Page 85 of Love, Literature, and the Linebacker

“And Dylan?”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t overthink yourself out of something good.”

The corner of my mouth lifts. “I’ll try.”

Maybe I don’t have to choose between leading my team and loving Lucy.

Maybe I just have to trust that I’m capable of both.

I lean back against my car, the cool metal seeping through my shirt. “Any other words of advice?”

“You don’t need every answer right now. Play your game. Lead your team. Show up for Lucy.”

I stare out across the parking lot, letting myself relax. “You’re right.”

“I usually am.” He chuckles. “And Dylan, no matter how this shakes out, football or not, I’m proud of you.”

“Thanks, Dad. I mean that.”

There’s a brief pause before he says, almost casually, “Your mom mentioned you’re bringing Lucy home for Thanksgiving.”

I groan. “You know, most divorced couples stop exchanging updates after the divorce.”

He laughs. “We still talk sometimes.”

“Are you… thinking of coming?” I ask.

“Your mom invited me over while you’re home. We haven’t settled on a time yet,” he says thoughtfully.

“I’d really like to see you,” I tell him. “I want you to meet Lucy.”

“Well then,” he replies, warmth filling his voice, “I’ll be there.”

A smile spreads across my face. “I’ve gotta run.”

“Alright, son. I love you.”

“Love you too, Dad.”

I end the call and look across the empty practice field.

I don’t need to control every outcome. I don’t need to know what city I’ll be living in next year or what every change will mean for Lucy and me.

Right now, I only have to keep showing up.

For my team.

For my future.

For Lucy.

For now, that’s enough.

Chapter Twenty-One

Lucy