I decided to stay at my place last night, just so I could get centered. Alie’s having a party planner at her place this morning to set up a birthday party for Sera after the game, so it’ll be hectic over there soon.
I sit on the edge of my bed, thinking about all the changes that’ve occurred in the last six months. Six months ago, I didn’t know she existed. Six months ago, Alie was a memory. Now … I can’t imagine breathing without either one of them.
I pick up my phone and shoot Alie a text.
Liam: You guys up?
She responds immediately.
Alie: Yep. Sera’s been up since six asking if it’s Daddy’s football day.
I grin.
Liam: I’m getting ready to head out now. You’ll bring her down early?
Alie: Yes, I will. We’ll see you in a few hours.
Liam: Love you.
Alie: Love you too.
I close my eyes for a second and breathe. This—this—is what I’m playing for now. It’s not about the fame. I want my daughter to be proud of me. I want to provide for my family. And the truth is, football won’t last forever. But my family will always be here.
When I get to the field, I get dressed and taped. I don’t usually talk much before games. I try to get locked in, visualize plays and routes, and think about the opposing team’s defense.
Once I’m ready, I make my way out onto the field. The stadium is humming with electricity when I step out of the tunnel. It’s still a little early, but the stands are already filling. The grass is still clean and sharp. And music is blasting through the speakers.
I jog toward midfield, but then I see them, so I change direction.
Seraphina and Alie are standing near the rope barrier. She has a tiny #4 jersey on, and her hair is in pigtails, and I swear myheart skips a beat. And Alie’s wearing a custom jersey with my name and number on it. Goddamn. They light up my life.
Sera spots me instantly. “Daddy!”
She tries to duck under the rope, but Alie holds her back.
I walk over to them, kiss Alie, and lift Sera into my arms.
“I wear your shirt!” she announces proudly. “And I gots a ’adge.”
“I see that! And a badge too,” I say, trying not to choke up. “You look better in it than I do.”
She turns in my arms to show me the back. “Wook.”
Instead of my name on the back, it saysDaddy.
I look at Alie, and she smiles at me, her eyes soft.
“What does the back of yours say?” I ask Alie.
She turns, and I see my last name on her back. And, fuck me, I love it. She looks good with my name on her. Come to think of it, I’ve never had anyone important to me, outside of my immediate family, wear my jersey.
Now,sheis my family.
“People are taking pictures of us. I guess we’re really doing this.” She laughs.
“We really are.” I kiss her forehead.
“You ready for today?” she asks quietly.
