Chapter Text
The streets of London were slick with rain, each drop reflecting the city's mesmerizing lights. The world was a blur of umbrellas and rushed footsteps as everyone sought shelter from the sudden downpour.
Ryan Wilder made her way hastily through the rain-soaked streets. The hem of her pants clung to her ankles, the water soaking through her shoes. Her day at work had been exhausting and disheartening, with her boss once again undermining her potential by denying her new clients.
**4 Hours Prior**
Three years Ryan had walked through the doors of Elite Sports Agency as an agent, after serving two as an intern, making coffee runs and filing paperwork for the same superiors who now dictated the terms of her career.
The open floor plan was abuzz with activity. Phones rang constantly, echoing through the spacious office, each agent immersed in intense conversation or furiously typing away on their keyboards. Ryan, with a portfolio in hand, made her way toward the end of the room where the senior management sat in their plush cabins, the divide between them and the junior agents evident.
She knocked lightly on the frosted glass door with the gold plaque reading, 'Michael Connors - Senior Manager.'
"Come in," came the smooth voice from inside.
Michael Connors, with salt-and-pepper hair, sat behind a massive mahogany desk, surrounded by trophies and framed photos of star athletes of Europe. His sharp eyes assessed Ryan as she entered, a polite smile never reaching them.
"Ah, Ms. Wilder. Good morning. What brings you here?"
Gathering her confidence, Ryan started, "Mr. Connors, it's about my client portfolio."
He leaned back, intertwining his fingers, his face a mask of patience. "Go on."
"I've been here for five years. While I appreciate the opportunity, I feel that I've proven my worth. Maria Lemes, although soon to retire, brings in a substantial amount from her marketing ventures. And Johanna has so much potential, if only—"
Michael raised a hand, silencing her. "Ryan, I understand. You want more clients. But, Maria's days in the field are almost over, and Johanna's injury record isn't stellar. It’s risky. So I need you dedicated to her.”
Ryan bristled. "Every player has a risk factor."
"Look, we have to consider the agency's reputation. Maybe in a few months, we can reassess."
“Sir, while I value this opportunity, I believe I've proven myself. Despite Johanna being injured all of last season, I managed to negotiate a contract extension for her. Chelsea still sees her value, much of which I've advocated for."
Michael raised a hand, cutting her off. "Yes, Ryan, I recall. It was an impressive feat. But, as you know, we can't base the growth of our agents on one success story."
"It's not just one success, Mr. Connors. With Johanna, it wasn’t merely about showcasing her on-field abilities. I highlighted her commitment to recovery, her influence in the locker room, her engagement with fans, and her potential brand value. I organized meetings, and presentations, and even got testimonials from teammates and coaches to secure that extension."
Michael eyed her for a moment, then smiled, that same polite, insincere smile. "Soon, Ryan. Soon."
It was clear to Ryan that he wasn't taking her seriously. The same placations, the same empty promises. She took a deep breath, her voice firm, "Mr. Connors, I'm asking for a chance, an opportunity to grow."
Michael regarded her silently for a moment, then, with that same well-practiced smile, said, "Your time will come. Just be patient."
** Present **
As Ryan strolled through the streets of Kensington heading home, the ambiance felt different from the familiar neighborhoods of Gotham.
Many assumed that being the daughter of Jada Jet meant a life of privilege and easy opportunities. In many ways, they weren't wrong. Jada was a titan in the sports industry, having acquired Jeturian Sports Agency from her late husband. With a portfolio boasting some of the world's most elite athletes, the Jet name was synonymous with success in sports management.
Ryan Jet-Wilder always felt the weight of being a part of the Jet family. As a teen, she'd navigate through the hallways of Jeturian Sports Agency, absorbing the atmosphere, listening to negotiations, and witnessing firsthand the intricacies of the sports industry. It was an environment she both revered and questioned, constantly seeking her place in a world defined by her last name.
But Ryan didn't see it just as a name. It was a legacy. A legacy she respected, but one she was hesitant to embrace fully. Even to this day, she referred to herself as Ryan Wilder, taking her last name from her birth father.
Reginald Wilder, the bodyguard turned lover, was the antithesis to Franklin Jet. While Franklin was often cold, calculated, and away on his own affairs, Reginald was passionate, intense, and, unfortunately for Jada, short-lived in her life.
