Page 12 of A Major Love

“What makes you think he doesn’t love you?”

“He’s never told me.”

She laughed.

“Girl, that man thinks you’re emotionally unavailable. Do you really think he would risk putting his feelings out there, knowing full well you don’t feel the same? I don’t know many men brave enough to do that. You’re so busy holding on to the past that you can’t see what’s right in front of your face.”

“I didn’t call for this, Ma.”

“I know you didn’t, but obviously, the good Lord thought you needed to hear it. Even if you don’t change your mind about writing Major’s memoir, which I think you are quite capable of, you need to talk to that man. As far as Jordan goes, let him go if you don’t think you’ll ever be able to reciprocate his feelings. I’ll leave you with one last thing.”

“What’s that, Ma?”

“During his press conference, one of the reporters asked Major if he wanted to get married and have more children. He told them that whether or not he gets married depends on one person, and that person wasn’t him. Who do you think he was talking about?”

“I haven’t talked to him in years, so he couldn’t have been talking about me.”

“You don’t believe that any more than I do. I gotta go. Love you lots.”

“Love you too.”

My mother had no problem telling me what I needed to hear, and she didn’t care if it hurt my feelings. I couldn’t be upset, because she told no lies. It was time for me to put on my big girl panties and make some hard decisions. It was time to face the music.

Later that evening, my father called. I didn’t swear my mother to secrecy, so I knew she’d shared at least parts of our conversation with him. I hesitated briefly before answering.

“How can I help you, Naseer?” I answered jokingly.

“Little girl, don’t play with your daddy like that.”

We shared a laugh before I spoke again.

“Hey, Daddy.”

“Hey, baby girl. How are you?”

“I’m good, but I’ve been in my head all day.”

“I’m sure you have. Your mother told me about your conversation.”

“What are your thoughts?”

“If it were someone else asking you to write their memoir, would you do it?”

“Honestly, I’d jump at the chance.”

“That means the only reason you’re declining is because it’s Major.”

I sighed. “Yeah, but?—”

“No buts, baby girl. You’re a professional, and professionals don’t let their emotions stop them from accepting career-changing opportunities.”

“But Daddy, he broke my heart.”

“I know, baby girl, but maybe he’s trying to fix what he broke.”

“It’s too late for all that.”

“First of all, it’s never too late, but even if you do nothing more than mend your friendship, I think it’s worth it.”