Page 110 of Falling Stars

“Don’t listen to that old troll. She’s one of those nasty stage mothers who can’t handle her kid not winning the first-place trophy.”

Paige is just being a good bestie. Lorraine is actually in great shape. Probably from drinking the blood of anyone who trespasses on her property.

When I don’t say anything, Paige wraps her arm around my shoulder and walks me back to the strollers, explaining thatMrs. Nash said she’d watch our babies. “When I saw Lorraine, I thought you might need help.”

“Thanks for the rescue. For the life of me, I didn’t know what to say.”

“Seriously, don’t pay her any mind. She was constantly giving the other girls on the squad shit when we were in high school. I’d bet anything the only reason Nicole got hired is because her parents are big boosters.”

Yes, I’m shaken by what Lorraine said.

But I’m more troubled that Maverick hasn’t mentioned talking to Nicole at the high school.

39

MAVERICK

After my workout,I wrap my neck and shoulder with ice packs and flip on ESPN. Joel Clark and Bo Tyson are debating draft prospects.

Joel: Here are our top five picks for this year’s draft. As you may remember, Michael Sinclair, a star tight end from UT, nabbed this year’s Heisman.

A highlight reel plays as the kid catches ball after ball with the tips of his fingers as he flies through the air.

Damn, he’s talented.

Bo: I bet New York wishes they’d gotten Sinclair instead of Maverick Walker.

What an asshole.My jawtightens.

Joel: Walker might prove us wrong and make a comeback, though New York has been pretty quiet about his recovery. We’ll find out more when the team returns for voluntary workouts next week.

Numbness settles over me as I watch the rest of the show.

As I unstrap the Velcro holding the ice pack to my shoulder, I ignore the pain extending down my arm.

Am I ready to give up this game? Is it really time to throw in the towel? Am I ready to be known as the rookie who couldn’t even hack one season?

The front door unlocks, and I hear the telltale sound of the stroller wheels on the tile.

“Hey, Bay,” I call out. “Are you hungry? I ordered us some dinner. Should be here soon.”

When she doesn’t say anything, I turn around. She looks like she just saw a ghost. Frowning, I get up. “Did something happen? Are you okay?”

Her eyes are red like she’s been crying. “No, I’m really not.”

“What’s wrong?”

She stares at the floor. “Did you pay for my back rent and repairs at the house?”

“Shit. I forgot to mention that. Yeah.” I make a silly face. “Surprise.”

She doesn’t laugh. “If you give me a few months, I can pay you back. I can start at the end of April, if that’s okay.”

“What are you talking about? I don’t expect you to repay me.”

“I know two hundred a month doesn’t sound like a lot, but?—”

“Baylee.”

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