From Chris - 3:50 PM:

Are you here?

I glanced at the text and smiled. My fingers moved on the keyboard to write him the response.

Yes. I arrived a few minutes ago with Daisy and Liam.

I sighed and looked around the parking lot of the pitch, wanting to see one particular person. Yet, he wasn't there still and I was losing hope. I looked down at my phone again as it vibrated in my hands.

From Chris - 3:52 PM:

Thank you. I see you after the game. Wish me good luck, baby:))

I chuckled and shook my head while sending my response.

Good luck, my hero :)) I love you

Almost instantly a reply came.

From Chris - 3:53 PM:

I love you too, angel.

My heart warmed up at reading his words. The fact that I knew he meant every word was a plus one. My heart ached as I remembered what he was going through at the moment and at the same time I was happy that I was bringing him a bit of comfort.

"Eleanor!"

I turned and saw Mia walking down a few steps and toward me. Once again we were both in our boyfriends' jerseys.

"You should come inside." said Mia. "The game is about to begin. Chris needs to see you in the stands."

I looked at the parking lot for the last time sadly, before turning to Mia and nodding for her. "Yeah," I sighed and walked through the pitch's front doors. "Let's go."

We walked up a few stairs and stepped on the stands. We were sitting on the first row right up our team's bench. Rose, Emmy, Jax, Ethan and his girlfriend Lilly plus Liam and Daisy were there.

Once Jax and I left his father's office, we picked up Emmy and they were kind enough to take me home so we can pick up Liam and Daisy as well. When we arrived, Rose was already there sitting with Chase's parents.

Daisy was standing in front of Ethan and was waving a banner she had created herself while screaming what she had written on the banner with colorful crayons, at top of her lungs.

Chris and Chase, the heroes

Number 7 was painted on one of her cheeks and on the other, a number 4, representing her support of both of her favorite new friends. Liam had sat with his friends from his team that had come to see the match.

I smiled at my sister before taking my seat between Jax and Ethan. Jax smiled at me sadly after he saw my disappointed face. He patted my back. "Chris will be fine." he said reassuringly. "That boy is tougher than what you think. He will be fine like he always has been."

"I hope so." I forced a smile. But deep down I knew this time was much different than all the other times. Plus, he wasn't even fine with his father's ignorance before.

We both turned to watch the cheerleaders of both schools dancing in the field. I was so deep in thought and so worried that I couldn't even care about Lara's death glares at me.

It was only a minute before the teams come to the field when suddenly Jax who was checking his phone, coughed hard and spit the water he was drinking.

"Holy Fuck!" he exclaimed while looking at his phone.

"Jax!"

Rose and Emmy yelled together and Rose quickly covered Daisy's ears who was now standing in front of her.

Jax didn't pay attention to any of them. He quickly stood up and began to run away. "I will come back in a minute." he yelled before running up the stairs and out of the stands.

We all watched him startled but as the announcer announced the entrance of the players we all turned to the field and stood up from our seats. I watched with nervousness as the players of our team walked inside.

My heart fluttered as I saw Chris's back. He looked so mighty in his football gear, muscular and strong. He turned around and instantly his eyes fell on us. I was sure Daisy couldn't speak for a few days because of how she was shouting for Chris.

Chris's face softened and he smiled as he waved for Daisy, making her shriek happily. His eyes fell on all of us in turn before locking on me, letting me see his vulnerability through his eyes.

"Be strong." I mouthed for him firmly and put my hand on my heart. "I'm here."

He clenched his jaw and determination fell on his face. He nodded briefly before looking at something behind me and suddenly his eyes widened as if he had seen a ghost. I frowned and looked behind myself only for my eyes to widen as well and my heart began to hammer in my chest.

Mr. Harrington, clad in casual clothes was coming down the stairs followed by Jax and his eyes were already fixed on his son in the field.

***********************************************************************************************

From my Eleanor- 3:52 PM:

Good luck, my hero :)) I love you.

