

* * * *

Felix

Season 1 of

The Ninth Inning Series

Copyright © 2015 by Lindsay Paige and Mary Smith

Smashwords Edition

ISBN-13: 9781310826153

All rights reserved.

Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products, bands, and/or restaurants referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

Smashwords Edition License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

About the Authors

Coming Soon

MY PALMS ARE a little sweaty, thinking that the ever-so talented James Diamond is going to be reading for his newest book. I can't believe I'm actually here. I take a seat near the back since most of all the other seats are taken. I'm able to spot three seats toward the end of the row. I only need two of them.

LA is coming up toward me with a scowl on her face. Her long, brown hair bounces with each stomp of her foot. "Why the hell do you drag me to these things?"

"This is James Diamond. He's the number one mystery writer in the world."

"Are any of his books going to become a movie?" She flops into the seat next to me.

"No," I growl at her. "His books are too good to be ruined by a movie." I grip my copy of Mr. Diamond's latest novel in my hands. I'm hoping to get him to sign it.

I can still hear my dearest older sister bitching next to me about being here, but I'm not listening because in a few minutes my favorite author will entrance me.

"Excuse me, is anyone sitting here?"

I turn to the deep voice and see a tall man with shaggy dark hair looking back at me. His light brown eyes stare at me as he waits for my answer.

"No," I say, standing up to move out of the way for him to take the seat. LA pushes me a little bit and we both step out into the aisle. The man nods and takes the seat. LA then yanks on my arm and tries to make me take the seat she had been in, next to the guy.

"What are you doing?" I whisper-yell at her.

"I'm happily married to a man I dearly love, but if I sit next Mr. Fuck-Me-Now with his bedroom eyes, I'll be divorced by morning."

I roll my eyes. There's no point in arguing with her. Her head is made of stone. I smile politely at him and take the seat, still holding a death-grip on my book.

"I take it that you're a fan of James Diamond," Mr. Hottie speaks to me.

"I wouldn't be here if I wasn't." I try to keep looking forward.

"Not everyone here is a fan, Abigail. Some of us were brought against our will," LA jumps in.

"Shut up, Leigh Ann," I hiss at my sister.

"You were forced to a reading?" Mr. Hottie leans over a bit to speak to LA.

"Yes. My sister here," she points at me as if he couldn't have figured it out on his own, "doesn't drive, and that makes me her bitch or chauffeur, whichever you prefer."

He chuckles at LA's randomness. "I think chauffeur sounds better."

I sigh deeply because I want to remind them both that I'm sitting right here and I want them to shut up.

"This is my baby sister, Abigail, and I'm Leigh Ann." She sticks out her hand.

"Nice to meet you both." He shakes her hand and then looks at me. I give in and take his firm grip in my hand. "I'm Felix Hernandez."

LA gasps. "Of the Memphis Angels?"

"One and the same," he nods.

"My husband and I are big fans. We're excited for the season to start."

Felix smiles and nods again.

"My very single, very attractive sister is also a fan." LA points to me again.

I drop my mouth in horror. I hate when she does this and I'm not a fan of baseball. Well, I mean, I know baseball and have even been to a few games, but I'm not as big as a fan as LA and Harry, her husband.

"Please don't listen to her." I turn to him. "She takes a lot of medication."

Felix chuckles again. "I have siblings, too. I understand your pain."

I think he is about to say something else, but he stops when the lights go down and the stage lights go up. It's about time for the reading to start.

I listen intently to the speaker as they introduce Mr. Diamond, and within a moment, he's on stage. I don't think I even blink when he begins the reading. It seems like a single second goes by and then it's over. Darn it! I want more. My shoulders sag in defeat when my internal command goes unanswered.

The crowd begins to get up and shuffle to the main lobby where Mr. Diamond will be signing for a little bit. I'm praying I'll be able to get my book signed.

"Great to meet you," I tell Felix and push past my sister to get into the line. She understands my obsession with having signed books and will know to look for me in a little bit.

Thankfully, I have success and even get a selfie with him. Of course, my brown hair looks like a dirty mop, but I'm thrilled that I got one.

I search for LA and find her by the entrance door with Felix standing next to her.

Oh, good grief.

I go over to them and they both smile at me. Well, LA's smile is as bright as a light bulb, but Felix gives a half smile.

"Did you get the book signed?"

"Yes," I tell my sister, trying not to look at Felix. "I'm ready to go."

"Oh, you won't believe this." Her eyes are wide with excitement.

"What?" I cautiously ask. I know that look and something is up.

"Felix lives in the same complex you do. He'll take you home."

"What?" I shake my head, hoping I didn't hear her right. "Why would he take me home?"

"He lives near you."

"Come on. You seriously want me to get into a car with a stranger and have him _allegedly_ take me home. I'll probably end up in a ditch dead somewhere!" I'm practically yelling at her.

"I'm standing right here," Felix interjects. "I was trying to be helpful and I haven't murdered anyone in my life."

"See, he's a nice guy," LA says cheerfully.

"Look," I turn to him first. "I'm sure you're a really nice guy and congrats on all your success in the baseball league, but my sister is going to take me home. Good luck." Before he can say anything, I yank on my sister's arm and leave the building. "What are you doing?" I ask LA as soon as we are in the car.

"Nothing. He's a nice, millionaire baseball player. You're a single woman. I was helping."

"No, you weren't. Now, please drive me home. Thank you." I cross my arms, still holding my book to my chest.

LA doesn't say anything as she drives me to my apartment. I keep my head down the entire ride as I always do until she puts the car in park in front of my building.

"Do you need a ride to class in the morning?"

I shake my head. "No, I'm going to take the bus."

"Okay. Call me."

I nod, jump out of her car, and run into my apartment. I lock the door and admire my book for another minute before going into my home office and placing it on the shelf with my other signed books. I look around and notice that my desk is full of my schoolwork. I'm not in the mood to do it right now. I'm glad I'm ahead in my classes.

I stroll into my kitchen, kicking off my shoes along the way and shedding my cardigan. I've been in this place for two years. I moved in shortly after I finished my undergrad degree in Literature. Right now, I'm close to completing my master's degree. I want to be a college professor. Well, that's what I'm leaning toward, but I'm not sure if I'll make it or not. This semester had been tough and I can't wait for it to be over. I plan on taking a spa day and sleeping to noon. That's probably not going to happen, but it's an idea.

I pour myself a glass of white wine and grab my Kindle. I curl up on my couch and flip open my latest read.

Just as I'm almost to a plot twist in the book, my phone rings. I sigh when I look at the display.

"I'm sure LA has already given you every detail," I answer before Annie can say anything.

"Now, Abby-bear," I roll my eyes at my childhood pet name. "LA told me you met someone and I want to hear it from you."

"What?" I squeak. "A guy sat next to me at the reading, and LA was like a bear on honey when he said his name was Felix Hernandez."

"You know how LA is. Her heart is in the right place."

"Yeah, in his pocketbook," I mumble. "I don't need a man. I'm fine."

Annie sighs. She's the oldest of the three of us and almost twelve years older than I am. She's always been like a motherly-figure to me. Annie has always been the responsible one. She finished high school and college all before she was twenty. She found a job as a teacher quickly and has been enjoying teaching first graders since then.

LA, she's a whole other story. She's the rebel of the three of us. She always gave my parents a rough time, but she would never back down from a fight. However, she's very protective of Annie and me, even though she's the middle child. She's only five years older than I am. LA never went to college. She landed a job right out of high school and stayed there until she fell in love with her husband, Harry. His job takes care of them both and even though I never thought LA would be a housewife, she likes it. She's even settled down somewhat.

Then, there's me. Little twenty-three year old Abigail, aka Abby-bear. I'm a good person and I'm a mix between both of my sisters. They are my best friends and I love them. They're always there for me. No matter what.

"I didn't say that you did need a man, did I? I'm simply saying you haven't been out lately with someone of another gender."

I laugh. "Annie, I'm fine. I don't need any other _gender_ right now. I need to focus on my last semester and trying to find a job."

"Okay. But I do have one question."

"What is it?"

"Is Felix as hot in person as he is on TV?"

I snort. "He's not too bad on the eyes. Actually, he has beautiful eyes." I think back to the light brown eyes looking at me. He's good looking.

"You still coming to dinner tomorrow night? Do you need a ride in the morning?"

"Yes, I am, and no, I don't need one. I'll take the bus."

"Be careful, Abby-bear. I love you."

"Love you." I end the call and give up on the book and chug the rest of my wine. I decide that sleep is the best thing for me right now.

I HATE MY flat dirty mop hair color. Annie and LA are lucky to get Mom's pretty, golden brown hair. I have Dad's hair and it's in between wanting to be blonde and wanting to be brown. I slap on some makeup, pack my bag, and head out to the bus stop.

I arrive in time to see the bus drive away.

Shit. I look at my cell phone. I'm going to be late. I close my eyes and curse myself. I know that Annie's probably already at her school. I could call LA but she'll have to come across town and I'll still be late for class.

Damn it.

"Need help?"

I turn and see Felix in a black, shiny BMW. "Huh?"

"Well, you looked upset, and I'm offering my help."

"Oh, thanks. I missed the bus, that's all." Why am I talking to him? I need to call LA and get my butt to campus.

"Need a ride?"

"Um..."

"I have plenty of time before training. I can take you where you need to go." He gives me a small smile.

"Well..." _Make a decision, Abigail._ I need to get to campus and he's my only option. "Shit," I mumble. "Fine, but if you murder me, I'm going to be pissed off." I point at him and give him my mean face.

"Pretty sure I already told you that I'm not a murderer."

I give up and walk around to the passenger side. I make sure my seat belt is locked tightly around me.

"Where am I going?"

"Oh, to the University. I'm going to class."

"You're a college student?" Felix pulls out onto the main road and I glance at him. It looks like he recently got out of the shower because his shaggy hair is damp. He didn't shave because I can see the stubble. It's sexy.

"I'm a grad student and I'm a PA."

"PA?"

"A professor's assistant," I explain. "It's more like 'go grab my coffee', but it's a good experience."

"Interesting."

"I guess. What about you? Did you go to college?"

"Yes, I did. Not here, though. I went to Laurenburg University. I'm still pretty new to the area."

"Laurenburg? Wow, I owe you an apology. I was expecting you to say some little school, not an Ivy League school. What did you study? Did you graduate?"

"Engineering, and yes, I graduated. What are you studying?"

"I'm studying literature. I want to be a professor."

"Literature? That's awesome."

"How are you liking living here? Have you been here long?"

"I've been here long enough to know how to get to where I need to go, but need a GPS for everything else basically. I still need to do some exploring, but I like it so far. Have you always lived here?"

"Yes, my sisters and I grew up close to here. It's home for us. Do you have siblings?"

"Yes, two older brothers."

"Oh, I'm the youngest, too. I guess you're not a murderer because you understand my pain of older siblings trying to run your life. Well, that's how it is for me."

"I think most older siblings are like that when you're all close. My brothers like to point out what my life is lacking, stuff like that, more than trying to run my life."

"See, you do understand. Annie and LA are like that. I should apologize for LA last night. She doesn't have a filter and tends to say the first thing that pops into her brain. I hope she wasn't too forward with you."

He laughs. "I've seen worse. Plus, she just wants you to be happy."

"I know, but it gets old. I'm twenty-three; I think I know what makes me happy. They just have different ideas than I do. Oh well, I wouldn't give them up for anything. Are your brothers here now? Or is your family back home? Where is home, by the way?"

"California, and my family is there, too, so I'm a long way from home."

"Wow, that is far." I pause and realize we're here. "You can drop me off on the corner. I don't want you to have to find a parking place. How much do I owe you in gas?"

"Don't worry about it."

***

I WATCH ABIGAIL walk down the sidewalk for a moment before pulling back into traffic. Overall, she seemed skeptical of me, half interested, half not. I press down on the gas because I'm running late. I said I had time before training, but only because Abigail looked like she needed help and I wanted to give her a ride.

Most of the guys are already here. In fact, I'm the last to arrive and unfortunately, it doesn't go unnoticed.

"I don't think you've ever been late, Felix," Blake, our catcher, comments.

"He's always here early," Hector, our first baseman, adds.

"So who's the girl?" Colby, our third baseman, asks.

"What is this? Twenty questions? I'm five minutes late. Get over it." I drop my duffle bag in my locker.

Our shortstop, Jordan, leans against the one next to mine. "Yeah, but why were you late?"

Who knew being late would be such a big deal? "I gave someone a ride. Happy now?"

"We're just surprised you let someone get in the way of you being a punctual workaholic," Roman, our left fielder, says.

He does have a point. Baseball is my life. If I had a list of my top ten priorities in life, it would alternate between baseball and my family, and baseball would still be first. It's easier to have it this way since I haven't lived in California for a while. I start changing, ignoring the chatter around me. Baseball saved my life. It only makes sense that I give it everything I have to stay on the right track. Plus, I love it. Girls come and go and will always be around. However, baseball won't be here forever. I can handle being single as long as I have the game.

Coach takes us outside where we stretch before dividing up and entering the batting cages. I could spend all day in the cage, on the field, or in the gym. I love the thump of a ball smacking into the bat and being sent back in the direction from which it came. I love the smell of the field and the heat from the sun warming up my back. I love the clinking of weights and sweat running down my back. If I could live here, I would.

I put in a full day of work between the training activities and working out in the gym. Once I get home, I start a three-way call between my brothers as I gather ingredients to cook something to eat. Eating out would probably be easier, but it's not as healthy as what I can fix for myself. When Kevin answers, I finally have both him and Lewis on the phone.

"How are things over on the West Coast?" I ask.

"Same as always," Kevin says.

"That's always your answer, Kev. Something new has to happen occasionally. If I asked Mom that, she'd talk for five minutes about what's going on."

"I did see some hot chicks when I was surfing this morning. Does that help?" Lewis adds, causing Kevin to laugh.

"Yeah, that makes all the difference." I roll my eyes even though they can't see me.

"Have you found any southern belles in the great city of Memphis?" Lewis asks.

"I've met plenty, sure. There are a few here in the same complex I'm in, too. I gave a girl a ride this morning and caught hell with the guys because I was a little late."

"Wait? You were late? Must have been one hell of a ride, brother. I don't think you've ever been late," Lewis says.

Kevin laughs. "He's right. She must have been worth it for you to be late."

"I didn't bring it up to hear this crap again. She doesn't drive, apparently, missed the bus, and I took her where she needed to go. I happened to be late because of it. Not something to blow out of proportion."

"Whoa, hang on," Lewis starts. "You just drove her somewhere? Talk about bursting my bubble. I'm sitting here waiting for some juicy details and all you did was be her chauffeur. You're losing your touch, Felix."

"I was being _nice_. Maybe if you learned how to be that way, you wouldn't still be single. I'm not losing my touch, either. If I wanted a girl, I could get one."

"Sure, Felix, sure. You only want to be married to baseball. That's why you trekked your ass all the way to Tennessee, instead of staying here in California with your family. But we understand you want a championship and since the Angels have cleaned up their roster, you might actually have a chance."

Kevin picks up on Lewis's train of thought. "We miss you, that's all. None of us want you to be so wrapped up in baseball that you forget we exist."

"No need to be all sentimental. I'll jot you into my calendar every week. I always have time for family."

"Aw, you're such a little girl sometimes. No wonder you're Mom's favorite," Lewis teases.

We chat for a few more minutes before I hang up. After eating, I change my clothes, put on shoes, and head outside until I reach the sidewalk. I slip my phone into the holder on my arm, put the earbuds in place, and start running once the music begins to play. It's hot and muggy out, but it doesn't bother me. As long as I have my up tempo music and a sidewalk in front of me, I'm good to go. One of the first things I did when I moved here was find a running route. I run early in the morning and then again later in the day. My pace changes from a jog, to a faster, steady run, to running as fast as I can and back to a jog again.

I've been only five miles when I make it back to the complex. I'm tempted to run the route again like I usually do, but I catch sight of Abigail. Slowing my jog just a bit, I pull out my earbuds and call out her name. She turns just as I reach her.

"Hey." That's all I can think to say to her, but hey is always a good starting point.

"You look like a hot mess. I'm going to guess that you've been...running, maybe?" she teases.

"Yeah. Do you run?" I allow myself to run my gaze down her body and back up as she laughs.

"Only if zombies are chasing me or if I'm trying to catch Daryl Dixon."

I chuckle. "Well, that makes sense, but your odds would be better if you ran regularly, you know."

"I'm not the most coordinated person around. Trust me when I say I'm dangerous walking, let alone running. Thanks for the advice though. How was training? My sisters and brother-in-law are excited for the season to start. You know, the shake up last season took the city by storm." The roster was cleaned out because of drug usage and all new guys were brought in to replace them. The media has had a field day with it.

"It was good. I think we've got a good group of guys, too. I'm going to take a wild guess and say you're not the huge fan your sister made you out to be?" LA acted as if she was all about baseball. She must have thought it would have helped her odds with me if I thought she was a big fan.

"I like baseball and understand it, but they are a bit more overboard than I am. I have nothing against it, that's what I'm getting at. I guess it's different for you, though. I mean, you must have been playing since you were walking to be in the big leagues."

"I played some, yeah, but I didn't always play. Now, it's all I do, of course. It's good for me, so it's where I need to be."

"That's nice. I guess everyone should do something they love. According to LA, you seem to be a skilled pitcher. I'm sure you and all the new guys will be great this season. That is, if the papers don't keep bringing up last season." She rolls her eyes. "That's getting old if you ask me."

"I'm hoping we'll be able to give them something new to talk about soon. We've got our work cut out for us, though. I guess I should let you go. If you change your mind about the running, let me know. Or, you know, if you want to learn about my other skills, we could do that, too." I grin and she laughs. I really like her laugh.

"I can tell flirting isn't a skill of yours because that sucked as a pickup line. Thanks for the ride today and, you know, not murdering me." She pats my shoulder and walks away toward her apartment.

Damn, she's right. My line sucked. Maybe I am losing my touch.

***

SCHOOL. WORK. HOME. Repeat.

That's been my week and I'm tired. All I want is to go home. I have no classes today and I leave the library early to lie on my couch and watch some bad reality TV and eat fatty-fat pizza.

I unlock my door and my phone begins to ring. I know it's LA. Her ringtone is _Wild Thing_ because she's a bit crazy.

"Yes?" I answer.

"I'm picking you up in twenty minutes. Where are you?"

"For what?"

"Harry can't make the game and you need to come with me."

"What?" I slam my door shut and drop my bags. "No way. I'm not in the mood for a baseball game." I don't care what she says; I'm not going tonight.

