This whole situation has given me a different lens to view my big sister with. I’m honestly not sure what bothers me more, that I’ve always excused away her behavior or that I no longer feel the joy of having her as my sister.
“You don’t think she’s right?”
“Not at all. I saw how concerned Jabari was for you at lunch. Just that brief interaction showed me he’s around for you, not for pity.”
I hope she’s right. I want her to be. Maybe that’s good enoughfor now. As if he knows we’re talking about him, a message chimes from Jabari.
Are you here yet?
I glance at my watch.
Two more hours. How did the meeting go?
Great! The guys and I are sightseeing now.
A picture comes in with some of the hockey players and Times Square in the background.
Can I see you tonight?
My lips curve up. Getting a text from a guy who can’t wait to see me before our official date tomorrow is a boon I didn’t know I needed.
Maybe. I’m not sure if Fran wants to do anything. I’ll let you know as soon as we come up with a game plan.
Bet. If I can’t see you tonight, then I look forward to tomorrow.
I stare at his words, rereading them multiple times. Even though Jackie claimed Jabari cheated on her, that doesn’t match what I’ve seen of his character. Jabari has done nothing but shown he wants to be with me now and in the future.
That’s the truth I need to cling to, not the lies of Jackie whispering in my head.
29
Jabari
It’s weird knowing I’m about togo up to the box seats withthe other injured players. Though I’ve been doing it since February, it’s different now that the world knows I can’t see well. Plus, I’m not used to being sidelined. However, today, Val will be in the stands, and after the game, we’re going on our firstrealdate. I almost feel like the old me on game days. Ready for the start but anxious for the end, hoping the scoreboard causes us to celebrate.
How will Val rate our date? Will she enjoy our time enough to go out with me again? And again and again?
“Dude, I can hear you thinking all the way over here,” Javier murmurs from right next to me on the locker room bench.
Past experience has taught me he’s probably in prayer mode. Most likely, his eyes are closed, head bowed, and palms up in benediction. I’m not sure what Javier prays about before games, but this is his game-day ritual. I know better than to disturb him.
“Sorry, man.”
“You’ll be fine on your date. Now focus on the game. You’re still one of us.”
Right, because the suit I’m wearing instead of a pair of hockey skates saysteam player.
“Coach wears a suit too.” Javier chuckles. “I told you, you’re thinking way too loud.”
“My bad.” I smirk. “Go back to praying.”
“Maybe you should try it.”
I raise my brows. “Praying?”
“Yep. Try it. It’ll settle the nerves.”
“How?” My face heats. Is that a dumb question?
