Page 180 of Let You Love Me

I know. Trust me, I know. To say I’m sick about football is an understatement because I am. The rug was ripped out from under me far too soon, but I’ll deal. Football was never my future the way it is yours. It’s just going to take some reimagining of the next four years.

Graham:

Shit. I get that more than you know.

I’m sure he does. Graham had his whole future mapped out for him since he was a kid. His father played in the NFL and expected Graham to follow in his footsteps. It wasn’t until Graham had his heart broken, then found Skylar and fell in love with her that he had the courage to admit what he really wanted. He turned down an opportunity to play in the Big Ten, walked away from football, and never looked back.

Jace:

And we’re here for you, man.

Me:

The worse part of it all is I just want her. With her by my side, I could handle any-fucking-thing. Losing football means nothing compared to the thought of losing her.

Atlas:

Have you talked to her?

Me:

No. She’s tried calling and texted me dozens of times, but I just can’t bring myself to respond when I don’t know what to fucking say.

Jace:

Maybe it’s time, man.

Me:

Probably. But every time I think about how I asked her point-blank if she and Chance were ever together and she lied straight to my face, I shut down. I can’t even think about it without getting sick to the stomach. All I can think about is how Knox lied right to my fucking face for years. I had no clue he hurt Brynn. No clue he was fucking guilty. Since then, lying is a hard fucking no, and it’s so hard to get past that.

Jace:

Shit, I get it. You’re in a tough spot, bro. Not sure what I’d do if I was in your shoes.

I grimace.

Me:

Helpful.

Jace:

Sorry, man.

Me:

Okay, so if the roles were reversed, and it was your girls. What would y’all do?

Jace:

I’m basically Brynn’s bitch, so unless she cheats on my ass, she’s not getting rid of me that easy. ??

Atlas:

Do you know who you’re talking to?

I frown just as another text comes through.