Touchdown

Chapter 9

"Well, it's about time you two showed up here," Dad said grinning, as he came out from behind the counter.

"Hey dad!" I replied as he wrapped me into a hug.

"Hey John," Ryan said, holding his hand out.

"Bring it on in Ryan," Dad said opening up his arms for a hug as Ryan moved into them. "Come on kids, let's have a seat. Jody can you put on a few burgers please, and bring some milkshakes over."

"Daddy, I need some time off."

"Take as much time as you need," he smiled before turning to Ryan, "Where ya takin her son?"

"Well that was easier than I thought," I whispered under my breath.

"Miami, first, to spend some time with mom, then back to New York, before the season starts. Are you still planning to come up with Michael to catch a games this season?"

"Of course, I wouldn't miss it for the world! Thank you Jody," he grinned as the food was sat on the table. "When are y'all headin out?"

"Tomorrow morning, your burgers never fail Mr. White," Ryan said scarfing it down as he turned to me, "You gonna eat that?"

"Go ahead," I said just as a boy walked over and asked Ryan to take a picture with him.

I turned back to my dad, "Will you be ok while I'm gone?"

"Honey, I was doing just fine before you started working here," Dad said with a chuckle, "We'll find a way to manage, besides it's about time you two figured things out. Look at him," he paused looking at Ryan and the young boy, "He's a good guy, and he's still crazy about you darlin."

"But daddy, I don't want to leave you and Michael behind," I said tearing up.

"Living your life isn't leaving anyone behind. You'll both be coming home for a few games during basketball season," he replied with a chuckle, "And do you really think I'd miss any of Ryan's home games? Those seats are amazing."

"You and Michael are both the same," I laughed, as I wiped the tears away and stood up to give him a hug.

"Ready to go?" Ryan asked walking over.

"Yup," I replied, taking his hand.

"John, we'll see you later, we have to meet Michael and Ann at the fair."

"Have fun, and be safe."

"Bye daddy."

***

I picked up my phone and started to scan my notifications as Ryan started the car.

"Do you think it'll ever die down?" I asked quietly.

"What do you mean?"

"The buzz about us, I mean look at this," I said showing him my phone, "I've gotten over 200 new friend requests and even more texts from people I haven't talked to in years, and even more texts from numbers I don't even know. All because of some picture I didn't even consent to."

"It'll get easier, I promise," Ryan reassured, taking my hand. "In the meantime, we'll get your number changed and you can give it to who you want too. And look at the bright side, you got me and I'm one hell of a prize."

"Yeah, such a prize," I laughed.

"You wound me!"

"I'll make it better," I whispered placing my lips on his neck. I felt the car come to a stop, I looked up and noticed all the people walking up, seeing a couple look my way made me more nervous than I would like to admit.