Page 69 of A Match Made In Fall

I look down at our intertwined fingers. Just an hour ago I was floating on air, excited to see him after his trip.

"Where would you be going?" I ask softly.

"The Golden State Seals."

I stare at him. Golden State?

"Wait. Is that team in California?”

"Yes,” he says. "It's kind of ironic, isn't it? I might end up on the West Coast before you do."

Despite everything, I can't help smiling. The idea of him leaving is gut-wrenching, but if he goes to California, we would be closer when I return home.

The timing is all wrong, but suddenly the distance between our dreams doesn't feel quite as impossible.

"Wow," I whisper. "If only the timing were different."

He leans forward and presses a kiss to my forehead. "I'm sorry, Isabella."

"For what?” I ask. “This is part of your job.”

His thumb brushes over my hand. "I've been in a daze since I found out. I was actually going to wait until I knew for sure before telling you."

"What changed your mind?" I ask.

"My parents. They told me I should tell you immediately."

A smile spreads across my face. "You told your parents about me?"

He nods. "I did. I hope that’s okay.”

I laugh. "Of course it's okay. You're a huge hit with my crazy family. My brother is completely starstruck. He’s going to be so upset if you have to leave.”

Austin smiles. "Your family is great. They've been so nice to me."

"I can’t believe you still think that even after my mom dragged you into all my ex-boyfriend drama."

"Which I willingly participated in,” he reminds me.

"Yes, you did."

His smile softens.

"I called my parents after I heard the news. We need to keep it private until a deal is finalized, but I needed to talk to someone.”

"I totally understand."

For a moment, neither of us says anything. Then he squeezes my hand.

"I also told my parents how amazing you are,” he says. "And I told them how difficult it’s going to be if I have to leave you."

The tears I've been fighting begin to fill my eyes. "I don't want you to leave yet."

He looks at me, leaning his head on the back of the couch. "I don't want to leave you either."

Before I can react, he pulls me into his lap and wraps his arms around me. He brushes a strand of hair behind my ear, studying me carefully. "Isabella, I think I'm falling in love with you. I know it’s new, and hopefully me saying this doesn’t freak you out. My parents suggested I be honest with you, especially since we may not have a lot of time if the trade happens.”

His words completely undo me. And the tears slip down my cheeks before I can stop them.