Page 220 of The Path to Loving Him
“Agreed,” I say. “I think everyone’s asses were shriveled in the dugout.”
The pitcher sets his hands, looks over at Bennett, and then kicks his leg up and throws the ball. The batter, Henson, connects with the ball, sailing it toward left center.
The cameraman tracks the ball, following it toward the fence, and just when I think there’s a possibility it might go over the fence, the center fielder leaps out of nowhere, sticks his glove out, and cones the ball with the tip of his glove, ending the game in the blink of an eye.
All hope falls as I stare at the TV, not quite believing it.
“How the fuck did he catch that?” Ryland asks, his hands on his head.
“I can’t believe it.” I slowly sit down in disbelief. “I for sure thought they were going to score.”
Ryland joins me. “Me too.”
The camera pans to the Bombers dugout, where Bennett’s removing his helmet and sitting on the bench, staring out at the field. A sad look crosses his features, but also a look of determination. I know that look better than anyone.
No way will he let this sit in his memory as the last moment he’s on this field.
He’s coming back next year, and he’s coming back stronger.
That one tick in his jaw, that’s all I need to know.
“What is it?” Ryland asks as I feel his eyes on me.
“This isn’t over for Bennett. He’s going to come back with a vengeance.” I lean back on the sofa. “This is just the beginning.”
“It is,” Ryland says. “This is the start of a very successful career. If I know anyone is going to make it, it will be him.”
“He is.” I turn to Ryland and say, “Can I ask you a favor?”
“You can ask me anything.”
“Please don’t feel obligated because Bennett and I can make it work, but do you think I could give Bennett the apartment for the fall, and I could possibly stay?—”
“Yes.”
“Yes?”
“You’re asking to stay with me, right?”
“I am, but I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable. I know I spend a lot of nights here, but?—”
“Yes, Gabby. You don’t need to explain. The answer is yes.”
“You don’t mind?”
“Are you kidding me? I attempt to find a reason to get you to stay here every night. Now, I won’t need a reason.”
“As if you need a reason.” I smile up at him. “I think I fell asleep on the couch the other night on purpose, just to have you carry me up to your bed.”
He smirks. “I fucking knew it.”
That makes me laugh. “You did not know it.”
“Oh, I knew it.”
I shake my head at him. “You are such a liar. You had no idea I was faking it.”
“Yes, I did because the moment I got you in my bed, you were very lively.”