"Abby-bear, please come to the game with me. I've not missed a home opener in over ten years. I'm begging you." She's whining on the phone and I know she's about to pull out the bribery card. "Abby-bear, I will make you chocolate chip cookies."

And there it is...damn it.

"Fine, but I will get two beers, one hot dog, and a order of nachos when I get there and you're paying for it all," I growl into the phone.

"You know you're my favorite younger sister," LA happily sings into the phone.

"Whatever. I'm at the apartment." I end the call and go change into my Angels shirt.

THERE'S A SEA of red and blue all over the stadium as we shuffle in and head to the concessions. Even though I told LA I was going to order all that food, I didn't. I got one beer and a hot dog.

We make our way to LA and Harry's seats. They both are such big fans that they have season tickets right above the dugout. I don't even want to think the price of these bad boys, but they're some of the best seats in the whole place. We settle in as the team begins to run out onto the field for warm-ups.

As my bite into my hot dog, my eyes catch number thirty-three jogging out, tossing the ball to another player. Wow, baseball pants sure can make me drool.

"Is there a certain player out there that you're staring at?" LA leans over.

"No," I gruff at her with my mouth full of food.

"If you would eat that hot dog a little sexier, he might come over later."

I can't help the laughter that bubbles up. My sister sure doesn't pull any punches and I love her for that. "Exactly how can you eat a hot dog sexily? I mean, I don't think he wants me to bite his dick and chew. Ew." I shake my head.

"Jeez, I hope he isn't into the kinky, crazy shit." LA makes a disgusted face. "I'm saying don't eat as if you're trying to win an eating contest."

This only makes me laugh harder. LA is the only one who can turn my mood around. She never dodges anything. When our parents died and I was in my deep depression, it was LA who eventually slapped me across the face and woke me up. Literally.

After I finish my hot dog, and not look like a porn star doing it, I chug about half my beer as I tell LA about my hectic semester. It's then I hear someone whistling from the field and I see Felix staring at me.

"Can you catch?" he yells.

"Yes."

He tosses the ball in his hand to me and I catch it with one hand. "Didn't even spill your beer," he laughs.

"I'm a pro." I wink and watch him, still chuckling, go into the dugout. I rotate the ball in my hand and look at it, and I know LA is waiting for an answer from me. "He saw me last week and took me to school, and then he saw me again later that night and offered to go running with me. That's all," I quickly explain.

"And why aren't you in your short, short running shorts and a sports bra with him every single day? And why the hell am I hearing about this now?"

"I forgot, it's not a big deal _and_ I'm not a runner, why would I go?"

"Because that's fucking Felix Hernandez, that's why."

I roll my eyes and sigh. "Look, he seems like a nice guy and that's it. There's nothing going on."

"Gah, I hate you right now." She crosses her arms and pouts.

"Why?"

"Just because."

Before I can argue with her more, they call for the national anthem and the first pitch. I'm sure she'll pout until the seventh inning and then nag me more about it. After the opening ceremonies, where I continue to stare at thirty-three's ass, the game begins. I watch Felix jog out to the mound.

"Would you look at that? Looks like Felix is pitching tonight," LA coos.

I ignore her and keep my eyes on the game. Pitch after pitch, I watch the strong arm of Felix strike out batter after batter until they're running back into the dugout. Each time, he would point at me and wink. Each time, LA would nudge my arm and giggle. She's definitely isn't going to let this go now.

Inning after inning, Felix keeps the other team at bay. By the ninth, I'm holding LA's hand when the last batter comes to the plate. He has to strike him out to achieve a no-hitter. I'm not the only one on the edge of my seat. Everyone in the stadium is quiet to make sure we don't jinx him or distract him.

Pitch. Strike. Cheer. Quiet.

Pitch. Ball. Moan. Quiet.

Pitch. Strike. Cheer. Quiet.

Pitch. Strike.

The stadium erupts, as do I. I watch the team rush the mound and pick Felix up. He has the brightest smile on his face. The team begins to jog and like he has done all night, he points at me and winks.

LA grabs my shoulders and begins to shake them. "I give you a month before you're fucking him."

Just like that...she shows her true colors. I shake my head as we head out to the parking lot.

On the way home, LA goes on and on about Felix and me. There _isn't_ a Felix and me, but I can't get a word in edgewise, so I let her keep going. I've never been so happy to see my apartment complex. I practically jump from the car and she's still talking when I shut the door.

Once I'm in my place, I strip out of my clothes and slip into my shorts and tank top. I flip my hair up into a messy bun and scrub off my makeup. I see the baseball that Felix threw on the bed. It must have rolled out of my purse. I pick it up and roll it around in my hands.

Such a crazy night. I grab my kindle and curl up on the couch when there's a knock at the door. When I look through the peep-hole, I'm not sure what to think.

"What are you doing here?"

"I came to see you and to say thanks," Felix says with a grin.

"Thanks?" I'm confused. "Why are you thanking me?"

"Because I'm positive you're a good luck charm for me."

"What?" I giggle because I must have heard him wrong. The seriousness on his face tells me he isn't joking. "A good luck charm? I don't think so. I think it was your hard work paying off. Maybe it's all the running."

"You were there. That kind of game requires more than just hard work. You were good luck, I'm telling you." He smiles.

"Felix, trust me when I say, I'm no one's good luck charm." If he only knew how much bad luck races through me, he would run away. "My sister told me that's your first no-hitter," I change the subject.

"Yeah, it was." He pushes his hand through his hair and I see it's still damp from the shower. "Your sister sure does know a lot about me. Wouldn't you rather learn about me from the source?"

"Wow, the pickup lines are getting better, Mr. Hernandez, but I'm fine with the intense Googling LA is doing. I'm sure she's doing it to somehow figure out how to get me to marry you though." I shake my head and turn my gaze away from him. LA isn't even here and she's still embarrassing me.

"I'm always hoping to improve. That was a very good and gentle way of turning me down. Did you at least enjoy the game? You know, as a regular fan and not as a crazed-LA-type of fan?"

I toss my head back and laugh at this correct assumption of my sister. "I will tell you the truth. I had an absolute blast watching the game. I was really cheering for you to get the no-hitter. Although, I couldn't figure out why you kept pointing and winking, but LA explained that baseball players are _very_ superstitious. Wait, is that why you're saying I'm your good luck charm? Because I was there tonight?"

"A no-hitter is a huge accomplishment. I don't think it's a coincidence that you were there. It's pretty obvious to me that you're my good luck charm."

"Wow, laying it on thick, aren't you? You really believe that because I was there, I 'helped' in your no-hitter?"

"Yes, I do."

"Fine." I toss my hands up in the air. There's no way I'm going to go round-and-round with him tonight. "I'll make you a deal. I will come to the next home game and I will sit in the same seat and you'll see it's your hard work and not the fact I was there. Deal?"

Felix smirks and looks me up and down. "If you come and sit in the same seat, we'll win again. And when that happens, you realize you're going to have to come to all the home games for the rest of the season, right?"

"You're serious?" I cross my arms. "You do realize that those are my brother-in-law's seats. I don't think he'll give them up from the season for you to win."

"If they're as big of a fan as you say they are, they will. Fans don't like to see their team lose."

"He does wear the same pair of socks to every game," I mumble because I know how big of a fan Harry is. "All right, I'll bite. I'll come to the game on Thursday. Any other requirements? Do I need to wear the same underwear, too?"

"Yep. Don't change anything. Same exact outfit. You should probably order the same food and drink too, just to be safe."

I roll my eyes. "Fine. Whatever. I have to go to bed because I have a class at eight. Congrats again and thanks for the baseball."

"Welcome. Good night, Abigail."

I SIT IN down in the seat with a hot dog and a beer.

"Holy shit! I'm so excited I can't stand it." LA is bouncing in her seat.

"What the hell?" I look at her. "I'm in some type of ESPN blooper reel, right?"

"No, and make sure that you eat that hot dog before the warm-ups are over like last time," she rushes me.

I sigh deeply. "LA, I can't believe you're going along with this."

"Are you kidding me? When I told Harry about this, he practically threw the tickets at me and grilled me about what I was wearing to make sure that I wouldn't change outfits for this game." She holds out her arms and she is wearing the same thing.

"Oh my God. This is insane." I shake my head and the team comes out to the field.

"Eat the damn hot dog!" LA yells.

"All right," I say back and eat the food and chug the beer like last time.

When the team begins to head back to the dugout, Felix whistles at me again and holds up a ball. "Can you catch?" he yells.

Is he serious? This is becoming a bit childish. LA shoves my shoulder.

"Yes," I say back and he tosses the ball. Like last time, I catch with one hand.

"Didn't spill your beer either."

I laugh at this game. "I'm a pro," I say like the time and he winks heading into the dugout.

"Oh shit, this is great!" LA squeals. She actually squeals with delight. I roll my eyes and drink more beer.

Felix isn't pitching, but I can see him across the field in the bullpen. Well, I can somewhat see him since he's clear on the other side, but I know that he's watching me.

Each inning, I pray that the Angels will lose. However, no one seems to be listening to me because at the beginning of the ninth, we're up...by six. I drop my head in my hands and groan.

"This is the greatest thing that's ever happened to me." LA is shaking me again.

"Aren't you supposed to be saying that about your wedding day?"

"Fuck that. We're going to win the championship at this rate. Aren't you happy?"

I look at her with the meanest eyes. "Do I look it?"

"Yep, you looked thrilled." She laughs and I hear the crowd cheer.

The Angels won.

"Son of a—" I growl with my jaw clenched tight. "Let's get out of here." I grab her arm and drag her out of the stadium.

***

I KNOCK ON Abigail's door. A few seconds later, she opens it. Once again, she's wearing shorts and a tank top with her hair thrown up in a bun. She looks good, that's for sure.

"So? Do you believe me now? You're my good luck charm, Abigail," I say, folding my arms over my chest and leaning against her doorframe.

"You are so full of it. I'm not a good luck charm."

"How are you still in denial? You came again and we won again. There's no room for denial when all the facts are there."

She rolls her eyes. "Well, you'll be happy to know my brother-in-law, who is now your number one fan, told me tonight that he's giving up his season ticket to me _if_ you sign a baseball for him. I told him you're probably too busy."

"I'm never too busy to sign my name, especially if it helps get my good luck charm to the games. I'll sign a ball for him."

"And what do I get?" She folds her arms over her chest as if the defensive posture will come in handy with our apparent negotiations. "I'm going to have to rearrange my schedule. I'm sure as hell not going on any road games. So, what do I get?"

"What do you want? Name it and I'll see what I can do." I'm willing to give her whatever she wants because I want to see more of her, especially at my games.

"This is your superstition. I wouldn't want to break any of your invisible rules of baseball good luck charms."

I laugh. "I'm sure whatever you ask for wouldn't interfere with the rules. Do you want free food at the games? Do you want a signed baseball, too? Do you want a signed book by an author you like? What do you want?"

"Hmm...free food is out because I have to have LA buy the beer and hot dog because of the _good luck_ routine." She rolls her eyes. "Plus, you'll throw me a ball every time I'm there, so I don't need any more of those. I have all my favorite books already signed. I guess that leaves," she taps her finger on her chin and says, "You being my driver while you're in town until the semester is over."

I think about it for only a moment. "Okay, I can do that. Do you want to catch a dinner and a movie sometime?"

"Wait...are you asking me out?" Her lips part in shock and her eyes widen.

"Don't seem so surprised. Yes, I'm asking you out."

"Oh...well...um...sure, okay, we can do that, I guess," she stammers over words, but she almost looks upset or disgusted I asked. What the hell?

"If you don't want to, it's fine. Don't say yes, if you really mean no."

"I'm sorry. No, no, I do. I'm just a little thrown off. Come on, you're Felix Hernandez and I'm Abigail Harris. I see you with more of the supermodel-type girl and I'm nothing like that. I much better prefer to stay home on Saturday night and read then go off to some celebrity party."

I laugh. The only other people I know in Memphis are my teammates and now Abigail and LA. What celebrity party does she think I'll be going to? Where are the supermodels I'm supposed to be dating instead of her? I haven't seen any. "You know, I never took you as the type to make stereotypical assumptions. But I'll forgive you this time. Does Saturday at six work for you?"

"That's fine, but you have to realize that you're you and it's not assumption. I know how to Google too and I've seen you on the arms of much prettier women than me."

I smirk, imagining her hunched over a laptop, searching my name. "You've Googled me? I feel very honored to have such a beautiful woman search me on the internet."

"I Googled you once and that's it. I was actually trying to see if you were listed as the master of horrible pickup lines. Sad to say, I think I may have seen that listed in one of the high-end girly magazines." Abigail shakes her head. "I guess my good luck only goes so far."

"Maybe I should add that to my official bio. So, Saturday at six?"

"Fine. I'll be ready."

"Great." I add in my goodbye and walk back to my apartment with a grin on my face. Memphis is getting better and better by the minute.

WITH EVERYONE BEING pretty new, we've done a lot of team-building type of exercises. It's been helpful and fun. However, if there's one guy I can never get a read on, it's Blake Foster. As long as I can read him while we're on the field, I guess it's not a big deal. He's a moody guy sometimes, though. Like today. He looks pissed.

I take a seat next to him and ask, "Hey, you all right, Blake?"

"Fucking peachy," he answers without looking my way.

I leave it at that because I'm not about to piss him off further. Hector turns around from his seat in front of us.

"I think he prefers to be called Grumpy."

"Turn around and shut up," Blake snaps, sending him a glare.

Hector laughs and looks at me. "He'll be better in a few hours. Right, Grumpy?" Blake flips him off, not fazing him in the least. "Hey, Felix. Who's the girl at the game you keep throwing your balls at?" He grins and chuckles at his joke.

"She's the reason we keep winning."

"I thought it was because of my mad throwing skills?"

"That's helpful, but having her there was more helpful. She doesn't believe in good luck charms, though."

This kind of conversation apparently engages Blake. "Seriously?" He turns to look at me. "Like not at all or she just doesn't believe she is one?"

"She doesn't think she is one. Do y'all have one?"

Hector pulls a silver necklace from under his shirt, a cross hanging from it. We glance at Blake.

"I don't have one," he answers. "I can't keep anything long enough to have a good luck charm," he finishes, gazing back out the window.

Hector returns to sitting the right way, and we're relatively quiet for the rest of the plane ride. It's not until warm-ups that Blake seems to be in a good mood again. Or at least as good of a mood as he can be. Focusing on the upcoming game, I take a deep breath.

The usual pre-game nerves bounce off the walls of my stomach. I always thought it would go away, being anxious before a game, but it never has. I'm almost thankful for it because it keeps me on my toes. Before I know it, the national anthem is being sung and a ball game has started.

I've always loved the sport. My mom used to say I was obsessed. Somewhere along the way, I lost it. When I got the sport back, I became obsessed again. I cherished the game and the opportunity to play. That's what fuels me every time I step onto the mound to do my best and sort of give my life to baseball.

My mind has a one-track mind to the sport. It's all about how I throw the ball. The way it feels when I bring my arm back and then fling it forward. My favorite sound in the world is a ball smacking into the catcher's glove and the following, "Strike!"

Unfortunately, the bases are loaded and I've recorded two balls with this batter. I need one more out desperately or there's a very good chance we lose this game. I inhale the heady clay aroma, briefly close my eyes, and picture Abigail. Maybe she can help from afar. A picture of her flashes in my mind. Brown hair up in messy bun, shorts, and a tank top that showcases a body I wouldn't mind putting my hands on.

Blake gives me his signal after my eyes open. I adjust my hat, take another deep breath, and pitch the ball.

"Strike!"

Thank you, Abigail.

This time, I quickly picture her wearing her Angels t-shirt, sitting in the stands next to her sister. She watches me a lot. I know it's because I'm playing in the game she's watching, but her eyes are on me more than anyone else. Blake gives me the same signal. I pitch and hear, "Strike!"

Repressing a smile, I picture Abigail one more time, of how she looked when I first met her. My last throw is a strike. There's no doubt in my mind, that woman is my good luck charm. I can't say so for the rest of the team, though. We lose the game.

If I have a crutch, it's that I hate losing and the days after a loss equate to me being caught up in focusing on baseball one hundred percent. I know losing comes with the territory. I mean, there's a fifty-fifty chance with every game that we'll come out on the losing end. Still, a loss makes me analyze my game and try to correct my mistakes. Or at least, work on improving myself.

It's no surprise I spend Saturday engaged in that loss ritual. Then, I head to the batting cage for an hour before pitching for a while. After that, I hit the gym. I run five miles, and lastly, I head to my favorite masseuse for a massage to help my muscles after such a long day. When I finally make it home, I'm starving.

There's plenty of food in the fridge; none of it looks appetizing. Salad, leftovers, thawed chicken that's ready to be cooked. Maybe I should allow myself the guilty pleasure of eating out tonight. With that thought, I grab my keys and head to my favorite fast food restaurant with the plan to bring it back to my apartment and watch whatever's on the History channel.

***

I SLAM THE plate into the sink and for a second, I think I may have broken it. I didn't, but I'm so pissed off. I waited and waited and waited for Felix to show up for the stupid date he made sure I went on with him and the ass didn't even show up! The sad fact is I saw his car in the lot and I know he's been home.

All right, I know it sounds like I was being a stalker and I know I should just text him...wait...no, I shouldn't. He wants this stupid deal, then he should have remembered.

I check my phone for the thousandth time and there's nothing from him. Only from Annie saying that she'll be here in ten minutes for us to go to lunch together. I _may have_ called her last night and spilled my guts and _some_ emotions to her. If I'd called LA, she would have gone to his apartment and kicked his door down. I almost wished I had now.

Why do I even care? It's not like I know the guy, or really like him. Well, I like him because he looks hot in baseball pants, and he knows who James Diamond is, but that's it. I give up on the dishes and grab my purse to wait for Annie outside.

I'm standing outside my complex when I see him rounding the corner. Shit. Shit. I don't want to see him. I try to turn to leave, but he yells my name. I take a deep breath and quickly wonder if I should be like LA and scream at him and possibly punch him. Or, be like Annie and be a mature woman.

Gah! This is why I shouldn't have gone to that damn game. He jogs right up to me.

"Hi, Felix." I smile and decide to be Annie.

"Hey. How's your weekend been?"

I smile brightly at him and decide to take the high road. "It's been the greatest weekend ever. Do you know what I did last night? I sat on my couch for three hours in a new outfit with brand new shoes, waiting for some Angels' pitcher to pick me up for a date." Okay, maybe it's not the highest road.

Felix's face falls as he realizes I'm talking about him. "Abigail, I'm so sorry. My mind was on baseball all day and I," he winces, "forgot. I'm really sorry."

He forgot?

How the hell do you forget that you had a date?

