An: Thank you so much for all your wonderful reviews. Your support and enthusiasm for this story has meant the world to me.
Huge shout out to my wonderful prereaders and beta. Without them, this would not be possible.
**Fiddling was had. All mistakes are mine.
Chapter 32
"I've paid my dues
Time after time
I've done my sentence
But committed no crime
And bad mistakes
I've made a few
I've had my share of sand kicked in my face
But I've come through ( And I mean to go on and on and on and on)
We are the champions, my friends
And we'll keep on fighting till the end
We are the champions
We are the champions
No time for losers
'Cause we are the champions
Of the world."
"We are the Champions" by Queen
~oOo~
The World Series was in full swing. After starting the series in Houston, where both teams won a game, the Braves came home to Atlanta, hoping to clinch the title in front of their hometown fans. The team won two more games while they were home, extending their lead in the series against the Astros, 3-1. They could win the World Series with in game five, the last night of the series in Atlanta. If not, they were headed back to Houston.
The Braves started out strong, but the Astros started to come back when the Braves bullpen began to break down. The team was behind 4-5 in the fifth inning when things began to unravel.
Bella was sitting with both families and Edward's closest friends, watching helplessly as the team started losing ground. There was hope when Jasper blasted a two-run homer deep into the outfield, pulling them ahead by one, but with one of their star pitchers out with a broken fibula, the bullpen began to show its cracks. There was no rest for the weary as relief pitcher after relief pitcher was sent in, but to no avail.
Rose had been sitting next to Bella the whole game, holding her hand tightly through each inning. The mounting tension of the evening was getting to both of them, but Rose looked positively green.
"Are you all right?" Bella glanced at her sister. "You've looked off all night."
"I'm fine." Rose sighed. "I've been fighting a bug for the last few days, and it's finally catching up with me."
Bella looked at her sister with a little more scrutiny. "Do you have something to tell me?"
Rose rolled her eyes before looking down to play with a button on her shirt. "God, I wish."
"Babe, have you taken a test?" Bella whispered.
"No. I'm tired of seeing the 'Not pregnant' sign every time I do."
"Well, if you keep feeling like this, I really think you should."
"We'll see." Rose unscrewed the cap on her water and took a sip. "Right now, the only thing that's making me feel ill is this game. Emmett's gonna be fit to be tied if they don't win tonight."
"Same. Though, they do have two more chances. But it'd be great to do it here."
"Agreed."
Tensions were high when another Astro crossed home plate to even the score on a walk. Bella noticed that Edward had been tugging on his cross a lot since the tables turned. Occasionally, she would notice his lips moving as if he were giving himself a pep talk.
"Those Astros aren't going to give up," Charlie commented.
"That's what I'm afraid of," Bella responded as she bit her fingernail to the quick.
"They're a good team. We're just better. But if we don't pull it together, it's back to Houston. I'd hate that for the team and the fans. We're going to win this series, Bella. I can feel it. And trust me, we'll take a win no matter where they give it to us."
"I love your confidence, Dad."
A crack of the bat snapped their heads back to the field, where a ground ball from Altuve headed straight to Edward. It was a play he'd practiced a million times. Unfortunately, the ball took a wonky bounce and Edward booted the ball off his glove. James picked it up and threw it to Newton at second, stopping Altuve from heading to third. But it was too late. The Astros picked up two more runs. The score was now 8-5, with the Astros in the lead.
The Braves called for a pitching change. It was a good time for a break in the field. Between the pitch change and a commercial break, the guys were able to have a moment to shake it off.
"Hey, Cullen." Newton tapped Edward's ass with his glove. "It's all good, man. Could've happened to any of us. If not tonight, we'll kick their ass in Houston."
Edward nodded. "Yeah. Thanks, Newt. That fucking ball bounced so goddamn crazy I couldn't get a handle on it."
"Shake it off, Ed. We still have a lot of baseball left to win this series."
