Instigators

Chapter T W E N T Y - O N E

Tiana's POV

The Saturday sun scorched my arms. I was wearing a tank top and shorts because it was so hot outside. I watched my girls play their first soccer game from behind my sunglasses. I cheered them on and clapped loudly. They were doing a great job and winning by two points.

It was the last five minutes of the game and the other scored. My girls looked a bit sad, but they could still hold on and win.

"Aye, you girls are still winning! Keep it up!" Rico cupped his hands over his mouth and yelled onto the field.

"On your toes, ladies!" I said. All soccer players know to prepare for the kickoff by bouncing on your toes. The girls did as they were told. Determined looks were plastered on all their faces. The referee blew his whistle loudly and the play started.

The offense managed to get past the other's teams midfield, but they got a bit stuck when the encountered defense. My girls weren't scaredy cats. They did a beautiful passing combo that Rico had taught them and got past defense. Kate, a brunette on the team, got the ball and took a shot. The ball bounced off the goalie's hands, but didn't go it. Kate ran to the ball and gave it another hard kick. This time it went it. The parents watching from the sideline went wild. The ref blew his whistle again, signaling the end of the game. We won!

"We won our first game!" I exclaimed. I jumped up and down from being overwhelmed with joy.

"It's all because of the girls!" Rico smiled. He pulled me into him for a hug. He spun me around his arms before placing me back on my feet. The girls happily ran off the field, all of them smiling.

"I am so proud of you all!" I high-fived them.

"I hope all of our games go like this. You girls did amazing. Now, go get your snacks." Rico pointed to the cooler not far off. They all congratulated each other and ran to grab a bag of chips and a drink.

Tario and Grace had come to the game. They walked over to us, smiling.

"Nice game," Tario said and kissed my cheek. His cologne embraced me as I hugged him tightly.

Rico and Grace started to carry on their own conversation, so Tario and I did the same.

I jumped up and wrapped my legs around his waist. He caught and held me with his hands under my butt. He squeezed it as he kissed me again.

"I didn't like when he hugged you." He whispered. My eyes flickered to Rico who was holding Grace's hand as they spoke. The two looked engulfed in their conversation. It was heartwarming to see them so happy together.

"It was a friendly hug. Besides, he likes Grace," I gestured towards them with my head, "Are you jealous?" The thought of Tario being jealous excited me. For some reason, I liked it when he was possessive.

His jaw clenched, "I don't care who they are. Only I can touch you."

"I don't want anyone to touch me, but you. I'm yours and you're mine." I said. He nuzzled my nose gently.

"Do you want to go grab something to eat?" he asked.

I nodded. Now that he mentioned it, I was starving. Being a coach was really tiring.

"I need to use the bathroom first, though." I hopped down from his hold and pecked his cheek before walking in the direction of the restrooms.

"I'll be in the car." He said.

The bathrooms were right by the skate park which was across the street. Seeing the skaters made me think of what Roxy told me about Beth. I wasn't sure if it was true, but I hoped to find out.