Page 87 of A Pretty Fixation

Coach chuckles. “I’ve been telling Ron about yourperformance on the college team in the last two years. You were already greatcoming in, but you’ve certainly exceeded all expectations.”

“That’s right,” Mr. Adamu chimes in, nodding slowly.“You’ve got what it takes to go far in the sport. I know Hartford soccer clubcan help you get there.”

Their praises leave me in an overwhelming air ofmodesty. “Thank you.” It’s all I can say.

“Here’s my card. We’ll start the importantdiscussions when you stop by.” He hands me his business card and shakes my handagain. “As I’ve said, impeccable playing. Good luck with the championship.”

“Thank you, sir. I’ll see you.”

Mr. Adamu pats Coach Walters on his shoulderbefore walking to his car, taking off shortly.

“I hope you give it some serious thought,” Coachadvises. “I know how you feel about the Revs, but this is a great opportunity,too.”

“It is. I’ll put a lot of consideration into it.”

He nods. “All right. Good game, son.” He motionsto the bus.

I stick the card into my jeans and jog over,sitting next to Dante after boarding.

“Was that a rep?” he confirms.

“Yeah. Hartford soccer club.” I take the card outto look at it again.

“I don’t need to ask what he said because I knowhe wants you to play for his club. The question is, what are you going to do?”

I rest my head against the seat. “I don’t know,man. The Revs is my dream club. What about you? Any word yet?”

He frowns. “Uh, nothing from Revs. LA Galaxy saidthey’ll add me to the list for consideration.”

“That’s good.”

Doubt twists his features. “If they wanted me,they wouldn’t have said they’re adding me to a long ass list.”

“Just give it time. Don’t stress over it. Focus onthe championship and deal with it after.”

“You’re right.” He juts his chin to the card in myhand. “What about them?”

“Going to think about it.”

I can’t wait to get back to Hartford to discuss itwith Jordyn. She’s the first one who popped into my head after Mr. Adamu’sinterest. Once I talk to her and my family, I feel I’ll be better able to makea decision.

The bus reaches Hartford two hours later.

It pulls into the visitors’ parking on campus, andI chat with the guys a little before we call it an evening since we’re allexhausted.

I’m not too tired for that ride, though.

While walking to my dorm, I take my phone out tocall Jordyn, finding a text from Dad.

Comehome when you get back.

There’ssomething important

Ihave to tell you.

I slow to a stop after reading the message. Whatdoes he have to tell me?

Instead of the dorm, I make a beeline to my car inthe student parking and drive home.

---