I wave my hand at him as if it's nothing to me when I'm trying not to punch him in the face. "It's no big deal. I'm sure your mind was on baseball. Forget about it. I have." I give him a tight smile.

"It is a big deal. Let me make it up to you." He's being sincere, at least he appears to be.

"No, Felix. Let's drop it. I know you're busy. I'm sure you don't have a lot of time to date anyway. Plus, I have school and work. It's bad timing for both of us." I pray Annie comes soon.

"I'm not that busy. It's just," Felix pauses. "I often forget to stop letting my job be my life. That's the simple answer. Can I please make it up to you?"

Finally, Annie pulls up to the complex and I hold up a finger, letting her know I'm on my way. "Listen, my sister is here to take me to lunch. I understand how important your career is to you. I know you have a great work ethic and it's something that's appealing about you. Keep that focus and I'll see you around. Oh, and don't worry about being my driver either. I was totally joking about that." I give him my best fake laugh

"Are you sure? Are you coming to the game at least?"

"Yes, I'm completely sure. There's a game tonight?" I know there is a game tonight, but I'm sure as hell not going.

"Yes, there is."

"Right. Sure, I'll be there," I lie to him. "I've got to go right now. Bye." I rush past him and jump into my sister's car.

"Um, Felix is a lot hotter in person." Annie fans herself and pulls a quick U-turn out of the parking lot. "What did he want?"

"He says he forgot because he had baseball on his mind," I huff. "Then he wanted to make it up to me."

"Great, you're going to give him another chance."

"Ha," I scoff. "No way. He forgot me. It wasn't like he was a few minutes late. He forgot he even asked me out. That's his subconscious telling him to stay the hell away from the bad luck girl."

"Abby-bear." Annie shakes her head. "You're his good luck charm. I'm sure it was an honest mistake." She turns onto the interstate.

"Fine, then you date him," I mumble.

"Abby, stop it." Her voice is firm and I know I've gone too far.

I'm about to apologize but my phone ringing cuts me off. It's LA and I'm going to have to deal with her next.

"Hey, LA."

"What time do I need to pick you up?"

"Um...I'm going to ride with Felix actually." I see Annie looking at me, but I turn toward the window.

"Shut up! That's great. I'll have your hot dog and beer waiting for you. Be sure to be there before warm-ups." She ends the call and I remain facing the window.

"You're playing with fire. You told Felix you were going to the game, didn't you?"

"I may have," I mumble.

"Now, you told LA he was taking you." I know that tone. I call it her 'mother' tone.

"I may have," I say even lower.

"Oh, you're going to feel the wrath later tonight, especially if they lose." Annie pulls onto the off ramp.

"They're not going to lose. It's dumb that they think I have some special baseball-mojo to make the Angels win. I'm not a rabbit's foot, for Pete's sake!" I'm almost yelling.

"Calm down, Abigail." Her voice is gentle and she pulls into the restaurant's parking lot. When she finds a parking spot and parks, she turns to me. I'm still not looking at her. "You're not a liar. I'm begging you not to start now."

I look at her. "I know. I'll take care of it, but I'll do it later. Right now, I want to hang out with my sister."

"Then come on."

Annie and I have a great meal. We laugh and talk about school, work, and even the fact that Annie has a crush on another teacher from a different school she met at a conference. They have been chatting through Facebook, but haven't gone out yet. I hope she will find someone. Annie has such a big heart; she would be a wonderful girlfriend and even a wife.

After lunch, we head to the mall where she ends up buying me a couple outfits, even though I beg her not to. A few hours and a soft pretzel later, we pack our bags into the car and she takes me home.

Walking into my apartment, I hear my phone ringing. It's LA's ringtone and I know that I have to face the music.

"How could you lie to me?" The hurt and anger bursts through the phone.

"LA, it's a little complicated. I'll explain later."

"Tell it to Felix. He looked so shocked you weren't here. He was pale! If they lose tonight, it's all your fault." She ends the call and I hang my head.

Shit. This is the worst weekend I've had in a long time. I drop my bags in my bedroom and come back to flip on the game. Maybe this will prove to Felix that I'm not needed.

Inning after inning, my heart sinks deeper into the pit of my stomach. When the ninth inning comes, I almost tear up. The Angels haven't even scored. They've barely gotten on base. When they show the bullpen, I see Felix, and there is anger and hurt all over his face.

Shit. This isn't going to go well. My phone vibrates.

LA: Thanks a lot Abby-bear.

I fall back on the couch and sigh deeply. It's one thing for Felix to be mad at me, but not my sister.

I knew that knock was going to come tonight, so I'm a little prepared. When I open the door, Felix is standing there and I'm not sure if he's going to yell at me or stand there silently.

"Come in, please. I have a beer waiting for you in the fridge." I step to the side and open the door wider.

He walks in. "You should've just told me you weren't coming."

"True." I shut the door and lead him to my kitchen. I hand him a beer and we sit at the table. "I did lie, and I did it for selfish reasons because I was upset you forgot me last night. I mean, you told me you forgot because of baseball and that hurt."

"I know. Would it make you feel any better if I told you I've forgotten dinners with my family before, too?"

I take a small swig of my drink. "If you're making it up to make me feel better, then no, it won't. However, if you're serious, it does a little bit." I twirl a strand of my hair around my fingers. "You have to see it from my side. I was ready, dressed, and sat here for hours without a single text or phone call. Do you even know how crappy I felt?"

"As crappy as I feel about forgetting. I've had this issue for a long time. It's why a family member calls me almost every other day and why I can't keep a girlfriend."

"You could have told me." Why don't men just say what is really going on? "I would have preferred you to be like, 'hey, do you mind shooting me a text the night before, I'm an airhead', then leaving me sitting here on my couch thinking you're a liar, stringing me along with that stupid 'good luck charm' crap."

"First of all, it's not stupid good luck charm crap. Did you see the game tonight? That is a serious lack of good luck. I was completely serious about that. Next time, you'll know to remind me. But do the day of, not day before. Or, do both. I really am sorry, Abigail."

"I did see the game. I give you my word from this moment on, I will be at every home game. I still don't believe I'm the charm, but I kind of get it. I'm sorry I lied to you. I'm not the type of person to lie." I don't want him to think I'm playing him in some type of game. That's not me at all.

"You were mad. I can let it slide this time."

"Okay. So, how will you make it up to me, then?"

"By asking you out again and not forgetting about it this time. And does this mean I get to be your personal driver?"

"Okay, you will be my personal driver and like I said, I promise not to miss any home games. Good?"

He nods. "Can I ask a question?" I nod. "Why don't you drive?"

I knew that question would come up soon. I don't hide the fact of why I don't drive. I won't start now. I need to take responsibility for everything that I do. Past and present.

"Well, since I said I wouldn't lie anymore, I'll tell you the truth. I don't drive because when I was seventeen, I was in a car accident. I was the driver and both of my parents were in the car with me and...they died as a result of it. Since then, I haven't driven. Annie and LA understand that I have a real fear of driving, so I interrupt their lives for them to take me places. I take the bus a lot, but they still see me as the baby and they don't like me on there late at night."

"I'm sorry for your loss. I can't imagine." His face is sad and I can tell he's being sincere.

"It's hard still, especially since I don't drive. I can't bring myself to get into the car and drive."

"That's understandable. It's good that you have your sisters there to support you, too."

"They saved me. I mean, literally saved me. I blamed myself for ending my parents' lives and went into a...dark place. Annie and LA keep my head up." I pause for a second to compose all the emotions I'd poured out. "Sorry, I don't mean to bring you down. This is such heavy talk for someone I barely know."

"You're fine. I don't mind."

"Well," I stand up and go over to my end table and pick up my information that I wrote on a piece of paper. "Let's change the subject. This is my cell and my class schedule. If you're serious about being my driver, then these are my times. I know that you can't do it all the time because of traveling, but if you can't or if you don't want to, let me know."

"Okay, I can do that." Felix has a sexy smirk. "I might even buy one of those hats you always see drivers wear. Make it official."

I laugh loudly. "Sounds perfect. I'm sure that you're tired, and I am sorry you guys lost tonight."

"It happens. I'll see you around then?"

"In the morning at eight."

***

AT EIGHT O'CLOCK sharp, Abigail is walking toward me and my car. I dramatically open the door and say, "Your carriage awaits, my lady." I even bow as she walks past to slide into the passenger seat with a laugh. Once I've walked around and gotten in myself, I say, "You know, I really think you should reconsider running with me." Mostly because I wonder what kind of outfit she'd choose to wear. Would it be shorts and a tank top? Or is she the kind of girl to say forget the shirt and wear just a sports bra with those yoga pants?

"Ugh, you're as bad as LA. She keeps telling me I should run with you. I'm beginning to wonder if my ass is getting fat and this is a polite way to say 'get your lazy ass up.'"

I laugh. "Your ass looks fine. Why does she think you should run with me?"

"Have you not looked in the mirror? I do believe you're a super-famous pitcher from the Angels. Oh, and you're single, which makes LA very happy, by the way. And no, I didn't tell her about our mishap the other night. Trust me when I say you don't want to see the wrath of LA."

"Thanks. I'm sure it's not a pretty sight. You do realize that the only people who know me are baseball fans and ball hoes, right? I'm famous within a group of people, if I have to be famous to start with. Anyway, I think you should listen to your sister. She sounds like a very smart woman if she wants you around me more." I smile.

"LA would have you and I married in a week if she knew this was happening. Well, I mean, nothing _is_ happening, but she doesn't know you're taking me to school. However, I might try this running you keep mentioning. Sounds like a bitchin' good time." She rolls her eyes, obviously not meaning it.

I smirk as I realize since she doesn't run often, it means she definitely has to do something I sure wouldn't mind watching her do as well. "We'll have to stretch beforehand, too. Are you a morning person?"

"As long as I can have a Starbucks, then yes, I am."

"What do you usually order?"

"I'm a white mocha espresso kind of girl. Are you a Starbucks lover, too?"

"It's a guilty pleasure type of thing for me. I only have it every so often."

"Oh my God, are you one of those calorie-counting athletes who drinks mushed up veggies in the morning mixed in with soy milk?" She makes disgusting face and I chuckle.

"Is there any other type of athlete? Do you really think this body comes from eating junk and then working it all off in the gym? I mean, I used to be that way, but a teammate got me started on all this healthy food and I felt way better, so it stuck."

"So, you eat all kinds of veggies and shit like that? I can't do that. I'm more of a bacon-meat-drowned-in-gravy kind of girl. Oh, and chocolate. At least one to two pounds a week. I can't live without it." She licks her lips, distracting me for a moment.

I groan. "God, that sounds so good."

She leans over and whispers, "Come to the dark side, Felix. We have cookies, too."

"You're just one big temptation all the way around, aren't you?"

Abigail shrugs. "I can be from time-to-time."

"Where am I going?" I ask, in case I'm not dropping her off in the same spot as before.

"It's up yonder." She points ahead, but I'm laughing too much to pay attention to where she pointed.

"Yonder? Seriously? I didn't think people actually said that."

"You better learn the language, Mr. Cali, because that's a very technical term." Her voice is serious as can be.

"Yeah, I can tell," I say, still chuckling.

"Just pull over by the curb. Is that better directions for you to understand?" She giggles.

"Yes, thank you." I park and get out to open her door, switching back into professional chauffeur mode. "Have a good day, Miss Abigail."

I'm pretty sure she smiles a little. "I'll be done around three. If you can't get me, _please_ text me, so I don't miss the bus."

"Will do. I'll be here."

I'M MEETING BLAKE downtown because we're shooting a commercial today for a drink company that sponsors the team. It'll take most of the morning, allowing just enough time for a quick lunch, practice, and then picking up Abigail.

Blake is standing outside, leaning against the brick wall next to the door when I walk up.

"Couldn't go in without me?" I joke.

"Just didn't want to go in until I absolutely had to. I hate these things."

"It's not that bad."

He actually rolls his eyes as we walk inside, greeted by a very excited, giddy assistant. She leads us into another room where we meet the guy in charge of directing this thirty-second ad. It's a bit crazy to think of how much time can go into creating something that only lasts for thirty seconds.

Blake hides his dislike very well and is accommodating, doing everything they ask of him. I don't really know what to make of him. Sometimes, he's this moody guy who acts as if he hates playing baseball and all that comes with it. Other times, he's in a good mood, happy, and is friendlier to everyone.

We smile, drink the "refreshing, energy-boosting drink," and say our lines. Once that part is done, we're thankfully finished. They're supposed to use clips they filmed during pre-game warm-ups the other day. Most of the guys are in the locker room when we make it to the field.

"If it isn't our famous duo," Hector announces when we walk in. "Soon, we'll see their ugly faces every time we turn on the TV."

I laugh. "Don't hate."

"Next time, you can take my place," Blake says.

"Oh, I don't think they could handle my face on TV screens." Hector grins.

I shake my head, finish changing, and then we head out to stretch. Hector is still making jabs about our commercial when Blake curses loudly. I turn to see him wincing and carefully rubbing his leg. One of the trainers and a coach comes over to him.

After a minute or so, our coach says, "Let's hit the field. Blake, go see the massage therapist and see if that'll help."

Blake ends up being gone for all of our practice. I check the time as I head to the gym. I have an hour until I'd need to shower and go pick up Abigail. Hector is on the bench press, struggling because I added more weights.

"C'mon, Hector. You said you could lift it. Looks like you're about to crumble."

His arms are trembling, his face turning red. "Shit. Just help me."

I laugh and help him set the bar back in its place. Blake walks in, looking a little lost. "Better?" I ask.

"Did y'all know our massage therapist is a chick?" he says.

"A hot chick? Do I need to have a leg cramp or something?" Hector asks seriously, sitting up.

Blake shrugs, not answering either of his questions.

"You have to give us something, Grumpy. You can't come in here, ask if we knew she was a girl, and then leave us hanging," Hector tells him as we switch places.

"She's good at her job," is his reply.

Hector lets it go. Once I've done my reps and made my rounds, I see that I'm running a tad late. Abigail will kill me if I'm late, I sure. I hurry through my shower, slip on my clothes, my shirt ends up sticking to me a little because drying completely is something I don't have time for. Speeding through town, I make it to where I left her this morning in the knick of time. Well, five minutes late is still on time, right?

"I'm not late," I lie as I get out to open her door. "And I was already on the way here when I realized I was going to be, you know, not late, so I didn't text you to let you know."

Once we're in the car, she says, "You know, if I was paying you, I would have to dock your pay. Instead, you're going to have to buy me some fro-yo as your punishment."

"Now? Where do I need to go? I don't think I've seen one of those places yet."

"I'm hungry and haven't eaten all day. So, yes, we're going now. Well, wait, do you have something else going on? I can punish you later if need be."

I laugh at trying to picture Abigail punishing me. "You saying you can punish me later is too funny. But I'm free for the afternoon. Are you going to tell me where to go or should I drive around aimlessly and hope we find the place?"

She giggles. I'm really starting to like hearing her laugh. "Turn left and go up yonder about three blocks."

"Yonder." I shake my head at the word. "What are some other terms I need to be familiar with?"

"'Y'all' is another important one. You will need to remember that. We've already established the significance of 'yonder'. 'Ain't' is popular as well, but I don't use that one very often. There are so many more that I shouldn't overwhelm you, Mr. Cali."

"Have you ever been? To California?"

"Yes. My parents would take us girls on trips in the summer. We did the family thing. You know, Disneyland and the beach."

"I've never been to Disneyland. I think my parents offered to take us once, but we didn't care to go."

"I was young and loved it. Of course, I always wanted to be Cinderella. Well, I wanted to be a princess in general. Then I grew up, I guess." She sighs and adds, "No tiara yet."

"When I go buy my hat, I'll buy you a tiara and you have to wear it at least once a week. Don't you think?"

"I would wear all the time." She laughs softly. "But you don't have to buy me one."

"After you finish your fro-yo, which is totally not a meal, by the way, we're going shopping. You can pick out my hat, while I find you a tiara."

***

FELIX PULLS ANOTHER hat off the rack and tries it on. It looks as bad as the other ones he's tried on. I'm beginning to think his head is only made for baseball hats.

"Your head isn't round enough. I think it's because you have such thick hair, too."

"Are you saying there's something wrong with my head?" He raises his eyebrows in disbelief.

"Yes, I am. You have an odd-shaped head. I think it's going to be your downfall in life. I hate to break it to you."

"My head is not odd-shaped. That can't be my downfall. You'll have to think of something else for that. What about this one?" He tries another one on.

"That's the worst one yet. Let's forget it and buy you a soft pretzel for dinner. You know what those are, right? It's the delicious, dangerous food full of carbs and salty goodness."

"A pretzel is not dinner. Pretzels in general are not dinner. I was actually really hoping to have a hat." He pouts his sexy lips a little bit and it makes my knees a little weak. "But if you're sure, let's find your tiara and then an actual dinner. I'll even cook, if you want."

"Well, out of all the ones you did try on, that is the best. My vote is for that one. Are you really going to buy me a tiara?"

"Yes, I'm really going to buy you one. I've said it too many times to be lying."

"I know, but how about a compromise. I will _let_ you buy me a tiara charm for my bracelet and I will cook you dinner. Deal?"

"So _you_ were the one lying because you wouldn't actually wear it all the time, huh?" he teases me. "If you would rather have a charm, I can handle that."

"All right, I was lying. I'm too old to wear one of those. Unless I was in a costume party, or something. The charm would be more meaningful."

"Then charm it is. Any idea where we can find one? I'm really starting to get annoyed at not knowing my way around here yet."

"Oh, does that mean I have to take you shopping more often? I like this idea."

"There's more to this city than shopping, I hope."

"Is there anything more than shopping? Come on, I've seen you on the Internet. You're always styling and being all GQ-like. Don't try to play it off either."

"Just because I like to look good doesn't mean I like shopping for the clothes to make it happen. And I have a feeling my shopping experience is completely different than a girl's would be."

"That could be true, but I think you're lying." I wink. "Here the place."

I easily pick the charm that has small pink crystals in the crown and Felix pays for it. I shouldn't have let him; this whole thing is stupid, but kind of cute at the same time.

Felix drives us back to the complex and he comes up to my apartment. I tell him to make himself comfortable and I head into the kitchen to make a pizza. Technically, that's cooking, of sorts.

While I'm prepping everything, LA texts me.

LA: what are you doing?

Me: cooking dinner, why?

LA: Bored. Are you coming to the game tomorrow?

Me: Yes, I promise I am. I even told Felix I wouldn't miss any more games.

LA: You need to ask that boy out and give me a baseball-playing nephew

Me: OMG! You're nuts!

LA: At least go out with the guy.

