His face goes cold. That emotionless mask he wears when a deal falls through.
"You're making a mistake you'll regret."
"Maybe. But it's my mistake to make."
I walk out before he can respond.
The elevator ride down feels like it takes hours. My heart is pounding.
I just blew up my relationship with my father.
I get back to my truck and take a minute to collect myself.
My phone buzzes.
I expect it to be my father. Some angry text or a threat.
But it's from the dev camp coordinator.
Final arrangements for the December camp. Need confirmation of attendance by Friday. Looking forward to having you. Coach Morrison
I think about what I actually want. Not what I've been told to want. Not what everyone expects.
What I actually want.
And I realize I don't know the answer.
I've spent so long following the path laid out for me that I don't know which direction to go when I'm finally choosing for myself.
I start the truck and drive home, the dev camp message still unanswered on my phone.
Friday. I have until Friday to decide.
Whether I want the future my father built for me.
Or something else entirely.
For the first time in my life, the choice is actually mine.
And that’s terrifying.
Chapter Five
SUTTON
Ihear his truck pull up outside.
I've been sitting on the couch for the past hour. I called in sick to work. I’m making all kinds of irrational decisions today. His father thought I was the bad influence, but I had to question that. I had never ditched practice or work because of boy trouble.
Now, two in one day.
I was going to screw things up if I didn’t get my head straight.
The front door opens, and Declan walks in. His hair is a mess, and his jaw is clenched tightly. I don’t know where he’s been all day. I texted “hi” a couple of times, but I didn’t want to hound him. Part of me hoped he and his father were talking things out, but looking at him now, I know that’s not the case.
"Hey," I say softly.
"Hey." He closes the door and leans against it.
