Micheal Taylor
"Hey baby sis..."I said crying as I sat beside her holding her hand.
"I'm so sorry I haven't been there for you like im supposed to be...I've been so caught up in my own life...football...And I wanted to tell you something so bad but I was scared...but I guess I can't be scared anymore...I hope you can hear me...But I miss you Karter...And I love you...And I know I've been more distant lately and caught up in my head but like I said its because I'm scared...I don't have a backup plan...If football doesn't work out...what am I going to do next?I don't want to live off of mom and dad for the rest of my life...They-they already try to enable me and hold my hand because I'm autistic...or because of what happened to me when I was younger..They don't see that I'm growing up...Or that I can make my own decisions but now i'm going to have to because Sarah took a test and your going to be a auntie..."I said chuckling while crying imagining Karter's reaction in my head.
"It's why I've been acting different lately and going missing more...it-its why I need you to wake up...I need you Karter...It was me and you before anything...Zachariah only came over on weekends so we did everything toghether...I remember when we play hide and go seek and I cried cause I thought I lost you but you were in my room the whole time watching tv..."I said laughing as I looked back at her.
"Please wake up"
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2 days later...
"Coach Sanders, it's an honor to be here. I've been following your career, and I know this program is on the rise."I said as he put his notes down shaking my hand as I sat down nervously
"Micheal! We're excited about bringing in talent like you. You've got the skills to change the game for us. Let's talk about how we can make this happen."He said as I smiled.I knew he was about his business.Its why I'm interested in his business .
"Well, I have a few conditions I'd like to discuss before we move forward."I said thinking about what my dad said.And mostly about my future.Knowing I had a family on the way I can't depend on mom and dad to take care me forever.
"Absolutely. I want you to feel comfortable with the offer we put on the table. What's on your mind?"He said leaning back.
"First off, I want to talk about my contract terms. I'm looking for a solid deal that reflects my potential as a top wide receiver. But I have a condition..."I said getting nervous rubbing my hands on my thigh tapping it as he mustered for me to go on.
"If I were to get injured during the season and couldn't play for the rest of the year, I still want to be compensated. It's essential for me to know I'll be financially secure regardless of what happens on the field."I said as his expression was unreadable as he pondered for a minute.
"That's a fair concern, Micheal. Injuries are part of the game, and I respect you for thinking ahead, plus your number 1 receiver in the country college wise that is. How about this: we'll set up a guaranteed base salary that covers your entire first year, regardless of injuries. After we see how you do your first year we'll talk about the rest."He said as I nodded.
"Additionally, we can include performance bonuses for games played and milestones achieved, but your base pay will be protected."He said as I thought about what my dad would do/say.The only reason he isn't here is because I didn't tell him.He had his hands full with Karter I couldn't ask that of him.Not right now.
I had to man up.
"That sounds promising. Can we set the base at, say... $400,000? And maybe include a bonus structure for touchdowns and receptions?"I said taking a long shot as he smirked
"You're not shy, are you? I like that. How about this: $400,000 base with a performance bonus of $10,000 for every touchdown and $5,000 for every 100 receiving yards in a game. If you play all season, that could add up quickly."He said as I smile.
"That's definitely something I can work with. But what if I come in and absolutely crush it? Is there room for renegotiation after the first year? "I said asking questions that I thought I would need to know.
"Definitely. If you perform at an elite level, we can talk extensions before the end of your freshman year. I want my players to feel valued and recognized for their contributions on and off the field."He said as I nodding agreeing.
"I appreciate that, Coach. And what about my name, image, and likeness? I want to make sure I can capitalize on that while I'm here."I said concerned.
"You're in control of your brand, Micheal. As long as you're complying with NCAA regulations, you can seek sponsorships and promote own merchandise. We'll support you in building your brand."He said as I thought about big brands like Nike endorsing me.
"Perfect.When can we look at getting this deal formalized?"I said needing this done as quickly as possible.
"Let's get our legal team involved to draft up a contract. I want you to be part of the Buffalo family, Micheal. is just the beginning!"He said standing up clapping before shaking my hand.
" Thank you, Coach. I'm ready to bring the heat to Colorado!"I said excitedly.
For the future.
