Page 80 of The Way We Score

I’m miles away in Newhope, wishing I had my girl in my arms.

Liv

Did you know the fam watches all your games at C&S?

Tonight was another win for the Pirates, and the talk has turned to the playoffs. Ricky completed three of the four passes Charlie sent his way, and we’re in the running for the Big Game.

I’ve done it all before, and it’s a legit adrenaline rush. Few things are as gratifying as being at the top of the game.

Except a text from Liv.

Sitting on the bench in the locker room, I chuckle as I tap a reply.

I’ve heard about this. I’ve also heard Dylan hides behind a post so she doesn’t have to see us get tackled.

Liv

I don’t want to burst yourbubble.

She’s not hiding anymore?

Gray dots appear, disappear. I shake my head wondering what in the world?

Liv

Maybe I should let her break it to you.

Aw, she stopped watching?

Liv

I don’t really blame her. It’s hard watching you take a hit. Tonight for instance.

I think back to a tackle in the third quarter when a defensive lineman so big he makes me look like a normal-sized guy caught me off guard. I was trying to create an opening for Ricky, and he threw me on the turf like I was a rag doll.

Yeah, dude’s a beast. I’ll have a few bruises from that one.

Liv

You’ll be sore tomorrow.

She knows how it was when we were in high school. They always put me on the line because of my size, and I was usually the biggest guy out there—but not always. Sometimes I’d get hit, and when I did, I was on ice for at least a day or two.

I was also seventeen. It takes me a little longer to bounce back now. The funny thing is, I don’t feel a thing.

I’ll be on the plane headed your way.

The thought of seeing her again, seeing how much she’s changed in two weeks, warms my whole body. I don’t want to let her go, and I’m texting, hoping I catch her before she puts her phone down.

You never told me if you want a boy or a girl.

I stand, grab my bag, and head for the door. The guys are all going out, but I’ll be in my bed, doing my best to speed up the hours until I see her again.

Liv

I want a healthy baby.

Cut the crap, Cher, which is it?

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