Page 25 of Your Secret to Keep

“What do I do with the college fund?” she asks.

“Well, you should go on a vacation,” Coach laughs. “Now, I’m going to tell you something, but you can’t hold me to it—it’s only a feeling. When I watch Brooks, I think about how he could actually play in the NBA.” He looks between my mom and I, and it’s hard for me to grasp what he’s saying. “I know that’s the goal for a lot of athletes, but the truth of the matter is, it doesn’t happen for most of them. Brooks might be able to play professionally, if that’s what he wants to do.”

My chest is tight and I feel like I could jump out of my skin, but in the best way.

“I have a feeling you will get a few offers like this, and I know we’re typically a football school, but I’m building quite the recruiting class. Hope you’ll wear crimson and spend your time with us in Tuscaloosa.”

As soon as Coach left, I knew in my heart I’d play for him. There were other offers, some for schools more known for basketball,but it didn’t matter. Sometimes you go with your gut, and it was the best decision I ever made.

I’m thinking about my mom, so I send her a text. She’s been taking a bunch of trips with her girlfriends and is on the edge of retirement. While she could retire now, it’s hard for her to stop working—it’s been such a key part of her identity. She busted her ass so I could have everything I wanted.

I paid off her house with my latest contract extension and started a joint account which she can pull from to take trips. I knew she wouldn’t do it without a nudge from me.

My phone buzzes with a notification and I’m surprised when it’s not a response from my mom.

Lia

so, does your dinner invite still stand?

or was there an expiration date

This fucking grin would be embarrassing if anyone else could see me. I’ve left the next move to Lia—not wanting to pressure her or have her do anything that makes her uncomfortable. We haven’t seen each other in two days, but it feels longer than that. Before I can text her back, she sends another message.

is this now old milk?

Me

no expiration

pretend I didn’t mention old dairy

i know you already read it, otherwise I’d unsend

consider it forgotten

I laugh as my fingers fly over the keyboard. Only Lia would find a way to work in expired milk when it comes to me asking her out. A true talent.

i’m cooking now if you want to come over

When I send the message, three little dots appear and then stop. Appear. Stop. I take a picture of the fresh pasta and send it to her.

might be a bold invite

you cook?

yes

thought you’d have a chef

not yet

not full time at least...

looks good

there’s more than enough for you

Again, the three dots appear and disappear. I can almost see Lia squeezing her phone too tight, pulling it close to her face like she does when she’s thinking about something.

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