I smiled as I read the text once more before quickly sending her a reply. I loved that girl to my core. She was the only reason why I wasn't shattering right there and then. I jumped slightly when I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned around and came face to face with Chase.

"You're fine?" he asked concerned while his eyes searched mine. "You are making me worried. You look like shit."

I looked around and saw the locker room was empty. "I don't know, Chase." I sighed and sat down on a bench while running a hand through my hair.

Chase leaned on the lockers behind him and crossed his arms over his chest while looking at me. "Come on, Chris." he said. "Don't let his words and doings affect you this much. This is not the first time he has looked down at you playing football. Since when do you care?"

"I think since when I felt how it feels to be the receiving end of his admiration." I said and rubbed my neck and face tiredly. I wasn't able to sleep well last night and I was tired.

I heard shuffling and the bench creaked, indicating Chase had sat down beside me. "You can't do this, mate." he said. "To hell with your dad and what he wants and thinks. Do you know how many people look up to you? So many boys younger than us look up to you and want to become a player like you. And they are now waiting for you to show up your pretty ass out there and show them how to play. You can't let them down."

"What a role model they have." I let out a bitter laugh, still leaning forward with my arms on my thighs.

"Yeah, their hero is quite fucked up." chuckled Chase and patted my back. "But seriously, you can't disappoint them. You can't disappoint our teammates. Their spirits are so low. They know that their captain is not in his best shape and they are losing hope to win."

I felt guilt rush over me hard. He was right. I had seen the boys' worried glances at me throughout the day. Chase was right. I couldn't let people down. I couldn't let down my teammates and my friends.

"Look," said Chase and I looked up at him. His eyes held a brotherly love and concern. "All of your loved ones are here for you. All of those you care about. Your mom, Jax, Eleanor, me. We are with you, mate, and we support you on the path that makes you happy. Let your father be the way he is. Who cares? Many successful people are out there who have your situation and don't give two flying fucks about others' opinions. This is your life. Just do what your heart truly desires or be sure you will regret it later. You only live once."

I stared at him for a few seconds before nodding my head firmly. He was right. I should have lived the way I wanted, the way that brought me happiness. The sadness was still there, but I was not going to lose my fight so easily. At least I would enjoy this limited time that I could still play.

"Thanks, Chase." I said gratefully.

He smirked and stood up, offering his hand to me. "Come on," he said. "Let's go and beat those chicks' asses hard."

I smirked determinedly and stood on my feet and both walked out of the room. I stopped in my tracks as we opened the door to walk out. I saw all of my teammates standing there, looking at me worriedly.

"Hey," said Rich. "You fine, Chris?"

"I am." I said and smiled at them. "Sorry if I had you worried. But I'm back to my jerk self. It's time now. Let's go out there and show those fuckers who is the best here."

I smirked and punched my palm as I eyed my friends who all cheered happily and we all began to walk toward our coach who nodded at us proudly. We jogged inside the field and our ears were greeted by cheers and hollers from stands and the same exhilarating rush of energy ran through my body like every other time I would walk into the field.

I turned my head and my heart warmed up as I saw my family sitting in the stands. I first saw my mom's beautiful face. Her eyes were tearful but she was shouting my name proudly. I saw Emmy beside her who was chanting our school's name with the crowd.

I grinned as I saw Daisy jumping up and down while shouting my name. My heart melted as I saw her handmade banner and Chase's and mine numbers painted on her chubby cheeks. I didn't see Jax but I knew he was somewhere near. I saw Miller and his girlfriend before my eyes landed on my love and my heart fluttered.

I wanted to fly and take her with me somewhere private and just relax in her arms. Even she didn't know that there was another reason other than my dad's disapproval in the back of my mind to make me doubt whether I wanted to continue the path to my dream or not. I had not told a soul and that fear was eating my soul as well.

"Be strong." She mouthed firmly and put her hand on her heart. "I'm here."

That was it. She wanted me to be strong and I would be no matter what.

I clenched my jaw in determination and nodded briefly for her. Suddenly a movement behind her caught my eye. I looked there and my heart sank at what I saw. I was sure my eyes were bulging out and my mind was racing to understand what it was seeing.

