She gives me a look that says,Of course she did, she’s my mama.
I want to argue since I ate with the team, but I know better. If I turn down food, I’ll never hear the end of it. She motions for me to sit at the barstool as she dishes up a plate for my dad as well.
“We were just about to sit down when you texted. I figured we could wait and enjoy it with you.”
As I take my first bite, my mouth explodes with flavor. Even though it’s been waiting, it’s perfectly cooked and still tender. My stomach growls, and Mama pats my arm knowingly. As I finish chewing, I add, “Thanks, Mama. This is fantastic.”
* * *
Of course, I’m at practice when Dani’s flight comes in. I’ve rented a car for her while she’s here, as Danika insisted on driving herself to my parents. She didn’t want to put them out any further. Between plays, I keep glancing at my phone to see if she’s arrived. I wish I could’ve picked her up, but duty calls. We only get the practice field for so much of the day, and we need to make every second count if we’re going to beat Tennessee on Sunday.
I blow my whistle after another play is made and shout. “Watch the gap, Clarke. You can’t let them slip by you.”
Clarke nods, and I yell, “Again.”
We practice all the new plays we plan to pull against Tennessee until I know our team has them engrained in their DNA. Then I finally call it quits for the day, knowing we’ll have another practice tomorrow to take care of any last-minute changes we want to make. So far, I have to say the O-line looks good. I think we’ll be able to pull off a win, if all goes as planned. Our defense is ready, too. I feel confident we’re doing what it takes to prepare to be our best.
As we wrap up practice, I pull out my phone to text Pops I’ll be ready for a ride soon, when I see another notification arrive.
My heart soars with a mixture of relief and anticipation when I see the sender’s name. A breath I didn’t know I’d been holding throughout the day releases, and I instantly feel my body relax. It’s been one hell of a week without her. Sure, it’s been great visiting my parents and working with the team, but it feels as if a part of me has been missing.
Dani: My flight was delayed. Just getting rental car now.
My fingers fly over my keys as an inspiration hits me.
Me: Want to pick me up from practice?
Dani: Sure. I’d rather meet your parents with you, than alone. Send me the address.
I send the address, and she replies letting me know she’s at the counter dealing with paperwork. Knowing she won’t reply for a while, I send off one last text.
Me: Can’t wait to see you. You won’t believe how much I’ve missed you.
