Page 124 of Hard to Score

My rock.

And it doesn’t hurt that he packs really good lunches.

CHAPTER SIXTY-SIX

DREW

“YOU’RE DISTRACTED THIS WEEK,” LONNIE says as I walk past him on the field. “You’re not the same Bowman I’ve seen week after week during practice. You break up with your girl? Need to get laid? What’s the deal?”

Stopping with my helmet in my hand, I turn to face him, unaware that all the shit in my head was affecting my on-the-field play. I thought I was hiding it well enough.

“I’m good. Everything’s good,” I say.

“You sure?” He tucks his clipboard under his arm and takes a few steps toward me.

I nod. “I’m sure.”

“Good, because I need clarity on the field tomorrow, Drew. I need to know you can focus and secure us the home-field advantage for the playoffs.”

I stare at him. There’s no way I just heard that right. “I thought you told me it was a one-time thing last game? That Hobbs’s shoulder was sore and—”

“Yeah, well. Maybe I didn’t want you to get in your own head too much if I told you otherwise.” He winks and laughs. “But I spoke to Neil and Coach, and we think you’re the best-suited QB to lead us against the Steelers. You’re starting, so do whatever it is that you have to do to get your head straight and your mental game strong.”

“Yes, sir.” I stand there and stare at him.

“Did you need something else?” he asks.

“No.” I blow out a relieved breath. “Just taking it all in, is all.”

Lonnie pats me on the shoulder and squeezes. “There’s something to be said about fighting your way to the top. I’ve always found it’s those guys who appreciate the top much more.”

He walks away and leaves me standing in the stadium, one hand on my hip, one hand holding my helmet, and a sense of belonging for the first time with the Raptors.

Pride swallows me whole.

I did it.

It took me way too fucking long, but I climbed back here. I proved myself and my talent even with the Bowman last name.

“Brexton,” I whisper.

I need to call her. To tell her. To see her. She’s definitely one of the reasons I’m standing here right now.

. . . do whatever it is that you have to do to get your head straight and your mental game strong.

There’s something else I have to do first.

CHAPTER SIXTY-SEVEN

DREW

“DREW?” MAGGIE’S FACE LIGHTS UP when she opens the door to see me standing on her doorstep.

“Hi.” My smile is timid but genuine. “You look good.”

And she does. There’s color in her face and the hollow of her cheeks are now filled in with the weight she’s gained.

“I’m taking it day by day.” She steps back and motions to the inside of her apartment. “Would you like to come in? It’s a mess but—”