Edward walked over to his place on the field. As the new pitcher walked out to take a few practice pitches, Edward bent over, placing his hands on his knees to take a few deep breaths. He chastised himself for such a dumb mistake at such a crucial time. Mike was right, balls bounced weirdly all the time. No one could predict them. However, the fact was it could have cost them the game. His breathing picked up and he struggled to control its pace. Edward tugged on his cross, hoping it would ground him, but he soon realized his anxiety was rising. He had allowed the negative speak to creep into his head.
Bella watched Edward with rapt attention, praying he was able to move past the mishap.
Even though some of his anxiety still perched on his shoulder, Edward collected himself and thought through what he needed to do. He could hear Jason in his ear, and it motivated him to get his breathing under control before it became too much. As well as he'd been doing, he was still a work in progress.
When Bella saw him bent over, tugging on the cross once more, she grew concerned. The next thing she noticed was Edward's hand moving over his body and his lips moving. He was doing his sensory countdown.
Bella glanced down at Esme, who met her eyes with concern.
"See: Grass. Shoe. Base. Glove. Dirt. Hear: People talking. Yelling. Music. Ball hitting the glove. Touch: Shirt. Hat. Pants. Smell: Fresh air. Leather. Breathe: Take a deep breath." Edward filled his lungs and held it a few counts before releasing it. "You're okay."
"Fuck me. That was way too close," Edward thought as he blew out another gust of air. "One game at a time, Cullen. Just relax and play one game at a time."
The anxiety that had threatened Edward mere moments before melted away as that breath left his body and was replaced with sheer determination. The countdown distracted him from his mistake long enough for his focus to return to what was important—finishing the game. He took off his hat and raked a hand through his sweaty hair, putting it back on. Edward straightened up and punched his fist into his glove, ready to get back to work. He looked toward the stands and met Bella's worried gaze. He bobbed his chin to her and placed the palm of his hand over his heart and hit it twice, letting her know he was okay. Bella, in response, placed her hand over her own heart and sent her love back to him.
The Braves ended up losing the game 9-5, so they were headed back to Houston for game six. The Braves remained ahead in the series 3-2.
As they ran off the field, a reporter grabbed Edward.
"Tough loss tonight, Edward. Y'all had the momentum in the beginning. What do you think contributed to the change tonight?"
"Yeah, I mean, it happens. We came out strong, but our bullpen had a rough time. The Astros are a great team and were able to strike. Our pitchers have been really working hard the whole series. The next two days will give them the rest they need to recharge and be ready to bring the World Series win to Atlanta. I had an error tonight as well. Baseball's unpredictable." Edward shrugged. "You never quite know how the ball is going to go, no matter how many times you practice. And as much as you prepare yourself for those moments, you can never anticipate how it's going to land."
"I know the team must be disappointed you weren't able to clinch it at home. What adjustments do you see going into the series on Tuesday?"
"You know, we're playing the best ball of our lives. We're giving one hundred percent every time we're out there. We're just going to keep doing what we're doing and bring that trophy home with us. It's a disappointment not to win tonight, but we got this, Atlanta!"
"Thanks, Edward. See you in Houston."
"You're welcome."
Edward walked away from the reporter and straight into Bella's arms.
"I'm sorry, darlin'," she whispered in his ear.
"It's okay, shug. It wasn't meant to be. We'll get it Tuesday." Edward gave her a tight squeeze.
Bella placed a hand on each side of his face and gave him a kiss. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm good." Edward shrugged. "Pissed as hell that we lost, but I'm good."
"You scared me out there."
"I'm sorry, baby. I'm good. I promise. We'll talk about it later." He gave her a final peck and released her from his grip. "Let me go say hey to the gang and get cleaned up. I'll meet up with everyone in a few."
"Okay. Meet you at the regular place?" Bella asked.
"Yes, ma'am."
Edward went over to his friends and talked with them for a few minutes before heading down into the clubhouse to shower and change. He walked into a room full of more reporters. He did a couple more quick interviews, then popped into the shower. He was ready to wash off the day, grab something to eat, and head home. Edward wanted one last good night of sleep before heading to Houston in the morning. He knew, once he got to Texas, he wouldn't be sleeping well, as everyone's nerves would be high going into game six.
