Page 41 of Hard to Break

My heart pounds harder.

She’s here for me.

I’ve had women come mainly to watch me play. Hell, judging from the fans wearing my jerseys, it’s a regular occurrence.

But I’d trade a thousand fans for one.

For her.

We’re playing an afternoon game, and Brooke said she has to drop in on a dinner her mom’s having, so I won’t catch her until later.

But looking at my girl fuels me.

The rush of feelings from New York come back.

I meant it when I said I’d do anything for her. When we talked about our dreams, I could picture her there with me. I’ve never wanted anything so badly.

I love her, and I’m going to tell her.

Tonight.

Whether it’sher presence or being back on home court, the first quarter is the best I’ve felt in weeks. With Atlas back, I can combine my new game with my old one—showing up around the perimeter for a three, cutting into the paint when the opportunity presents itself.

Second quarter is tough, but we sneak into halftime still in the lead.

The clock expires on the trade deadline, and the guys high-five and fist-bump down the bench.

“Still here,” Jay calls.

The starters all look at one another. “Still here.”

Clay straightens, unzipping his warmup jacket. “Let’s send Dallas back home with claw marks.”

Cheers go up.

No one can stop this team. We’re a family. A unit.

Third and fourth quarters are gritty, but Jay’s moving the ball with extra pop. I’m back to pre-all-star form. Clay fills in gaps in his MVP form. Atlas is big at the net, and even Rookie finds spots to shine.

We get the win, and we’re pumped.

“Fuck yeah. Playoffs, here we come!” Jay hollers, wrapping an arm around my neck.

After, when I get back to the locker room, Chloe’s by the door.

“We got the win, Chlo. Look happier,” Jay says as he breezes toward her.

She turns her attention to me but grips her iPad tighter. “Miles. We need a word.” Jay starts to head into the lockerroom, but Chloe holds up a slim arm to bar his entrance. “Only Garrett.”

“The fuck is going on?” Jay looks between us.

She nods toward the locker room.

When I get into the room, I pull up. Harlan and James are standing by my locker. Security is with them.

“There something you want to tell us?” Harlan asks.

I look between them. “What?” The adrenaline from the game is still pounding in my veins.

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