Page 92 of Trapped and Tackled

“I’d expect nothing less,” I say, meaning it.

Coach holds his own to a higher standard and I’m honored to be included among them.

Chapter 23

Leni

“Come on, come on.” I bounce on my toes, clasping Lincoln’s hand.

“He’s gonna make the extra point,” Marlowe says breezily from my other side.

Lincoln grins and hugs me closer.

She surprised us with a visit before she relocates to London, and I couldn’t be happier to have her home.

Or to have her sit beside me and cheer for Talon and the Coyotes in tonight’s game against New Jersey. Right now, it feels like old times, and I’m savoring the feeling. Nostalgia intertwines with anticipation over the next play and I’m nearly giddy as Talon walks onto the field.

He’s pure swagger, looking undeniably sexy in his football uniform.

He glances up to the stands where he knows I’m sitting. I can’t see his eyes or read his lips, but I know he’s looking right at me when he lifts a hand in the air.

“Damn,” Lincoln murmurs, clutching my fingers.

“Here we go, baby,” I whisper.

I hold my breath as the snap takes place. I zero in on Talon as he dances a few steps forward and swings his leg, kicking the ball in a perfect arc. He scores the extra point, giving the Coyotes a one-point lead, and the entire stadium erupts.

There are roars of jubilation. There’s dancing and tipped beers. There’s a wave of excitement that sweeps me up in its current, and I laugh out loud, loving the thrill of this moment.

Loving that I’m here to support my guy. To finally show up for him.

The clock runs out a few minutes later and the Coyotes secure another win.

“Hell yeah!” Linc cheers, pulling me into a hug.

“That was one hell of a game,” Marlowe agrees, clinging to my other arm.

I smile at my sister and best friend. “Are y’all ready to head to Corks?” I ask. I promised Talon I would come hang out with the team after the game. It surprised me that Avery asked him when he would bring me around, but I suppose being the coach’s daughter and being Talon’s girlfriend are two different things.

As much as I relished the title of the first, I am in love with the position of the second. I adore being Talon’s girlfriend. It happened quicker than I could have imagined but every step along the way felt right.

Real.

For the hopeless romantic who nearly gave up hope, I feel stronger than ever. Talon helped me find my confidence again and know that I’m capable of making my own choices. Of trusting my gut. Of believing in the more.

I am worthy. I am enough.

And together, we’re everything I’ve ever hoped for.

“I’m going to bow out,” Marlowe says, surprising me.

Lincoln frowns. “You sure?”

“Yeah,” Marlowe says, nodding. “I’ve got some family stuff to sort through.”

I give my friend a hug. “Call me if you need anything.”

“I will,” she whispers. It’s been a tough few weeks for Marlowe and her family. I don’t know all the ins and outs, but I know a lot of change is occurring in the McIntyre household. While Marlowe is doing everything she can to shield Adi from the brunt of it, I’m doing whatever I can to make sure she knows she has a support system too.

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