“I think Landon could use an unofficial mentor on the team, and I’d love for you to be that guy.”
A mentor?“Really? Me?” I’ve been playing for a few years, but I’m not as seasoned as some of the other guys here. I would have thought there would be better options.
“Yes, you.” He chuckles. “He needs someone who’s going to take it seriously and someone killing it in the game. You fit both. What do you think?”
“I think that sounds good. I’d be happy to help. Just let me know what I have to do.” I’m not sure why, but the thought of mentoring feels like a huge responsibility to me, and while I’m far from perfect, I think I’m up for the challenge.
“Thanks, man.” Thomas smiles genuinely, and maybe a little relieved. “Sorry I interrupted your thoughts.”
Said thoughts immediately drift back to the forefront of my mind and I huff out a laugh. “All good, man. Actually, maybe you could help. Do you know something that requires trunks, but doesn’t mean you’ll get wet?”
“What?” He hits me with a puzzled expression and my laughter increases.
“My thoughts exactly.”
“Are you doing a crossword or something? Wait, what about a yacht or a boat? Wouldn’t someone wear a bathing suit even if they’re not going swimming?”
A yacht? Nice thought. I can handle that. “Here’s hoping. Thanks, Thomas.”
“No problem.” His brows furrow as he walks away and I chuckle to myself. Only two days until I find out. For now…it’s time to get my head in the game.
Easton catches the ball in his grasp and I race forward to block Detroit’s cornerback, getting in his way before he has the chance to tackle.
With seconds to spare in the first half, Easton rushes forward, beating the whistle to the end zone, scoring a touchdown to finally put us ahead.
And it couldn’t have come soon enough, especially considering we’d all assumed this one would be easy.
Never assume.
That’s been my motto as a player for years, but after winning the Super Bowl, I got cocky. As did the rest of the team.
After a quick but tame celebration, I run off the field beside Luke, mentally preparing for Coach’s “get your heads out of your asses” spiel. But when Luke waves to one of the private suites, I follow his gaze, smiling when I spot a blonde staring back at us. She waves subtly and I glance away, grinning to myself. Once again, Hayley failed to mention she’d be coming to my game. But somehow that doesn’t surprise me. I have a feeling being friends with Hayley is going to be a wild ride, full of surprises.
And it might be exactly what I need.
Even if she does keep me on my toes.
CHAPTER TEN
Hayley
Reed stares at the wakeboard park in front of us and shakes his head. “This is what we drove two hours for?” He laughs to himself. “You’re on your own, Hayls. I’m happy to watch. But—”
“Come on, it will be fun.” Not knowing what I had planned has been eating away at him, and I almost gave in a few times. But holding off and seeing the look on his face just now was totally worth it. “I don’t expect you to wakeboard. We can do the aqua course instead. If you don’t fall off, you won’t get wet.” I shrug and Reed’s laughter increases.
“I understand your cryptic message now, but it’s still a no. I can’t afford to break anything.”
I pout, but I get it. I probably should have thought of that. “Okay, fine. I have a plan B.”
“No way.” Reed raises a hand and steps forward, spinning me around until we’re facing the inflatable aqua course. “We arenotleaving until you show me what you’ve got.” He points to the course as a young kid slips off the top of the slide, plunginginto the cold water. “I’m going to rent that floating cabana over there.” He points to the cabana. “Then I’m going to kick back and enjoy the view.”
I stifle a snort and shove him away. “Is that so?”
“Yep. I’ll even buy you lunch when you’re done.”
“How very kind of you.”
“I thought so.” He bites back a grin.