Me: He's in my living room and we're having dinner. He also bought me a charm for my bracelet. Does that satisfy you, crazy nut?

LA: Why in the hell are texting me when you could be riding him?

Me: And there it is...I'll talk to you later

I'm pretty sure LA was dropped on her head as a small child. I shake my head and see Felix in the kitchen staring at me.

"LA says hi, by the way." I smile at him.

"I bet she's happy I'm here?"

"I'm pretty sure she's booking a wedding chapel as we speak." I shake my head. "Her main concern was if I was going to the game tomorrow. She wasn't pleased with me when y'all lost the other night."

"She'll get over it when we win the next one. Between the two of us, we'll have you turned into an LA type of fan in no time."

"Ha, I can promise you that will never happen. The only things I go crazy over are my books and book deals. Nothing more. What's your crazy gene like? What makes you all giddy like a schoolgirl? Is it mystery novels or porn?" I giggle at him.

"I don't know if I have a crazy gene. Maybe girls are the only ones who have that." He laughs loudly and it's cute to hear. "But I do like mystery novels. What are your favorite genres?"

"It's the usually romantic, love stories that make me swoon, especially the classics. However, I have begun to fall into a trance with James Diamond and the mystery novels that he writes. Mainly because he puts a little romance in them to break up the blood, gore, and twists. Do you read a lot?"

"When I get the chance, yeah. I usually read more when I'm on the road than when I'm home, which seems a bit backward, I guess. My mom read to us as kids and it just stuck as I got older."

It reminds me of Mom when she would make the girls sit with me and read fairy tales and kiddie books. Annie and LA were much older than me and they didn't always want to hang out with their _baby_ sister.

"Are your brothers smart like you are? Or are they baseball players, too?"

"We're all smart, yeah, but I'm the only one who plays professionally. Kevin plays on a team his work put together, though."

"So, why did you want to be a professional player? Was it a life long dream or just something that happened?"

"A little of both, I guess. Like I said, I didn't always play. Baseball saved me and gave me something to strive for. Once I realized that, I turned my life over to baseball, so to speak. It became my life and I gave it my all, which led to me playing as a pro."

The oven beeps and I go and get the pizza out and quickly cut it. I grab a couple of beers out of the fridge and sit everything on the kitchen table with some paper plates. If he wants fancy, then he'll need to go somewhere else.

"I understand what you mean. Books and school saved me. After my parents died, I threw myself into school, but I burnt out quickly and the depression set in after that. I was constantly crying and didn't want to get out of bed. Annie and LA let me moan and groan for a little bit, but then they jerked my ass out of that bed and got me going again. Not sure where I would be without my sisters." I'm not sure why I told him all of that. I'm shocked that I just spilled my guts out to him. "Are you close to your brothers?" I need to change the topic.

"Yeah, we talk often and since I'm the youngest, I don't really have a choice about being close to them." He chuckles all sexy again. "But we're close. My parents always made us apologize and make up after we fought. Plus, they're pretty cool; nothing too annoying about them."

"Are they going to come to any of your games? I bet it will be hard considering how far away they are now."

"They usually pick a game or two during the season for all of them to come see." He gulps his beer. "So, you like books and school. What else? There's more you like to do, or would like to do, right?" He takes another piece of pizza.

"I may or may not like reality TV. The dumber they are, the more I watch them. LA got me hooked years ago and I watch all of them. It's a sick, sick thing." It almost feels like I need some type of rehab. "Other than that, it's school, school, work, school, home. It's an exhausting life I lead."

"Sounds like it needs a little spicing up. Do you ever do anything crazy or impulsive?"

"Absolutely not," I say firmly. You'll never catch me being any of those things. "Although, I'm currently a good luck charm for some baseball team. Trust me when I say that's as crazy as it gets around here. I'm not like LA. She does all that sort of stuff. I'm more of the stay-at-home girl. I know it sounds stupid, but that's me. I'm sure you can tell me all sorts of tall tales that you've done."

"I may have a few up my sleeve. Whenever I get burned out from working so much, I usually find a way to let loose. Not always a smart idea, but," he shrugs, "it does the trick."

"I guess each person has their own thing, right?"

We finish off the pizza. Well, Felix had most of it and he helps me clean up the mess. As we were walking toward the door, I wonder if he was serious about running together.

"I'm asking out of curiosity, not that I'm actually going to go, but how far do you run in the morning?"

"Five to ten miles depending on when I wake up, but I was only going to do a mile with you." He leans against the door.

"You run five to ten miles for fun? Oh no, I would die of a heart attack." I shake my head roughly back and forth trying to get the delicious image of him sweaty and with muscles bulging out of my head. "Ugh, my legs hurt thinking about it."

He laughs. "I'd ease you into it, Abigail."

"Well, I do need to exercise more. The only cardio I get is strolling around campus eating a candy bar, so I need to do something else. I could probably, maybe, do a mile in the morning, but afterward, I will have to be air-lifted home."

"You may be out of shape for running, but I've seen your legs. They'll get you home just fine." He smirks. "If not, I can carry you and then give them a good massage to make it better."

"Wow, you are seriously laying out some horrible flirting skills. I'm so glad you're not doing that professionally."

"You know, I'm starting to think you're just trying to resist my irresistible charm." His grin deepens. "Might as well give in now."

I know the game he's playing and I step up to him, almost touching his chest. "If you haven't noticed, I'm a good luck charm and I have lots of powers. I can resist just about anything."

"Can you?" He grabs my hand and closes the distance between us. I gasp as his soft, full lips kiss mine. His touch is firm, but not too hard. I can tell he likes to be in charge as slides his tongue into my mouth and he laces his hands with mine. When he breaks away from me, he says, "I'll pick you up at eight."

And then he walks out.

I'M NOT SURE what to think when I get into Felix's car in the morning. The whole evening and most of the night, I was trying to figure out what the hell happened. Was he playing around with me? Does he like me? Does he want to be my boyfriend? So many questions in my head are causing me to have a massive headache. I almost skipped class, but I have a test coming up and I can't do that.

"Good morning, Miss Abigail." Felix opens the door for me.

I smile at him and slide into the seat. When Felix gets in, he begins to tell me about a new endorsement from a baseball mitt company. I only half listen to him because I'm not sure what's going to happen next. Is he going to kiss me when I get out of the car? Is he going to hold my hand? Does he want to kiss me or hold my hand?

Oh, this sucks.

Felix pulls up to the English building and I'm thankful I can get out of this nightmare-ish hell I'm currently in.

"Will you need a ride to the game?"

I shake my head. "I already told LA I'd ride with her."

"You're going to be there, right?"

"I promised you already." I roll my eyes.

"Don't forget that I can't pick you up today."

I nod. "See you tonight then." I rush away as fast as I can and into the building.

My head's still spinning when I reach the classroom and flop into my desk chair. Why are guys confusing? Why can't he just tell me what his intentions are? That would be simpler.

"Hey, Abigail." I turn to see Warren leaning over toward me. "Do you have those notes on Jane Austen?"

"Warren." I twist in my chair to look up. "This is a graduate level class. How is it you're still not taking notes?"

"Maybe I like borrowing yours." He smirks.

I roll my eyes. Warren Boyle and I have had numerous classes together, but I'm not sure how he passes because he's always asking for my notes.

"Here and hurry up." I give in and hand him my notebook.

"Let me make it up to you."

"How?"

"I'll buy you a cup of coffee after class."

"Well, I'm not the type of girl to turn down coffee." I giggle. "Sure, why not?"

Warren smiles and the professor comes in to start class. I scribble down almost everything he says and highlight several passages in the book. Before I know it, the forty-five minute class is over and I'm walking with Warren to the small coffee shop on campus.

He's a nice guy and not bad looking at all. His sandy-blonde hair is long and he keeps it hanging. Sometimes, I've seen him put it in a ponytail. I prefer hair like Felix's, that messy out of bed look. It's got the sex appeal. Warren's eyes are green. I wonder sometimes if they're contacts because I've never seen that shade of green before. I think it's rude to ask, so I never have. I like Felix's shade of light brown.

What the hell is wrong with me? Why am I comparing everything to him? He's nothing to me, but some baseball player who kisses me and thinks I'm his lucky charm.

"Abigail?"

"Yes." I look up from stirring my latte.

"I asked you how the semester is going for you."

"Oh, sorry. It's okay. I took more classes than I should have, but I'm ready to be done. How about you?"

"The same, actually. I'm ready to get out into the real world now." He sips his Americano.

"That's why I'm going to enjoy this summer. Fun and relaxation is my plan."

"That sounds like a good plan Um..." he shifts in his chair. "Are you dating anyone right now? If not, I was wondering if we could go to dinner and a movie sometime."

That's a million dollar question, isn't it? What's the deal with Felix and me? Is what we're doing considering dating?

I'm a nut case. We're not dating. He's using me to be his lucky charm and that's all. What does that make me? A doormat? Oh, that's not going to happen. I'm not going to let him do that to me and deter me from living my life. Warren is a nice guy who goes to my school. What is Felix? A baseball traveling-all-the-time star. Who knows who or what is in his hotel room when nobody's looking?

"When?"

"Really?" Warren face is a mix of shock and happy.

"Yes."

"What about Friday?"

"Let me check." I pull out my phone and flip to my calendar.

"Are you so busy you have to consult your calendar?" he jokes.

I giggle. "I've recently entered into a committed relationship with the Memphis Angels and I need to make sure there isn't a home game."

"What?"

I look up. "Oh, I mean, I have to be at the home games for this season."

"Why?"

"One of the players has dubbed me his lucky charm and I gave my word that I would be at the games for him." I shake my head.

"That's the strangest thing I think I've ever heard."

I laugh. "Well, the more you hang out with me, I'm sure you'll hear more because I'm full of them."

He chuckles. "I've been warned then. Thank you."

"Friday looks good. What time?"

"Seven?"

"Perfect."

And just like that, I have a date who isn't Felix Hernandez.

***

OUR KISS RUNS through my mind as I catch sight of Abigail and LA taking their seats. Seeing her makes me want to kiss her again. Her lips were perfect against mine; her tongue tasted so sweet, and her fingers interlocked with mine. Pulling away took a lot of effort. I grin with the memory when they both wave at me, LA holding a beer in one hand and Abigail holding a hotdog in one of hers.

"She your good luck charm?" Hector asks.

"That's her," I answer with pride. Let's just hope her good luck didn't go away when she missed a game.

"Who's that with her?"

"Her sister."

"They're hot. Are you sleeping with one of them?" He pauses and his eyes widens as he asks, "Or both?"

"Her sister is married. The answer is no either way. Let's focus, okay?" My mind does not need to be on sex right now. After warm-ups are over, I find Abigail and shout, "Can you catch?"

She rolls her eyes. "Yes."

I toss her the ball and she catches it singlehandedly. "Didn't spill your beer either."

Abigail laughs. "I'm a pro."

I get a kick out of the fact she follows along more than anything. I wink before disappearing into the dugout. Game on.

Coach doesn't play me the entire game, but when he does, I'm awesome. There's no way around it. My pitches are on target, going exactly where I want them to go. Batters are hitting, though. It doesn't matter because the rest of the team is feeling the effects of my good luck charm.

The other team plays well, but by a small margin, we win. The high is still carrying me around on cloud nine. When I make it back to the complex, I run up to Abigail's apartment and knock.

When she opens the door, I cup her face and kiss her. She's too surprised at first to kiss back. I swipe my tongue over her lower lip, and the shock wears off. Our kiss deepens. Abigail moans when I gently bite her lip before pulling away.

"That was for being one beautiful good luck charm. I'll see you in the morning for our run." After one more quick kiss, I leave her standing there.

I'VE RUN FOUR of my five miles, making a pit stop on the way back and technically walking some instead of running. There's a Starbucks a block from us, so I stopped by for her white mocha espresso. When I get to Abigail's apartment, I knock.

No answer.

I knock louder and harder six times in a row. I'm about to rap my knuckles against the door again when I hear the turning of the lock and then see a still half asleep Abigail.

"Felix?"

"We're supposed to run today. Why aren't you ready?"

She groans. "I changed my mind. It's too early."

I hold up the cup. "I brought your favorite. Take it and go get ready."

Abigail eyes the espresso for a second before taking it. I step inside to wait as she changes. A few minutes later, she returns looking awake finally and giving me my answer for how she would dress for a run. My mind never conjured something this good. She's wearing boy shorts and a lacy tank top.

"Felix?" Her voice makes me quickly lift my gaze from her legs to her eyes. "I'm ready to get this over with."

I wish it could last all day. "Let's go then." We go outside and stop once we reach the sidewalk. "We need to stretch." I bring my foot behind me, holding it for a few seconds as Abigail mimics me.

She eyes me for a moment and then says, "Did you already run?"

"Yeah, except for a mile. Switch legs."

After that, I cross my legs at the ankles and bend over to touch my toes, not even bothering to be discreet as I look over at Abigail. She's going to be more of a distraction than anything. We lunge to the left and right before beginning to walk.

"We'll walk for two minutes and run for one," I tell her.

We keep a steady, brisk pace while walking and then a slow, but even pace while running. Abigail does well the first minute and the second as well. By the third, her chest is heaving and she glares at me for a moment. She doesn't say anything, though. About the halfway mark, she speaks up.

"Let's just walk the rest of the way back."

"If you walk, I'm going to start running circles around you. It's that or you keep running every two minutes." I run around her once to make my point. "C'mon, Abigail. You can do this. We're halfway done and we're going to walk the last leg, anyway."

When it's time to run again, she does.

"My legs are going to be so sore," she says once we've reached the three quarters of the way point after running for another minute.

"There's no gain without a little pain. We'll walk the rest of the way."

"At some point in your life, I'm going to make sure that phrase comes back and bites you in the ass."

I laugh. "Think you'll join me again tomorrow?"

She seems to think about it. "How about three times a week?"

"That works," is what I say, but really, I'm thinking _Three times a week? I need to see you dressed like this 24/7!_

When we reach the complex, Abigail pats my shoulder and says, "See you later, Felix."

"Later," I reply, watching her walk all the way up the stairs before going to my own apartment. Running with her and seeing those boy shorts may just be my favorite new activity.

THE WEEK PASSES normally until Friday. Abigail ran with me this morning, and I swear there was an extra pep in her step, though I'm unsure why. I've been enjoying taking her to school, running in the morning, and the conversations that happen during those times. We haven't talked much outside of that, though.

Therefore, when practice ends and I put in my time at the gym, I decide to be done for today. Once I'm back at the complex, I walk up to Abigail's apartment and knock. She opens the door with a smile seconds later. Although, when she sees me, I think it falls a little.

"Hey, Felix," she says.

"Hey, I stopped by to see if you'd like to go out with me tonight?"

She hesitates for a moment before answering me. "I can't; I have plans with someone else."

"Plans as in a date or plans with a sister?"

"As in a date. A guy I have class with asked me out. So, I said yes since I'm not seeing anyone, right?" She looks a little nervous and unsure.

"Oh, of course, yeah." We aren't dating. We haven't been on a date and two kisses doesn't equate to a relationship, so she's right. She isn't seeing anyone. The fact she has a date, though, really bums me out. I should have asked sooner. No, I shouldn't have fucked up the first time. "Well, have fun, I guess. I'll see you later then."

"Okay and make sure you don't knock on my door in the morning. I'm not sure I'll be in the mood for running since I don't know how late I'll be out, or what we'll be doing."

"No running, got it." Which is really a good thing because I don't want to knock and someone else answer the door, though I don't think Abigail would sleep with someone that quickly. But who knows?

She tilts her head and asks, "Felix, are you okay? You're acting strange."

"I'm fine. It's been a long day, that's all. Enjoy your date, Abigail."

Her face falls a bit with my well wishes. "Have a good evening, too, Felix."

As I make the lonely walk back to my apartment, I'm wishing I hadn't messed up our first date. I might not get the opportunity for a second one.

***

NOT ONCE BUT twice has Felix Hernandez kissed me. I thought I had figured out what his deal was, but I have no clue. He keeps throwing a curveball at me over and over again. When I said I wasn't seeing anyone, I slightly hoped he would have been a little jealous and said something, but he didn't.

Now, I'm sitting in Warren's Ford Focus heading off to dinner. I thought it would be somewhere fancy and I'm wrong. When he pulls into a small café diner, I start to wonder where Felix would take me for our first date.

_Abigail, stop it!_ I yell at myself. You're on a date and not with Felix.

Warren holds open the door for me and we walk into the diner. You can tell it's been here for a number of years and it's in desperate need of an upgrade. I feel bad for whoever the owner is because they can't see that lime green isn't in this season and hasn't been since 1970.

"So, what do you think?"

"Oh, this is great," I lie and smile.

"Right? I've heard about this place from some of my frat buddies."

"Well, this is a good choice," I fib again and look at the torn plastic menus. Of course, it's typical diner food, which entails mainly sandwiches.

When the waitress comes by, I order a BLT and fries and Warren gets a cheeseburger with tater tots.

"How do you like being in a frat?" I try to make some small talk. I'm really surprised he's still in a frat and being a grad student.

"It's amazing. I think it's the best decision I ever made."

"Because of the networking?"

"No, because I made a tons of friends and I know where all the parties are." He smiles.

And there it is...the mature college student who isn't any of those things. "I'm sure that's important, too."

"Abigail, I'm just messing with you." Warren laughs. "I may have joined for those reasons in the beginning, but I've truly made a lot of great connections through the frat. I'm too busy to be partying."

I feel my body relax. "I knew that."

Warren shakes his head. "You're lying. Did you really think I was just a grad student who went to keggers to pick up nineteen-year-olds?"

I shake my head. "No, I didn't. I'm sorry I jumped to that conclusion." Great, now I feel like the ass.

"It's fine. Like I said, I'm too busy to party. Actually, this is the first time I've been out for a while."

"Do you work?"

He sips his sweet tea. "Yes, I do. My parents...well...they fell onto some hard times, and I work to help them with their bills."

"That's very sweet of you." His cheeks are a little red from saying that, but I think it's very admirable he's helping his parents. I would do everything to have my parents here so I can help them out in any way I could.

"What about your family? Are you all close?"

"My parents have passed, but I'm very close to my two older sisters. Do you have siblings?" I change the subject because I don't want him to ask anymore about my parents. I usually don't rush to tell people I'm the reason my parents are dead. I'm still not sure why I told Felix so quickly. Then again, I seem to be very open around him all the time.

"I have a younger sister in high school. We're okay, not real close though." I can tell it's a touchy subject for him and I move to something else as the food arrives.

As we eat, we talk about books we've recently read, movies, how one of our professors has the worst breath in the world, and how we can't wait to be done with school. The conversation seems to flow smoothly and I like that there's no awkward silences. I always hate that on dates.

