Page 67 of The Surprise Play

“Yeah, she’s leaving Zoey with Zander’s sister for the weekend. His parents already have tickets, and I’m pretty sure Nylah’s gonna be sitting with her family.”

“Okay, well, if you think of anyone else, let me know; otherwise, I’ll have no problem giving these away at work. Hank and George have both been breathing down my neck ever since you made the finals.”

I force out a laugh, trying to ignore the pressure that’s making my neck muscles ping tight.

“We’re so excited for this game, son. You’re going to play great, the way you always do, and secure your spot in the NFL.”

“Dad, it doesn’t work like that.”

“Oh, come on. Your performance this season has been stellar. Any pro team will be lucky to have you. Austin says it’s a guarantee. We just want to see you get drafted with the best.”

I nod, wondering where I’ll end up later this year. Which team is gonna secure me? Where will I be living? Who will I be playing for?

“…and after the Scouting Combine, there’s only a couple of months to wait until we’ll finally know. And rest assured, your mother and I will be throwing the biggest draft party the state of Colorado has ever seen.”

A gruff laugh pops out of me. “Don’t get too ahead of yourself, Pops.”

“I’m not. You’ve been preparing for this your whole life. Your teddy bear used to be a football.”

I roll my eyes, picturing Blake’s face scrunching in disgust. She is so over that story.

“We knew from the second you wrapped your baby arms around that thing that you were destined for the game. And you’ve proved us right over and over again, son. We’re so proud of you.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

I tuck my hand under my armpit, staring out at the lamplit street and the house beyond. It’s lit up on both floors, and I can picture the students inside. I can’t remember all their names, but I know the guy on the second floor is a total study nerd. He’ll no doubt be hunched over his laptop stressing about how to perfect whatever assignment he’s working on. I can’t see his desk from here, but I know he’ll be sitting at it.

For some reason, Satch pops into my head again, and I wonder where she’s sitting right now. She’s probably studying too. Catching up after giving me so much of her time. Damn, I didn’t even think about that until now.

Shit, I hope she didn’t fall too far behind. She spenthourshelping me get that essay right. I can’t wait to get my grade back. Probably the first time I’ve ever felt that way, but come on, I’m getting graded on work I’m actually proud of. It’s such a different feeling to everything else I’ve handed in.

Please, God, let it be a good grade. I have no idea whyI’m so desperate for something decent. I guess I just want to be rewarded for genuine effort.

“So, you keep working hard, and I will be cheering you on from the stands.” Dad wraps up the call with his usual spiel about being my biggest supporter.

I thank him once again and am almost relieved to say goodbye.

Not sure why.

I usually don’t mind his little pregame pep talks. I’ll get at least two more before I run onto the field, and they usually amp me up.

But not tonight, obviously.

Why?

Is it the Grady thing that’s getting to me?

Or—

My phone buzzes and I glance down, expecting a GIF from my sister or a text from my mother, adding to Dad’s praise-filled phone call.

But it’s neither.

And I’m probably smiling way too big right now, because all I’m being offered is a chance to study.

Tutor Girl: I’m free to help you prepare for your finance assessment next week. But why don’t you get your big game out of the way first? Ping me when you get back to Nolan. Good luck!

I reply with a thumbs-up and a smiley emoji, telling her I’ll be in touch soon.