“I’m not most guys.” I give him my signature grin.
It’s the one that makes all the girls scream. A little like twirling my fingers in the front of my hair.
Of course, my oldest teammate and future cousin-in-law is not impressed.
His eyes narrow, and he studies me. “Maybe. Still, I’ve got my eye on you. Keep that in mind.”
“Don’t worry, Dad, I’m not going to throw a tantrum or turn into a primadonna.”
“Don’tDadme.” He punches me on the shoulder. “I’m not that much older than you.”
“It’s true…” I squint at him. “So why am I getting over-protective mother-hen vibes?”
“You’re a good guy, Mav. You look out for everyone, you took me in when I needed a place to stay…”
“And Gavin,” I wave my hand. “I’ve got plenty of time. Keep going… You’re making me think I’m underpaid.”
“I just don’t want you to feel slighted. Coach Leek is shaking things up, but your team has your back.”
“Thanks, man.” I hold up my hand. “Appreciate y’all. Now go away.”
He grins. “What? Am I keeping you from something? Or should I say someone?”
“You should say it’s none of your business.”
“Okay, okay.” He lifts the armrest, chuckling as he slides out of the seat. “For what it’s worth, people like her make it easy. She fits right in.”
Looking down at my phone, I can’t argue with that.
Mom
Why am I just hearing that Dove is staying with you???
My throat tightens, and I shift in my seat.
Maverick
Who told you that?
Mom
Knox, Haddy, Gina… it seems everyone knew but me. Again! What am I going to do with you Mav?
Maverick
I thought it came up at Christmas.
Mom
You know it didn’t. But that’s okay. I’m so happy! Dove’s always been like a daughter to me. The daughter I never had.
Shit. I shift in my seat thinking about how hard my parents tried to have another baby after me. For whatever reason it never took, which inadvertently put a lot of pressure on me.
Of course, my dad was super supportive. Even though he always said he wanted a football team’s worth of boys, he knew my mom wanted a girl.
Ultimately, Miss Gina, who my cousin is named after, was the only person who could console her. That sweet old lady has always had a way with my mom. She told her God has his reasons for everything, and we have enough little girls in this family to go around.
Lord knows, that’s the truth, and they all need to shut their traps.
