Emotion overwhelms me and I fight back the tears.
They offered me the job.I have a job.
My breath wavers as I slam the driver’s door shut, squealing under my breath. “Oh my God. Oh my God.” I did it. My pulse dances beneath my skin, and my heart races from the adrenaline coursing through me.
Not only do I have a job, but it’s a dream come true. Cade is going to cream his pants over this. And Dad… Hell, he’llprobably want to move to San Francisco so he can be a part of my journey.
I’m following in my dad’s and grandfather’s footsteps. I may not be a player, but I’m part of a team. And that means everything to me.
I did it. I really fucking did it.
An electrifying buzz fills the air as I reach for my phone, desperate to call Zane, to share in my joy, a laugh bubbling out of me when I find ten missed calls. I can already picture the proud smile adorning his face and hear the love in his words.
I dial his number, and even though I’m certain he’s supposed to be at practice, he answers on the first ring.
“Thank God.” He sighs in relief. “I was starting to worry.”
“Starting? Or having a full-blown panic attack?”
“Well, since I’m risking a fine by answering this call, it’s safe to say the latter.”
“You’re on the field?”
“Yep. I’m hiding behind Reed. These guys are very much team Blane.”
Last week, hearing Reed’s name would have triggered memories of seeing Zane in the hospital, making me spiral until my mind cascaded into the darkness of Sierra’s death. But since reconnecting with Zane, it’s impossible to think that way. I’m okay. Zane’s okay. And so is Reed. All I can see is light.
I smile to myself until his words register. “Team what?” A laugh bursts out of me.
“Blane. Blair and Zane.”
“Wow. Just wow.”
A deep laugh rumbles in the background before Zane tells them to shush. “So, how did it go?”
“Before I tell you… Where were you hiding your phone?”
“You’re killing me here.” He groans, the strain in his voice heating my skin.
“I’m not going to answer until you tell me.”
“Fine.” He groans again. “Reed had it in his waistband. He’s technically not allowed to practice yet, but he attends to keep up with the plays.”
I stifle a snort. “I thought you didn’t have many friends on the team?” I joke.
“Yeah, well, they’re growing on me. But enough of that. I showed you mine; you show me yours.”
“I got the job!” I yell it so loudly that Reed must hear because the two of them start cheering before it abruptly cuts off.
“Ahh, fuck. I’ve got to go. I’ll call you back in thirty minutes. But I’m so proud of you and— I know.” His voice trails off, the softness replaced by a curt tone. “I’m hanging up. Jesus.” I hear a rustling before he sighs. “I’m in trouble. But you’re amazing, B, and I can’t wait to hear all about it. Drive safe, yeah?”
“Of course. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean—”
“It was all worth it. I’ll call you back soon.”
He hangs up and I sink back into my seat, dropping the phone into my lap. My stomach flutters, and a content smile spreads across my face.
I’m ready for the next era. I’m ready to move on.
