Page 275 of Well Played

“The teams are all concerned about my injury,” Grant managed that much before she cut him off.

“That’s bullshit. It’s just a finger, hardly career-impacting.” There was the fire he’d been looking for.

“That’s what I said. But there’s another offer that I wanted to talk to you about before I made a decision. The thing is Cassie, I don’t want to have a clean break or an end. I want to keep going with you.”

Tears spilled over from her eyes and he used his thumbs to wipe them away.

“Bardley wants me as a defensive coach. I never considered coaching and didn’t consider my career over, but the more I think about it, the better this looks. I wouldn’t have to play through the pain anymore and would be able to stay here with you.” He was risking it all and letting his defenses down for her.

“You don’t want to end your career for me,” Cassie said sadly.

“I’m not. I’m doing this for us. The pain isn’t getting better, I’ve already told you that and the reality is I might only get one more season. If I take this, I end my career on my terms.”

“Is this what you want, Grant, really?”

“What do you want?” He needed to her to tell him.

“I don’t want to be the reason you’re unhappy. But I don’t want this to end either.” Cassie admitted.

“Then talk to me. What do you think of the offer?”

“I think it’s a great idea. It keeps you healthy and here, but I worry you’ll regret it.”

Grant smiled and pulled her in for a hug before leaning back to look her in the eyes. “There would never be a regret as long as I still have you. I love you.”

Her eyes were wide as he watched her process his words. “I love you, too.”

Grant stepped away long enough to send one message and then tossed his phone on the dresser.

Grant: I’ll take it.

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