There, coming down the stairs toward the rest of family followed by Jax, was my dad. His eyes were already fixed on me. Fuck me, maybe I was imagining things, but I could see pride visible on his determined face.

He was here. I didn't know what kind of miracle was happening. He nodded for me firmly and smiled. Suddenly I felt stronger and all of my worries evaporated into thin air. Did it mean he had accepted this? Did it mean he was supporting me? Did it mean he approved me?

"Come, man." I heard Chase behind me. "Let's show your father what a great player you are."

I nodded more determinedly and turned on my heels and jogged with Chase to the circle of my teammates.

I would do my fucking best.

Let's just say, I really did it. It was a so fucking hard play. Our opponent was just as strong as us and we played so closely. I made sure to do my best and guide my teammates throughout the match perfectly, like a true captain.

I would glance from time to time at my family. It was so great to see dad and Jax shouting and cheering enthusiastically. I had never seen my father so lively and casual. It was giving me more energy, making adrenaline pump in my veins.

We won with a 32 - 30 result. The moment the referee blew his whistle, the side of the stands where our fans had sat erupted in cheers, and soon I was buried under the pile of my teammates who jumped on me.

When I stood on my feet finally, my heart fluttered as I saw Eleanor running to me with a bright smile on her beautiful face. I ran to her and met her midway. I was quick to put my hands on her waist and spun her around. Her laughter was the most beautiful sound in my ears.

"We WON! OH MY GOD! YOU WERE GREAT!" she shouted. Her eyes were sparkling happily. I could see that she was truly happy and so proud. She looked like a divine angel and so sexy in my jersey and skinny jeans.

I didn't waste any more time and smashed my lips on hers, celebrating my win by devouring her lips. She quickly grabbed my face with both hands and kissed me back passionately.

We pulled away when we heard my friend's whistles around us. Eleanor's face was burning but she chuckled as I pressed our foreheads together, her hands still supporting my face.

"You don't know how much great you were." she said slightly out of breath. "I'm so proud of you."

"Thank you, angel." I said and kissed her nose, making her giggle. "You are my light, my reason to fight."

Someone cleared their throat behind us and Eleanor pulled away instantly, her cheeks flushed, but I didn't let go of her waist. We turned and I saw our coach standing beside a man who looked so built. I noticed Chase and Mia were standing beside us as well.

"Mr. Smith, Mr. Harrington." said the stranger and shook our hands. "I'm Robert Jefferson from the Miami Hurricanes football team."

"Glad to meet you, sir." I answered as I shook his hand. Dread slowly found its way to my heart.

"I think you two know already why I was here watching the game." said Jefferson. "I have heard a lot about you from your coach who is a dear friend of mine. He was so proud of you two and I was so intrigued to see the two stars of the team and I should admit you both were stunning in the field."

"Thank you, sir." answered Chase with a smirk and I nodded.

"Well, I have an offer for you two." he said. "I go straight to the point, seeing you two should want to go and celebrate your win. I can see great potential in you two and I want to offer you a scholarship to our university. If you are interested, I can arrange everything so that after your graduation, you can join us."

My jaw slacked and I tightened my hold on Eleanor. I knew she felt my discomfort as she began to rub my arm, trying to comfort me. This was too soon. I really needed time to think. So much had happened today and I needed time to think. I needed time to see dad.

"Well, I have no problem." answered Chase but looked at me. "But my answer partly depends on my brother's answer."

I looked at Chase. I knew if I didn't accept, Chase would have most likely rejected the opportunity as well. That was a vow we had made when we sealed our friendship many years ago. We had vowed to stay together as much as we could and have each other's back.

I needed time. I was suffocating.

I opened my mouth to answer coach Jefferson and tell him I needed time, but someone beat me to it.

"Of course, my son will accept."

My eyes widened as I heard Dad's firm voice and felt his hand on my shoulder. I turned my head slightly and saw him standing beside me with a proud look on his face.

"Although both Chris and Chase will need time to think over the offer." he said. "I think it would be fair if you grant them a week to decide and answer."

