Page 122 of The Sweetest Return

“I’ll think about it.”

Coach smiled. “That’s all I wanted.”

Once we were walking again, Imani glanced up at me. “He still likes me better.”

“Always did.”

“I understand why.”

I cut my eyes toward her. “That confidence still intact?”

“Very.”

I laughed.

The Crown Club was filling quickly. Purple and gold covered the stands while Royal Sound warmed up across the field and smoke drifted from the tailgate lots beyond the open end of the stadium.

Eventually, we reached our seats.

Imani stopped before sitting and looked over everything.

Her smile came slowly.

“You missed this.”

“A little.”

“You used to bring homework to my games.”

“I was committed to my education.”

“You ain't turn one page once I touched the ball.”

“That is a lie.”

“You watched every play.”

“I was making sure you didn't get hurt.”

I laughed. “You liked watching me run.”

Her eyes came to mine. “You were good.”

“Good?”

“See? This is why I don't compliment you.”

I took her coat, still laughing.

After we sat, I stretched my left leg farther beneath the seat ahead of me. The knee had tightened from the weekend.

Imani noticed.

She didn't fuss or ask six questions.

Her hand simply rested near mine.

I covered it.