Page 33 of Learn the Play
I lean forward, resting my elbows on the table. “They know you’re all I can think about. They know I’m fighting for time with you. They’re my friends. They’d never be mad at me for putting my girl first. Knox and Landry would do the same for their wives, and Baker for his son. Foster would, too, if he had someone.”
She nods but doesn’t speak as she picks up her sandwich to take another bite.
“What are your plans this weekend? Do you have any free time for me?” I ask her.
“Reid, we can’t do this. I don’t date football players, especially not my father’s football players. This won’t go anywhere.”
“Then that means I’m the only one risking the pain if that’s true, right? So, have dinner with me. We’re actually all getting together to have a cookout before training camp starts next week. I’d love for you to be there, to hang out with me and everyone. You can bring Amanda,” I offer, hoping that will bemore enticing for her, knowing that her best friend will be there with her.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
I nod, disappointed, and I don’t hide that from her. “Okay,” I say, feeling the heaviness of her rejection. “Training camp is tough, long days, but I’ll have my phone, so I’ll check in with you at night. They have a family day, too. It’s not like the family day you just went to, but close. I know it’s not your thing, but I’m going to add your name and Amanda’s to the list. If you change your mind and want to come, I’d love to see you.”
“You’re making this harder than it needs to be,” she says. Her tone tells me everything I need to know. She doesn’t want to keep rejecting me, but she feels like she has to.
“You let me worry about that. I’m not afraid of putting in the work, Bell.”
We both go back to eating, making small talk about the weather, and all too soon, she’s glancing at her watch. “I need to get back.”
“Can I drive you? Walk with you?”
“It’s just around the block.”
“Can I walk with you?” I ask again.
She shrugs, and I take that as a yes. Quickly, I clean up our trash and push the door open for her. Together, walking side by side, we make our way back to her work. She stops outside the Riggins Enterprises door and turns to face me.
“Thank you for lunch, Reid.”
“You’re welcome. Can I ask a small favor?”
“Depends.” She eyes me skeptically. “Ask, and I’ll tell you if I’m willing to help you.”
Here goes nothing.
“Can I have a hug?” I keep my eyes trained on her, hoping like hell she can see how badly I need her in my arms again. I hugged her when she got to the restaurant, but this time, I wanther to grant me permission. I want her to see that she holds all the control. I’m just a man ready and willing for any amount of her time she’s willing to offer me. I wait patiently for her to answer me, and finally, she gives me a slight nod.
“Okay,” she replies. If I’m not mistaken, there’s a hint of longing in her tone. Her eyes lit up at my question. I know she has reservations, and while I respect her wishes, I also know that it’s mostly fear. I’ll keep showing up. I’ll keep asking her to dinner and showing her that there’s more to us than one incredible night. I’ll show her that taking that leap and allowing me to be a part of her life won’t hurt her. I’ll never hurt her.
Fighting my grin, I say, “Come here.” Sliding my arm around her waist, I pull her into a hug. I hold tightly, breathing her in. She wants this as badly as I do; she’s just scared. I’ll show her. I’ll prove to her that there is nothing to be scared of. I’m all in with her.
“Let me know about this weekend,” I tell her as I release her.
She smiles and waves before disappearing inside. The walk back to my truck is short, and although I’m stoked to have had lunch with her, it wasn’t enough. I’m not sure any amount of time, not even forever, is long enough where Bellamy is concerned.
Chapter Ten
Reid
She’s not here. I’ve asked her every day since the day we had lunch together if she would come, and every single time, she told me that it’s not a good idea. It wasn’t a no, so I kept asking. I’m trying hard not to be salty about it. I understand where she’s coming from. I genuinely do, but how am I going to prove to her that I’m not her father if she doesn’t let me?
And dammit, I wanted her here today. I wanted her to get to know my friends. I know the girls have been texting her, and they’re planning on getting together while we’re away at training camp. I’m glad she’s going to be hanging out with them. I’m also man enough to admit that I’m jealous as hell that they get time with her.
“What’s going on?” Foster asks. He takes the lounger next to mine, stretching out his legs.
“Just taking it all in,” I tell him.
“You’re sitting over here in the corner all by yourself, moping.” He’s not pulling any punches, calling me out on my shit.