Edward finished and ran out to meet Bella and their families.
"Edward." Charlie put his hand out and patted him on the back. "Sorry about tonight, son. We'll get 'em in Houston."
"Yes, sir, we will," Edward responded. The confidence in his tone showed that he still believed in himself and the team. "Y'all want to head in and grab something to eat? They always put on an amazing spread."
"You sure we're not intruding?"
"Absolutely. Emmett and his parents are here as well. He's saved us all a seat."
Charlie looked apprehensive yet excited about being able to go behind the scenes. "All right. If you say so. Renee?"
"Sure. Let's go. I could eat."
Edward walked over to his parents and gave them a hug. "Y'all want to come in and grab some food?"
"We're going to pass, son. We have to get home and get ready to leave tomorrow afternoon. Mom and I will meet you there. Garrett and the gang are coming too, right?"
"Oh yeah. They'll all be there."
"Good. I'm proud of the way you handled yourself tonight."
"Yeah…" Edward combed his hand through his wet hair. "But I—"
"Handled everything really, really well." Carlisle gave him a pointed look. "You shook it off and continued to play the game. Yeah, the ball jumped, but with everything you just went through, you did what you needed to do and didn't miss a beat. That shows real growth, Edward."
"Thanks, Dad."
Esme gave her son a big hug and whispered in his ear. "We love you, Neddy. Go get something to eat and get some rest. Keep your chin up. We'll see you in Houston."
"Yes, ma'am. Love you too, Momma."
The mood in the room was solemn but not dejected. The team knew that once you let the negative speak get in your head, you and your team were doomed. There was some shit-talking, as expected, when the competition was close, but the mood remained hopeful. The guys were disappointed they didn't win in Atlanta, but the loss only motivated them to win even more. And winning on the Astros home turf had its own element of sweetness.
Edward, Bella, and her parents joined Emmett, Rose, and his family for a quick bite. Edward loved feeling like a part of this extended family. Everyone was engaged and talking, sharing their plans for Houston. Before too long, Edward excused himself and went to grab his bag so they could leave. As he walked into the clubhouse next door, he spotted Tyler sitting by himself on the sofa, holding a ball.
"Hey, man. Did you get some food?" Edward asked as he gathered his things.
"Naw. I'm not that hungry," Tyler responded. He looked despondent as he continuously turned the ball around in his hand.
"Tuesday's your show, man. You excited?"
"More like terrified. We already lost the last game I pitched."
Edward sat down beside Tyler and put a hand on his knee. "It happens. You and I both know that. Tuesday's a new day to show those fucking Astros who the hell you are. There's a reason we didn't win tonight, you know that, right?"
"Not in the slightest." Tyler shook his head.
"You're the one who's supposed to pitch. You're a fucking ace, man. This is your chance to bring it back home to Atlanta."
Tyler ran both his hands through his hair. "The pressure's just—"
"I know."
"What if I fuck this up?" Tyler whispered.
Edward shook his head. "You won't."
"You don't know that." Tyler's face scrunched up in a grimace.
"I do. I have faith in you, Crowley. I know the competitor you are."
Tyler ruminated over Edward's words as they stared at the 1995 World Series trophy their manager put in the clubhouse. Edward was four months old when his father won the World Series with the Braves. The impetus of the trophy simmered under Edward's skin, fueling his desire to help bring their own trophy home.
"You know we got you. Right?"
Tyler let out a rush of air. "I do. Thanks, man."
"Good. Now psych yourself the hell up. 'Cause you're bringing it home, baby." Edward held
up his hand to high five his teammate.
Tyler's demeanor immediately changed from worried to an air of excitement and confidence as he returned the high five. "Fuck, yeah!"
Edward could see what his words did to Tyler, and in turn, what they did for him. He had fully embraced his leadership role as a short stop and was proud of the positive influence he had on Tyler.
"Thanks, Cullen. I've been sitting here on my ass stewing for the last thirty minutes, terrified that I was going to blow it and the series would go down to one final game."
