Page 34 of Off Sides

Tyler breaks the silence, “so we have a week.” We do, but Coach does want us to go over videos.

“I think we should just stay here, pool, relax, go in when Coach calls us, BBQ, and all that.”

“I like that.” Nothing more is said as we just relax outside, letting the wind whirl around us, carrying the cheers of the valley, the toasts of our win.

Tyler taps my shoulder, “I’ll be back tomorrow, text what you want me to bring. You did good.”

“Thanks, man. That means a lot to me.”

He steps toward the door and then turns back to me, “you know this whole city would cheer you on whoever you’re with.”

I just shift in my seat, letting that be my answer for now. He leaves with a wave of his hand.

I sit out for a few more minutes and then retreat inside. I make a list on my phone of what I need and then head upstairs to bed. Sleep is the only time I don’t think of games or Raine.

49

Chapter 49

Raine

Iwake up bright and early, go for a swim, and dress for the day. I need to finish what paperwork needs to be done before the ribbon cutting.

The office is a flourish of activity, last minute prep. My team is truly great.

Brad sees me as I enter and follows me to the office, “we just need your final signatures and then I can the owners to sign. Olivia is posting about this all-over social media and it’s getting excellent views.”

Perfect, “great work. I think after this, everyone can take a vacation, paid for by me.”

His eyes widen, “that’s very generous of you, sir.”

It is, but they deserve it, “you guys did great work. This was a big task. You guys all come up with a place to go, families included and let Rachel know. She will make arrangements.”

He bows in thanks, “thank you so much.” I sign the papers, and he rushes off to get the other signatures he needs. And then it’s done, the ribbon cutting will happen in two days.

I will wait a few weeks before finding a new venture. My team needs the rest. I can find something to do. I was looking into gardening, something new.

I can’t imagine being a gardener, but maybe I’ll like it. I like the prospect of fresh vegetables. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll try something else. Hobbies are a must, and I don’t have any. I now have a couple of weeks to look for a few new ones. Possibilities are endless.

I’m about to leave when my office door opens up again and Tyler walks in with Jester.

“Gentlemen.” I gesture to the seats across from me, “did we have an appointment?”

Tyler crosses his arms, “are you dating a woman?” I shift in my seat, leaning back, “I’m not sure that’s any of your business.”

Jester stops Tyler from saying anything else, “Dasher doesn’t know we’re here, but we don know he misses you. Will he admit it? No, but every home game he looks up at your box. He mentions your name and then stops talking. He saw a clip of you and a woman on social media, and he hasn’t been the same.”

Well shit. I didn’t want to mess him up. And I miss him as well. I say just that.

“I didn’t want to bring any stress to him. I thought he wanted space, and I was giving that to him. My door is always open to him.”

Jester smiles slightly, “so you do miss him?” Tyler scoffs, “he’s dating someone else.”

I hold up my hand, “Isobel is a lovely person, but no, we haven’t been romantically involved. If you haven’t guessed, my life is lonely. Dasher filled a void and yes, I miss him. She’s only around as a friend.”

Tyler’s face softens, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean…” I wave him off, “you were looking out for your friend. I’m sorry that there are clips out there and I will remedy that. The last thing I want is Dash stressed out before a big game.”

“Thank you. And maybe you could reach out to him,” Tyler suggests, and I tap my chin in thought.