CHAPTER 1
The Return
Bentley
I walk outof the tunnel onto the field and inhale the scent of the freshly cut grass. So many memories wash over me. Though the stadium is currently empty, I can hear the roar of the crowd like it’s my first game all over again.
I’ve had a great career. It’s the one thing in my life I’ve done almost perfectly. My personal life, not so much. I’m still making mistakes there. However, when I’m out on this field, I have it all together. I know where I fit and what I’m supposed to do.
My heart belongs in the end zone. That moment when I get my team in the red zone gets my blood pumping every time. Getting close to scoring is as heady as making the touchdown.
I wish I could apply the rules on the field to my life. Heck, I wish I at least knew the rules to play by. Maybe then I’d know how to get this right once and for all.
My biggest dream was to get to the pros. I did that despite all the obstacles that got in the way.
The one thing I didn’t see coming was her. I should have. She has always been there.
Zahirah Nickels was the girl next door. Being an only child, my family drew her into our crew. I’m the oldest of six.
As much time as Zah spent at our house, I should say I’m the oldest of seven. Zahirah and my sister Erica became friends almost from the moment they met. As a result, Zahirah became a fixture in our home.
“Hey, mister.” I turn to look down at the little boy peering up at me.
“You’re Bentley Coswell, right?”
I squat to get eye level with the little guy. His green eyes light up in his little face. Reaching out, I ruffle his blond hair.
“That’s me, kid,” I say.
His eyes grow wider. He’s a cute kid. I can only hope to have my own someday who is just as cute as he is.
“Can you sign my football. You’re my favorite. I want to be a quarterback too when I make it to the pros.”
“Sure, of course,” I say and take the ball he has tucked under his arm. “Love the confidence, kid. Never let go of that. What’s your name, little guy?”
“Sean.”
“Nice to meet you, Sean.”
“You’re coming home, right? I mean, you’re here to win us a championship. My dad says we can do it with you here. I think he’s right. Besides, I hate rooting for you when you play against us.”
I burst into laughter. Signing the ball, I hand it back to him and ruffle his hair again. I give him a wink.
“Can you keep a secret?”
He nods his head and mimics zipping his lips and throwing away the key. I stifle more laughter. This is the lightest I’ve felt since stepping off the plane.
“That’s the plan. While I’m here to visit with family, we’re looking to see if this is a fit for me. I might just get you that win.”
“You will. I can see it. You’re going to deliver the game-winning touchdown too,” he says excitedly.
“Thanks for the support, bubby.”
He gives a sage nod. I look up to see Christian Darity, an offensive lineman the team has been trying to re-sign in order to entice me. He places a hand on the boy’s head and looks down at him.
The boy looks up at him with a smile. “Hey, Dad. Look, it’s Bentley Coswell.”
“I hope he’s not giving you any trouble,” Christian says.
