Maybe we did make a baby together. It was meant to happen if it did. We tried using protection. But sometimes, what’s meant to be will be. Sometimes these things are out of our control, and we’re powerless to stop them.

Maybe Iwantto have children with her. I’ve been so blinded by the thought that I’d be just like Eddie that I never stopped to think that maybe I wouldn’t be a damn thing like him.

Maybe I’m just me.

“Look, you made things happen when Cassie and I were apart,” he says. “This is me paying it forward, okay? You need to see her. You need to work this out.”

He’s right.

I need to see her.

It’s Friday. She’s going to Vegas today for her book signing at the Harts and Harps Book Nook—the shop owned by a player on the Vegas Aces and his wife.

I know Travis Woods. I have his number. I can get in touch with him, see if I can launch this plan that’s suddenly coming together in my mind…

“Your wheels are turning,” Tanner says. “I can see it. I see the fire in you, man. Don’t bother with Coach. I’ll cover for you. Go fucking get her, and then get your ass back here and get your head back in the goddamn game.”

I nod, and I can’t help when a grin breaks out across my lips. “Thanks, man.”

He smiles back at me, and he punches me in the shoulder. “Anytime, bro.”

CHAPTER 56: Sophie Summers

Love Conquers All

“It’s so lovely to finally meet you,” I say. I’m putting on a brave smile even though it feels like my heart is breaking on the inside.

I haven’t spoken to Miller since the call three nights ago. He’s tried calling. He’s tried texting. But I’m too scared I’m going to spill the beans that I’m pregnant. I tell him everything, and I can’t keep this big of a secret from him.

I just never imagined telling him like this. I never imagined him staying with me out of obligation. I never imagined any of this, to be honest, and I’m a goddamn romance author. Imagination is my entire jam.

The doctor’s appointment yesterday was good. It’s confirmed. I’m pregnant. They said I’m due April tenth. It’s anyone’s guess if I’ll have Miller there by my side in the delivery room or if I’ll be by myself.

I can do hard things.

I’m here alone today, right? I’m about to sign books in public for thefirst time ever.

Victoria hugs me and nods to one of the chairs in front of her desk. “I can’t believe you’re really here! And engaged to a pro football player. Did we just become best friends?”

I giggle as I sit, and she perches on the edge of her desk in her office at the back of the bookstore. There was already a line out front when my Uber pulled behind the building to drop me off, and I’m suddenly a little nervous.

All these people are here to see me?

But why?

I’m just a girl who likes to make up stories.

“I think maybe we did,” I say, forcing the nerves away.

“If only he played for the Aces instead of that silly team in San Diego,” she laments.

“Maybe Travis should come play for the Storm,” I suggest. “You know, summers in San Diego top out at like eighty. How are the summers here in the desert?” I ask knowing full well their temps rise above a hundred.

“Drier than yours,” she teases.

“Yeah, the humidity really does nothing for my hair.” I fluff the bottom of it.

“As much as I want to talk weather with one of my most favorite authors, can you please, please,pleasetell me what you’re working on next?” she begs.