize.

"Where's Theodore?!" I asked.

"He's playing with the cats" Millie explained, gesturing inside the house "He's dressed Norman's daughters in dolls hats. The tails are swishing, but they are putting up with it so far"

We walked into the house to find Theodore on the rug by the fireplace with three fluffy tabby cats sat in front of him with baby bonnets on. I didn't think I'd ever seen such angry cats. They sat there like little perfect models though as he started a tea party at their front paws. A little pink cup was placed in front of each of them as he poured from a little milk jug. Real milk. I'll be damned. The cats waited patiently until their cups were filled and then they sniffed at the milk and took a little lick.

"Wow Theo" I said enthusiastically "you are a magician. How did you get them to sit like that?!"

Alba gestured to the cats "I told him superglue would work... but he didn't need it. They like him"

Theodore petted each cats head softly "good girls" and then he stood up and he came over to greet me. His little checkered flannel pyjamas reminded me of a little old man. "Awnty O. Can you stay?"

"Sleepover?" I asked.

The kids nodded. How could I resist the sproglets. "I would love to. Whose bed can I share?!"

"Mine" they both shouted excitedly. Then they looked at eachother with frowns that I found utterly adorable. "No, mine" they both said in unison.

"Stop" Wren called above the fighting "Aunty O will sleep in the guest bedroom. You can go into her in the morning and jump on her"

They gave in to that, despite both clearly wanting me to be in their bedroom. Wren had much more authority here than I did. I was impressed.

***
I spent a whole hour reading stories to the twins in their bunk bed. They handed me a new book each time I finished one, until Theodore's eyes finally closed and he went to sleep. Alba looked pleased with herself that she had stayed up longer. She lay down beside me and put her little head on my shoulder "Are you still lonely?" She whispered.

I smiled, glancing down as her little fair eyelashes fluttered closed, her breathing slowing down and her cute little sighs a sure sign that sleep was imminent. "No" I replied, brushing my hand over her forehead in soothing motions. "I don't feel lonely anymore. I have you"

I stayed with her until she went to sleep, and then I sneaked out to find Wren and Millie.

Millie was asleep on the couch, and Wren was throwing a blanket over her. She gestured to the kitchen and I followed her out. "Wine?" She asked.

I screwed up my nose "I still feel hungover from Sunday dinner"

Wren reached for the soda instead, and took out two little bottles, throwing me one over. "Never accept a glass of wine from Demitra or Thea. They always have a motive"

I caught the soda "Lesson learnt"

I followed her into the snug, a room at the back of the house that was like her little escape room. She had trophies on the shelves and pictures of family and friends. I took the big bean bag chair next to hers, sinking into it slowly as we both tugged off the soda caps of our drinks and took a sip.

"How's things going?" I asked.

"Good" she returned "It can get a little exhausting between games and the twins, but we are managing it okay. Baby number three is cooking so quickly. We are gonna be outnumbered sooner than we are ready for"

I took a sip from the soda and looked around the room, taking it all in slowly "Millie didn't mind carrying again then. I know you were going to next. We never did talk about how that came about"

Wren placed her drink down and got more comfortable on her bean bag "Millie didn't want a bigger age gap, and I wasn't ready yet. I would have had to have taken a year off, and I just can't do that at this point. Two more years and I'd be happy to change the pace. I just feel like the Thorns are at their peak right now, and I can't drop out when I'm at my fittest too. The World Cup is a year away. I need a World Cup"

"I can understand that. So, whose egg did this one hatch from?"

"Millie's" she answered with a cute smile "I can't wait to see if she looks like them. Her and Moira I mean. Baby number three is gonna be able to hold her own, that's for sure"

I gazed into the back yard out of the patio doors ahead of us, and pictured her. "I can imagine her walking into kindergarten now, black Gucci loafers on, dark rimmed shades, straight dark hair perfectly so, a red lip gloss tucked into her back pocket. Wednesday, that sounds like a perfect name choice"

Wren laughed "that's exactly what I'm afraid of"

She picked back up her soda and turned herself on the bean bag to give me her full attention. I nervously looked sideways at her and went to shuffle my bean bag away from her.

"Stop that" she laughed, tugging my seat back "you have a lot to fill me in on"

"I do not" I lied. "Who said?!"