After Warren pays, we walk out to his car and he pauses for a moment. I think something is wrong because now he seems nervous.

"Everything okay?"

"What? Oh, yeah. I didn't realize the time." He points to his dashboard.

"Do you have somewhere to be?" It's eleven at night; it's not like it's four in the morning.

"Actually, I have to work early in the morning. Do you mind if we cut this night short, but pick it up another time?"

I shake my head. "No, I don't mind at all."

Warren smiles and we head back to my apartment. He walks me up to my place. I don't know if he will kiss me or not. Apparently, I suck at this part.

"Sorry again." Warren's voice is sad and it's sweet he really cares.

"It's fine. I'm not upset."

Warren nods, leans in, and gently kisses my lips. "I had a great time."

_Well, you don't kiss anything like Felix_ , I think.

"I did, too." I unlock my door. "Have a good day at work."

WHY THE HELL am I up so early? It's because I'm on Felix's run time. Oh, the jerk is brainwashing me into his running schedule. I'm up now; I might as go running. I wonder if he's out now. I check out the window and his car is here. I send him a quick text.

Me: Are you running yet?

Felix: Was about to head out.

Me: Want a very slow running partner?

Felix: Sure. I'll wait for ya.

I change into a pair of black running shorts and a tank. It's already muggy out and the less clothing I have on, the cooler I'll be. I walk over to his apartment.

"Your stupid schedule has me all thrown off. I never wake up this early. Ever!" I yell at him as he shuts the door.

He turns to me with that sexy grin. "Maybe you just really wanted to see me."

"Ha! Wow, you still suck at flirting," I try to deflect what might be true. "Are you still a virgin? I read somewhere about this cool, hot-looking guy who flirted a lot but was nothing more than a tease to the ladies. Was that about you?" I laugh as we head out to the trail. I didn't mean to ask if he's a virgin. I'm sure he's not.

"No, it was not! You're the only person it doesn't work on." He shakes his head and there's still a small smile on his lips. "You see right through all my lines, which aren't completely terrible either." He picks up the pace a little

"Really? Trust me, they're not that good. Now, how was your quiet night?"

"I ended up going out with some of the guys on the team after talking with my brothers. How was yours?"

"It was okay." I breathe heavier as his long legs stride forward. "I mean, Warren is nice and the place he took me to was...all right. He brought me home early because he had to work. Overall, I enjoyed myself."

"Good. Better than him forgetting you, right?" he teases.

"Yes, it was better than that but..." I stop before I accidently say the one thing I shouldn't say. "Never mind."

"But...what?" He slows down, almost to a walk. "You can't start and then not finish. What were you going to say?"

I grab my side and groan, not from a running pain, but from the pain that I can't shut up sometimes. I blame LA for that. "I was going to say the kiss wasn't as good as yours," I mumble, hoping he didn't understand me and let's it go. He stops and looks at me. I can't figure out his expression. "Can we run now or maybe walk briskly?" I need to get away from his gorgeous eyes.

He grins widely. "Sure, whatever you want, Abigail. You know what, I'll let you be in charge today since you decided to run after all."

We're both quiet for a few moments as we jog through the trail. Felix wants to ask me something. I can almost feel it.

"So, how much better was my kiss than his?"

And there it is...

I roll my eyes, but my smile appears on it's own accord. "Let's say it was better and leave it at that. Maybe he'll do better on the next one."

"The next one?" It sounds like he's shocked. "Hm. Well, maybe he won't do better. Who knows."

"Who knows."

We don't talk the rest of the run and I almost make it a full mile before I feel like I'm about to pass out.

"I'm done," I pant heavily. "I can't make it another step. Just leave me here to die."

"Dramatic much?" Felix laughs.

I curl my lip at him. "Shut up and let's walk home."

On the very slow walk home, Felix tells me about the catcher on the team, Blake Foster. I don't know much about the rest of the players, considering they're all new.

"Isn't he the one with the mean face?"

Felix nods. "Hector calls him Grumpy. I don't know what's going on with him. He's not a bad guy. I've known him for a while now."

"Do you think it has anything to do with last season?"

"Well, we're all under a microscope since last year's team was banned for the drug use. I don't think I've taken so many piss tests in my life, but I understand the reasoning for it, too. However, I don't think that's it."

"Just be there for him then. Sometimes that's the best thing to do." I shrug. "But he does have a mean face."

Felix chuckles. "I guess and thanks for the advice."

"You're leaving tomorrow, right?"

"Yep, I'll be gone for the whole week. What are you going to do without me?"

"Not run," I laugh.

"You should keep it up though. It's worse when you take a break and then come back to it."

I roll my eyes again. "We'll see. I'll see you next week."

Before I leave, Felix grabs my arm and pulls me flush with his body and kisses me. Damn it. I want to stop and push him away, but I can't because his tongue in my mouth is holding me in place.

"See ya."

He leaves me standing there for a moment and then I rush off to my apartment.

I PICK AT the salad in front of me as Annie goes on about going back to get her doctorate in education.

"I could do it and possibly become a principal someday."

"I think it's a great idea. Abby-bear, what you say?" LA looks over at me.

"I think it's a great idea, too." I smile at her.

"Where are you today?" LA looks at me confused.

"What? I'm right here."

"No, you're not. Annie and I are here having a lovely sister lunch, but you're off in Abby-bear land." She takes a bite of her sandwich.

"I have a lot on my mind." I push the plate away.

"What is it?" Annie's voice tells me that she concern for me.

"I had a date with a really nice guy the other night, but damn if Felix Hernandez doesn't keep popping into my head."

"Oh," LA perks up. "Why Felix?"

"Because he's the jerk face who won't stop kissing me," I blurt out. Both of my sisters stop and stare at me.

"Kissing you?" LA's mouth falls open.

"Yes. Every time I'm around him now, especially when we're running, he kisses me. All I think about is his damn lips."

"Are you kidding me?" LA smiles brightly. "This is wonderful."

"Wonderful? I'm in a nightmare. Felix is a baseball player who spends more time on the road than at home. Since you've Googled him so much, have you seen the women he's dated? Supermodels, Hollywood actresses, and I'm not in either one of those categories.

"And then, there's Warren. He's a nice guy who works to help his family out and goes to school to further himself. He's normal." I rush out all the words that are spinning in my head because I am tired of them being there.

"Felix isn't with those girls anymore. There's a reason he's not, and it's because he wants to be with you," LA explains.

"If he wanted to be with me so badly, why did he forget about me on our very first date?"

"What? What do you mean he forgot you?"

Shit. I look over at Annie for support. I never told LA about our first date disaster. Annie shrugs and I take a deep breath and tell LA everything that's been happening between Felix and me. I explained it was the reason why I didn't go to that game.

"Why do you keep things from me? You both do that and I hate it," LA pouts.

"Leigh Ann, it's because you tend to react before you think," Annie says softly.

"I do not," LA lies, and I giggle.

"Abby-bear, what do you want to do? You can't date them both," Annie offers her advice.

"Felix hasn't asked me out. He just keeps kissing me. I'm not sure if he's trying to get me in bed or not. I know I can't date both of them, but Warren and I have only been on one date. It's not like I'm in some serious relationship." I shrug.

"What if Felix did ask you again? Would you go?" LA sounds hopeful and I'm beginning to wonder about her sanity and if baseball is effecting it.

"Maybe," I mumble. "But if he forgets about me again, I'm done," I state more firmly. LA and Annie both laugh at me, and we finish our lunch.

As we walk out to the parking lot, the main highway seems to be busier than normal and the traffic noise is loud. Annie says she'll take me home since she needs to run to the store. LA gives me a hug and I turn toward Annie's car when I hear it: the screech of the tires, the sound of crunching metal, and the banging of the cars.

The flashback starts. Dad and Mom are laughing because LA is going to be married soon and they can't believe she's in love. I'm listening to Britney Spears on the radio, looking at the cars in front of me. Dad keeps saying I'm doing a good job. Mom's cell phone rings and I look in the rearview mirror at her. Then it happens. I never even saw the semi pulling out.

My throat is burning from my screams and I can hear LA and Annie telling me I'm okay, but I can't stop screaming. I'm rocking back and forth and I hear sirens.

I've killed my parents all over again.

WHEN I OPEN my eyes, I feel a heavy arm on my stomach. I look over and LA is asleep next to me. Her dyed blonde is fanned out over the pillow. I smile because it reminds me of when we were much younger. She would come into my room if I had a nightmare and sleep in my bed. She's always been my protector. I hear footsteps in my hallway and Annie comes into my room with a cup of coffee.

"Hey, you're awake." She puts the cup down on the nightstand and sits on the edge of the bed. Annie's brown hair is in a messy ponytail and her makeup is smudged.

"I didn't mean to scare you." My voice is hoarse and my throat burns.

"You heard the car crash and lost it in the parking lot. You finally passed out and we got you home." Annie brushes my hair away from my forehead.

"It's been awhile since that's happened."

"Are you okay?" LA sits up and rubs her eyes.

"Yes, I'm fine." I look at my alarm clock. "Oh God, you two need to go. It's almost midnight."

"I have sick days I can use." Annie takes my hand.

"And Harry knows I'm here." LA takes my other hand.

"I'm sorry I'm a burden."

"Abigail," LA grits at me. "Don't start that shit. You're not a burden to either of us. We understand how hard this is and we're here for you."

The tears burn my eyes. "I don't know what I would do without you two," I sniff.

"You'll never have to know because we're always going to be here for you." Annie kisses my forehead. LA hugs my neck. I softly cry for the loss of my parents and the love for my sisters.

***

IT'S BEEN A fun week of traveling, playing ball, and relaxing in hotel rooms in between. I'm glad to be home though. Plus, I'm curious if Abigail went on her second date with that guy. I'm still grinning over the fact that she likes kissing me more. It's one reason why I keep finding excuses to kiss her, like now.

I knock on her door after having dropped of my bags in my apartment. She's a sight for my sore, Abigail-deprived eyes. It's late, so I'm not surprised that she's in pajama shorts and a t-shirt.

"Felix, hey," she says with surprise.

"Hey. Miss me?" I grin.

"Did I _miss_ you? I do believe you came rushing over here and not the other way around." She winks and I laugh.

"That's because I'd rather see you than text you to find out if you've been running while I'm gone and if we're going running tomorrow."

"I've done no running. School and work has been taking up a lot of my time. I don't know about the morning run."

"Why not? Already giving up on me?"

"No, I'm not giving up," she says, shaking her head. "I've had a long week and it's been a little rough on me. I'm sure you don't want me to bore you with the details, but maybe the morning after next I will."

She sounds sad, so I ask, "Is everything okay? Want to talk about it?"

"Um...do you want a beer?"

"Yeah, sure."

I step inside and she goes to the kitchen to grab us each a beer. We take a seat next to each other on the couch. Abigail doesn't start right away, choosing to take a gulp of beer first. She takes a deep breath and looks at me.

"I had a flashback. It happens from time to time, but this one was because I heard a fender bender when I was having lunch with my sisters and I lost it in the middle of a parking lot. Sometimes after that I'm a...little depressed and I'm trying to focus on school to help me out of it. That's why I haven't been running."

"Sorry you had a rough week. Is there anything else that helps?" It must be very hard to have to relive that day. I couldn't imagine what it must have been like for her to lose both her parents and in the way that she did.

"My sisters. Annie cuddles with me until LA starts yelling at me to get the hell out of the bed. It always works." She softly giggles. "I'm not sure why I told you all that. It seems like when I'm around you, I'm a fountain of emotions and useless gibberish."

I chuckle. "Does it bother you that you're that way with me? It can't really be a bad thing, right?"

"I don't know, Felix. I have strange feelings around you and it doesn't have to do with my newly acquired good luck powers."

"Strange feelings? The good kind or bad? I don't think strange is usually associated with good though." I frown at the thought.

"Let's be honest, okay? You're Felix Hernandez of the Memphis Angels. You've dated hot chicks and A-listers since the day you were drafted. Now, I've known you for a little over a month, and you've stood me up, you're my personal driver, you take me running, and you kiss me every chance you get, but have no intentions of asking me out. So, yeah, I'm a little confused because I'm just me and that's nothing special."

That has to be the lamest thing I've ever heard. Although, I give her props for telling me something I've never heard before. I've never had a girl tell me that she thought she was on a different, lower level than me. "I dated a lot of 'hot chicks and A-listers' because it kind of just happened that way." Okay, so that's not completely true. I was too new to the league and too excited that there was no way I was about to turn down dating all those hot girls.

"That shouldn't matter though," I continue. "Obviously, it didn't work out with any of them. Why do you keep putting me on a pedestal higher than yours? My job doesn't mean I'm automatically in a higher league or however you're thinking. And who says I have no intentions on asking you out?"

"Felix, you are in a different league. The baseball one and that sets you apart from me. Plus, I don't know what your intentions are because all you keep doing is shoving your tongue in my mouth."

As if that's so terrible! Maybe I've been reading her wrong. She doesn't sound like she's interested in me at all. "Do you even want to go on a date with me, Abigail? Because you keep giving me reasons why it doesn't make sense. That makes me think you wouldn't want to if I were to ask. I can stop kissing you, too, if you want. If you really think we're so different, then I can stop confusing you." I can retreat into a platonic friend, if need be. I hope not though because I really like kissing her and I do want to take her out.

Abigail sighs. "Damn it, Felix. I'm confused because I _do_ want to date you. Well, at least go out on a date. And excuse me, did I not tell you that you're a good kisser? I'm sure you and your ego haven't forgotten that little confession."

"No, I haven't," I grin. "I've thought about it quite a bit, but now, you're confusing the hell out of me." I'm a good kisser, yet she made it sound like almost a complaint that I've been "shoving my tongue into her mouth."

"I'm sorry about that because it's not my intention at all. Why did you come over here? Did you need something besides our running schedule?"

"Well, I planned on giving you a kiss while I was here, since I'm so good at it and all," I flash her a quick smile, "but now, I'm thinking I shouldn't. Until we have a date first, so you know my intentions. Do you want to go on a date with me, Abigail?"

"On a real date? Not some baseball game either."

"What kind of man do you think I am? Yes, a real date."

She laughs. "Why, Felix? Why not some Memphis hottie or someone else? I'm grad student, for Pete's sake."

"Because you're a hot grad student who is a great person and fun to hang out with. What more of a reason do I need?"

"You still suck at flirting, but that was sweet to say. All right, I'll go on date with you. I will even text you numerous times to remind you of it," she teases.

I laugh. "You won't have to, but better safe than sorry. I should go though. I'll text you tomorrow to let you know when this date will happen, okay?"

"Okay, but if you forget, I won't be happy at all."

"I won't, but if I do, you have my blessing to send LA to beat me up."

She laughs, shaking her head at me. I can't help myself, needing my lips to touch her, so I kiss her cheek before I leave. Now, I need to figure out how to make my date way better than hers with that other guy, whatever she said his name was.

MY SHOULDER WAS a little sore yesterday and it's bothering me even more today. Coach sends me to see the massage therapist before practice. Faintly, I remember Blake said it was a woman and I wonder what she looks like.

Her door is slightly ajar, so I push it open and say, "Hello?"

I stop short when I see Blake nearly jump out of his skin as the woman removes her arms from around his neck and fixes her shirt from where their make out session was getting hot and heavy.

"Sorry, I'll give you two a minute," I tell them, stepping back into the hallway and closing the door like I found it. Wow. Blake is seeing the massage therapist. Or, at least, kissing her.

They are talking quietly, but I can't make out what. Suddenly, the door flings open and Blake glares at me.

"Say one word about this and you'll regret it," he threatens.

"Okay."

Blake seems satisfied, so he leaves for practice. I'm still going to ask him about this later. I'm way too curious. When I step into the room, the woman has regained her professional composure.

Her smile is wide and bright. "I don't think we've met. I'm Sofia."

I shake her outstretched hand. "Felix. Coach wanted me to come see you. I think I've aggravated a muscle in my shoulder during the last game."

She pats the table and thirty silent minutes later, my shoulder feels much better thanks to her. I return to practice with instructions to come back afterward if it gets irritated again. Blake narrows his eyes at me and I grin. He's back to being Grumpy, it seems.

Once practice is over and the locker room clears out some, I walk over to Blake, lean against the wall, and say, "Well?"

He glances at me. "Well, what?"

"I walked in and your tongue was down her throat and your hands were up her shirt. So, I ask you again, Grumpy, well?"

"It's none of your damn business, Felix."

"Have fun with that, then. Maybe she'll make you stop being Grumpy so much."

He shrugs, so I finally leave him alone. To keep from disturbing my shoulder, I decide not to workout today and head on home. I didn't take Abigail to school this morning, but I did tell her I would pick her up. After a quick lunch, I head toward our usual pick up/drop off place.

She's laughing at something the guy standing next to her said. I don't even think she's noticed I'm here yet. Is this the guy who took her on the date? A smile pulls at the corner of my mouth as I remember I'm a better kisser.

"Abigail," I say to catch her attention once I've gotten out of the car and walked around.

"Good evening, Mr. Hernandez."

"Are you ready to go?"

"Sure. Bye, Warren. I'll see you Thursday night." I hold the door open for her and she gets into the car. I walk around in get in myself.

"So, that's the guy, huh?"

"Yes, that's him. Why? Are you jealous?" She giggles.

"Nope." But then I remember she's interested in him enough to be going on another date with him, and I add, "Well, maybe just a little. I'm glad your date with him is on Thursday though."

"I don't want to have two dates on the same night. That's too much hassle."

"Don't worry. Our date will be Friday. Will that work for you?"

"Perfect. What's the plan for our date? Please don't tell me you're taking me to a batting cage either."

"I'm disappointed you think so little of me, Abigail." I'm half teasing, half serious. "I've never taken a girl to a batting cage on a date. And I'm not telling you our plans yet."

"Really? Well, I can see that since I'm sure the girls you dated before all wore high heels and designer clothes. Hey, why won't you tell me?"

"Maybe it's more because I don't think that would be fun instead of the type of girl they were." I wish she'd stop thinking of me as what she's seen online instead of the guy she's met in person. "Give me a little credit. I spend too much time around baseball to include it in my plans when I want to have fun, especially with a girl."

"Okay, okay, I will give you the benefit of the doubt. Could you at least tell me how to dress?"

"Nicely? Anything will work."

"As long as I don't need running shorts and sneakers, I'm good." She winks.

I laugh. "You definitely won't need those."

***

MY HEAD HURTS from reading so much. I finish my test and hand in my blue book to the professor before heading out the door. Felix is gone until Friday morning and LA said that she would be a few minutes late to get me.

