Page 109 of Crazy Love

“You know, I’ve actually thought about quitting football.”

I lean back and stare at him in shock. “What are you saying?”

“It’s not fair for you to give up a job you love. I’ve gotten to do this for years now, and I’d be going out on a high note. It’s not like we need the money.”

“But you love the game so much.” I put my hand on his face and he leans into it.

“And you love your job.”

Tears fall down my cheeks. “I love you so much right now.”

He leans his forehead against mine. “Let me help.”

“You’re not quitting your job. Not until you’re fully ready. Let me try this with Lorelai. It might be awesome.”

“Let’s keep talking about it,” he says. “I don’t want things to be distant between us. We’re in this together.”

“Together,” I promise.

The house is quiet without Penn. And we miss him terribly, but things feel lighter.

The kids are so sweet, so happy that I’m home. I yell my head off at Sam’s game and take tons of pictures at the game and Winnie’s dance class. Winnie’s been spinning around the house nonstop, trying to perfect her version of a ballet move.

“I’m gonna be a prima ballerina,” she announces as we’re about to watch the game. She balances precariously on one foot while holding her stuffed unicorn over her head.

“You can be whatever you want to be,” I say, adjusting her headband.

“A ballerina!” she shouts and falls sideways onto the couch, laughing hard.

My insides get all twisty and mushy, tears still all too close to the surface these days, but seeing her so happy, having a moment to breathe…it feels like I’m doing something right.

The girls have been texting me. Penn told me the other night that they really want to hang out and want to help in any way they can. He also mentioned that he ran into my dad and that the conversation between them was surprisingly great. They’re coming over for dinner after they’re back in town.

My phone lights up and Winnie bounces as she carries it over.

Tru

Addy, are we watching the game together? It’s a tradition, you know!

I’d love that! Wanna come over here?

Elle

Do you even need to ask?

Sadie

What’s the theme? Charcuterie with wine, sushi with champagne, or wings and guac with beer and Coca-Cola?

Whew. Those are hard choices. I think I need some cheese and chocolate in my life. I’ve got lots of stuff that will work on a charcuterie board.

Tru

Done. I’ll bring the good cheese…and wings for the kids.

Elle

I’ll bring cupcakes and guac.

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