Manuscript Monday: Couples Q&A

FEATURING: DEAN SMITH & DYLAN THOMPSON
From Playing for Keeps and Holding the Line – He's a star quarterback who’s survived concussions, playoffs, and rival linebackers. She’s a full-contact wedding planner in stilettos. Together? They’re engaged. God help us all.

Q: How’s wedding planning going?
Dylan: Magical! Inspirational! Only two vendors have threatened legal action.
Dean: I sleep with one eye open.
Dylan: He’s lying. He sleeps like a log while I’m up at 2AM debating napkin fold aesthetics.
Dean: That’s not a thing.
Dylan: Says the man who wanted the wedding on the 50-yard line.
Dean: Still a solid idea.

Q: What’s been the biggest argument so far?
Dylan: Live goats.
Dean: The fact that there were live goats involved at all.
Dylan: I said no. Eventually.
Dean: But not before they were in the Pinterest board marked “Vibes.”

Q: Who’s more emotional about the big day?
Dean: Dylan.
Dylan: Excuse me? I am prepared. You’re the one who got misty at the venue tour.
Dean: It was allergies.
Dylan: You cried when the fairy lights came on.
Dean: They were really nice lights.

Q: Favorite part of being engaged?
Dylan: Telling people he's mine. Also the ring. It’s sparkly and it blinds people I don’t like.
Dean: Waking up next to her knowing this is forever. Also, when she says ‘fiancé’ in that voice that means she’s about to boss me around.
Dylan: You love it.
Dean: I do.

Q: Any advice for couples planning a wedding?
Dylan: Start a group chat titled “Don’t Test Me Today.” Add all vendors. Include a daily countdown and inspirational threats.
Dean: Say yes. A lot. To everything. Especially when she’s holding a clipboard.
Dylan: That’s romantic.
Dean: That’s survival.

Q: Final words for readers waiting for the wedding novella?
Dean: I make it to the altar. Spoiler alert.
Dylan: And it’s the best damn wedding this football universe has ever seen. Fairy lights, fondant, and enough sass to fuel a sequel.