"Alba told me you have two dates lined up, and then Cam called and he happened to mention a run in with a certain pretty flower"

I rolled my eyes "nobody can keep a secret nowadays. It's an epidemic"

Wren nudged me, too hard. I fell sideways, catching myself with an outstretched arm and giggling as she tried to pull me back up "sorry" she apologised.

I stood up and moved to a more comfortable armchair opposite her, she stretched out her legs and folded her arms "Spill"

It suddenly appeared like I was in the hot seat. I sighed and gave into the interrogation "The first one was a friend date. Her name is Reva. Potentially on Wednesday evening. She worked at the candy store that I took the twins to"

"Since when did you date random women that serve you at the candy store?! What if she's a crazed fan or something?! Doesn't that worry you? What a persons intentions are?"

"Of course. But I liked her. I've never done that before. She seemed... genuine"

Wren narrowed her eyes at me briefly "She was hot wasn't she?"

I couldn't hide the smile, at the accusation "She was a bit of me, yes"

Wren shook her head slowly "Olympia Olympia Olympia..."

"Wren Wren Wren..." I mocked.

"And Daisy?" She asked, uncrossing her arms and sitting forward with more interest. "What's the story there?"

My entire body warmed to the sound of her name, coming alive like it heard a promise or an offer it couldn't resist.

Wrens lips lifted slowly, spreading into a smile, her eyes twinkling "You still love her" she observed "Is she open? Are you? To talk?"

I sighed, taking a deep breath "She's with someone"

Wren looked disappointed as she leant back again in her seat. "Well that's not ideal"

I nodded "I know. I guess we missed our chance"

Wren thought on that, like the was wresting with it "Is it serious? Or dating?. Because that's two very different things"

I frowned, realising I didn't even know "I have no idea"

Wren kicked my sneaker with hers " Important details Olympia"

"We didn't get a chance to talk much deeper about it" I defended "I invited her to the party on Saturday. Maybe we can talk more there"

Wren picked up a cushion and held it over her face. I watched her and laughed "what?"

She exhaled dramatically and dragged the cushion down her cheeks, revealing her frustration. "O, you do realise if she's got a girlfriend she will feel she has to bring her"

I hadn't actually. I hadn't even thought about it. Oh, tits!!! "Do you think?"

Wren looked at me like I was dumb "uh yaaaa. It's a respect thing to bring your current partner to anything thrown by the ex. In the web of lesbian dating, it's important to not attend alone. Lesbians are never truly over it. There may not be a window open, but there's always a draught coming through some teeny tiny opening when it comes to ex's. Always a way back in if the moon is high and the drink is strong"

I laughed "that's a sweeping statement Wren. I don't think you can blanket statement every queer women like that. I mean, is there a draught in Ava Montgomery door, the size of a little bird?"

Wren looked horrified "no of course not"

"Then you made my point" I threw back. "Same with my Ex's. I wouldn't go back in a million years"

"All but one" Wren threw back, wiggling her eyebrows at me.

I felt my cheeks redden "All but one" I agreed.

"And what about that other one. The one I can't stand to name. She finally out of the picture?" She asked, with a look of disdain on her face.

I nodded "I told her we were done. I'm moving on. There won't be anymore hook ups"

"And she took that well?" Wren asked, surprised.

I angled my head left and right, uncertain of the answer "I don't know. Knowing her ... no. But I've not heard anything more from her since she told me I was cold and would end up alone"

Wren looked worried "I would keep your wits about you. I don't trust that she will accept that. She's had her hooks in you for years"

I shrugged "I don't know what else to say. I've removed them. I'm done. I don't want to continue toxic habits with her. And anyway she's got this new girlfriend now, and they've got a dog together and everything"

"Whoah" Wren sat forward, shocked "An actual girlfriend. She's finally settled down with someone?! I thought she just did hook ups whilst obsessively waiting to get her hooks back in you the moment you were single"

I took a sip of my soda, letting the bottle sit on my lips "I think maybe she finally met someone she liked more"

Wren still seemed uncertain "Someone she can control more you mean. I don't know. I just worry about her. I hope she's not coming to this party Moms are throwing"

I grimaced, baring my teeth "She is. She text me that she's coming even if I don't want her there"

Wren looked maddened "She hasn't got the common decency to stay away and respect your space"

"It gets worse" I revealed.

"How so?" Wren asked.

