I wink at her, and she smiles.
“I’ve been planning to go public after the next home game, in two weeks,” I say. “Maybe take Nate on a date, just kiss him in front of everyone. If people care, if people post about it, then so be it.”
She beams. “Honestly, great idea. Just don’t do what that other guy, what’s-his-name, Charlie? He did with some press release, which was too much.”
I laugh. “Do you know me? I would never do that.”
She pulls me into a hug and kisses my cheek. “Don’t tell the others,” she whispers, “but you’re my favorite son.”
I laugh. “Shut up. You probably tell us all that.”
Before I can say more, the back door swings open, and Nate walks into the kitchen. My mom gives us a knowing look before heading out to the yard.
Nate puts his arm around my waist. “What was that about?”
I look at him and ask, “Do you want to go out with me, publicly, in two weeks? Friday before the Week 12 game?”
Nate grins. “Can I kiss you on the date?”
I smile. “That’s the whole point.”
I pull him in for a slow, wet kiss.
It’s 4 o’clock, and Spencer, Roman, and I are getting ready to head out for the game. We say our goodbyes, well, they say theirs. My family is too busy hyping up Spencer and Roman even to acknowledge me. Clearly, they’re siding with Boston today.
My mom, though, winks at me. I know where her heart really lies.
While the guys are finishing up goodbyes, I turn to Nate and whisper, “Are you sure you’re okay tailgating with my family without me?”
Nate grins. “Your mom assured me we’re gonna have the best time and get wasted.” He continues, “Can’t believe you got us seats on the 50-yard line. Again!”
“They’re only the 10th row, this time,” I tease. “Not as good as when your family came.”
Nate smirks. “True. But it’s not a competition, babe.”
I laugh. “Oh, bae. It’s always a competition.”
I kiss him, slap his butt, and wave goodbye to the chaos of my family. Then the three of us pile into Spencer’s car and speed off toward Boston Stadium.
***
The score is tied 20–20 heading into the fourth quarter, and it’s been a high-scoring game from the start. Both offenses are unstoppable. Every drive feels like a battle, and we’re all playing with such determination to win.
I’ve had a solid game, but not over 100 yards yet, and still no touchdown. I’m still doing great, and I know it.
I glance into the stands and spot Nate with my family. They’re all jumping on each other every time anyone scores. It’s like they can’t decide who to root for. It brings me weird joy seeing Nate squeezed between my parents, as if he’s been part of the family for years. They just met him yesterday, but you’d think he was their son, too.
Seriously, what the hell have they all been doing for the last five hours? He’s been with them all day, and yet he looks like he’s having the time of his life.
The fourth quarter starts, and we get the ball at the 50-yard line thanks to our speedy kicker returner’s monster return.
First play of the quarter is a handoff to me. I follow my left tackle around the edge for a 10 yard gain. As I jog back to the huddle, I see my family, with Nate included, celebrating like I just scored the game-winner.
Next play is a quick 3-yard pass to Briggs, where he gets tripped up immediately.
We waste no time and go no-huddle. Miller gives me a quick look, and I already know the balls coming my way. He hikes the ball, fakes a drop-back, then hands it off. I hit the gap up the middle and grind out 15 yards.
Now I’m freaking pumped.
