prove me wrong

two

april 30th, 2019. 

11:30 p.m.

phoenix, arizona.

"fuckin' awesome game, man," my friend trevor says to me. 

"thanks, bro," i say out of breath.

we just got done with another football practice. every time we play i get this adrenaline rush through my body, and it's one of the best feelings in the world. 

we go into the locker room to get our stuff packed up and leave, when coach calls me back outside.

"hey, eric!" 

i put my bag over my shoulder as i walk back onto the field.

he has a look on his face that i can't quite figure out.

"i just want you to know that i'm noticing your improvement out on the field. keep working like that and you're guaranteed a spot as a starter."

"wait, really? thanks coach," i smile, thinking about how great that would be. there's a lot of competition for being a starter since the team is so big, so it means a lot that he's saying that. 

he nods then pats me on the back.

i go to tell the boys the news. after that, we all go to our vehicles and leave.

on the way home i can't help but think about how perfect my life is going right now. 

i'm about to start my senior year of high school, be a starter for the team, got some decent enough grades. and, most importantly, i've got my beautiful girlfriend right by my side.

a year ago i would've never thought this would happen, but look where we are. it's fucking crazy what can happen in a year's time. 

i pull into my driveway and get into my house to tell my dad the great news.

he's sitting in his recliner watching his late night shows, just like he always does.

"that's great, son, i knew you could do it. i'm sure it feels good after working towards it all this time," he states.

"yeah it really does. this means you better start coming out and watching my games now, since there's an actual reason to this time," i laugh.

"i will, son, i will," he smiles.

i glance up at the wall and see the pictures of my mom.

i wish she were still here. she died when i was only 9, but i still think about her often. 

if she were here, she'd be so happy for me. i trace my hand along one of the picture frames before going into my room. 

i sit my stuff down and take a quick shower. after that, i lay on my bed and listen to some music. 

i text my girlfriend and tell her about the news, and of course she's excited too. i'm so lucky to have her, she really is so good to me. 

i tell her goodnight and as soon as i shut my eyes, with a grin on my face i can't seem to get rid of, i fall asleep. 

~~