Page 66 of Fumble Into the End Zone

She was dressed for school but one of her ponytails was a little wonky. I smiled as I took a seat on the couch and combed her hair.

“Pick out the colors you want,” I instructed Harley as the sports news played in the background.

“Tonight, I’m going to call my daughter and add to our bedtime story, the Wide Receiver and the Princess. Tomorrow, I’m going to lie up next to my woman, Mia Robinson. Check out her podcast, by the way.”

“Mia Robinson, as in, the daughter of the USPN owner?” the reporter clarified.

I sucked my teeth as I twisted Harley’s last ponytail and finished off her hair. Marcus’s ass was mine as soon as I could get to my phone.

“Are you going to be here when I get back?” Harley asked before she would walk out the door.

“Yes, ma’am. But I have to work in the studio tonight. It might be late before you see me,” I said, and relief fell on Harley’s face.

As soon as the door shut, I moved toward the hallway.

“Don’t hurt him,” Mrs. Eddy said with a chuckle, and I couldn’t help but join as I slowed my steps.

I flipped on the TV but dropped the remote on the bed. The screen of my phone was loaded with text messages and missed calls. Last night, I was exhausted and dozed off by half time with it being a late-night game.

Mom

Call me NOW!

Daddy

Mia!

Mom

When were you going to tell me?

Stacie

Did he put y'all business on blast? Keeper!

Scott

Your social media is on fire. Come in early, the podcast will be smoking.

I sat on the bed in disbelief as I listened to the after-game press conference again. Toggling to my Stacie thread, I sent her a message. She was also an early bird.

Me

Marcus is insane.

Those three dots appeared immediately.

Stacie

Good morning, Mrs. Allen.

I rolled my eyes until they closed.

Me

I don’t understand why he would do that. It’s been two weeks.

Stacie

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