“This is true. I honestly believe they’re too excited to think about that in the presence of their idols or someone they respect and look up to.”
“I get that. That’s why I try to be polite and honor their requests.”
“Have you found a way to create balance?”
“Ten years in and I’m still learning. Nowadays, you and our son come first. It broke my heart when I saw our son crying because he had to wait.
“I vowed then and there to find a way to create boundaries. So guys, if I beg off and can’t take a pic or sign something, just know my little guy is probably nearby waiting for me. All I ask is that the fans respect that, you know?”
“Yeah, I get it. I also love that your assistant started to give out cards with an email address to request signed photos when you can’t take the time. That’s so cool.”
“She also keeps a stash of autographed photos to hand out. Sometimes there’s time for her and Garret to take care of you guys while I keep moving and sometimes there isn’t. We do try.”
“Speaking of signed things. I thought it would be cool to do a giveaway with some signed swag from you. If you’re watching or listening to this, go on and like, share, comment, and subscribe. We’re going to pick a few lucky winners.”
“Baby, do you miss it? I know I miss being at your meets watching you compete. Guys, look up Zahirah Nickels and track. My girl was something else.
“I was there when a knee injury ended her career after an epic finish for the win.” He releases a whistle. “Pure magic. If I had your speed, I’d be a running back or something.”
“Nah, you were meant to be a QB. As for missing the track. Yeah, I do. I miss being able to compete most of all. I thought about getting back into competitive swimming when I realized I wouldn’t be able to run anymore.”
“Really? I didn’t know that.”
“You weren’t really around during that time. You might have been … I don’t know, starting your rookie season and all that.”
“Why didn’t you follow through?”
“My bestie asked me to travel the world with her. At the time, that felt like the right thing to do. One thing led to another, and I began a travel vlog. Turned out to be the thing for me.”
“My girl might be the go-to when it comes to planning a vacation and getting the hookup on all the best spots. We’ll link the channel and all her info for you guys to check out,” he says.
I lift a brow at him. He returns the look with a smile and a shrug. I hadn’t planned to mention the other platform.
“I don’t think I was supposed to say that, guys, but I believe if you work hard, you play harder. Those of you out there working hard at your sport should take the time to kick back and have fun. Zah can help you do that with her travel vlog.
“It used to ground me during the season after a game. I would watch and feel like I was right there with her. Football can get intense. Being able to get away in my head like that did a lot for me,” he says.
I sit with my mouth hanging open. I didn’t know he used to watch my vlogs. Bentley takes in my surprised look and winks at me.
“The season is almost over. Do you want to take the baby and head out somewhere? You can get some new content for the channel.”
“Are you serious?”
“Yeah, start planning something. I’m open to wherever you want to go. AC can go on his first trip out of the country.”
“Auntie E is coming,” Erica sings from behind the scenes, causing me and Bentley to laugh.
“That’s my little sister, Erica, guys. She and Zah have been best friends since they were little. We all grew up together. I couldn’t have chosen to do this with two better people.
“I remember being six and these two on the sideline wearing jerseys with my number. Our dads had them on their shoulders while they were cheering me on.”
“You remember that?”
“Yeah, of course. I remember because our dads had to hold on to you because you would run the sideline like you and me were racing. I’d get so pissed and be focused on trying to beat you instead of playing the game.”
I burst into laughter. “Okay, I do remember that. I also remember standing down by the end zone waiting for you after I beat you there.”
“Doing that stupid little dance. God, I hated your little ass,” he teases.
