“There’s no such thing as being too prepared,” he adds. “Your uncle offered to practice with you over the phone, if you need help. He’s interviewed hundreds of people in his line of work. Might be good practice for you.”
“I’m good.” No disrespect to my uncle, but I’ve been through his interview process. It’s not what I’d call challenging, and the skills he’s looking for on his crews are a far cry from what Sports Stream requires. “I’m working with the office of Career Counseling here at the university.”
His brows knit together. “What’s that?”
“They help with job placement, provide résumé critiques, and assist with interview prep. To ensure students know what to expect during a job search.” I shift my weight and switch my helmet to my other hand. As much as I love chatting up my parents, it would be nice if the announcer could hurry the fuck up. I’m ready to hit the field and standing around on concrete isn’t exactly comfortable when you’re wearing cleats. “I’ve got a mock interview scheduled this week. After, they’ll give me feedback on my answers, body language, what areas could use some work, and stuff like that.”
“That’s incredible.” Dad shakes his head in wonder. “You’ve got so many opportunities your mother and I never had. I’m glad you’re making the most of them.”
I spin around, facing both of my parents.
“The only reason I have these opportunities is because you guys worked so hard to make them for me. I couldn’t have done any of this without you.” Emotion clogs my throat, making it hard to speak. “Your support is everything.”
And that’s the God’s honest truth.
I never could have done this on my own.
My parents exchange a look, one I can’t decipher, and my father cups my cheek, something he hasn’t done since I was a kid. “You did this on your own, DJ. You worked hard and you should be proud.”
I nod, tears stinging the backs of my eyes. “I am. Thank you, sir.”
“Now.” Mom pulls herself up to her full height. “What about that girl you mentioned? The one you’ve been working with all semester. Is she up for this internship, too?”
“Yes, ma’am.” No need to elaborate.
“Well, don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll outshine her.”
“Not that I don’t appreciate the support,” I say, stifling a laugh. “But I’m sure her parents told her the same thing.”
“Maybe, but I’m right.” A self-satisfied smile curves her lips. “Speaking of women… Are you dating anyone?”
Fuuuck.
Not this again.
“I told you. I’m not dating. Between school and football, I don’t have time.”
She already grilled me over Thanksgiving dinner, in front of friends and family, so I don’t know why she’s bringing it up again. She can’t possibly think the answer’s changed. It’s only been two days.
Both of which I’ve spent with her.
Still, she looks hopeful.
Probably because she’s not buying what you’re selling.
Mom’s always been good at spotting a lie, no matter how small, but technically, it’s not a lie because Sutton and I aren’t dating.
Yet.
Over the last few days, I’ve started to think it’s a situation that needs to be rectified.
“You need to make time.” Mom sighs, her breath forming a white cloud as she exhales. “You can’t spend your entire life working or you’ll wake up one day old and alone and full of regret.”
I turn to my father. “She’s been watching A Christmas Carol, hasn’t she?”
“You know your mom.” He chuckles and his shoulders shake. “She made me watch it in the hotel room last night.”
She sniffs and shoots him an exasperated look. “Don’t let your father fool you. He’s the one who picked it.”
