She had no idea how I’d torn myself up over that fact. “I did until?—”
“My implant failed,” Mazzie said, coming to my rescue. “I blame myself for this. And no, I didn’t trap your son, if that is what you’re thinking.”
“She didn’t,” Kaylee chimed in. “Her implant really messed up. My sister has been freaking out about it too.”
Mazzie gave her sister a “thank you” smile.
“I just wanted better for you, son. I didn’t want you tied down this soon.” Mom’s voice held that edge I knew too well, the one that signaled she was trying not to yell. “You’ve both decided to keep it?”
“Yes,” Mazzie answered firmly before I could. “We’ve thought about this carefully, Priscilla. We know the timing isn’t ideal?—”
“Ideal?” Mom’s laugh held no humor. “Lucas hasn’t even finished college. You’re a junior. You’re both barely adults. And with NFL scouts finally showing interest… Lucas.”
“What do you want us to do, Mom? You taught me how fragile life is no matter what.”
“This isn’t about the sanctity of life. This is about destroying your future. Of course I want you to start a family but later in life.”
Quick as a whip, Mazzie said, “We’re not destroying his future or mine. We’re building one. Will it be hard? For sure. And I know you don’t know me that well. But I’ve been busting my butt for the better part of Kaylee’s life, raising her, taking care of my mother during times when she couldn’t take care of herself, working two jobs, and going to school.”
“My sister will be the best mother any kid could have.” Kaylee stood up for Mazzie again. “And Lucas will be a great dad.”
“Please tell us that you don’t want us to terminate this pregnancy,” Mazzie said. “This is your grandchild.”
Mom cried. “Of course I don’t. But this was supposed to happen after college, after you two have started your careers.”
Mazzie regarded Mom with an indifferent look. “I won’t start my career until I’ve gone through years of medical school and training.”
I clutched her hand. “Mom, I’m not giving up on the NFL. If I get drafted and offered a contract, you can bet I’m signing. Mazzie supports that.”
“Where are you going to live? What about money between now and then?” Mom asked.
“Nothing changes this year,” I said. “Mazzie is due in July. By that time, I should know about the NFL. The draft is at the end of April. I’m still graduating.”
“The Armstrongs have offered me to stay with them even after the baby is born. They have a whole wing of their house they don’t use,” Mazzie said.
“Mrs. A is quite eager to help,” Kaylee added.
Mom tossed her napkin on her plate. “I need a minute.” She headed in the direction of her room.
I knew the feeling, but I needed to console her, to assure her that Mazzie and I had this.
“I’ll talk to her.” I rose then kissed Mazzie on the temple.
I found Mom sitting on her bed, tissue in her hand, crying.
I leaned against the doorjamb, not wanting to crowd her. “Mom, I understand your concerns. I really do. You don’t know how much Mazzie and I blame ourselves. But we’re determined not to let a baby change our plans. Think about the grandchild you want. Your wish comes true earlier than you anticipated.”
Sniffling, she asked, “You won’t give up on football?”
“At first, I thought the same as you,” I said. “Then Coach gave me something to think about. In so many words, he said not to see the pregnancy as the end of my future but the reason I fight for one. I got this, Mom. So does Mazzie.”
“Lucas?” Mazzie called as she breezed her way down the hall and peeked into Mom’s room. “Priscilla.” She brushed past me then sat beside Mom. “I love your son more than anything. We got this.” The conviction in her voice was loud and clear. “I would love to have your help.”
Mom had her thinking cap on as she looked at Mazzie and me.
“We need you,” I added.
“I need you,” Mazzie said to her. “I want you to love and cherish your grandchild.”
