Page 47 of Replay

Yeah, more QB sacks than most of their defensive ends. But you’re quick, and you have a tough o-line.

Me

True. But I’d be even faster if you were going to be there.

BB

Heavy on the charm today, huh?

Me

Always for you, BB.

BB

I’ll be watching. What are Dad’s manifestations for this week?

Me

Five touchdowns, and two drives that get our kicker close enough for field goals. At least two of those touchdowns will be passes to Nola. He thinks this one will be a closer game since they have the home-field advantage.

BB

Sounds like a good game.

BB

You got this.

Me

Can I tell you something?

BB

It depends…

Me

Maverick told me they were coming and Bellamy too. My heart sank when they said you weren’t coming with them.

I know even if she came, I wouldn’t be the only one she’d be coming to watch. But just having her there is all I care about. The rest will work itself out.

BB

Sorry, I have to work.

Me

Tell Phil… Outlaw said you need the night off.

BB

I have no doubt he would prob give it to me, but I’m covering someone’s shift this weekend.

I don’t want to push it, so I let it go. I have no right to demand things from her, and I’m semi-reasonable enough to know that.

Opening my photo gallery, I smile at the happy, beautiful girl looking back at me. Briefly, I wonder if she kept any of our pictures. Doubtful. Unlike me, who has a whole album dedicated to her in my phone and a closet door that haunts me daily.

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