Page 139 of Delicate Storm

I cringe because she’s right but at the same time… “I really want you to stay the night. You know that, right? This is—”

“Different? I know. But we have to take things slowly for Isaac’s sake.”

My chest fills at her concern for my son. She’s always thinking of him. Almost as much as me. “You’re an amazing human, Paige D’Angelo.”

“I know.” She winks and I laugh. “Which is why I really have to go. I’ll be back in the morning to look after Isaac again.”

“You don’t have to do that.” I smile, watching her move around the room. “I’ll call Coach and—”

“I’m coming. Believe it or not, I like spending time with him. I’m looking forward to it.”

She turns her back to me and I get up, taking two strides to reach her, wrapping her up in my hold. “Thank you. That means a lot to me.”

“I know.” She spins in my arms, taking my lips in a chaste kiss. “I’m happy to help. Anytime.”

“Again. Thank you. But I’ll have to figure out what I’m doing long-term. I’m close to retirement anyway and—”

“No.” She pulls back, staring up at me.

“What?” I raise an eyebrow as a small laugh escapes me.

“You’re not retiring yet. I need to see you win one of those Super Bowl things.”

“Super Bowl things,” I repeat and Paige laughs.

“My dad needs you. And so does the team. I think. You’re good, right?”

“Yeah, I’m good.”

“Then you can’t retire. Please. Let me help.”

“Paige…”

“I’m not taking no for an answer. So don’t even bother.”

“Why are you so good to me?”

“I’m not doing it for you.” She wriggles out of my arms and slips her tee over her head braless, before stepping into her leggings. “I’m doing it for that gorgeous son of yours. This is just a bonus.”

“Ah, so you want a kid. Is that it?” I laugh, but Paige pauses, her brows furrowed.

“Actually, I haven’t really thought about having kids.” She shrugs like that’s no big deal and resumes getting dressed. “I just happen to like Isaac.”

She giggles to herself, probably thinking her words were meaningless, when in reality, they mean everything. That’s all I ever wanted for him. For someone to love him for him. I thought he needed Macy for that. But all this time, I’ve been wrong. He just had to wait for Paige.

“Have a good sleep.” Paige kisses my cheek when she’s dressed. “I’ll see you in the morning.” She opens the bedroom door and tiptoes down the hall before disappearing out of sight, and I don’t move until I hear the front door click shut.

What a fucking day.

I think I’ve felt more emotion today than I have in my lifetime. And I don’t exactly hate it.

As promised, Paige knocks at seven the next morning while I’m on the phone with the hospital, asking if I can visit on my way to the stadium. The answer being no. I’m still frowning as I open the door.

“Everything okay? Is it yourmom?” She whispers the word “mom” and I’m grateful for that.

“The nurse said she had a good night, but they won’t let me see her until later today. I thought I could sneak in early.”

“Ugh. I’m sorry. Want me to ask the team owner if he can cut you some slack today?” She raises a brow and I laugh.

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