Perfect by Design

11: Grayson James

Grayson

Senior year of high school
If you're wondering how you become not only the number one high school quarterback in the country but the number one player altogether, it's easy. One hall of fame wide receiver for a dad and an NFL QB coach for an uncle will surely put you on the right path.

If that isn't enough, spend all your high school years training with UCLA's star receiver, and your story will undoubtedly be written for you—mine is.

And just like that, football holds me like a hostage.

"Gray, I've been looking all over for you! Are you ready to announce your commitment? All of the blogs are talking about it already." My dad pats me on the shoulder.

Yes, Spencer James' prodigal son is poised to continue his legacy as a Tiger. It's a perfect story... hits all the feels— blah blah.

"Hi, sweetie." My mom walks in as my buffer. She hears all the words I haven't spoken over the past few months.

"Babe, Kiara is asking for you." Mom rubs his shoulder and kisses his cheek before sending him out of the room.

"He's already so proud of you, kiddo. You know that, right?" She smiles her mom smile at me.

Of course, I know that. I love football. I don't play because of my dad. I play because I want to.

"I think the weight of it all is just starting to hit, mom. I don't want to be Grayson James, not when it comes to football. I just want to be Grayson."

A lot of the articles have started to use my full name. What's next for Spencer Grayson James, widely known as just Grayson? I'm not widely known as just Grayson. It's my name. The Spencer is for decoration—always has been.

The sports world, on the other hand, is trying to turn me into a junior. I'm sure it sounds like I'm being ridiculous, and maybe I am.

I'd be silly not to believe that doors haven't opened up for me because of who my dad is. I'm proud to have his name, both parts of it, but I'm not him. I'm not just a continuation of his story. This journey is mine.

"Li's name is mentioned on the internet practically every other day at this point, and her being Spencer James' daughter is just a small part of the story."

"Leah doesn't play football, Grayson."

"Fine, they don't really mention your name either, mom. No offense, of course."

"Thanks, kid. I was also never as big in the dance world as Leah. They do sometimes mention Aunt Capri, though. She has her own shadows."

"Sometimes, mom. These articles calling me Spencer James the second is wild. No one has ever called me Spencer a single day in my entire life until now."

"Grayson, it's just white noise. You know who you are. Me and dad know who you are. That's what matters."

"Thanks, mom. When is everyone getting here?"

"If by everyone you mean Leah, then she just landed. You're announcing where you will play college football, not your run for president, Gray. Not to mention, we all already know where you're going."