"Not gonna happen. You got this. Now go in there and grab something to eat and get a good night's sleep. I'll see you in the morning."
They stood and clapped each other on the back before breaking away. Just as they parted, Emmett walked into the room.
"Did I miss all the fun?"
"Just talking strategy for the game Tuesday." A slight smile tugged on Edward's face as he glanced at Tyler.
"Yeah. It's gonna be epic to beat them on their own turf," Emmett crowed.
Edward pumped his arm in the air. "Damn straight it is."
"Okay." Emmett clapped his hands together. "I came in here to see what was keeping you. Bella's ready to go home."
"Oh shit. She has a game tomorrow." Edward turned to Tyler. "Sorry, man, I gotta go."
"No worries. Go take care of your girl. Lauren's probably worried about me. I need to get going myself."
They clasped hands and pulled each other in for a quick chest-bump, then went their separate ways.
Edward grabbed his bag and went back into the dining room. "I'm sorry, baby. You ready to go?"
Bella stood and stretched as she fought a yawn. "Everything okay?"
Edward offered his hand to Bella. "Everything's perfect. Let's go home and get you to bed."
"Yes, please," Bella responded.
They said their good nights to everyone, knowing they would be seeing everyone in Houston on Tuesday. Bella hugged her parents good night and told them she would see them at her game tomorrow evening. Everyone had already made their hotel and plane reservations for Houston in advance, hoping they would win in Atlanta and have to cancel. They were all relieved they had the foresight to be prepared.
On the drive home, Bella chose not to discuss what she saw on the field earlier. But as they slid under the covers that night, she decided to broach the subject in the comfort of each other's arms.
"Is now an okay time to talk?"
"Absolutely, shug."
Edward was lying flat on his back with his hands clasped behind his head as he lay in wait for Bella's questions. She took the opportunity to nestle into his inviting nook and rested her hand on his chest. Edward wrapped one of his arms around her and held her close.
"So, tell me about what happened out on the field," Bella asked as she ran her fingers through his chest hair.
"I figured you knew what was going on, which is why I gave you our signal." He sighed. "I tried to keep things low-key out there, hoping not to draw attention."
"You didn't draw any attention, baby. But my eyes are always on you. I was so relieved when you gave me the signal. And just so you know, people didn't know to look, so I promise, they didn't notice. No one asked what you were doing out there." She snuggled closer. "You handled it very well."
"Yeah, well, my parents noticed."
"That's because, like me, they have their eyes on you. But I'm not gonna lie, I was concerned."
"I'm sorry. I was so damn pissed about that ball jumping. I thought I blew our chances of winning."
"I know you were." Bella propped herself up on one elbow to look him in the eyes. "But you do realize you're only one person, right? You can't control everything. And you certainly can't control the way that ball took a jump."
"I know." Edward covered Bella's hand on his chest with his and squeezed. "I want you to know, I didn't have an attack, but I could feel my breathing change, which meant it could've happened. I've been learning what my signs are, so I was able to do the countdown as a precaution."
"That's very smart. I'm so proud of you."
Edward shifted and propped himself up to mirror Bella's position. "Thanks, shug. The pressure of this series is more than anything I've ever felt, yet it's the most exhilarating and rewarding baseball I've ever played."
"I love that for you. I see it reflected in your face every time you're out there."
"Thank you. It's been quite the ride. The coach brought the trophy from the 1995 win into the locker room the other day for motivation." Edward sighed. "I was four months old when my dad won that trophy."
"Wow. That's—"
"Crazy, right? Makes me want this so bad I can taste it."
"Well, I believe that was his point." Bella giggled. "No one deserves this more than you and this team. Y'all have worked your asses off to be in the position you are right now. Coming from behind to win the division, and then the league? No one thought that would happen. So, keep proving them wrong and bring that trophy home."
Edward leaned in to kiss her lips. "Has anyone ever told you you're an incredible cheerleader?"
"A time or two." Bella shrugged. "Though, I never had time for that in high school. I was all about soccer."