"Reggie" as his friends and Jada likes to call him was a figure that commanded both respect and admiration. He was chosen by Franklin Jet to be his bodyguard not merely for his strong physique but more for the principles he stood by. Yet, destiny had plans that none could have predicted.
Reggie's affair with Jada was intense. Amidst flirty glances and secret meet-ups, their relationship blossomed. However, the revelation of Jada's pregnancy brought their covert relationship under intense scrutiny and complicated matters beyond imagination.
While Franklin's priority was maintaining the Jet family's public image, Reggie was torn apart by the idea of his impending child growing up without a father's love. But the weight of the situation became even heavier one fateful weekend.
Shortly after Jada's pregnancy was known, Reggie took a trip away for the weekend to visit family and old-school friends in Detroit. Looking to reminisce and escape the pressures of his current life, he found solace in the familiar streets and faces of his youth. However, a confrontation ensued with some friends and old rivalries. Reggie found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Shots rang out, and in the ensuing chaos, Reggie was caught in the crossfire.
The news of his untimely demise hit Jada hard. She was already navigating her complicated relationship, and Reggie's passing added to the weight of her predicament. The memories of their stolen moments, their shared dreams for the future, now haunted her. Ryan's birth, while a moment of joy, was also tinged with the sorrow of the absence of the man who would never get to see his daughter.
He became a guardian angel, a memory, a story whispered in hushed tones, but always present in spirit.
Marquis and Ryan, despite their different fathers, shared a bond stronger than most siblings. They navigated the complexities of their family dynamics hand in hand, often relying on each other for emotional support. Franklin was never really a ‘father’ to either of them, engrossed in his business and his extramarital exploits. Jada, on the other hand, was an overprotective mother to Ryan, perhaps out of guilt or an attempt to give her a semblance of normalcy.
Six years after Ryan’s birth, Jada woke up to the news of Franklin's untimely passing in the arms of another woman, in a dim hotel room far away from the Jet mansion.
It was said that Franklin used these affairs as a coping mechanism, a way to escape the pressures of his empire and the shadow of his failing marriage. Jada, aware of some of his indiscretions, tried to maintain a unified front, prioritizing family and business reputation over personal grievances.
The official report concluded that Franklin suffered a heart attack in his sleep, exacerbated by stress and possibly overuse of medication and alcohol.
The responsibility of Jeturian Sports Agency suddenly landed on Jada's shoulders. With determination, she not only sustained the business but took it to heights. Jada's genius combined with her acute understanding of sports made her a force in the industry. The Jet name, stained by scandals, was soon associated with unparalleled success in the sports business world.
Marquis found his escape and passion in sports, his speed on the track was matched only by his determination. His talents led him to Ohio State, distancing him physically from his mother in Gotham, but never emotionally.
After choosing to attend Gotham University for undergraduate studies, Ryan felt the urge to step out, to experience a world beyond Gotham and beyond being a Jet. That urge led her to Wayne State College for her master's in Sports Administration. Diving deep into the administrative side of sports, Ryan not only expanded her knowledge but also her network. She connected with various industry leaders, athletes, and fellow students, learning the nuances of the global sports scene.
Upon completion of her master's, an opportunity to work at a renowned sports firm in London presented itself. Ryan packed her bags and moved across the ocean. London was a fresh start, a place where she was just Ryan, not the Jet heiress.
Pushing through the front door of her apartment building, she let out a sigh of relief, leaving the rain and her thoughts about work and family behind.
Seeking some solace, she poured herself a glass of wine, the rich crimson liquid swirling in her glass. She needed a distraction, and the sports channel seemed like a good idea.
The channel on her TV stays on sports news. Ryan tries to keep up with what’s going on in the industry as much as possible.
"Star soccer player, Johanna James, has been seen out and about with her sports therapist, Angelique Martin," the news anchor reported. The screen showed pictures of the two, looking far too cozy.
Ryan's grip on her wine glass tightened.
The anchor continued, "They've grown close since Johanna's MCL sprain last year, with Martin playing a pivotal role in her recovery."
Angelique's entrance was barely audible over the pounding in Ryan's ears. She must've seen Ryan's expression because her face paled, her earlier confidence fading.
