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“And since you’ve already coached a few of their players, it’s a no brainer for them.”
“Exactly.”
I’m quiet as I process this. I know Jackson has been flying between Carolina and home, but I figured it was more to see Jameson play. “You have to move? What did my sister say?”
“She doesn’t know yet.”
“The fuck!” I push off the bar, my anger rising at this revelation.
“Relax! I’m not deciding without her. This just started happening. She knows the opportunity is there. It’s why she brought Dane on board. But I’m waiting for full disclosure before I bring this part to her. I need all the details so we can discuss and plan accordingly. It’s why no one knows because I’m not completely sold yet either.”
I’m getting antsy. I’m watching them all grab for their beers and look for more. I want to join them. I want to come around to the other side of this bar, sit with them, and drink this conversation away.
Grabbing my phone from my pocket, I send Adley a text.
Me: I need you.
Adley: I’m here waiting for you. Come home, Bill.
Sliding it back into my pocket, I lean on the counter, my heart racing with each word that runs through my mind.
“Tell me what to do, Bill.”
My eyes linger on him, searching his face. He looks distressed, like he’s afraid I’ll go off the rails. Taking a breath, I steady my words. “Jackson, I’m amazed at all you’ve achieved. And it’s not for me to tell you what more you can grab hold of. Prioritize my sister and my nephew first. Then make yourself happy. Once those two things blend together, you can do it all. You know you can.”
“Damn, he gets with a writer and all of a sudden, the guys got some smooth lines.”
“Ha! I’ve had smooth lines all my life.”
“Bill, it’s never been truer. You’ve had all the right answers all along.”
Swiping their beer bottles, I toss them in the can. “Now get out. I’m going home to my woman.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
BILLY
Since decidingto throw this anniversary party, I’ve been avoiding my mom. Not because I’m afraid I’ll spill the secret, but she just knows shit. Growing up, my siblings and I didn’t have to say anything, and she’d know. She can read each one of us with accuracy that’s scary, but I also know if I don’t come visit, she’ll know something is up, too.
Can’t win either way.
“Ma!” I call out as I enter the house.
“Hi Billy!”
“How’d you know it’s me?”
“I know the sound of my favorite son’s voice.”
“Ooh awkward, Tom.”
Mom peeks her head around the corner with a brow raised.
“Just kidding, but that would have been bad.”
“Oh please. They all know,” she says with a laugh. “Whatare you up to?”
I shrug. “Adley is writing and kicked me out of the house for being loud.”
