Page 52 of Hard to Score

I nod even though she can’t see me because I have a huge lump in my throat. “Of course.”

“I’m afraid I won’t be able to be the person you want me to be, Drew.”

“I just want you to be you, Maggs. Just you.”

There’s another sniffle and then the call ends.

It’s my sigh that fills the hotel room.

She used her first call in three weeks to phone me. I’m not sure how I feel about that. If I should think of it as a burden that I’m the stability she looks toward or a blessing.

Regardless, I know I feel like shit. Nothing about this feels good.

And it hasn’t in the longest time.

I feel like fear is what we Bowmans live in.

I look at you and see one of the most gifted and talented quarterbacks I’ve ever seen, but the man beneath is too goddamn afraid to step into the limelight.

While I may have been drunk at the McMasters’ wedding, those words of Brexton’s have stuck with me.

I can’t shake them loose.

The worst part?

I’m embarrassed by them.

Does she think less of me because of it? Does she see these other starting players and wonder what they have that I don’t?

“Christ,” I mutter and run a hand through my hair.

One fucking phone call from Maggs, and I’m already doubting if the high I’ve been on for the past two days since I’ve left Brexton’s bed is real or not.

Maybe more like warranted or not.

Tapping my cell phone against my chin, I debate whether or not I should call her. Have I wanted to? Of course. Have I worried that everything was just too goddamn perfect and if I call her I’ll realize it wasn’t? Most definitely.

“Quit being a pussy, Bowman. Just call her.”

With a shake of my head, I pull up her contact and dial.

“Hey, you,” she answers on the second ring. Fucking hell, my balls draw up at the rasp of her voice.

“Hey.”

“How’s Seattle?”

“Rainy.”

“Forecast calls for clear skies for the game tomorrow though.”

“You keeping tabs on me, Kincade?” I ask and chuckle.

“I do happen to have clients on your team, you know.”

“I do indeed.”

The line falls silent for a beat as I realize I had no real reason to call, and now I don’t really know what to say.