“In general,” I replied, watching the replay. “Doesn’t matter if it’s football, relationships, life. Time is a valuable asset to have, a valuable gift to give, a valuable resource to mine…” I lost my train of thought when I looked at him. “What?”
“I’m just listening to you,” he replied softly.
He wasn’tjustlistening to me though.
My stomach fluttered.
“Don’t miss the best part,” he said in a low tone.
I tore my eyes from his and witnessed the Monarchs kick the game-winning sixty-one-yard field goal with one second left on the clock.
“And it’s good!” I cheered, lifting my arms to mimic the refs.
He clapped loudly, and then we both laughed again.
“Tonight was exactly what I needed,” I admitted.
“Was something wrong?” he wondered.
Our friendship was in its infancy, and I didn’t want to lie to him. But having someone to joke with and be in the moment with was the perfect remedy for how I was feeling. I saw the sincerety in his expression and the kindness in his eyes and it made mewantto tell him. But if I opened up about Aunt Addy, I was going to start crying.
And I am not about to break down crying in front of this man.
“Just some family stuff,” I answered vaguely.
“Is that why you’re in town? Visiting family?”
I swallowed around the lump in my throat. “Yeah. I come back one week a year, right after school lets out for the summer.”
“I’m surprised we’ve never crossed paths before.”
“When I’m here, I don’t be outside.”
I could see the wheels turning behind his eyes. With a contemplative look, he took me in. “Why’s that?”
“Chance never felt like home to me. Now, in Richland, I’ve foundwhere I belong.” Before I could say too much, I turned the conversation on him. “Spring Hill is just as small as Chance. How was your experience?”
“Spring Hill was cool. It’s home, and my immediate family is there. But I always knew I wanted more than what Spring Hill could offer, so I was ready to leave after high school.”
“I’m glad you made it out and you’re doing what you love.”
“I’m glad you made it out and you found where you belong.”
We exchanged soft smiles.
“Can I get you two anything else?” Trina asked. “We’re still going to be open for another hour, so there’s no rush. Take your time.”
“I’ll take my bill, please,” I answered.
“It’s already been taken care of.” With a pointed look at Lamar, she smiled and walked away.
Surprised, I turned to him. “You didn’t have to do that. But thank you.”
“I wanted to. I like you, and the least I could do is cover your meal.”
“I appreciate that.”
“I’d appreciate seeing you again.”