"Ryan," Angelique began, her voice tremulous.
Her blue eyes darted between the TV screen flashing pictures of her and Johanna.
"Ryan," Angelique says again, her voice filled with desperation, "the media, whatever saying they're blowing it way out of proportion. I swear, it's not like they're making it seem."
Ryan snorted, "Come on, Angelique. They showed you two out at a fancy dinner. How is sharing cheesecake part of Johanna’s MCL recovery?"
Angelique's gaze faltered. "It's... networking. You know, talking about her future, her career. Building rapport helps with the therapy process."
"Really?" Ryan's voice was dripping with disbelief. "Last I checked, dinner at Soho wasn’t part of physiotherapy. Please stop gaslighting me and acting like I’m some dumb bitch!”
Angelique winced, caught in her web of lies. "Ryan, I promise, it’s not what you think. We have just been spending more time together. She's going through a tough time, and I'm trying to be there for her."
Ryan sighed, rubbing her temples, fatigue evident in every gesture. "Ang, I want to believe you, I really do. But every part of me is screaming that something's off. It’s been off. And honestly? I’m tired”
Angelique's eyes brimmed with tears. "Please, Ryan. I’ll do anything. Just give me a chance."
Ryan looked deep into Angelique's pleading eyes, every ounce of her day's exhaustion now reflecting in her gaze. "You know, today I was reminded that sometimes, no matter how hard you try, some situations just don’t change. It's like... sometimes it isn't about holding on, but knowing when to let go.”
****
Sophie Moore sat at her desk in the heart of downtown Gotham, meticulously going through contracts and endorsement deals, her laptop filled with analytics, figures, and the images of basketball players she had groomed into stars.
Years in the industry had polished Sophie's intuition. She could predict a player's potential from their first jump shot or dunk package.
Her phone buzzed with incoming messages. She squinted at the screen, reading the name "Deja Jones" at the top.
“Hey You - down for lunch today?”
Sophie chuckled softly, remembering the last time they had hung out or better yet slept together. Deja was vibrant, full of life, and attractive. Their chemistry was just ok, but Sophie knew her intense work ethic and commitment to her career made any serious romantic relationship a challenge.
"Wish I could. I gotta busy day ahead of me. Rain check?" Sophie quickly texted back, hoping Deja would read between the lines.
A moment later, the reply came. "Alright, but you owe me. Maybe dinner then?"
As she was about to reply, another message notification came through. It was from Jordan: "So... when are you going to introduce me to Brandon Ingram so he can come spend all his money on me… I mean the restaurant? 😅”
The warm, sweet aroma of fresh beignets filled Sophie’s memories as she read her sister’s text.
In the heart of New Orleans, the Moore family diner, ‘Moore Soul’, had been a cherished cornerstone of the community for generations. An aromatic symphony of fried chicken, gumbo, and jambalaya wafted through the streets, drawing in locals and tourists alike. Established by Sophie's grandmother, it was a testament to the Moore women's tenacity and business acumen.
Dianne Moore, resilient and stubborn, had faced more than her fair share of life's adversities. Raising Sophie as a single mother, she had always kept the identity of Sophie’s father a guarded secret. For Dianne, the past was a closed chapter, and the diner was their present and future. Her vision was for Sophie to take the helm one day, expanding the family legacy. She imagined multiple branches of ‘Moore Soul’ dotting the map, all helmed by her children and grandchildren. It was her dream—a dream she believed she shared with Sophie.
But Sophie, the star point guard of her high school basketball team, had other ambitions. She had always been passionate about sports, but her injury during a game in her senior year turned her dreams on their head. While she couldn't make it big on the court, she soon realized that her passion for sports and her business acumen could be combined. She wanted to be behind the scenes, calling the shots, brokering deals, and guiding careers.
Leaving New Orleans post-college was a whirlwind decision, driven by her ambition. Sophie headed to the bustling city of LA. There, she pursued her grad school studies, diving into business marketing and sports management. Her talent and hard work eventually caught the eye of top execs, providing her with an opportunity she couldn’t refuse, which led her to Gotham.
