Page 89 of The Way We Win

Levi’s starting QB tonight. I meant to tell you earlier.

DLS

It’s been a day.

Austin will be back next week.

DLS

It’s homecoming. Everyone will be here.

More eyes on both of you.

DLS

That gave me a shiver.

More eyes that love you.

DLS

Thank you

I think about what I sent. I think about how she’s become so much a part of my family these last few years. My siblings do love her—and Austin, too.

I love her and Austin.

Staring at the phone in my hands, I acknowledge the truth right in front of me like a brand, an undeniable fact.

I love Allie.

I love her, and this is where everything changes.

Levi plays a strong game,but the Dolphins have done their homework. They’re ready for both of our quarterbacks, and he’s sacked more than once.

Going into the fourth quarter, they’re up by seven. The score has gone back and forth each quarter with us scoring out the gate and them hot on our heels.

Garrett joined us for practice in the days leading up to tonight, and our defensive line turned in the best game of the season. Still, it isn’t enough to hold back this team.

As strong as we play, we miss our chance at scoring a touchdown. In the final seconds, Rome Allen kicks a field goal, but it’s not enough to close the gap in the score.

It’s our first loss of the season—and against our biggest rival. Our fans are deflated, and the mood on the bus heading back to Newhope is somber.

My mind and my eyes have been on Allie all night, but I stand, facing the boys as we drive.

“You played a good game tonight. I want you all to be proud of yourselves.” I look at where Austin and Levi share a seat in the back.

Austin’s in the middle, his eyes fixed on me as I speak. Levi’s looking out the window at the passing lights, and as a former quarterback, I’m sure I can guess how he’s feeling.

“It never feels good to lose, but we’ve had a strong season. We’ve got four games to go, and we’re still in the running for the playoffs.” I look from face to face. “Defense, that was your best game of the year. Let’s keep it up, and Levi?”

He doesn’t look up from the window.

“Levi?” He finally turns his gaze to me, and I give him a nod. “You played a good game. You’ll have another chance to show us what you can do.”

He doesn’t smile, and I make the decision to let him split the homecoming game with Austin. We’re playing the Bears, another tough team, but it’ll be on our home turf.

It’ll be a high-spirit time with all the festivities and the positive energy. I expect we’ll pull out a win.

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