Page 203 of Made Better Together

“The fact that it’s an expansion team—is there anything about that you think I should know?”

He looks thoughtful. “That’s a good question. Your media duties will be the same amount, but they may be focused on, say, goodwill events to introduce the team. Whereas players with a team that has an established footprint and fanbase can focus a little more narrowly on hyping a current season.”

“That’s no biggie.” I actually love the idea of being a face for the team, and bringing a lot of new fans to the game.

“In all transparency, they mentioned the fact that you’re finishing college, your maturity and leadership, as some of the reasons they targeted you.” As opposed to the women going straight from high school to the pros, I guess.

“Well, that’s flattering. I’m on board if you think this is the best offer.”

The corners of his mouth turn up. “I appreciate the eagerness. First, read through the contract. Make sure you don’t have any questions. Have your lawyer to review it too.”

“Sounds good, I’ll read it as soon as you send it.”

He breaks into a grin. “Excellent. And Eden, congratulations.”

I can’t wait to tell Connor and Dad we have another thing to celebrate tonight.

But the other person I’m excited to share this update with may be more reachable right now.

EDEN: Mom, huge news again! Can I call this time?

57

EDEN

“BYEEEEE,” comes the chorus from the front door—Dad, Tina, and Nat calling out as Connor and I walk to the car after dinner.

Each of them in a T-shirt with the Miami NWSL expansion team logo. At Nat’s suggestion, Tina had tracked the shirts down at a sporting goods store earlier today to surprise me.

Connor turns on the car, once they’ve closed the front door. “That went well.”

I put my hand on his knee as he pulls off their street. “So well. I’m glad Dad’s adjusted to the reality of us being together.”

“Me too. And forgiven us for being sneaky.”

I sigh. “I’m glad those days are done. Being a secret.”

“Same.”

He takes the exit onto the highway before continuing. “You know what I was thinking today?”

He stops, looking contemplative.

“What? What is it?”

“None of this worked out like I thought it would. I was so fucking tied up in keeping everything hidden. But then, when they got revealed…each time, life got better, not worse.”

His expression is so earnest, and I love that he’s come to this realization. I click through examples myself. Our relationship, now out in the open. The issues with his mom aren’t a burden he has alone. No more secrets we need to keep from our families.

“Yep. That’s because you were holding things back from people who love you, who only wanted to help you, make your life better.”

He puts his hand over mine. “Not anymore.”

We stay quiet for a few minutes as the highway miles zip by.

Then Connor breaks the silence. “So Miami, here we come. Really proud of you.”

He’s said that about ten times already since he came home from Waves practice, but I’m more than content hearing it again.