"There is no problem." smiled Jefferson. "I will send you emails. If you were interested please reply within the span of a week. But know that I can't keep the positions for long. There are so many talented students who would be more than glad to accept. But I must admit you two have intrigued me a lot and are full of potential. I would be more than glad to have you guys on my team."

"Thank you, sir." I said collecting myself. "We will answer you soon."

Jefferson nodded and walked away with our coach by his side. I turned to dad and my heart sank as I saw him smiling at me with a glint of pride in his eyes.

"I didn't know you would come." I admitted truthfully.

Dad looked down at Eleanor who was pressed to my side and his smile widened, making me frown and looked at her as well. She was smiling warmly up at dad with gratitude.

"Well, someone changed my mind." answered dad. "She reminded me a few things that I have forgotten and I'm forever grateful."

Eleanor looked up into my eyes and blushed a bit. "I will explain later." she whispered and I nodded and kissed her forehead while my love for her only intensified.

She was the reason my dad was there with me. Once again she had done something of incredible importance for me.

"I'm so happy that I came today." said dad squeezing my shoulder. "You played great, like a true leader. I'm so proud of you, son."

My breathing quickened and I felt the relief that I had not felt before. I just stared into his sparkling eyes, wondering if Eleanor had hit his head somewhere or maybe put her under some sort of spell. But his eyes were sincere and his emotions were real. he surely didn't look possessed.

I saw my mom walk to us and gave me a tight hug. "I'm so proud of you." she beamed happily as she pulled back. Her eyes were a bit red and glossy but happy nonetheless. "You were playing like a pro. I'm regretting that I have not watched more of your games. I can't believe that I shamelessly shouted a few times toward the people around us, saying that you are my son."

I chuckled as she and Eleanor both giggled. I was so happy, so overwhelmed with all of this fucking warmth that was melting my heart and filling me with certainty.

"Chrisssss!"

I was taken out of my trance as I felt a small body latch to my legs. I blinked and looked down and instantly grinned as I saw Daisy looking up at me grinning widely. I quickly hauled her up and peppered her face with kisses, making her squeal.

"Hello, chipmunks." I said.

"You were great!" exclaimed Daisy and threw her short arms around adorably. "Did you see my banner? Do you like it? I want to give it to you."

"What about me, flower?" pouted Chase as he came and stood beside me and kissed Daisy's chubby cheek. "I saw my name on it as well. Can I not have it? Was I not great? I wanted to hang it in my room"

Daisy quickly leaned forward and kissed his cheeks. "I will cut it in two pieces and give half of it to you." she said happily. "You were awesome!"

She then scrunched her little nose and wiggled in my arms indicating for me to put her down. "But you both smell like junk." she said a bit disgusted.

I heard Jax's booming laughter above everyone's laughter and I turned around after I put Daisy down to see him standing there with Emmy by his side.

"Always hear the truth from kids." he managed to say between his laughter.

Emmy nudged his side and rolled her eyes. "Congratulation, Chris." she said with a big smile and then giggled and looked at Jax teasingly. "And thank you for inviting us. I didn't know Jax can be this savage. You don't know how he was shouting profanities at you or instructing you how to play."

Jax immediately silenced and glared at Emmy and this time Emmy and I laughed loudly. He rolled his eyes, trying hard to suppress his smile. "You played nice, little bro." he smiled and ruffled my hair, making me groan in annoyance.

I was truly happy. I couldn't remember when was the last time I had felt that way. Liam and Miller were there too and they congratulated me and I promise Liam to teach him some tactics later.

"Hey, cap." yelled one of my teammates and I looked at him. "Will we see you at James tonight?"

"Of course." squealed Mia instead and grabbed Eleanor's arm and looked at me and Chase. "We are going to get ready. You two better go and get ready as well. We will see you at the party."

Eleanor waved for me as Mia began to drag her after her, Daisy and Liam following them. But I quickly stepped forward and grabbed her other arm and stopped her. I pulled her to my chest and leaned down toward her ear.