Page 75 of Obeying the Owner

“Hi, Rogan,” Lucy says, waving at him.

“Lucy, are you ready to leave my brother for me yet?”

She shakes her head. “Sorry, but it’s not gonna happen, my young friend.”

He winces. “Why do you always have to bring up my age, Luce?”

“Hello, Rogan,” I say. “How have you been, little brother?”

“Hey, Maeve. I’ve been good. I've been working out a lot, as you can see.” He flexes an arm to show us.

“Are you excited for your senior year of college?” I ask.

“Yeah, I can’t wait to be done and make lots of money playing for the NFL.”

“I like your confidence,” Niall says. “Just don’t get cocky. Nothing’s a sure thing until it happens.”

“Cocky is my middle name, but I back it up with actions, so it’s all good.”

I roll my eyes. “Don’t be an insufferable asshole, Rogan. Humbleness is where it’s at.”

He shrugs. “I’m humble when I need to be.”

I rub my forehead. “How’s football going?” It was either I change the subject or reach through the phone and strangle him.

“Practices have been ballbusting, but our team already looks strong. I’m making a bold prediction. Are you ready?” He pauses. “We won’t lose more than two games.”

“That is bold,” Niall says.

“When’s your first home game?” I ask.

“The first week of September.”

“That’s so soon,” I say. “Good luck.”

“Yeah, good luck, bro,” Niall says.

“We should try to go,” Lucy suggests.

“I knew you missed me,” Rogan teases her.

“I know I can’t get away from work,” I say. The retirement celebration is coming up and then the preseason starts.

“How’s your job going with the new owner?” Rogan asks.

“It’s great. I’m loving it.”

Lucy’s foot nudges my leg as if to say I know why you’re loving it so much.

“I hate to cut this family reunion short, but I have to hit the gym again tonight. Thanks for calling. I miss you all. Especially you, Lucy.” He winks.

“Miss you too. Love you, little brother,” I say, waving.

“Love you,” he calls out.

“Make smart choices,” I add.

“If we don’t get to talk before your first game, good luck. Give them hell,” Niall says.

---