"Then I'll just have to imagine you in one of those skimpy little cheerleader outfits when I'm out on the road and need some…how should I say this? Inspiration?"
"Edward." Bella slapped his chest as they laughed together.
"Just keeping it real." A big grin stretched across his face.
"Just keeping it real, my ass. You should have enough material to last you a lifetime."
"Care to make some more?"
Edward rolled on top of her and made himself at home between her legs.
Bella reached up and brushed away the hair on his brow. "Darlin', I'm always up for more with you."
~oOo~
Edward sat in his room with Emmett, waiting for Bella's game to start. He and Emmett planned to stay in and watch her game together. Neither one of them wanted to go out and network or socialize. They'd put in a full day of practice the moment they touched the ground in Texas. Edward drilled himself into the dirt with Washington, practicing grounders. He didn't want what happened the night before to happen again.
"Ribeye or filet?" Emmett asked as he perused the menu of the steak house in the hotel.
"Ribeye. It's Texas. Can't find a better piece of meat."
Emmett snorted. "So to speak."
"Yeah, yeah. Says the man married to my girlfriend's sister." Edward laughed.
"This is true. Wouldn't want it any other way. You should try it sometime."
"That's what I hear."
Edward smiled as he worked on casting the game on the hotel TV. He was always so frustrated when they traveled because hotel TVs usually didn't carry a lot of channels, so he watched a lot of games on his iPad.
Once he got the game going and Emmett ordered the food, they watched the game in companionable silence.
"What time is everyone getting here tomorrow?" Edward asked as he cut into his steak. His mouth had been watering all evening as he waited for their food to arrive.
"Rose said they had to be at the airport around nine a.m. It's about a two-hour flight, so they should be here around ten-ish with the time change."
"Good. I'm glad Bella had her family at the game tonight. I hate that I can't be there."
"I know. But it couldn't be avoided. Y'all both have big things going on at the same time."
"True." Edward nodded as he took another bite of steak. "Damn. I love it when we come to Texas to play. I never miss an opportunity to have a nice steak."
"Agreed. It makes it worth it after seeing all that orange."
"God, I hate orange. It's been the bane of my existence, and a rival color even before FSU."
Emmett laughed. "Yep. Fellow Gator hater here."
The guys continued to eat while they watched Bella's game. It was a critical game for the Storm as they were battling it out for a place in the semi-finals for the NWSL Championship.
The game was down to the final two minutes and the Storm was down by one. They were on the attack to stay in the game as they worked their way down to their opponent's goal. As Bella was setting herself up to kick a goal, one of the Chicago Red Stars' girls went in for a block and aggressively pushed Bella out of the way, right in front of the net. Bella was knocked off balance and went tumbling down.
Edward and Emmett leaped out of their chairs.
"What the fuck?"
"Holy shit!"
They both yelled out simultaneously, their worried expressions clearly written on their faces.
Edward gripped his hair and tugged at it in frustration as he and Emmett stared at the TV, willing Bella to get up.
"Come on, baby. Come on, baby," Edward murmured as he bounced on the balls of his feet.
Edward prayed Bella hadn't been injured. It would devastate her to be sidelined twice in one year.
The team coach and the medic ran out to assist Bella, checking her over. Edward and Emmett could see her answering questions and moving her limbs. Boos echoed throughout the stadium at the opponent as everyone waited patiently to see how Bella was. A few moments later, she was helped up and shook out her legs. She earned a penalty kick, and the girl who committed the foul was red-carded and had to leave the game.
"That's my girl. Shake it off, shug. Show 'em who's boss." Edward blew out a breath, relieved to see her on her feet.
Bella stood on the pitch, stretching her body and getting ready to take the kick. Just as she had practiced a million times, Bella sailed a kick past the goalie and tied the game.
"Hell, yeah!" Edward screamed, his fist pumping in the air.
The guys were clapping loudly and hooting and hollering in celebration. Bella's hands were raised over her head as she beamed triumphantly while the team clamored around her in celebration.
Emmett and Edward returned to their seats as they watched the last minute of the game run-out. The game went into overtime and neither team scored, so it was down to a shootout. At the end of the match, the Storm came out victorious, winning the shootout 4-3.
