Catching Kelce

First Practice

August 2023
Kansas City

Travis

As I stepped onto the practice field with my team, a surge of adrenaline coursed through my veins. The familiar sights and sounds of football practice surrounded me, bringing a sense of comfort and excitement.

The sun beat down on the field, casting long shadows across the turf as we began our warm-up drills. I focused intently on each movement, determined to shake off any rust and prepare myself for the upcoming game.

With each pass, each catch, each sprint, I pushed myself to the limit, striving for perfection in every aspect of my game. The camaraderie among my teammates fueled my determination, knowing that we were all working together towards a common goal.

"Hey, Travis, how's life with the superstar?" Isiah called out, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

I chuckled, knowing that this was a question I couldn't avoid. "Well, guys, let me tell you, life with Dua is amazing," I replied, a smile spreading across my face."

"What's it like being followed by the press all the time?" Jet asks.

I shook my head, a grin playing on my lips as I answered their questions. "Honestly, it's not something I worry about," I replied.

Hey Travis, heard Dua used to date Jack Harlow. You better watch out, man!" Patrick said with a smirk on his face.

I laughed, shaking my head at the playful jab. "Nah, I'm not worried," I replied with a grin. "I'm just grateful she's with me now."

Isiah chimed in. "Yeah, but can you imagine a rap battle between you and Jack Harlow?" he joked, earning a round of laughter from the group.

I chuckled along with them, knowing they were just having fun. "I think I'll stick to catching footballs." I say trying to keep the mood light.

Despite the playful banter, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of insecurity at the mention of Dua's past relationships.

"How's the sex? She's doing something to these men to have them all write songs about her." Chris ask.

"I'm not going to talk about it out of respect for her privacy but if I could I would write love songs about it too." I say and laugh.

"Oh it must be good. No disrespect." Isiah says.

With a final round of jokes and laughter, we returned our focus to practice.

And as the final whistle blew, signaling the end of practice, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in myself and my teammates.

As I drove home from practice, my mind was filled with thoughts of Dua and our upcoming conversation. With London's time difference in mind, I knew I had to call her now if I wanted to catch her before she went to bed.

I dialed her number. After a few rings, her voice came through the line, filling me with warmth and comfort.

"Hey, babe," she greeted, her voice laced with affection. "How was practice?"

"It was good," I replied, smiling at the sound of her voice. "But I've been thinking about you all day."

Dua laughed softly, the sound sending shivers down my spine. "Likewise," she said. "I've been swamped with work, but hearing your voice always makes everything better."

"So, about your football game..." she began, her voice hesitant.

"Yeah?" I prompted, sensing her hesitation.

"I should be able to come to one of your games in early September." she said, her voice brightening with excitement. "But that means we'll have to do long distance for the next few weeks."

I felt a pang of disappointment at the thought of being apart from her, but I knew it was something we could handle. "I'll miss you like crazy," I admitted, "but having you at the game will make it worth it."

Dua's laughter filled the air, chasing away my worries. "I'll be cheering you on from across the pond," she promised. "And who knows, maybe I'll even bring you some good luck."

"How's the album coming along?" I ask.

Dua goes quiet for longer than usual. "I actually want to tell you something related to the album."

"Sure, what's up?" I say unsure of what she could possibly say.

"I'm working on a new song, and I'm collaborating with Abel." She says.

I feel a twinge of unease hearing about Dua working with her ex. I trust her, but the thought still lingers, stirring up past insecurities that I had with Kayla. I remind myself to trust Dua and her commitment to our relationship, even if my gut reaction is a mix of curiosity and discomfort.

"I know it might sound a bit surprising, but it's just a professional collaboration. He has one of the best voices in the music industry. We're just friends now, nothing more." She says as I know she's trying to keep me calm.

"Yeah, I trust you, Dua. It's just... interesting." I say.

"I understand if it feels a bit strange, but I want to be transparent with you." She says.

"Thanks for telling me, Dua. I appreciate your honesty. I'm sure it'll be a great song." I say

"Of course, Travis. I'm with you that's all that matters." She says and it's like music to my ears that she reassures me.

"Have a good night Dua. I'll call you tomorrow. Thank you for being upfront." I say.

"You too. I miss you!" She says and then hangs up the phone.

She's being so transparent with me, yet I'm hiding a massive secret. This fake dating situation started out to save my football career. Now I have genuine feelings for Dua, the weight of deceit grows heavier with each passing day. I want to tell her the truth, but fear grips me, fearing I'll lose her forever.