Page 120 of The Way We Win

Glancing to the right, I see the girls on the sidelines practicing their moves. Allie is with them, and she’s so pretty with her hair up and those glasses on her nose again. She’s wearing that short skirt I like, and every now and then, she’ll catch me looking and give me a little wave.

It’s a hit of adrenaline right in my chest, and I’m ready to put my ring on her finger today. I’m just waiting for the jeweler to finish resizing it.

“Levi’s been showing up these last few games, Coach.” George Powell is at it again.

He’s on the sideline in my ear, and I do my best to stay cool with the man.

I don’t like the way he rides his son. Levi’s a good kid, but I see how he’s starting to act out, and I’ve seen this scenario before. It means he’s getting too much pressure at home.

“He’s playing well.” My tone is noncommittal.

“I heard about what happened with the librarian.” George shakes his head, looking down and feigning sympathy. “That was too bad.”

“It was dangerous and potentially life-threatening.” I level my eyes on him, wondering where he’s going this time.

“You handled it, though.” He nods, seeming to sense the change in my mood.

He’d better watch it. My patience is gone when it comes to my girl.

Allie wants to keep things as normal as possible for Austin’s senior year, or I’d have her staying at my house full-time. I can’t be with her as much as I want with Kimmie still so young, but I take comfort in knowing Rip Sinclair is solidly behind bars and her son is in the house with her at night.

“The playoffs are no time for sympathy points,” George continues. “It’s time for the best players to take the lead.”

I turn to face him. “How aboutyoutake a seat, and let me do my job.”

Logan strolls up just in time.

“How’s it going, George?” My brother-in-law steps between me and the man who’s about to meet the business end of my fist, injuries be damned. “We’ve got things under control here, so you can join the other parents in the stands.”

He huffs out a growl, muttering more choice words about the upcoming game, but I return my focus to the boys.

“D-line has really come together.” Logan is back at my side, watching them play. “Offense has been strong from Day 1, but no one’s getting through that line now.”

“Garrett’s a natural.” I watch with pride as Austin completes a thirty-yard pass for Tyreek to run in for the score.

The stands break into cheers and applause, and the cheerleaders and drill team do kicks and chants as the boys gather in a huddle to congratulate them.

“Aus-tin! Aus-tin!” The girls yell from the sidelines, and my eyes meet Allie’s.

I love to see her smile.

I can’t clap with my arm in a sling, but that ought to shut Powell’s mouth. “I’m glad he’s our sheriff, though.”

Logan exhales a chuckle. “I couldn’t agree more. Who knew Garrett Bradford would make such a kick-ass officer?”

My frown twists, and I can’t deny it anymore. “I probably always knew. He was a peacekeeper in school.”

“He’s a good guy.” Logan glances at me. “You are, too, Coach. I’m really proud of how you took care of that asshole and rescued Allie.”

I nod. Rescuing Allie goes without question.

“When are you planning to pop the question?” He gives me a nudge. “Or has it already happened?”

“Just waiting for the ring to be sized.”

“All right.” His voice rises, and he claps. “Let me know what I can do to help.”

I hadn’t thought of this before, but it gives me an idea. “I will.”