Page 120 of Playing It Forward

His dad narrows his eyes on Nolan. “What the hell does that mean?”

“It means I’m not going to be an absent father. I’m going to be around for all the big things – the baby’s birth, her first steps, her first day of kindergarten. And all the little things – diaper changes and late night feedings. I want it all.”

His dad scoffs. “Why? You could be a Super Bowl Champion. This is your year.”

“I don’t give a shit about the Super Bowl. I’ve had a great career. Now I’m playing it forward by coaching.”

“Coaching? Those who can, do. Those who can’t, coach.”

Nolan shakes his head. “This conversation is done. You’ll never understand how fulfilling it is to help someone else. How good it feels when they achieve their dreams.”

He reaches for my hand and draws me near. “How much the love of a woman can fill all the holes in your soul. I feel sorry for you.”

He wraps an arm around me and kisses my nose. “I’m not leaving her no matter what.”

“Well, I never,” his dad grumbles.

Nolan points to his dad’s car. “You should go. There’s nothing here for you.”

“Your mom will be mad you sent me away.”

“Mom will understand. She loves you, but she recognizes your faults.”

“Don’t you dare.”

A car slams on its brakes and Scott and Ricky pile out. Uh oh. My brothers are pissed. This isn’t going to be good.

“You should go,” I tell Nolan’s dad.

“I’m not going anywhere until my son listens to reason.”

“She asked you to go,” Scott grumbles.

Ricky crosses his arms over his chest. “I’d listen to her if I were you.”

“In case you can’t count,” Scott grins, “you’re outnumbered, and we’re highly motivated.”

Smoking smugglers. This isn’t good.

I step forward. “Please, Mr. Allen. Don’t make this situation worse.”

He stares at me for a long moment and I hold my breath. My brothers can be violent when it comes to protecting me. I have no desire for there to be a fight on my front lawn this morning.

“I’m going, but this isn’t over.” He stomps to his car.

“This is over,” Nolan hollers after him.

His dad slams the car door and drives away. My shoulders fall. “Glad that’s over.”

“What’s over, sis?” Scott asks.

I roll my eyes. “The threat of violence.”

Ricky smirks. “The violence has yet to begin.” He points to Nolan. “This the man who knocked you up?”

I try to push my way in front of Nolan, but he refuses to move. “Stay safe, sprite. Think of our little mermaid.”

“You don’t understand. These are my brothers, Ricky and Scott. They’re going to beat you up.”