I spot an empty bench outside the building and I'm glad it isn't as muggy today. The sun is hot and bench burns the back of my thighs as I sit on it. I flip through some emails and a few texts messages from Annie. She's officially dating someone and I couldn't be happier for her. It's nice to see her acting giddy and silly. It's a different from her motherly-serious side and it's sweet to watch.

"How did you think it went?"

I shade my eyes to see Warren standing above me. "Not bad. I'd be happy with a 'B'. What about you?"

He chuckles as he takes a seat next to me. "I'll be happy if I spelled my name correctly."

I laugh at his joke. "I'm sure you did better than that."

He shrugs. "Are we still on for tonight?"

"Yes. My sister is picking me up in a few and I'll see you a couple hours, right?"

"Yep." He smirks. Warren's features are much different than Felix's. Warren's are softer and he doesn't have that constantly furrowed brow. Felix's are strong, taut, and almost off-putting until you get to know him. They're complete opposites, but still both kind.

"Okay." LA's red Nissan pulls up and she honks. "I'll see you tonight." I rush off to the car.

"Who's that nerd?" LA asks as she pulls away.

"He's not a nerd. That's Warren." I buckle my seatbelt.

"Good thing you're not seeing him anymore."

"Who says I'm not? Actually, I have a date with him tonight," I inform her.

"Wait, what happened to Felix?"

"I'm seeing him tomorrow night."

"All right." LA pulls the car over and throws the gearshift into park. She turns to me and stares me down. "Where is Abigail?"

"Huh?"

"My little sister doesn't date two guys. Where is my sister?"

"Really, LA?" I roll my eyes. "I'm not dating both of them. I'm just _seeing_ them. Besides, I'm not sure how things will go with either of them. They know I have dates with another guy. I'm not lying to them."

LA shakes her head. "I don't know. I think you need to dump Mr. Nerd and date Mr. Hottie-Baseball-Player."

"Leigh Ann, stop please. You're the one who's always bitching that I'm not out doing stuff with the opposite gender. Now that I am, you're mad? Make up your mind, lady!" I raise my voice to her.

LA raises one brow. "Who are you? Have hit your head lately?"

"Stop, LA. If anything gets serious with one and not the other, I promise I won't string one along like some girls would. I'm not like that. Right now, I'm having dinner with male friends and that's it. Okay?"

LA stares at me for a few moments, and I'm not sure what she's thinking. I don't think I've seen LA silent before and it scares me a little. She knows I'm not _that_ girl who has numerous boyfriends and pits them against each other. I would never do that. Warren knows about Felix and Felix knows about Warren. There's nothing serious on either end. Hell, if I don't send reminder text to Felix, he won't even show up.

"My vote is for Felix."

I roll my eyes. "Of course it is and I'll take it into consideration. Now, will you please take me home? I have a date to get ready for." LA groans, but she does put the car in drive.

When I arrive at my apartment, I dump my books out and quickly run a mental check to make sure that I have nothing to do right then. Surprisingly, I don't have anything and I feel a small ping of accomplishment. I lay out my outfit for the night and jump in the shower.

When I'm done, I wipe away the steam on the mirror. My hair is up, twisted in the towel, and my robe is tied tightly around me. I walk into my bedroom and see my phone flashing.

Felix: Have fun on your date with the bad-kisser

Ugh! Why did I even tell him?

Me: Thanks. Have a good game.

I send the reply and then go back to getting ready. As I dry my hair, I think about Felix and his lips. And his body. And his eyes. Oh, shit, now I'm wishing I could see him naked. I turn off the hair dryer and try to focus on putting on my makeup. I wonder if Felix likes girls who wear a lot of makeup or if he's the type to like a 'natural' girl. I bet he's a big boob guy. Well, then he definitely wouldn't like me and my B-cups.

Why am I thinking about Felix? I'm going on a date with Warren. I try to think of Warren being naked. He's not in bad shape. Obviously, he isn't as big as Felix, but he has muscles and a strong body. I'm sure he isn't cut like Felix either, but I bet the pictures I saw were photoshopped. I'm certain Felix doesn't look _that_ good under that baseball jersey. Then again, I've seen him in a tank top when he's running. Maybe he is that built.

I slip on my black dress pants and my light pink blouse. I don't know what Warren has planned, so I choose flats instead of heels. I check my phone again and there's no reply from Felix, but as I look at the time, I'm sure he's warming up for the game. I hope he does well tonight since he's pitching and I'm not there.

What difference does it make if I'm there or not? Oh right, I'm the lucky charm. I laugh out loud, thinking I should get him a locket with a four-leaf clover and my picture in it, so he can carry it around with him. I would love to see his face if I really do that.

My laugh halts at the knock on the door. Warren is here to pick me up. I grab my clutch and head to greet him. After small pleasantries, we head out to the car. Warren tells me about his other classes and I tell him about mine. The conversation is slow and nothing great. I'm beginning to wonder where we're going when he pulls into a parking lot of what looks to be an abandoned warehouse.

"Where are we?"

"This is a new club that opens early. They have a really great happy hour and dance floor."

Wait...what? He's brought me to a bar on a date?

"I thought we could have a few drinks and dance a little bit. We'll leave long before the rowdy crowd makes an appearance."

I've never been a partier. I've been to a few clubs and I have been drunk only once in my life. I don't mind a drink or two after class or at a game, but a _bar_?

"Great," I lie and we get out of the car.

Warren leads me into the bar, holding my hand. It's clammy and I know he's nervous. It's kind of cute, actually. I softly squeeze it and hope it encourages him a little bit. I may not like clubs, but maybe a few drinks and a couple of dances will be nice. I shouldn't be so much like LA and jump to conclusions.

Inside the dimly lit bar, there are about thirty people. Warren waves at the pretty blonde bartender and guides me over to a corner table.

"I thought we would sit at the bar?"

"Nah," he waves his way. "It's quieter over here." He holds my seat out for me.

"Thanks." I sit down and the blonde puts two beers down in front of us. "Um...come here often?" I grin.

"Somewhat. Is this okay or do you want something else?" He points to the beer.

"It's fine." I'm not sure what kind of beer this is, but I drink it slowly.

Warren peels at his label and I'm not sure what to say. I always hate this part of dates. I need to think of something to say, but before I can, Warren goes into a feverish conversation about why he went into grad school. I listen intently as he tells me that one day, he wants to work for a large book publisher as either an editor or possible professional book reviewer. He tell me he loves to read memoirs and historical novels. Although, he doesn't read romance at all; he thinks it's all fake and wishes authors would write _real_ men every once in a while.

Warren loves to read because his mother read to him all the time and it reminds me of Mom and what Felix said about his mom. No, don't think about Felix right now. I make sure my attention is on Warren as he continues to talk. I add in my few comments, but it's nice to see this side of him.

The music begins to beat through the surround sound and I notice how many more people have come in since we sat down. It's not crowded, but it's getting there.

"We should go." He stands.

"Wait, I thought we were going to dance." I point to the middle of the room where a few people on the wooden floor.

"Really?"

"Fair warning, I'm not the greatest dancer." I shake my head.

"Me either, but let's see if we can make it through a song or two." He takes a firm grip on my hand and it makes me smile that he seems relaxed around me again.

We sway to the music and he's not as bad as he let on. I'm hoping I'm not looking like a flopping fish as I move against him. He gets me to giggle as he spins me several times and I'm dizzy for a brief moment. He catches me easily in his arms and when he brushes my hair out of my face, his green eyes are staring into mine. He's much cuter this close to me and I hadn't noticed it before. His lips softly touch mine and we both stop moving. In the middle of the dance floor, Warren kisses me and it's _much_ better than last time.

MY WHOLE DAY has been great. Classes were great; the coffee from the local café was good, and even my dirty mop of hair turned out good. It's all because of my amazing date with Warren. He's a great guy, much better than I gave him credit for.

Now, as I finish getting ready for my date with Felix, I text him again.

Me: You have fifteen minutes until the date starts.

I think that's the fifth text I've sent him today to remind him it's Friday and our date night. I double-check my red dress to make sure it's not too short and not showing too much of my chest.

The four loud raps on the door tell me that Felix is here.

"Look at that! You didn't forget me this time and you're early," I tease him, opening the door. He's in a pair of gray dress pants and a blue polo.

"I could never forget you twice. Are you ready since I'm early?"

"Yes, I am." I grab my clutch. "Am I dressed okay? You didn't tell me where we were going."

"You look beautiful." He grins.

"Aw, see? You're getting better at flirting." I shut the door and we head down the stairs to this car.

"Really? Maybe I'll just say that all the time. Should still work, right, since it's true? And what girl doesn't like to hear she's beautiful?"

I laugh as he opens the door and I slide into the seat. When he gets in, I tell him, "Every girl likes to hear that. Now, are you going to telling me where we are going? I'm not a fan of surprises."

Felix doesn't tell me right away as he drives out of the complex and heads toward the other end of town. "We're going to a reading. Still excited?"

I gasp. "A reading? Really? Who?"

"Tom Clary."

"Shut up." My mouth drops. He's one of my favorite murder mystery authors. "I didn't even know Tom Clary was in town. I just finished his latest book. Damn, if I'd known this, I would have brought the book with me. I'm sure they'll sell some I can buy, right?" I'm trying not to pout because I'm excited to go, but I hate that I don't have anything for him to sign.

"I already have two copies of the book. They're in the backseat. I wasn't sure if you had it yet or not."

"You did?" I'm in shock that he thought of me. I glance in the backseat and I see the two hardback books lying there. My heart swells. "That's sweet, Felix." I lean over and kiss his freshly shaven cheek. "Thank you."

"You're welcome. And we're going to Clarabell's for dinner afterward."

"Sounds perfect."

Since we're not that far from the event, there isn't much conversation. Felix pulls into the lot and parks. He holds my hand as we walk into the library, which is already packed with people. Felix keeps his hand on the small of my back. I can feel the small circles he traces through the thin material of the dress. It sends small shivers through me.

We're able to find seats and I may have scooted in closer to him. He puts his arm around me and I want to lay my head on his shoulder, but I refrain as the reading starts. I hang onto Mr. Clary's every word as he reads two chapters of his book. He takes a few questions and as soon as it started, it's over, and we're shuffling out to the lobby to have our books signed.

"I can't believe what a great reading that was. He's very passionate when he reads, don't you think?" I hold my book close to my chest.

"Yeah, he is. Hopefully I'll be able to read it on the next road trip." He puts his in the backseat and he drives to the restaurant.

"You read the books you have signed? Not me. I set them on the shelf and worship them as idols." I giggle because that's almost the full truth. "I use my Kindle most of the time."

"I'm not that committed. I don't own an e-reader and why buy two copies of a book just because one is signed? The story doesn't change you know," he jokes.

"This date was going well until you said that. What do you mean you don't own an e-reader? It's a necessity in life. And the reason I buy two is because one is for my shelf and one is so I can read it. I don't want to damage the one I have signed."

"Do you somehow damage the one that isn't signed?"

"Yes. You get fingerprints on it, you might bend the spine, and God forbid you might spill something on it." How can he not care about the books?

Felix booms out a laugh and he pulls up to the curb to the valet. I reluctantly sit my book in the back and step out of the BMW.

"This date was going well until I realized you're crazy," he whispers close to my ear as we walk in. "Fingerprints, really? Books are meant to be read. If you bend the spine, it's a good thing."

"Oh dear, I don't think I can hear such blasphemy. Let's change the topic before I _accidentally_ stab you with my fork." Felix chuckles and tells the hostess his name and she leads us to a table. "How's baseball going?" I ask once we're seated.

"Baseball is fine. Did I tell you I caught Blake kissing the team's massage therapist?" He looks at his menu and sips on his water.

"What?" That seems a bit bold. "Isn't he the 'player' of the team? I think LA told he's the man-whore of the Angels. Or is that Hector?" I remember LA telling me all about the players on the team, but I only half-listen to her.

"Blake's nickname is Grumpy. Do you think he could be a player with a nickname like that? I don't know if he is or not, though. It's not like he shares much."

"What a horrible nickname." I wouldn't want one like that. "I thought your team was close. The news keeps saying you're all getting along well."

The waiter comes over and we give him our orders and Felix orders a bottle of wine.

"We are. Hector gave him the nickname and he's probably Blake's closest friend on the team. Blake knows about it. That make it better?" He grins at me again.

"I guess. I never understood strange nicknames. I mean, LA's is simple because she is Leigh Ann, but Grumpy?" I shake my head. "Do you have a nickname?"

"Grumpy isn't strange. It fits because he's, well, grumpy. I don't have a nickname though. Must not be special enough for one," he jokes.

"Not even from your brothers?"

"Nope. Just Felix. What about you? Do you have a nickname?"

"Yes. My dad gave one to me as a small child, and my sisters still use it. I hate it at times, but then...sometimes it reminds me of how much they love me." I shrug.

"Well, what is it?" he pushes. I debate if I should tell him or not, but then again I'm sure he'll hear it eventually.

"Abby-bear. I use to carry a teddy bear all the time and Dad started calling me Abby-bear after that."

"That's sweet."

The waiter comes back with the bottle and I take a small sip of the white wine. It's sweeter than I've had before, but soothes the dryness in my throat from all the talking I've done.

"When's your family coming? Are you going to take them on a tour of Memphis?"

"They'll be here in two weeks." There's some excitement in his eyes. "We'll probably all go on a tour of Memphis. It'll be fun and my mom likes to do all the touristy stuff, so we'll do things like that."

"There's really a lot to see here. Make sure you take her to Beale Street. Oh, and Graceland. It sounds silly, but the building is gorgeous."

"Maybe you should be like our tour guide!"

"I wouldn't want to intrude on your family time. That would be rude." I would like to meet his family, but it's not something that happens when you're just friends.

"Not if I invited you, Abigail. You know this place better than I do. Makes perfect sense that you show us all around. So, what do you say?"

"Felix, it's your family and they came to spend time with you. I'm sure they don't want your...friend or lucky charm tagging along."

"I told you it's no big deal, but if you don't want to, it's fine. I was planning to walk around aimlessly and hope we stumble upon a tourist hotspot."

I roll my eyes. "You can't do that. Fine, I'll be your tour guide. I can't believe you were going to wander aimlessly," I mumble. "Have you even been around Memphis to see the sights?"

"Abigail, I still use my GPS to get almost anywhere in this city. What do you think?"

I laugh because I remember him saying that before. The waiter sets the food in front of us and I can't believe how fast it arrived. "Well then, you do need me to help. Are you sure your family won't mind?"

"Not at all. They'll probably be grateful to have you show them around instead of me. You could even give me a private tour first, if you want to practice." Felix's grin is contagious and I smile back. His brown eyes light up and it's nice to see this sweet side of him.

"Look at that! Your flirting is getting better." I laugh softly. "Maybe on a second date we could do that. There are a lot of great restaurants downtown. Well, I mean, if there's a second date, of course. I don't want to push my luck. Wait, I am the luck, aren't I?" I wink.

"You're starting to like being the lucky charm, aren't you? But yes, you're the luck and if you would like a second date, then we'll go on another one." He cuts into his prime rib.

"Well, you're going to be home for the next five days. Maybe we can come up with something together. I do have a lot of work this week though. I think I've overdone it a bit, taking so many classes. Plus, I need to go to therapy this week." Shit. I stop talking and turn away from him. Why am I telling him such personal stuff all the time?

"Does something like that help?"

His tone is sincere and I slowly face him again. Felix is looking at me and waiting for my answer, but it's not a harsh look. He isn't judging me; he's sincere and concerned.

"At first, when LA took me, I thought I was going to be lying on a couch, pouring my guts out to some idiot who didn't care, but I ended up becoming close to my therapist." I cut a small piece of my chicken. "She's very kind and truly cares. So, yes, it does help. I slacked off a bit, but I need to get back to it, especially since I'm having trouble sleeping again." I keep my voice soft. I'm not sure if I'm embarrassed or if I don't want anyone to hear.

"I'm glad it helps you then. If there's something I can do to help, just let me know."

"Don't let this go straight to your head or anything, but the running helps. It tires me out and by the time the night comes, I seem to sleep better."

He's trying to hold back a smile. Yeah, his ego is growing. "I'm glad it helps. I run in the afternoon, too, you know. Maybe you'll sleep even better if you switch from the morning to the afternoon? I wouldn't ask you to do both."

"You run twice a day? Oh my God, do you enjoy torturing yourself? I think I have leg cramps _thinking_ about running twice in one day." I rub the top of my leg thinking of the pain from all that running.

"Want a quick massage?" Felix grins at me.

"Maybe when we finish eating." I try not to sound thrilled about it, but the thought of him touching me sends me into a small frenzy. "Tell me about growing up in Cali. Did you surf every day and see celebrities all the time?" I need to get my thoughts away from his hands on me or me touching him.

"I'm going to ruin your idea of men from California. I've never surfed a day in my life and we didn't live near the celebrity hotspots. Sorry to disappoint."

"So, what did you do? Just play baseball twenty-four seven?"

For the first time, I see him hesitate and he doesn't answer me right away. "Not exactly. Maybe we should start with your life, growing up here first. What are some of your favorite childhood memories?"

"Oh, well, some of my favorites were when my sisters and I would hang out. They're much older than I am and it was cool hanging with teenagers when I wasn't one. They would let me wear their makeup and teach me about fashion, things like that."

"I know what you mean. About the hanging out with the older kids, I mean. I'm the youngest in the family and my brothers are a few years older than I am. Plus, they brought all the cute older girls around, too."

"So, it's your brothers' fault you suck at flirting?" I laugh. "Were you that creepy little brother always trying to hit on the girls?"

"No," he softly chuckles as he finishes the food on his plate. "I was the adorable little brother who managed to hang out with the girls even though I sucked at flirting. I was cute. No one could resist."

"Does that mean you lost your virginity to some older girl?" I push away my food, well, what's left of it.

"Abigail," he gasps in a fake horror fashion. "What kind of question is that for a first date?!"

"Please," I roll my eyes. Has he forgotten who he's on a date with? "I think we've passed that, don't you? And now I really want to know since you're dodging it, Felix."

"You really, really want to know? Is it that interesting?"

"Still dodging. This has got to be a great story."

The waiter comes back and asks if we want dessert. We both decline and he hands Felix the bill. He quickly pulls out his credit card and pays for it.

"I draw the line at telling you the story," he continues after the waiter leaves. "The short answer is yes. Happy? Can we go back to your childhood now?"

"I'm dying to know it now, but if you don't want to tell, then fine. Why don't you tell me a childhood story? Who taught you to pitch? Was it your dad?"

"Dad got me into baseball. My brothers played, too. I was actually a first baseman for a long time and when I started playing again in high school, the coach trained me to be a pitcher instead."

