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“Yeah. I’ve been upfront with every team I’ve pitched. Last thing we need is you wasting your damn time, getting to the one-yard-line and then having them pull out.”
Relief seeps through me and my muscles loosen a touch. If the head coach knows about the video and is still interested, I have a real shot at making the team. Especially after working with Coach Carter all summer.
“I’ll shoot you the flight details.”
“Sounds good, thanks.”
“Crawford?”
“Yeah?”
“Don’t fuck this up. No pressure, but this could be your last chance.”
“Wow, thanks for the vote of confidence.”
“I’m sure you’ll do great. But I wouldn’t be doing my job if I wasn’t honest with you. I’ve talked to almost every team in the league. This is about as good as it’s going to get.”
“Got it, boss. I’ll play like I already have four championship rings, how about that?”
“Perfect. And keep your pants on. Zero scandals.”
“Ouch. It was a one-time thing, Troy. You know that.” I don’t love talking about the video and hate that he brings it up every damn time—even if it is his job.
“Let’s keep it that way. Go down there, catch the football, fly like a motherfucking raptor and win yourself that spot.”
“Consider it done.” I disconnect, tossing the cell onto the counter with a clatter.
Anxiety churns in my gut. Coupled with the buzz ofadrenaline, I’m nauseous and I haven’t even left Thunder Creek yet.
Get your shit together, Crawford. You’ve got this.
My phone rattles against the marble and I grab it with a sinking feeling. Troy’s already calling to cancel.
“Hey, babe. It’s me.” Sloane’s melodic voice trills down the line and I take a relieved breath. “Gracelyn wants us to get drinks with her on Friday at Mustang’s. You up for it? Or do you want me to make it a girls’ night?”
“I was about to call you. I just got off the phone with my agent.”
“Wait, what?”
“I have an interview and possible tryout tomorrow. If it goes well, I’ll have training camp with the team for at least a week.”
“Cam! That’s amazing!” She screams so loud the phone shakes against my ear. “Which team?”
“Fort Lauderdale.”
“Oh. Well, at least that’s pretty close.”
“I know. This could be really good.”
A long beat passes and I’m not sure what else to say. Finally, Sloane speaks.
“I’m going to miss you.”
“I know, baby. Me too. But I’ll be back. Either way.”
She sniffles and I wonder if she’s crying. My chest squeezes hard and I’m caught off guard. I never worried about traveling before, never disliked it. I kind of looked forward to the away games, seeing other stadiums and places.
This emotional stuff is new for me and I don’t love it.
