Page 93 of Playing It Forward

I’m entering Nolan’s world by attending the practice. This is not me ensuring I don’t get attached to someone guaranteed to leave the island.

I wipe those thoughts from my mind. I told Nolan I would try to have a real relationship with him. I’m not breaking my promise. Even though it scares the hell out of me.

I place my hand on my stomach. I’ve got you, little mermaid. No matter what, I’ve got you.

“You okay?” Dad asks.

I nearly startle. I forgot he was in the passenger seat.

“I’m fine.”

He nods to my stomach.

“Sorry. It’s a pregnant woman thing.”

“As long as you’re okay. Or as okay as you can get considering…” He trails off with a nod to the stadium.

I frown at him. “What?”

He rolls his eyes. “Don’t think I don’t know you’re scared to attend this practice.”

I bristle. “Why would I be scared of a practice?”

“Because it means you’re giving this relationship with Nolan a chance.”

“I’ve had relationships with men before.”

He snorts. “All superficial. You never let them inside. And you certainly never introduced them to me after you moved out.”

“Nolan insisted on meeting you since he’s the baby’s dad.”

He lifts a brow. “I know you, kiddo. You would have shut down any other man faster than a mermaid can swim away from a pirate.”

I don’t have a response since he’s right.

“There’s nothing superficial about this relationship.”

“Because we’re having a baby together.”

His eyes narrow on me. “Don’t diminish what you’re building here. Love doesn’t come around that often. Don’t miss out.”

His parting shot made, he climbs out of my car.

I inhale a deep breath and force all the thoughts whirling around in my mind away. I’m here for Nolan. I want to show him I support him. The way he supports me. It’s not a big deal.

I join Dad at the front of the car and he leads us to the stadium.

A guard stands in front of the entrance with his arms crossed over his chest. “Today is a closed practice session. Family only.”

I retreat. “I’m not family.”

Dad grabs my elbow and pulls me forward. “This is Terri Jordan. She should be on the list of family.”

He checks his list. “Yep. Got you down as Terri and Charlie Jordan.” He waves us forward. “Enjoy your morning.”

Dad keeps his hand on my lower back as we walk through the building. He’s not a stupid man. He knows I’m ready to run. This is why I brought him. To make sure I didn’t chicken out.

When we enter the stadium, I’m surprised by how many people are here. I scan the area.