The text message asked if I would like to go to a game. Oh my God, he’s inviting me to his game. What am I going to wear?

Yes, I replied, what time is it and where?

Cole replies that the game is in town at the stadium, and it will be the 3 PM game. He would like to take me out for dinner afterwards.

I agree and ask him where I should meet him. He tells me the ticket for my seat will be at the stadium. Just ask for it at Will Call, and it will be under my name.

I briefly consider asking him if I need to pay for this date but decide against being snarky. My feelings have been out of whack all week desperately missing Cole.

I get ready for the game, choosing a slim fitting black dress.

I want to look good for Cole, but also want to maintain an air of casualness. I pair my outfit with a leather jacket and some ankle boots, wanting to strike the perfect balance between stylish and comfortable.

As I make my way to the stadium, my heart races with anticipation. I can't help but wonder what this outing means for us. Is it just a friendly gesture, or does Cole have feelings for me? I try to push those thoughts aside, reminding myself that our arrangement had ended, and it’s best not to get my hopes up.

Arriving at the stadium, I head towards the Will Call booth, nervously asking for the ticket under my name. The attendant hands me the ticket, and I make my way to my seat, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.

Throughout the game, I catch glimpses of Cole on the field, his athleticism and determination evident in every move. I can't help but feel a surge of pride and admiration for him. After the game, I meet him at the designated spot outside the stadium. He greets me with a warm smile, his eyes lighting up as he ses me in my outfit. We walk side by side, engaging in lighthearted banter as we make our way to the restaurant he chose for dinner.

As we walk into the bustling restaurant, the aroma of sizzling burgers and crispy French fries fill the air. The cozy atmosphere is a welcome escape from the crisp autumn breeze outside. I can't help but smile, excited to catch up over some delicious food and talk about the exhilarating football game we just witnessed.

I chuckle, sitting across from Cole feeling the same rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins at the memory. "Insane is an understatement, Cole. That game had me on the edge of my seat the entire time!"

The waiter approaches our table, ready to take our orders. I quickly glance at the menu, but my mind is still reliving the thrilling moments of the game. "I'll have a classic cheeseburger with a side of crispy onion rings, please," I say, placing my order.

Cole, on the other hand, is too engrossed in our conversation to even notice the menu. "Oh, uh, I'll have what she's having," he hastily reply, flashing a sheepish grin at the waiter.

Once we have placed our orders, I can't contain my excitement any longer. "Cole, that last-minute touchdown by your team was absolutely incredible. I thought for sure you were going to lose!"

He nods fervently, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I know, right? The quarterback's pass was like something out of a movie. The receiver caught it inches away from the defender's fingertips. It was a true nail-biter!"

We both burst into laughter, reminiscing about the intense moments of the game. It is as if time has frozen, and we are reliving every heart-stopping play in that little booth.

"Remember when the crowd erupted in cheers after that touchdown?" I ask, a smile spreading across my face. "The energy was electric! We were all jumping up and down, high-fiving strangers, and screaming at the top of our lungs."

Cole nods, his eyes shining with the shared memories. "It was an incredible feeling, Amber. The camaraderie and unity among the fans is always amazing. They’re all brought together by their love for the game and our team."

As our food arrives, we pause our conversation momentarily to indulge in the mouthwatering feast before us. The flavors explode in my mouth, but it doesn't compare to the exhilaration of the football game we experienced together.

After a few bites, Cole leans in closer, his voice tinged with excitement. "You know, Amber, each of us have been to so many games over the years, but this one felt different. It's like we were witnessing history being made, and we were part of something truly special."

I nod, my heart swelling with gratitude for moments like these and the friendship we share. "You're absolutely right, Cole. These experiences are what make life so incredible. The memories we create together are priceless."

We continue to savor our meal, discussing more highlights of the football game and reveling in the joy of good food and the shared love for the sport. The sound of laughter and animated conversations fill the restaurant, as if everyone was reliving their own exhilarating moments from the game.

As the evening draws to a close, we leave the restaurant with full bellies and hearts brimming with excitement. The football game has brought us even closer, reminding us of the indescribable bond.

Chapter 10

Cole

I had practice this morning and left Amber at my place for the day. Now I can’t wait to see her. The key turns in the lock, and I push the door open, revealing an empty apartment. The fading light from the sunset streams through the windows as I drop my bag next to the door. “Babe?” I call. The door to the bedroom swings open and Amber walks out in a tank top and shorts, her lithe form sweaty from working out.

“Cole, you’re just in time! I was about to take a bath.” I recognize the look in her eyes and her shy smirk so what she says next comes as no surprise. “Want to take one with me?”

Jesus Christ, this girl never stops, and I’m here for it! “Yes, can you give me a minute? Work was brutal today, and I’m a little beat up.” Damn, I like this girl and her insatiable body. We already did it twice this morning before I left, which is probably why I’m so tired.

“Okay,” she says as she walks into the bathroom. I wait until the water turns on to cross to the bedroom, leaving a trail of clothes behind me until I’m in only my boxers. I crash on the bed and exhale all the air from my lungs and inhale air back in to refresh, reset myself for the next round. I hear the bathroom door open. So, I lift my head to see my girl.