I wrinkled up my nose, hesitating slightly. Knowing this would trigger a very intense response "She's coming with her girlfriend"

Wrens eyes widened and her voice bellowed as she shouted loudly "nooooooooooo"

I sipped my soda and watched her stand up and pace the room "that bitch"

"It's fine" I somewhat lied "she thinks she can get to me by bringing this girlfriend and parading her in front of me... but she's wrong. I don't want her. It might be weird... and it may sting... but she's not gonna make me chase after her. I'm done. She can't get to me anymore"

Wren stopped pacing and threw herself back down on her chair "It's time to tell Moms"

I shook my head "No"

"If they knew, they would never let her bother you again. She wouldn't ever set foot through that door. Not ever. She's mocking and disrespecting them by doing all of this under their nose you know"

I sat forward, my elbows on my thighs, and I looked at Wren, seeing her frustration and concern "No, I can handle it. I'm a grown woman, I think I can handle seeing her once every blue moon at a party. The thought of Moms knowing about Bonnie gives me anxiety"

Wren sat forward and rubbed my knee with her hand "Then let me tell her to leave. I'll wait out front and see her off before she even gets inside"

I smiled, feeling a tad emotional at my sister defending me, like when we were kids "You would?"

She squeezed my knee and looked to me lovingly "Anything for you my little monster"

I laughed "I'm taller than you now"

She slapped my leg and leant back in her seat "still younger though"

I felt myself untether a little bit then, floating away from my thoughts and my concerns and allowing myself to feel free for a second. Wren saw it in my face, the sudden way my stare became vacant as I looked across the room. She snapped her fingers in front of my face "earth to O. You okay?!"

I jumped back into myself "Yes" I promised.

"So if Daisy shows up with a date?!" She asked. "Shall I bump her off the entry list too?"

I shook my head "she hasn't even said if she's definitely coming yet. But no, if she brings her person... then I'll have to face that. I care for Daisy in a different way to Bonnie. I would honestly rather see Daisy happy, even if it wasn't with me. I want more for her"

"Because you're in love with her" Wren confirmed "only love allows you to put that persons needs and wants above your own. It's terrifying I know"

I nodded "It is a bit"

She leant forward again and placed her hand on my knee "I've got you"

I smiled "I know"

She arched a red eyebrow "B bitch will have to get through me first"

"Bonnie doesn't take no for an answer" I reminded her "she's not gonna back off if she thinks she's entitled to be there. Maybe she is. Maybe just let her come in. I can handle it"

"No" Wren replied firmly "why should you have to handle it. It's your birthday. She's gonna have my right foot where she doesn't want it to be if she doesn't turn around and leave"

"I'll text her again, and tell her not to come" I suggested "I don't want you having to work security on my birthday. I want you inside dancing with me"

She shook her head and removed her hand, sitting back comfortably in her seat "Okay, as you wish. But I'll still be vigilant. Like you said... she doesn't usually take no for an answer"

***

I had received a text from Daisy at midnight. I was still watching TV in the king size bed of Wrens guest room. A strange time for her to text when I knew she was renowned for going to bed early. Atleast she used to. I guess I didn't know her that well now.

Daisy -
I can't sleep. I hope this doesn't wake you. I told you I would let you know about the birthday party on Saturday. I can, come. But it would be with the person I'm seeing. If that's too much then I won't come. I don't want to upset you. It's your birthday and I want you have a great night. Tell me no, and I won't come. Tell me yes and I'll be respectful about it I promise. You don't need to worry. Text back yes or no. You don't have to say more.

-
All I heard was... I'm keeping you up at night 😏😉

Daisy-
Olympia!

-
Daisy, Darling

Daisy-
So? What would you prefer?

-
I'd prefer you were single, but we can't all have what we want.

Daisy-
Okay, I'm sorry. I won't come x

-
Come! I'm joking. Does she make you happy?

Daisy-
Most of the time x

-
Then there's definitely a draught.

Daisy-
Huh?

-
Nothing x I'll see you Saturday. Don't worry about me, I'm a big girl. I can handle it. I'd still rather you be at my party, than not. You've missed seven by the way...I look forward to the seven missed gifts 🤗🎁

Of course it would hurt, and of course it would be hard to see her with someone else... but I had far too much confidence, and perhaps a naive sense that all was not lost, not yet. Even as the full time whistle on us was about to be blown... I played on until that last second, sure of myself, and confident that there was one dance left... and one more leap of faith to get that final win.

I hadn't given up on Daisy, not yet. I'd respect her relationship if she told me that they were closed off, but she's not said girlfriend once... and that's an important detail, one that I didn't miss.