"Playing again? Did you stop playing?"

Before Felix can answer me, the waiter returns his card. Felix stands and I follow suit. He guides me by putting his hand on the small off my back again. I notice a few people are looking at us. Since the Angels have been on the news, more people are taking second glances at the players.

"Um, yeah," he answers my question as we wait for his car. "Remember, I told you before that I didn't always play? That's what I meant. I had a little break."

"That's right, I do remember. Did you stop playing because you were hurt?"

Felix opens his mouth, but closes it as the BMW pulls up and he opens my door. He doesn't say anything as we head back towards the apartment complex.

"No," he finally speaks. "Once my brothers graduated, they took their friends with them. I hung out with all the older kids, so I had to find new ones. I didn't make the best choices and did some things I'm not proud of. I got pissed at the coach, said some things, and ended up quitting. I started getting into more trouble and eventually, the coach reached out to me, got me playing again, and set me straight. I was lucky to have him, especially since he ended up being the person to turn me around, and it was clear that baseball was my saving grace. I haven't stopped since."

"Wow." I didn't expect him to say all of that. "I would have never thought that about you. I always figured you lived and breathed baseball since the first time you slipped on a glove."

"Nope. But that's why I'm like I am now." He parks the BMW in his assigned spot and we walk hand-in-hand to my apartment.

I hold my book tightly in my other hand. I unlock my door and I feel Felix's hand on back again. I turn and look at him for a moment. My body is screaming to invite him in, but my heart is telling me to be careful. "Would you like a beer?"

He smiles, nods, and follows me into the apartment. He takes a seat on the couch and I grab a couple beers.

"I had a good night," I tell him, handing him the bottle and sitting next to him.

"I did, too. Thank you." He turns, mirroring my pose, and stares at me. His brown eyes take in my face, and then he removes the bottle and sits it on the table. He pulls me toward him and stops right before our lips touch.

I gasp. He closes the gap and slips his tongue into my mouth. We battle for control of the feverish kiss. He grips my thighs and drags me even closer. I straddle him and press my core against his hardness. I dig my hands into his hair and he glides his hands under my dress.

He cups my ass and he gently bites my bottom lip. I moan and he moves his hands up and begins to toy with the thin string of my thong before getting brave and bringing it down.

"Felix, we need to stop this." I pant, pulling away from him and gripping his wrist, stopping him from going any further. "We need to talk, please."

"Okay, about what?" He's breathing hard as well and moves his hand to my thighs again.

"What is happening here? Seriously, do you just want me for sex?" I have to know before I do anything with him.

"No, I don't. I do like you, Abigail." He gently kisses me.

"Are you looking for me to be your girlfriend, then?"

Felix pulls back and looks at me. "I was thinking we could keep dating and see what happens. Unless you have a different idea?"

"No, no, no. That's fine." I pull my hands from his wrist and lay them on his hard pecs. "I want that, too, but I don't want to have sex yet. Please."

"No sex?" He processes the words. "Okay, no sex then."

"I'm not the type of girl to fall into bed with every guy who shows her attention. I may not be a virgin, but I do have standards, Felix." I move from his lap and sit on the coffee table across from him.

"And I respect that. Standards are good to have." He takes my hand and kisses the inside of my wrist. "I should go."

"I did have a great night," I rush to tell him.

We stand, and he takes me in his arms. "I did too." He kisses me one more time and let's himself out of the apartment.

***

"SO, HOW'S IT going being that girl's chauffeur? Are you still driving her everywhere?" Kevin asks.

"Yeah, I am. She goes running with me sometimes and we went on a date last night."

"And?"

"And it was good. We talked a lot and went to a reading and dinner. She invited me in, we kissed, and she sent me home."

"No sex?"

"Guys, she has standards. No sex on the first date and I'm pretty sure it's no sex until we turn serious."

"Do you want to be serious?" Lewis asks.

"Am I supposed to know the answer to that question? I like her, so maybe?"

"Hey, I've heard of love at first sight and all that crap. You seem sappy enough to be serious with a girl after a date. I mean, seriously, you went to a book reading. How girly can you be?" Lewis says.

"I wanted to go to that, too. It's not like I suffered through it for her. I don't know for sure about the whole serious thing. My other relationships pretty much just happened and then either she was crazy or clingy or they broke up with me because I kept forgetting about dates. I already forgot about what would have been our first date. If we enter into a relationship, I definitely can't do that to her again and I don't know how reliable I would be."

"Wait, is this that same chick that you call your lucky charm? I thought she was dating someone else?" Kevin asks.

"Same chick. And see, that's an issue, too. If we break up, what are the odds that she's still going to come to the games? I realize that's probably not what I should be thinking about, but I am. And she is dating someone else. It's not serious though."

"Well, how do you know that this guy she's seeing doesn't want her to go to the games? Maybe you could just...I don't know...maybe, say that it's serious with her and just keep her around until the season ends?" Lewis suggests.

Kevin is quick to jump in. "Don't give him any ideas. He's gone this long without a lucky charm; he'll be fine if he loses this one. He needs to be more worried about putting something other than baseball first. If you want her all to yourself, she's going to have to be the priority as much as possible or she's going to dump your ass like every girl before her."

"I'm not going to string her along, but I don't know what I want yet. It was only one date...so far."

"Okay, so maybe that wasn't my best advice ever," Lewis concedes. "But what if she hung out with us when we come? Mom will definitely tell you what to do after she meets her."

"She is. She's going to show us all around Memphis since I haven't explored any. You want me to ask Mom if I should make her my girlfriend?" He can't be serious.

"No, dumbass. Just have her hang out with us and if she's nice and if you're all silly with her, then we'll know if it should be serious or not. We know you better than anyone."

I laugh. "All right, fine. We just have to hope things don't get too much better with that other guy."

We talk for a while longer before I hang up. I like Abigail, I really do, but my track record sucks and I would hate to mess things up with her. We'll just see what happens.

IT'S TIMES LIKE this when I doubt the validity of a lucky charm. Doubting is probably not helping matters either. With the way things are looking right now, there's a real chance, even with Abigail in the stands, we could lose another home game. I take a deep breath to focus. I need one more strike.

I throw the ball and I'll be damned if he doesn't hit it out of the park. He could have been my third out, which would have been fantastic considering there's a player on second and third. They all run in and then the next batter comes to the plate. I take a moment to fidget with my hat, roll my shoulders, and glance into the crowd, quickly finding Abigail.

All her good luck powers need to align and come my way. Abigail smiles and then blows me a kiss. I grin and wink at her before changing my focus on the batter. Blake gives me a signal, waits, and then gives another before I pitch.

"Strike!"

Okay, one down, two to go. I fidget with my hat again, but don't bother taking too much time. Blake gives the signal and I throw the ball again.

"Strike!"

The batter locks his jaw, gets into position, and Blake has his glove open and ready. I pitch and get the last strike and out. Before I disappear into the dugout, I flash Abigail a quick smile. Hopefully, we can pull ourselves out of the hole we're in now.

The last few remaining innings pass much like most of the game. We don't recover and lose the game. Once I make it back to the complex, I go straight to Abigail's apartment. I knock four times.

She opens the door and quickly says, "I swear I ate the hot dog before warm-ups and drank my beer. I didn't even pee and I really had to go."

"And you were the exact same clothes as usual?" I ask.

"Felix, I only own one piece of Angels clothing. I swear I was even wearing the same thong." At this, she slightly blushes and I grin.

"That would have been my follow-up question. I guess we were just off tonight."

"I'm sorry, Felix. Do you want to come in and have a beer? I think I can whip up some food real fast." I love that she's trying to be helpful.

"I was going to head to bed, but time with you sounds better."

We walk inside and I take a seat on the couch while she goes to the kitchen. A moment later, she returns with two beers and a bag of chips. "Salt and alcohol seem to help me when I'm down. What do you usually do? Don't you dare say running either."

"What do I do when I'm down? Or what do I do after a loss?"

"Um...both."

"Well, when I'm down, I try to find something fun to do like skydiving, or indoor skydiving if that's not possible. Just something with a good adrenaline rush. After a loss, I spend a day running, practicing, and in the gym."

"What kind of masochist are you? Skydiving? Running? Are you trying to cause my legs to hurt again?" A cute disgusted expression appears on her face.

"Depends. Does this mean I get to massage them?" I grin.

"Considering you lost, it's only fair." She throws her legs onto my lap. "Now, let's forget the game and discuss something more important."

I begin massaging her legs, kind of thankful we lost. "We should lose more often. Something more important, though? Well, my family is pretty excited about meeting you."

"Oh God, I forgot about that. I'm turning into you," she says with a roll of her eyes. "Well, never mind what I was going to say. What day are we doing the tour? I have to make sure I can take the day off school and not miss any work."

"What were you going to say? And we can do it on a Saturday or Sunday, whichever works best for you."

"Saturday would work great. I was going to ask if you wanted to go to Jackson Church's signing, but it's Friday night and I don't want to take away from your family either."

"Maybe we can work something out. They might be too tired to want to do anything Friday night. We can hope and cross our fingers."

She giggles, her fingers aimlessly playing with the hair on the back of my head. "I don't want to take time away from your family. I want them to like me. I can have LA take me."

"LA would be a bad choice. I would be the better option since I would enjoy it. I'll figure something out. They won't care as long as I make it worth their while." I pause and then smile as I realize what she said. "So you want my family to like you?"

"Well, duh! I mean, I don't want them to think I'm some Tennessee Princess who was raised in a barn. Why wouldn't I want them to like me? Should I be scared?"

"They'll like you. The only reason you should be scared is maybe because of my brothers. They don't always think before they speak."

"I'm sorry, have you met my sister, LA? She has no filter."

"Oh, right. You should be fine then. How have you been sleeping? Did you go to therapy yet?"

"It's been okay. I didn't sleep much the night before last, but I think it's because I had a lot on my mind, too. I decided that maybe I need to go back to my therapist more regularly again. We discussed how I need some stability in my life. I need to focus, not just on school, but my personal life, too."

"Stability is good. I don't see how it could hurt. How are you going to do that though?"

"I have no clue," she laughs. "I explained that I'm currently, somewhat, dating two guys and she went into the whole don't-use-sex-as-a-cure speech. Needless to say, that's where the stability speech came in. However, she's right, but I have a lot more to work through first."

"You can do it; I'm sure."

"I guess. She and I made a list of things to work on the next couple months and I'm _really_ going to take the summer off and relax. Annie is thinking about doing some traveling and wants me to come along. I haven't taken a break from school since I started college."

"You definitely need to take the summer off then. Traveling is great; you should go with her. Although, for my own sake, it would be unfair for you to go to any beaches or tropical islands without me."

Abigail giggles. "Oh, and don't worry, Annie promised me that I wouldn't miss any home games either, but why don't you want me to go there without you? Is it because you want to see me in a string bikini?"

"Exactly. I can't see you if I'm not there and that would be unfair. And if a vacation is what you really need, then I could make an exception for you to miss home games."

"Wow. Although, after tonight, I'm not sure I still have any good luck mojo left."

"Oh, you do. You gave me those three strikes when I needed them. Good luck has bad flares every now and then. It happens." I shrug.

"Aw, look how sweet you are." She leans over and kisses my cheek. "Have you been taking nice-guy classes or is it because your family is coming into town soon and you have to be a nice guy?"

"When have I not been a nice guy? I've always been this way."

"Well, I guess." She playfully rolls her eyes. "Are you feeling better?"

"Much better. Are you?"

"Don't let this go to your head, but I always feel better when you're around. Now, shut up and don't bring it up again." She laughs and I smile.

"Saying, 'Don't let this go to your head,' almost always guarantees that it will. I didn't know I had that ability. Looks like you aren't the only one with powers around here."

"If you develop powers, the world will never be the same. I may be scared." She hides behind her hands.

"Hey, no hiding." I pull her hands away. "It's kind of hard to see your pretty face if your pretty hands are in the way. And then," I lean toward her, "it makes it really hard to give you a kiss." I give her a quick kiss and pull away before I get lost in her lips.

"Felix, what have you told your family about me?"

"Pretty much everything. Why?"

"I was just wondering. I didn't know if I had to pretend that I'm not the lucky charm because you lost tonight."

I laugh and tell her, "Just be Abigail."

Her phone rings and Abigail reaches for it. She glances at the screen, bites her lip, and then hits ignore before sitting it back down. "I can do that, but I think it's getting late. Don't you?"

"Yeah, I need to be going. Thanks for the beer and allowing me to give you a mini massage, too."

***

"I THOUGHT I wasn't going to be dragged to any more of these dumb things." LA stands in line with me.

"I didn't remind Felix because his family is in town, remember?" I hold Jackson Church's book close to me as I shuffle forward.

"You're meeting them tomorrow, right?"

"Yes," I mumble and I feel my stomach flip. "I'm nervous."

"Why? They'll love you. Everyone loves you. You have two guys breaking their necks to date you." She groans as the line moves again. "Why is this taking so long?"

"There are over two hundred people here."

"And tell me why I'm having a book signed, too?" She holds up the book.

"I'm getting one for Felix."

"Oh," she swoons. "Not getting one for Mr. Nerd but one for Mr. Baseball. Does that mean you like him more?"

I take a deep breath and don't answer her. I don't want to get into this right now. I'm more confused now than I have been in my entire life and LA isn't going to help because she likes Felix more than anything or anyone.

Thankfully, she doesn't push the issue and we make it to the front of the line. Mr. Church is kind and signs both books with no problem. LA takes me home and I send a text to Warren.

Me: Thanks for the flowers again. That was sweet.

When I came home today, there was a box and inside were six long stemmed red roses. I thought it would have been from Felix, but it was Warren. I should have known Felix wouldn't know tomorrow is my birthday. I never told him, and if I had, he wouldn't remember anyway.

Warren: I hope you have a great day tomorrow.

I'd told him that I would be with Felix and his family. I don't want either of them to be surprised about what I'm doing. My therapist is pushing me to either choose one or be single. She wants me to focus on my life and having two _relationships_ is taking from the focus.

Me: I will. I'll see you Sunday after the game.

Warren: It's a date.

I'd told Warren I can't miss the Angels game, but when the game is over, we're going to have dinner together.

I sit Felix's book on the coffee table and put mine on my bookshelf. I have my outfit sitting out and ready for tomorrow. I'm going with a light pair of skinny jeans that I think make my ass look great and a soft pink, capped sleeve shirt and matching flats. I know that we'll be doing a lot of walking.

Me: Please don't forget that I'll be there at nine.

Felix: I remember because Mom keeps reminding me, too.

I don't know if I should tell him that he forgot the signing, but it's not like this isn't the first time he's missed something.

Me: LA took me to the Church signing. I got you a book.

Felix: Damn it! I knew I was forgetting something tonight. Why didn't you remind me?

Me: You have family in town. I'll talk to you in the morning. AT NINE!

Felix: Yes, I know.

I can almost see him rolling his eyes and I laugh at the screen. I think tomorrow is going to be fun. At least, I hope so.

I'VE BEEN STANDING outside of Felix's door for two minutes. I can hear laughing inside and I'm nervous. I've never been in his apartment, and I'm meeting his family. Man, this is crazy. I quickly rap on the door four times and shake out my hands to get them to calm down.

Felix answers the door and smiles. He steps to the side and I walk in. His apartment is simple. There isn't much furniture and I'm not surprised. Felix's mother, Marie, is the first to greet me. I can see where Felix gets his eyes. Stanley, Felix's dad, is tall and chunkier. However, it's Kevin and Lewis that make me do a double take. The brothers and Felix could almost be triplets. Felix is taller than the other two, but not by much. They all have the same eyes, grins, and even the same shade of hair.

"It's nice to meet y'all." I smile at them.

"It's wonderful to meet you." Marie stands right next to me. She's taller than I am, and she's very inviting. "I've heard so much about you, but not from Felix. He tends to forget he has parents during baseball season." She has a mean look on her face as she glances at Felix.

"He forgets everything during baseball season. You do remember to bathe, right, son?" Stanley chuckles.

"Yes, I do." Felix sounds frustrated. "I don't forget everything. Aren't you supposed to make me look good in front of girls? Not make me look worse?"

Lewis slaps me on the back. "You shouldn't have invited her then because we're going to tell her the truth. You're screwed."

Felix shrugs. "She'll still like me anyway, right, Abigail?"

"Depends on what secrets they tell me." I laugh.

Marie puts her arm around my shoulder. "I like you already, Abby. Now, I'm ready to see some sights. Felix, did you rent a van or are we going to turn your sports car into a clown car?"

"Case Number One: I didn't forget to do that." He grabs the keys. "Let's go."

Stanley smiles at his son. "I'm impressed, Felix."

Everyone heads downstairs and piles into the rented van. Felix is driving and Stanley is next to him. Marie and I sit in the middle row and the brothers are in the back.

"Okay," I announce. "Is anyone hungry or are we going to sightsee first?"

"We've eaten already, Abby," Marie states and I like that she calls me Abby. "I'm ready to explore." She sounds very excited.

"All right." I smile at her. "Let's head out then."

On the way to the middle of town, I point out certain things. Marie is the only one who is really paying attention. We walk around Beale Street and take a tour of Graceland. We walk around downtown, stop at a few places, and Marie oohs and ahhs over everything. It's sweet to see Stanley letting her go on and on, and nobody's complaining at all.

Finally, everyone agrees it's time to have lunch and I lead them down to a bar and grill that's not busy during the day. We all sit around a large round table and I'm between Felix and Marie.

"Marie, did you enjoy the sights?" I ask.

"I loved it," she beams. "These boys are a little tired, but I had a blast."

"I thought I saw Felix yawing and Kevin was napping in the back of the van. You think these men wouldn't be such wimps," I tease loud enough for them to hear me.

"We are not wimps." Kevin seems offended. "I'm not so sure about her anymore, Felix," he says, leaning over to his brother.

"I'm not so sure either." Felix tries to hold back the grin that's making an appearance. "It's been a long day, we have the right to yawn," he tells me.

"I think I'm with Abby on this," Stanley jumps in. " _Y'all_ wimps."

We all laugh at his attempt to say _y'all_. The waitress comes over and Felix orders a couple pitchers of beer for us. The waitress smiles at me and I know she's going to ask for my ID. I pull it out of wallet and hand it to her. She nods and tells me happy birthday as she walks away.

"Is it your birthday?" Marie asks.

I feel my cheeks heating up as everyone is looking at me. "Yes, it is."

"Felix," Marie looks upset as she looks at her son. "Why didn't you tell us?"

"I didn't know." He lifts his hands in surrender. "Why didn't you tell me it was your birthday?" He almost looks hurt.

