In which the rookie Ben Gal falls for Cincinnati's number one quarterback.
Now that football season is upon us I thought it would be fun to write a little Joe Burrow story.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
Back in Cincinnati, Alessandra decided to focus on herself. Though seeing Joe with someone else had been heartbreaking, it also brought her a sense of clarity. She knew that if she wanted to be happy, she needed to find her own path.
Her first call was to Harlow, her friend from her rookie days on the Ben Gals. They hadn't spoken much since Alessandra moved to Dallas, but when Harlow picked up, her warm laugh and enthusiastic "Alé! Welcome back!" made it feel like no time had passed.
Harlow insisted on meeting up that weekend, and they spent hours catching up at a cozy bistro downtown. Harlow's humor and stories reminded Alessandra of all the fun they'd had on the squad, and Alessandra felt a renewed appreciation for her Cincinnati roots.
As they continued meeting up over the weeks, Harlow became a huge support for Alessandra's new beginning. One night, over drinks, she leaned in and nudged Alessandra. "So, have you thought about dating again?"
Alessandra shrugged, a small smile forming. "Maybe....I don't want to rush, but I'm open to meeting someone new."
Harlow grinned. "Well, lucky for you, I might know someone."
At Harlow's encouragement, Alessandra joined her for a group dinner with friends a few nights later, where she was introduced to Cole Sillinger, a center for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Tall, with a friendly smile and a spark of confidence, Cole had an easygoing charm that instantly put Alessandra at ease. As they chatted, she found herself laughing at his jokes and enjoying his stories about life on the ice.
Cole's genuine interest in her life surprised her. He didn't seem fazed by her past with Joe, and instead, he was focused on learning about her goals and passions. The night ended with him asking if they could meet up for coffee sometime.
Over the next few months, Alessandra threw herself into new hobbies and passions she hadn't had time for before. She continued cheering, started volunteering with Harlow at a youth center, and even took up songwriting as an outlet. Her dates with Cole were fun and relaxed, and she appreciated how he made her laugh and encouraged her independence.
Cole became someone she could be open with, he understood the demands of a high-profile career, and he respected her journey. They grew closer, finding a bond in the mutual respect they shared for each other's ambitions.
One evening, as Alessandra and Cole strolled along the riverfront, he turned to her. "You know, I've really enjoyed getting to know you. I know things aren't always easy, but I'm here for whatever pace you want to set."
Alessandra felt a rush of warmth, realizing how much she'd grown since her return. "Thank you, Cole. I think I'm finally finding my place here. And......I'm glad you're a part of it."
With a newfound sense of happiness and a supportive circle around her, Alessandra was ready for whatever came next, knowing she was building a life entirely her own.
