Page 38 of Anteros' Return

“Do you want to chat for a bit or go and get warmed up?” I asked Liam, who seemed to be torn on what to do.

“I’ll chill for a bit. we’re mega early.” He laughed, flopping himself down onto the supporter’s chairs. “What’s it like?”

“What’s what like?”

“Being a footballer—what’s it like?”

“Honestly, the football part is the best. I love being on the pitch.” I beamed, giving him a smile but then a pang of disappointment sliced through me. My injury had become a constant thought and reminder as to why I wasn't playing the game.

“Do you think you’ll go back to Spain soon?” Liam asked.

“Yeah, kind of have to, mate. I’m contracted to them.” His face fell ever so slightly. “I just came home to have some time away and recover before heading back to the team for my medical in a few weeks.”

“A few weeks?!” He gasped.

“Yeah, I’m going to spend a little more time with Daniel and you guys first, but after that I need to go back.”

“Right… I’d better warm up.” He grabbed his ball and stomped off towards the pitch, not letting me get another word in. It was like the progress we’d made so far shot out into the distance, and I could barely see it.

“You two seem to be getting on better,” Daniel pointed out as he sat down beside me.

“Yeah, we are.” I sighed before looking over at Dan.

“How are you feeling about being a dad now?” He asked.

“Great. Pissed that I missed seven years of his life, but I have Mike to thank for that, the fucking prick.” I seethed as quietly as possible.

“Mike?”

“It’s a long story. Just know he messed with Emily and me. He ruined us for what I’m guessing was his own gain.”

He gently elbowed my arm. “He couldn’t have gained that much, she’s been single since I’ve known her.”

“And how long is that?”

“Since Liam was a baby.” He sipped his coffee. “I met her when my wife and I attended the same parenting education class.”

My stomach flipped, not with disappointment but this weird sense of comfort.

“Thanks.”

“She’s a real good person, Beck.” Daniel half smiled as he stood up. “She deserves the whole damn world.”

“I know she does. She always did.” I looked down at the worn concrete. “Her and Liam are coming along to my cast removal appointment. We’re going to that new mini golf course after.”

“I’ll stay away then. You just tell me what’s been said.” I was about to agree because to be honest, I’d rather it just be me, Em, and Liam, but he didn’t give me the chance to speak. “Looks like all the boys are here. Let’s get to it.”

“Right, boys. Warm up, one jogging lap around the pitch,” I called from behind Daniel who looked surprisingly impressed that I was the one who took charge of training today. “Sorry,” I muttered. “Hope you don’t mind?”

“Nah, mate, it’s nice to have some help. Do you want to handle the rest of the session? I've got some paperwork to sort out.”

“Course.” As Daniel left to do what he needed to do in the office, I called out drills for the kids to carry out. Despite the chill in the air, they were on it. They hit every drill perfectly.

“Boys, I’m going to split you up—red bibs versus blue for a friendly match.” I started to call out names, separating them into two teams before standing off to the side and observing the match.

“How are they doing?” Daniel asked, appearing at my side. “Are they ready for Saturday?”

“More than ready. I can see these boys winning their league at the end of the season.” I smiled, but it soon fell when I realised I wouldn’t be there to see it.

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