With the advancement of the Storm to the semi-finals, Edward was excited that he'd be able to attend her games once his season was over. He couldn't wait to be there in person to cheer on his girl and her team.
~oOo~
The next day, everyone who was important to Edward was in Houston. In the morning, while he waited for Bella and the rest of the crew, he had breakfast with his dad. Carlisle, who'd been in exactly the same position as Edward in 1995, wanted to impart some wisdom, so they sat down in his room and had a heart to heart.
"How are you feeling this morning, son?" Carlisle asked as he took a sip of his coffee.
"Good." Edward took a bite of his eggs.
"Nervous?"
"No, sir. I'm in a really good place. The other night scared the shit out of me. I thought maybe I returned too soon. But I talked with Jason and Dr. Jay, and they were both proud of the way I handled it. They agreed that this process works for me. And for that, I'm grateful, you know?"
"I do know. You recognizing the signs is a huge thing. And you should be proud of yourself. You stopped it from happening."
Edward sat back in his chair and relaxed, crossing one leg over the other. "Yeah. I've been working hard with Jason on identifying the triggers. I wasn't completely sure if that was what I was feeling. I hadn't felt another one since the one I had with Bella. And the one before that was six years ago, right after Emma. But I thought doing the countdown couldn't hurt. Once I did it, I felt centered and determined to get the game finished."
"This team needs you to be you, Edward. Don't you forget that. Do what you have to do to stay focused."
Edward nodded in agreement. "I hear you. And I'm doing the best I can to give them that."
"You're doing a tremendous job. So, continue to be you and get the job done. You and the team have everything you need to make this happen." Carlisle patted Edward's knee. "I'm so proud of you and this team. Now, I'm not going to put any negative energy in the air, but I want you to know, regardless of the outcome, you and the team have given it your all. The organization, as well as the city of Atlanta, are so proud of this team and how far y'all have come."
Carlisle stood to leave.
Edward rose from his chair and hugged his dad. "Thank you for the words and support, Dad. I appreciate you coming and spending some time with me. I know I'm supposed to network a bit and do a few interviews, but I'm just trying to stay calm and relaxed. The organization has been understanding." He drew in a deep breath and blew it out. "I'm just trying to keep my eyes on the prize."
"You do what you need to do, son. You can give them all the interviews and do all the networking once you win the damn title." Carlisle chuckled. "Not many people get to be in the position you're in, so enjoy it any way you want to."
Carlisle walked to the door and opened it. "See you later."
"Thanks, Dad. I'll see you at the field."
Carlisle glanced back over his shoulder. "And, Neddy?"
"Sir?"
"I love you."
"I love you too."
~oOo~
Edward had just hopped out of the shower when he heard a quiet knock on the door. He wrapped a towel around his waist and cracked the door open to see who it was.
"Hey, darlin'," Bella greeted. "Getting wet without me?" She arched an eyebrow in a teasing gesture.
Edward threw his head back and laughed. "Get your hot ass in here." He pulled her into the room and wrapped his arms around her, squeezing her tightly. "I missed you."
Bella was happy to be back in his arms, but she squirmed in his hold. "Edward, not so tight, please."
Edward pulled back and looked her in the eyes. "What's wrong? You okay?"
Bella huffed out a response. "Yeah. I'm fine." She shrugged. "I'm just sore from where I landed on the field."
"Oh, baby. I'm so sorry. I didn't even think. Come over here and sit. Let me take a look."
Bella acquiesced and sat on the bed. The fact that he was still wet with a towel wrapped around him wasn't lost on her for a second.
"Where does it hurt?"
Bella took off the cardigan she was wearing and revealed her bruised shoulder.
"Good Lord. You're black and blue." Edward moved her tank top strap over to get a better look at her shoulder.
"You should see the rest of me." Bella smiled weakly. "When she shoved me, I landed hard on my left side. My side and hip are pretty bruised as well."
