Page 130 of The Way We Win

One of the team trainers is with him, and I keep walking. I’ve got a busload of boys waiting for me, and something special planned for the beautiful woman I love.

31

Allie

Cooters & Shooters is all lit up.

A banner hangs on the back wall readingCongratulations, Captains, and tonight is the big celebration. It’s the first time in Jack’s tenure as coach at Newhope High that they’ve brought home the state championship trophy.

It’s the first of many, everyone’s saying.

Everyone was asleep on the bus by the time we rolled back into town near 2 a.m. The news of the showdown with Levi’s dad flew through the group like wildfire, and all the way home, I texted with Jack to be sure he was okay.

I know how much he cares about the boys, and especially when the parents are too much, his protectiveness runs high.

It’s so hot. It’s one of my favorite things about him.

I’m sorry about Levi’s dad. You okay? I know you hate that.

Sir

Logan’s got him. He’ll spend the night with them, and we’ll figure it out tomorrow.

Wish you could get me tonight

Sir

As pretty as you are in my bed, get your sleep tonight. I expect to see you at the celebration tomorrow.

I’ll be up front in your jersey.

Sir

Perfect.

Now we’re here, and I’m in my white pleated skirt with his baby blue and red Number 18 Mustangs jersey on. I don’t give a shit what people think or say.

Really, because Jack said we don’t.

I’d still be in the closet if he weren’t so adamant our sneaking-around days are over. Although, it was kind of sexy being his dirty little secret.

Now I’ll be his dirty little wife.

“You ladies did such a good job with that drill team.” Miss Gina walks up, holding Rachel’s hand. “It was thrilling to hear the band at every game and know the girls were doing their high kicks. Just like when Liv was captain.”

“Miss Gina, you are too much.” Liv skips over to give her a hug. “You never saw me once.”

“Your energy was electric,” the old blind lady argues. “I remember how the stadium would get so excited when you’d lead the team onto the field. It was just like when Dylan would dance in the Nutcracker.”

“You were always front and center.” Dylan skips over to hug her surrogate grandmother. “And when it ended, you’d be on your feet clapping.”

“You’re really showing!” Miss Gina runs her hand over my bestie’s middle. “How far along are you now?”

“I’m at twenty weeks. Can you believe that?”

“Halfway there!” Miss G’s blue eyes lift to the ceiling in delight. “Do you know what you’re having?”

Dylan’s eyes light, and I can tell she does. Rachel, Liv, and I all lean forward at the same time.

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