The Fumble Of A Quarterback

Chapter 16: So Many Things Are A Reminder

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"Everett told me he isn't coming to practice today. Said he doesn't feel good," Dad said as he talked to Tyler about training the Monday after the party.

I looked up from my phone as this conversation became more interesting. Dad and I both knew the true reason why he wouldn't come in. He was still recovering from that beating he took over the weekend. Everett told Dad he would be at practice tomorrow, but I wasn't convinced. I cleaned his face and knew he needed time to recover.

Tyler nodded casually, not asking for more details. "That's fine. I can focus on Ethan and Rick today."

"Sounds like a plan, Stan."

Tyler grinned at the comment. "Is there anything else you need from me?"

Dad shook his head. "Nope. I think you're good to see those boys for training."

"Cool," he said then left the office, leaving me and Dad alone.

Dad sighed. His eyes looked tired; however, I don't think anyone besides me noticed. He turned to his papers. "Well, I have little for you to do today since we're mainly studying past plays."

I nodded as I reached for my backpack which had a mound of homework in it. "That's fine, I'll just stick around and study in the office if you don't mind. I have a test tomorrow." I would admit, I felt relieved I could cocoon myself in the office and focus on my never-ending schoolwork.

"Great. And I'll just say this again: you don't need to come here every day. If you need to work on school, I understand, homedog."

I eyed him. He had never called me that before.

"I heard someone say that on campus the other day. Does it sound cool?"

I shook my head as a chuckle escaped my lips.

"Alright, that's a no then."

I thought about all the joys I had for the last few weeks. I enjoyed coming in every day even if I was busy. It was exciting, and I had built some good friendships. "I know, but I enjoy coming here."

He chuckled as he stood from his desk. "Never thought I would hear you, out of all people, say that. Who are you and where did my football hating daughter go?"

I smirked. "I still hate football. But that doesn't mean I hate the players."

He smiled one more time before leaving the office, allowing me to study in peace.

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Finally, after studying for who knows how long, I swung the backpack over my shoulders and walked out of the office. Slowly, I wandered through the halls, unsure where I was going. Finally, I found myself on the inside field watching Tyler work with a group of players.

I never really talked much to Tyler, but as I watched him interact with them, I could see he loved the sport just as much as Dad did. He talked with enthusiasm and glitter in his eyes, as if this was the most important thing he could do.

"So how was going to Everett's place the other night?" Tad asked with a grin as he walked over to me.

I frowned as I remembered how angry he got when I brought up Charles. As much as Tad wanted some kind of gossip, there was none. Maybe being there could have been, but we messed it up. I don't think Everett and I would ever get along. "He let me in to his place and we talked for a few before I said something he didn't like, and he kicked me out."

He let out a single chuckle with a shrug. "Well, can't say I didn't see that coming, but I did."

I kicked the ground in frustration. Maybe Everett was just unable to be helped. Maybe Dad already realized this and gave up.