Page 26 of The Fine Line
Because I’ve never shirked a responsibility in my life. I’ve gone above and beyond, over-prepared, over-performed, and still got passed over. Meanwhile Rhett Sutton—handed a title others would kill for—can’t even pretend to care.
“We are not the same,” I tell him.
His smile flickers. “Trust me. I know.”
“What is your problem?” I blurt.
“What do you mean?”
“Can you at least act like you give a shit?”
“About what?”
“Anything!” I throw up my hands. “You’re Captain, Rhett. This is the first game of the season. So many people would kill to be in your position.”
“Well, maybe you should’ve told your dad to give it to one of them.”
I scoff. “Or maybe you should grow up.”
“Big words from a baby bear.”
I rear back.
“You don’t know what it’s like,” he mutters.
“I don’t have to,” I snap. “You made the commitment—so figure it out.”
He opens his mouth, but I cut him off. “And for the record? I did tell my dad to give it to someone else. Anyone else. He didn’t listen.”
Rhett’s mouth falls open, stunned into silence—just as my phone rings.
Courtney.
I turn away and answer. “Courtney, hey?—”
“Change of plans,” she cuts in, breathless and frantic. “Baby decided to come early. I’m on my way to the hospital.”
“Oh my God?—”
“Caroline, I need you to take over. Please, can you?—”
“Yes,” I say without hesitation. My heart’s pounding, but my brain flips into gear. “I’ve got it. No problem.”
“I’m so sorry?—”
“Don’t worry. I’ve got this,” I assure her. “Focus on you and the baby.”
“Thank you,” her voice cracks. “Bryan should be coming to get you.”
“Gentlemen, line up—let’s go!” my dad’s voice booms down the hall.
I lift my head and immediately spot Bryan hustling toward me. “I see him,” I tell her.
“Great,” Courtney sighs. “Good luck, Caroline. You’ve got this.”
“Right back at you.” I hang up, exhale, and look back at Rhett.
He’s still standing where I left him.
