Page 136 of Stealing Home

“I know Coach, I’m sorry.” I reply.

“What’s going on?” He asks.

“This whole thing has me fucked up, coach. How do I know someone else who comes on the team won’t do the same thing to her or someone else?”

“Son, I get it. I think every guy here has your back. Has anyone said anything to you?” He asks.

“No, everyone reached out and asked if we needed anything. They sent stuff to the house for Adriana.” I tell him.

“They’re your family. Crawford is an asshole and will get what’s coming to him. But not everyone else is him. Don’t push them away. I want you to talk to the therapist. Until he clears you, I need you on the bench.” Coach says.

FUCK! That’s not what I thought he was going to say.

“Fine.” I tell him.

“Good, you have an appointment tomorrow at eleven am. Now go back to your girl.”

I leave his office and go to my locker. My mood just went from sour to shitty.

CHAPTER FORTY-EIGHT

Adriana

Heather is coming over before Dani and Laine, so we can talk. We’ve talked since that day at the stadium, but I can tell she wants to get her feelings off her chest when we aren’t on a timeline.

I don’t blame her and I’ve told her that many times, but I still see the guilt in her eyes.

I’m laying out by the pool when she comes in through the gate.

“Hey boss lady.” I greet her.

“Hey woman! How are we today?” She asks.

“I’m good. Just waiting for you to get here.” I tell her.

“Well, then the party can start. I’m here. But can we go in the shade?”

“Of course. Let’s go sit at the table.” I tell her.

We make our way to sit at the outdoor table with the umbrella covering it.

“Okay. Get out whatever it is you need to say.” I tell her.

“Ugh, I hate you know me so well! Okay, I know I’ve said I’m sorry a billion times. But, I love you, you’re my best friend and sister from another mister. I need to make sure we’re good. I need to know because we work together and I want and needthat to continue. Also, the appointment was for the OBGYN. Yes, I’m pregnant! And this baby needs their Auntie A.” Heather finishes with tears in her eyes.

I have the biggest smile on my face. I need her to know that Auntie A isn’t going anywhere.

“I knew it! That’s exactly where I thought you were going! Congrats!!!! Auntie A is so excited for baby Evans.” I exclaim before continuing.

“No, Heather, I don’t blame you. We are so good. You are my best friend and sister too. You don’t have to worry about me going anywhere. The furthest I’d go is to live here permanently. You are stuck with me. That includes if Cole and I don’t work out.” I tell her.

“What do you mean if you and Cole don’t work out?! That man is so in love with you,” She responds.

“I know, but he’s been off and when I try to talk to him about it but he isn’t budging on what’s bothering him. What if he’s trying to push me away?” I clue her into what’s going on.

I get up so I can go hug her and my future niece or nephew. We both cry as we hug and we laugh when we pull apart.

“I’m so happy for you guys. It makes me happy that I can be here for it.”

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