Sophie's decision didn't come without its sacrifices. Her younger sister, Jordan, was left to grapple with the weight of family expectations. Jordan, with her quick wit and sarcastic quips, often teased Sophie during their frequent FaceTime calls. "Guess I'm stuck with Mom's gumbo pot while you're off playing big city girl, huh?" she'd say with a mock pout.
Jordan was a mirror of Sophie in many ways but chose to stay closer to home. She had a vision of transforming New Orleans, rebuilding its neighborhoods, and breathing life back into its forgotten corners. Yet, despite her big dreams, Jordan still found herself helping out at ‘Moore Soul’. It was a bond she shared with her mother, a bond Sophie had chosen to forgo.
Dianne was a woman of few words but many beliefs. She hailed from a time when traditions and old religious convictions were the backbone of every decision. Sophie’s sexuality was a pill too bitter for her to swallow. To Dianne, Sophie's life choices – moving away, diving into the sports world, her sexuality – were all markers of rebellion.
Sophie's love life was a tapestry of fleeting connections and short-lived romances. Her younger sister, never missing a beat, would tease, "You can put together a gazillion-dollar deal, but can't find a woman, huh?" Sophie, cool and collected, would retort, "I'm just waiting for the right one, sis. So for now, work is Bae.”
Before Sophie can text back both Jordan and Deja, her office door swung open. Juan Perez, the energetic president of Roc Nation, burst in.
"Sophie!" he exclaimed, holding up a sports magazine with A'Ja Wilson gracing the cover. "Have you seen this? They're saying she's poised to beat Breanna Stewart for MVP, again! Back-to-back MVPs under your guidance. Incredible!"
Sophie smiled, pride evident in her eyes. "A'Ja's been working incredibly hard. Her dedication to the game is unmatched. But, thank you, Juan It's been a phenomenal journey."
He leaned against her desk, "Speaking of journeys, we need to strategize her endorsements, appearances, and campaigns. Especially if she clinches the MVP again."
Sophie nodded in agreement but took a deep breath, seizing the moment. "Absolutely, Juan. But while we're discussing the future, I've been considering my next steps too."
Juan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Go on."
I believe I can add value by representing NFL clients. I've done my research, studied the dynamics, and I'm ready."
He studied her for a moment, "Sophie, your work in the basketball arena for both women and men is exemplary. But the NFL? That's a whole different ball game."
Sophie nodded, “I know. But I thrive on challenges. And I believe with the right opportunity, I can make a difference there too."
He folded his hands in front of him. “All right. I've got someone in mind. But he's... a handful."
Sophie raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"Marquis Jet," Juan said, watching her reaction.
Sophie's eyes widened slightly. She knew of Marquis. The running back who once made magic on the field but was now more known for his off-field antics.
"He’s been with three teams in five years. His performance is declining, but he's adamant that he’s still got fire in him. He's not the easiest to handle. Loud, parties hard, and has been at odds with coaches. But if you think you're up for it..."
Sophie straightened, her determination clear. “Juan, if you're willing to give me a shot, I promise, I'll give it everything."
Juan nodded, his expression thoughtful.
"Look, Sophie," he began, his tone measured, "The NFL landscape is changing, especially for running backs. Historically, once they hit a certain age, teams get wary. They're considered to have a short shelf life in the league. Marquis, with his age and mileage, is going to face an uphill battle."
"I've been keeping up. I know how teams are prioritizing younger talent, especially when it comes to running backs."
Juan leaned in, "It's not just about age and injuries. It's the perception. Owners and general managers often feel that older backs have lost a step, that they can't produce like they used to. With Marquis' history, that perception is going to be doubly hard to shake. You've got to make them see his value beyond just his rushing stats."
Sophie, always up for a challenge, replied confidently, "Every player has strengths that might not show up on paper. Marquis still has experience, field vision, blocking skills, and he can be a mentor to younger players. There's value in that."
"But remember, you're not just negotiating with teams. You'll have to handle Marquis' ego and expectations, especially given his outspoken nature."
"Managing personalities is part of the job, isn't it? Besides, I've handled hotheads in the NBA. I can manage one in the NFL."
Juan smirked, "I don't doubt that. Marquis fired his agent of nine years aka his own mother. He's volatile, but he's also in desperate need of direction. You may just be what he needs. Or, he might be your most challenging client yet."
Sophie smiled, "Challenge accepted."