Page 26 of The Finish Line

Sean: She’s got you by the balls already, doesn’t she?

More than that.

Sean: If it didn’t hurt, then it wouldn’t be worth it. You’re too used to getting your way. Let it burn. It will be worth it.

Disgusted I need consoling this early in, and by him, I change the subject.

Things good?

Sean: Can’t even last a day, can you, man?

Throw me a fucking bone. I’m useless here.

Sean: You’re not even twenty-four hours in. Give it time.

I will. I am. I’m not complaining.

I can feel the hesitation on both ends of the phone. A minute passes before I get another text.

Sean: It’s weird, huh?

You have no idea.

Sean: I have some idea. Wait until you go from Maverick to married with three kids.

Two kids.

Sean: Three. Found out this morning.

Congrats, man.

Sean: You going to have any?

I just starved half a day to make sure she didn’t poison my sandwich. I think I’ll table that conversation for later.

The bubbles start and stop.

Stop laughing. Dick.

Sean: You really have no idea what you’re doing, do you?

I want to be here. I know that.

Sean: Go with your gut.

Familiar advice.

Sean: This will work out. Day one.

Day one.

I mull over my word choice and decide just to type the truth.

Thanks, man.

Sean: Anytime.

You mean that?

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