Page 162 of How to Score Off Field

Get me pregnant.

That I can do.

My fingers trace gentle circles on her belly, and I’m filled with a sense of protectiveness and affection, especially after she brought up all the “safety in the end zone” stuff.

This isn’t just about Tess and me anymore – it’s about the life that’s taking shape, the tiny heartbeat that echoes within her.

It’s a responsibility and a gift and a connection that goes beyond anything I’ve ever known.

As I continue to touch her baby bump, Tess’s hand covers mine, her touch warm and reassuring. Our eyes meet, and at that moment, it’s as if all the complications and uncertainties fade away.

There’s a sense of unity between us, a shared understanding that we’re in this together, no matter what lies ahead.

Drake’s laughter rings in the background because he hates it when I talk like that. He thinks it stupid and corny, and it makes him uncomfortable.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

“Tess lost the baby.”

“Lost it?” He sounds confused.

“I didn’t even know I wanted to be a father until she told me. I didn’t know,” I repeat. “I didn’t know, Drake.”

I swear to god, tears come from my eyes. I haven’t cried in years. Years. Actual years.

When was the last time I cried? When was it?

I hurt myself, breaking my leg in several places, and my dad had been so fucking pissed as if it were my fault and not something out of my control. I couldn’t help it that the linebacker had smashed into me. It wasn’t my fault. I didn’t see him coming.

The tears run down my cheeks.

I toss.

I turn.

Reach for Tess but she’s not there.

“This is my childhood friend…”

Child.

Our child that’s no longer there. Why am I just thinking about this now? What took me so long?

Because you were only thinking of yourself and not her, and now she’s being distant. You fucked it up. Grady was right, you don’t deserve her, and you shouldn’t have touched her.

I should have left her alone.

“That kiss is going to cost you two thousand dollars.”

If she wanted you, she would have told you.

“Thanks to you, we have no more money left. You should have kept your dick in your pants, asshole! That was twenty-five thousand dollars.”

Jerk.

Fool.

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