"That was more than a shove, shug. She rammed you into the ground." Anger flared throughout Edward's body as he continued to peel off Bella's clothes to look at her bruises. "Shitfire. I've never seen you this banged up."
Edward leaned in and gently kissed her shoulder, then he kneeled and paid equal attention to the side of her ribs and hip. "It's making me crazy knowing that girl purposely hurt you." Edward breathed against her skin.
Bella tangled her fingers into his wet hair. "It's okay, darlin'. Unfortunately, it's all part of the game. Though I have to say, this is one of the worst incidents I've had in quite a while. The doc checked me out. I'm fine. And…" Bella smiled evilly. "I got my revenge."
Edward stood and tightened his towel. "Hell yeah, you did. What a finish. Emmett and I practically kept the entire floor awake with all our screaming and yelling."
"I love your enthusiasm." Bella tugged Edward down, giggling against his mouth as she kissed him thoroughly.
"I'm always enthusiastic about you, baby." Edward gave her a sweet peck on the lips before he walked back into the bathroom to put on some clothes.
Bella sighed as she watched his retreating form. "Don't change on my account. I always enjoy the view."
Popping his head out, Edward replied, "I'd take this towel off in a heartbeat if I had the time. But I have to get moving."
"I know. I'm sorry to keep you from where you need to be."
Edward came out of the bathroom dressed and ready for the day. "Don't be. I don't have to be there until noon."
Bella stood, readying herself to leave. "Okay, I'll walk out with you then. I need to find my parents and hang out with them until our rooms are ready."
"Why don't you stay here, shug. You look tired." Edward cupped her face and ran his thumb across her cheekbone. "Curl up in bed and sleep a bit. I know you didn't get enough sleep after last night's game."
Bella contemplated Edward's offer. "Are you sure? Is it against protocol?"
"I'm totally sure. And no, it's not against protocol to have you take a nap in my bed. If anyone has a problem, I'll deal with it."
"Who are you sharing with?"
A grin spread on Edward's face. "No one. I asked for a room by myself. With everything going on they were happy to accommodate me. A lot of guys requested their own rooms this time, and the organization's been great about it."
"You're so lucky. I only get my own room every once in a while."
"Have you eaten?"
Bella shook her head. "Not really. I had a protein bar as I headed to the airport."
Edward carefully wrapped his arms around Bella and kissed her sweetly on the top of her head. "Order room service and take a nap. I want you fed and well-rested for tonight. It's going to be a late night."
"Okay, thank you." Bella yawned and enjoyed the snuggle in Edward's arms for a few more moments before letting him go so he could get to the stadium.
"And sorry for the mess." He nodded toward the table. "Just ask room service to take it when they deliver yours. Dad and I had breakfast together this morning."
"Aww. I love that."
"Yeah. It was great. We don't get to do that often."
Edward grabbed his phone and his room keys off the dresser. He looked at his phone and saw the time. "Sorry, baby. I gotta go."
"See you tonight, champ." Bella winked at her man.
"Get some sleep." He leaned in for one more kiss.
"Thanks, darlin'. I love you."
Edward's eyes twinkled as he smiled at Bella. "I love you too."
An: So they lost game 5. But, they are geared up for game 6. This probably hasn't been much of a surprise, as I am using the dates and the blueprint of the Braves winning the World Series in 2021.
Shug and Darling are both in it to win it.
I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Thank you for always taking the time to let me know what you think.
One more chapter to go. But you will get an epilogue and a Futuretake, because I still don't quite know how to let go of these characters. LOL
I have a FB group called DrivingEdward Fanfic. Please join us for all things Darling and Shug, fic updates, and pic teasers.
The Eras Contest is happening right now. The Eras Contest is on FB under the same name. Please come and join us. This is NOT a Taylor Swift contest, but a contest based on the theme of her Reputation album. Vengeance, revenge, lust… Reputations are earned, and oh the things we have to do to earn them.
We will start taking submissions July 1, 2024.
FFN : Search for the writers name. The Eras Contest Reputation 24
See you in two weeks.
~Be Happy
~Be Kind
~Be Blessed
