The Fumble Of A Quarterback

Chapter 25: What The University Wants

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"Ok, home game match is tomorrow. So we are going to review some plays today," Dad said to the group of men standing in the locker room a few days later. "Nora, have any words to say to this group before they get out there?"

I shook my head as I looked around at the boys. My eyes lingered on Charles as he smirked at me, making my skin crawl. Rick wrapped his arm around Charles, whispering something into his ear. The small crowd around Charles confirmed his growing posy. He was taking control and soon Charles would be doing the same things as before.

The thought caused me to kick the floor. With every passing day, Charles made me to hate my time here. He made me not want to come back. I wondered how many other people felt the same.

"Ok, that's all. Let's get to the theater," Dad said as he clapped his hands.

As the crowd left, I turned to Dad with a frown. "Is Charles playing in the game?"

"I don't know. It depends on what the university wants."

"So that will be a yes."

"Nora...." he sighed.

"Dad, I know your hands are tied, but he's a terrible person. Can't you see it?" I said as I rose my voice at him.

"Nora, don't you dare start with me." His tone was stern, causing me to step back. "You're just an intern. Remember your place."

This wasn't the first time he reminded me of this fact. I couldn't help it as tears welled in my eyes, getting frustrated. I had spent months help in the team, pouring my soul into it, and he was just so willing to give all of that up. As I wiped my eyes, I stood up a little taller. "My place? I am the coach's daughter. I am more than an intern."

Breaking us from our moment was when a throat cleared. "Um, coach, I wanted to mention that my father would come to practice today," Everett said from the door frame.

My eyes darted to his, wondering how much he heard. His concerned expression told me he heard enough.

Quickly, I wiped my nose.

"Thanks for the heads up. I'll be sure to give him a grand welcome and Nora will be sure to give him a tour. She needs a break from practice anyhow," Dad said to Everett.

I glared at Dad, although he didn't make eye contact. He may be just a prisoner to the University, but I thought he would at least try a little harder to fight against it. "Yeah, I can give him a tour."

With that, Dad left.

In the privacy of the room, Everett wrapped his arm around me.

I smiled as I leaned into him, soaking up the embrace.

"I set up the interview with the newspaper for tomorrow, after the game. Want to come?"

My heart beat faster. I didn't want it to come to this, but the University would not stop and my dad would not do anything more. They forced Everett to make this move. "Of course I do."

"Good. I want you there." He let go of me and pulled his phone out of his pocket. "Dad's here."

"We should see him then."

"I guess so."

I followed Everett to the main entrance of the Woody and waved as I saw Everett's father standing on the other side of the glass doors. He wore all Ohio State gear from his pants to sweater. There was a large grin on his face as if he couldn't contain his excitement.

"Hey Dad," Everett said as he opened the door.

"Hey there! Wow, this place looks so much larger then I thought."