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After both kids had their time with Abby, I finally cuddled her in one arm while Naomi snuggled against my other side.
“Happiness like this never seemed real to me,” Naomi whispered. “I thought it was just something you read about in romance novels.”
I smirked, “Are you saying I’m your favorite book boyfriend, baby?”
“Better,” she sighed. “They can’t compare to my man.”
“Good answer,” I replied with a teasing smile. Sometimes, she would make sly comments about the heroes in her books, just to get me fired up so I would prove I was everything they were and more. It was a little game we played. One that I loved.
“It’s only the truth.”
I dipped my head and planted a sweet kiss on her lips. “Of course, it is. This is our happily ever after, baby.”
EXTRA EPILOGUE
PRENTICE
“How are you feeling?” Naomi asked softly as she gently squeezed my hand. “Are you sure about this? Because I’ll support you if you’ve changed your mind.”
I smiled and bent my head down to brush my lips over hers. “Stop worrying, baby. It’s time. And I’m more than okay with that.”
We were standing just outside the stadium press room, waiting for the signal to enter.
This last season had been my best, and I was certain the upcoming one would top it. I was at the peak of my performance for the Nighthawks. But my body was paying the price and going out on a high note was the smartest option. And it felt right. For the first time in my life, I was ready to leave the field because my future looked amazing whether or not I was playing football.
“Prentice,” Barbara—one of our press liaisons—called out. “They’re ready for you.”
With Naomi’s hand firmly in mine, we walked through the door, and as usual, we blinked away the bright spots in our eyes from the sudden flashing of lights. It didn’t matter how many press conferences I’d done, those damn cameras always blinded me. However, I never let their impact throw me off balance, which wasn't easy.
When my eyes adjusted, I guided my wife up the steps of the platform to the table and pulled out her chair. Then I took a seat next to her.
I waited for the commotion to die down before speaking. “Thanks for coming. I first want to say how fucking grateful I am for the opportunities I’ve had to work with some of the most inspiring, talented, and dedicated people in football over the years. I’m humbled and proud to have played for the Nighthawks for the majority of my career.”
A low hum filled the room before a few reporters began to toss out questions, but I held up my hand and they went silent.
“And it will be my honor to retire as a Nighthawk at the end of the current season.”
The room exploded with shouted questions and flashing lights.
Keen Tanner, a local reporter who I’d grown to respect—and had given several exclusives to—raised his hand.
“Yeah, Tanner?”
“What will you do next? There are rumors that you’ll be joining the front office.”
I knew the answer, but since the contract had not been completely finalized, Lennox had asked me to hold off on telling most people, especially the press.
“Be the best husband and father in the world,” I answered with a grin.
“He already is,” Naomi piped up, making me smile even wider. “So stay tuned for more things to come from this incredible man.”
“You didn’t comment on the rumors,” Tanner drawled with an eye roll. He wasn’t stupid, he knew he couldn’t bait me into saying anything. But if he wanted to keep his job, he had to try.
“Noticed that, did you?” I deadpanned, making him chuckle. “I can’t comment on the irons in the fire until they’ve taken permanent shape, so you’ll all just have to wait for more news.”
“When will your last game be?” Another reporter asked.
“February,” I replied dryly. “I need one more ring to fill up both hands.”