"I didn't tell you because I don't really celebrate it anymore. I mean, you have one birthday, you've had them all. It's not a big deal." I try to play it off and the waitress brings back our drinks.

"Abby, birthdays are a huge deal. It's time for family togetherness and celebrating your life. I'm sure your parents would want you to spend it with them," Marie tells me softly and I feel my mouth drop a little bit.

"You didn't tell them?" I look at Felix.

He shakes his head. "No, it never really came up."

Stanley looks concerned for a moment. "What is it, Abby?"

"Um." I feel a little scared or maybe it's embarrassment. "My parents have passed on. It's only my sisters and me now."

"Oh, sweetie." Marie takes my hand in a caring, motherly way. "I'm sorry, I really didn't know." I catch her cutting a mean look to Felix.

"It's fine." I don't want to be emotional right now. "You guys need to try the pork barbeque here," I change the subject.

"Now, that is what I want." Stanley rubs his belly. "What about you, Kevin? Are you going to share a rack of ribs with me?"

"Oh, yeah. That sounds good," Kevin agrees.

"So, Marie." I shoot an evil grin at Felix before turning back to his mother. "What was Felix like as a kid?"

"Oh, he wasn't that bad." Marie sips her beer. "Until he and Lewis decided they wanted to play baseball in my house. He was five when it all went downhill for me. All my gray hair is because of those three rascals right there." She points at her sons. "They were constantly getting into something. I've threatened many times to tie them to chairs and moving cars, but nothing worked."

"Were we really _that_ bad? I don't think we were, right, Felix?" Lewis pours more beer from the pitcher.

"We weren't nearly that bad," Felix agrees.

"How many times did you three break our windows? How many times did you break the neighbor's window? Go ahead. Tell me how many." Marie crosses her arms at them.

Kevin jumps in. "Okay, I don't think Lewis and I can be blamed for all of this. Felix was the bad kid. He earned that title in high school. And he was always a crappy throw and usually the one who threw the ball that broke the windows."

"Fine." Felix throws his hand up. "I was Mom's worst kid."

"That's not true." His mother jumps to his rescue. "Each of you matured at your own time. Stanley is my worst kid." She pats his shoulder.

"Hey, I'm the husband." He looks offended.

"Sure you are, sweetheart." Marie smiles at him as she continues to pat his shoulder. The whole table laughs as she coos him. "Abby, Felix did tell Kevin, but not me, that you're in college."

I smile as she continues to jab Felix. "That's true. I'm in grad school right now."

"What for?" Kevin asks.

"Literature," I inform them because they're all staring at me now. "I would like to be a college professor someday."

"That sounds delightful," Marie says brightly. The waitress comes back and we all order subs sandwiches. "Why a professor?" Marie asks when the waitress leaves the table.

I shift in my seat and clear my throat. I really don't want to be all emotional or for it to be about my parents and me all day. "My parents were both college professors."

"I think that's a good career." Stanley smiles at me and I feel more relaxed.

"And literature is perfect because she loves to read and is all weird about her books." Felix sips his beer again.

"I'm not weird about my books," I growl at him. "If I have them signed, I don't want them touched. Think of it as if you had Mickey Mantle baseball. Would you want people fondling your balls?" I feel the heat hit my cheeks as I realize what I said. Oh my God, I'm turning into LA.

"Yeah, Felix. Do you want people fondling your balls?" Lewis chuckles.

"She was so serious when she asked, so you should probably give her a serious answer," Kevin adds, smiling at me.

Thankfully, Felix ignores them both. "It's not the same thing. Unless that author becomes super famous and leaves a huge legacy, those books aren't going to be worth much. The values are completely different. It makes sense to not have someone touching stuff that would be worth a lot of money."

"You're such an insensitive guy." Yep, I'm turning into LA and her loud-ass mouth. "It's not the monetary value of the book; it is the feeling you get from the book. That's someone's hard work. Because of the blood, sweat, and tears they put in it, it turned into a masterpiece that touches someone's life. Don't you remember the first time a book ever moved you or _saved_ you? I do and when an author signs the book, it's like extra chocolate chips in cookies."

Marie and Stanley are grinning at me as the waitress brings out our food. For a moment, we're all quiet as we eat the hamburgers.

"Okay," Felix sighs. "Okay. You win. And just so you know, that first book has a well-worn spine _and_ it's signed."

"I think that's the first time I've ever seen you concede, Felix," Marie pats the corners of her mouth with her napkin.

"How can I argue with the comparison to having extra chocolate chips in cookies?" Felix takes another bite of his burger, which is almost gone now.

"I'm with Felix on this one and I like her." Stanley winks at me and I can see where Felix gets his looks.

"Oh, I think you're outnumbered, Felix. My lucky charm is getting its mojo back," I continue to jab at him.

"Oh, that's right. You're the lucky charm," Kevin speaks up and stares at me as if I'm some sort of idol.

"Hey, what happened the other night?" Lewis narrows his eyes at me. "They lost! Didn't Felix tell you all the rules and how you have to follow them strictly?"

"Yes, I followed every rule. I promise. I don't know what happened." I leave out the part where I was still wearing the same thong to every game, too. I'm sure his parents wouldn't appreciate that.

"Felix has always been that way when he plays. The moment he figures out something works, he'll do it until it doesn't work anymore," Marie tells me.

"So, you would _dump_ the old superstition for a new one?" My heart hurts a little bit thinking he wouldn't talk to me if he begins to lose. Would he do that?

"I've never had a human good luck charm before, but as for the objects and routines, yeah. Three consecutive strikes, you're out," Felix says and I'm still not sure if that's what I want to hear. I don't know what it would be like if I couldn't talk to him anymore.

"My favorite one was when he got a paper cut and Marie only had Transformer Band-Aids. He had it on his left ring finger and won the game. He kept doing that for almost the _entire_ season," Stanley laughs.

"It would have been better if it was a girly Band-Aid." Lewis chuckles, too.

"Hey." Felix points at them both. "Those Band-Aids were super lucky, even off the field. My grades were great that semester. Until, you know, the luck wore off."

When the waitress brings the bill, Felix pays for it all. I didn't even try to pay. I will figure out a way to pay him back, even though I know he won't take it.

I look over at Kevin and Lewis as we climb back into the van. "Do you two have any superstitions?"

Lewis speaks up first. "I have a lucky pair of mismatched socks. They sit in a special little area in my dresser on reserve for when I need them."

"I, um, don't really have one anymore," Kevin adds.

Felix laughs and I catches my eye in the rearview mirror. "I'll tell you what his was later."

"Oh, it must be good, then," I turn around in my seat and tease Kevin, but he doesn't respond.

"Abby, you said you have sisters; are they married?" Marie bring my attention back to her.

"I have two older sisters. Annie's the oldest. She's a teacher and not married. Then LA, or Leigh Ann, is the middle sister and she's happily married. She enjoys being a housewife."

"Isn't that nice? No kids then?"

"No."

"Do you want children?" Marie blurts out to me.

"Oh, um, maybe someday. I have other goals before that happens." What kind of question is that?

"I can understand that, but Felix isn't getting any younger." She nods up at him.

"Mom," Felix states firmly. "Please tell me you aren't honestly saying I need kids. I forget everything; remember? And I'm the youngest. Kevin and Lewis don't have kids. Work on them first."

"Yeah, why aren't you guys married with kids?" I'm glad I can turn the attention away from me.

"Well...we're just so awesome that no woman knows how to handle it." Lewis smirks at me.

"That's his excuse. I have a girlfriend of three years. I'll probably propose sometime this year," Kevin tells us nonchalantly.

"Aw, that's so sweet. Do you have a plan?" I bet it's something amazing.

"Not yet. Still working on that part."

"You need to make it memorable. Girls like that. Most girls think about it all their lives," I inform him.

"They have their perfect proposal already thought up? That's not helpful!" Kevin looks panicked.

"It's true," Marie chimes in.

"It is and you have to top the one she's already thought of. Every girl has it." I do my best not to look at Felix, but our eyes meet in the rearview mirror.

"So, what's your perfect proposal, Abigail?" Felix looks at me.

"Yeah, tell us," Lewis jumps in, but I think he's being sarcastic.

"A girl never tells. So, I'm zipping it and wishing Kevin the best of luck." There's no way in hell I'm going to tell them my dream proposal.

"I bet it involves a book." Of all people in the van, Marie pipes in.

I gasp. "Marie." I try to be mad, but instead, I end up giggling. "Not entirely," I finally add.

"What book?" Felix glances at me again. "Might as well just tell us. Who knows, maybe you'll somehow help Kevin out with his planning. Don't you want to be helpful?" He's guilting me into telling. The jerk.

My face is turning bright red and I wish I was anywhere but in this van right now. I can't believe he put me on the spot like that. " _Pride and Prejudice_. It's the greatest love story."

"Oh, so you fancy Mr. Darcy and his stubborn ways." Felix grins.

"No, I _fancy_ Elizabeth Bennett and her opinionated ways. Sometimes you have to defy family and culture to be heard and fall in love," I correct him.

"I must have read a different version," Felix says as he pulls into the apartment complex.

When everyone files out of the van, Marie gives me a hug and tells me how much fun she had. The guys all say the same thing and then they shuffle into Felix's apartment. Felix takes my hand and we walk to my apartment. Once I open the door, he leans against the doorframe.

"Felix, I had a great day. Thanks."

"Me too. Thanks for coming with us. My family loved you."

"I like them, too. You're so lucky to have them all." Especially two loving parents, but I don't say that out loud.

"I'm sorry for not telling them before." He sounds sad and I know he didn't mean to bring it up in the conversation.

"It's fine. I didn't really want to blurt out I killed them, so I left that out." I shrug.

"You didn't kill them, Abigail." His voice is soft and gentle. It's the first time he looks upset talking about my parents.

"Let's not talk about it right now. I've had great birthday and I don't want it ruined."

"You should have told me about that." The soft voice is gone and the tone I know so well is back. "I wouldn't have asked if I had of known and you could have spent it with your sisters or doing something more fun than hanging out with my family and me."

"Are you kidding? I had a blast. I really did. My sisters are taking me out to dinner tonight and Warren is..." I stop. This isn't the best time to bring him up since Felix is mad that he didn't know about my birthday. "Um, where are your parents sitting tomorrow?"

"And see, I couldn't even get you a present. I feel duped." Oh, he's mad. He didn't even try to change the subject.

"Felix, it's not like that. I promise you. Warren knows because of Facebook, no other reason. I don't make a big deal out of it. Here," I walk over to the coffee table and pick up his book. "I hope you don't dog-ear the pages."

"I don't. I have one bookmark that I always use if it makes you feel better."

"It does. Thank you, Felix. I will see you tomorrow at the game. I'll be in the same seats." I wink trying to turn his mood around.

He glances over my shoulder and I know he can see the flowers Warren sent me. I've never had flowers in my house before. I don't usually anyway. He flicks his eyes back to me and I can see him thinking hard about it, but doesn't say anything.

"I'll see you tomorrow then." Felix leans in and I'm expecting an intense kiss like he always give me, but instead he pecks my lips and walks away.

Shit. He is mad.

***

THE GAME WAS fantastic. It was probably our second best of the season so far. Back at my apartment, I leave my family for a moment and walk up to Abigail's apartment. I do my usual knock. It hits me when she doesn't answer right away that she's out on a date. With _Warren_. I wasn't lying when I told her I felt duped.

I didn't know about her birthday. I couldn't find out on Facebook because I don't have a Facebook page. But _Warren_ does and _he_ gets to take her out on her birthday and I'd bet money that _he_ is the person who sent her the roses, which were so clearly displayed in her apartment. And all I got was a coincidence of a day with her and my family.

I was duped and Warren gets to reap the benefits. Coming to her apartment after a game is part of my routine. Another thing messed up. She'll probably decide he's so great and a better guy for her. That's what it felt like last night and it still feels that way today.

With a sigh, I return to my apartment. Everyone's sitting in the living room, so I take the empty seat next to my mom on the couch.

"We've had a great time, Felix. You should've told Abigail to come over. I really like her," Mom tells me.

"Oh, she wasn't home."

"We all like her, though," Kevin says.

"Good."

"Everything okay, Felix?" Mom asks.

Everyone's watching me, waiting for an answer. "If you don't make a big deal out of your birthday, would you want someone to take you out on a date for it? Having dinner with her sisters, I get. But he gets to do something for her birthday with her. That's why Abigail wasn't home. She's on a date, which is fine, you know. She's not in a serious relationship, she can date whomever. She wouldn't even mention it was her birthday to me, but he gets to send her roses and take her on a date because he saw it on Facebook? I don't know. It's just bugging me. When does your flight leave tomorrow?"

"Felix," Mom begins, "what are you going on about? Are you okay? Why don't you calm down and talk?"

Kevin jumps in to explain. "Abigail has been dating another guy as well as Felix because he told her they would see what happens and that it wasn't anything serious."

"And now, she's on a birthday date with him. That's all I got out of it," Lewis adds.

"She told me she didn't make a big deal out of her birthday. However, that guy knew because she said he saw it on Facebook, and he's sent her roses and gets to take her on a date. I didn't know, couldn't do anything for her, but she's letting him. I shouldn't let it bother me, I guess."

"It bothers you because you like her more than your stubbornness will let on. Why did you tell her you didn't want anything serious when I can see that you do? Plus, you introduced her to us and that shows me that you want more than...well...a fly by night kind of girl. Am I right?" Mom asks.

"I don't know. I told her that because I didn't know what I wanted and I introduced her to you guys because she knows this place better than I do. And because she's a great person."

"Felix," Dad begins, "you have only introduced us to one other girl besides Abby, but I know you've dated much more than that. You can't honestly tell me it's because we needed a tour guide."

"Okay, you're right. What am I supposed to do now? I almost wish I could crash her date."

"No, don't do that. That's not what you need to do right now," Mom interjects. "You need to talk to her. You're home for the next couple of days. Take her out or maybe have a quiet dinner here and tell her you want to be more serious. If that's what you really want."

"Yeah, maybe." I pause. "I'm going to run for a bit, but I'll be back in time for us to go eat before you leave for your hotel."

I change my clothes, grab my headphones, start some music, and take off running the moment my feet hit the sidewalk. My father's words run in my mind on a loop about how I've only introduced them to one other girl. I lost her for one reason and one reason only: once my career really took off, she fell down a few slots on my list of important things. I forgot dates, I forgot an anniversary, I forgot about her parents coming to visit. I let baseball take over to the point where she talked to my family more than I did. At some point, I stopped caring about letting her down and missing those things.

And now, here's Abigail.

After seeing her with my family yesterday, I nearly forgot I wasn't the only guy she's seeing. Then, I saw those roses and heard she's going out with him for her birthday. It didn't bother me that she was seeing him before. We aren't serious, so of course she can. Last night, it started to bother me. I don't want her to be with him, to kiss him, to laugh when he says something funny.

All I could think about was how she might like him more, especially after today because who knows what they're doing. I could end up being only her friend who begs her to show up to my games because I'm convinced she's good luck. And I do _not_ want to be only her friend.

I've run my route and made it back to the complex, but I keep running. For Abigail to make such a big deal about how she thinks I'm on a higher league than she is, it's funny how I could end up on the losing end of this anyway. Maybe it's better that she likes Warren. I mean, I already forgot about the reading on Friday. She would have dumped me by now if we were in a relationship.

You know what? No. I could still have a chance with her and if we were to get serious, I'd make sure I never let anything else slip my mind. I could add it to my calendar on my phone or put sticky notes all over the place as a reminder or both. There would be baseball time and Abigail time. If I want her bad enough, then there will be no forgetting.

And I do want her. A lot.

When I make it back to the complex, my shirt is soaked with sweat and my legs ache from having run twice as much as I do in one day all at one time. I stop short when I see Abigail and Warren walking toward me, not yet noticing me. Their date must be over. We meet at the bottom of the stairs at the same time. My mouth wants to spill everything I've been thinking about while running, but I don't. Instead, I give Abigail a small smile and jog up the stairs, leaving them behind. I'm thankful I hadn't turned off my music yet and can't hear anything they said.

I apologize to my family for taking so long before going to take a shower. I need to focus on spending time with them before they leave tomorrow. Then, I'll figure out what Abigail is thinking and go from there.

I DIDN'T TAKE Abigail to school this morning since I was seeing my family off at the airport, but I did tell her I would pick her up. We have the day off and I spend most of it grocery shopping and cleaning up my apartment. I've decided to take my mother's advice and have a quiet dinner here for when I tell her how I feel about things.

Thankfully, she's standing alone when I arrive to pick her up. Abigail smiles as I get out of the car and walk up to her. I cup her face and kiss her softly.

I pull away and say, "That was because I didn't get the chance to yesterday." Before she can reply, I open the car door for her to get in and then walk around to the other side. "Do you have any plans tonight?" I ask as we pull onto the road.

"No. I was going to read for a little bit, but I'm all caught up on everything else, so no big plans. What are you thinking?"

"Dinner in my apartment?"

"Oh, how fancy. Am I getting a specially-cooked Felix meal?"

"Yep. I figured it was about time I cooked for you."

"I'm impressed. A baseball star and a cook, is that a double threat?"

"I'm really a triple threat because I have the good looks, too." I grin.

"That is true. You do have the looks."

"Glad you agree. Did you have a good day?"

"I did. I'm completely done with my finals. I'm beyond good at this point."

We have chit-chat until we get back to the complex. I tell her to meet me in my apartment at six for dinner.

WE'VE BEEN TALKING about small things so far, enjoying our meal. It's driving me crazy to sit here and talk about regular stuff when all I want to do is blurt out that I want her to be my girlfriend. Reaching over, I take her hand.

"So, how do you think things are going with the whole let's see what happens thing?"

She looks confused for a second. "Um...fine. Why?"

"Well, I was wondering what your thoughts were on changing that?" I pause and add, "To just you and me."

"Wait, are you saying you want to be in a relationship with me? Like a real one?"

"Yes, that's what I'm saying." I nod.

"Why? I mean, I thought you were too busy for such things."

"I'm not too busy for you and because I like you."

"I don't understand where this is coming from. I thought you liked the way things were between us. Sure, we're not having sex or anything, but what's changed?"

"I did like the way things were, but I'm ready for more. I just knew after Saturday." I shrug.

"Is this because I didn't tell you about my birthday? Felix, you're busy, and I don't celebrate it. Therefore," she shrugs, "there was no point in telling you."

I decide not to answer her. That's part of it, yes, but not completely why. "Abigail, just tell me if you want this, too."

"I do, _but_ I'm worried at the same time."

"About what?" I ask quietly.

"Us. I mean, you're gone all the time, well at lot of the time. Your life is baseball and I understand that. I need to focus on me, too, and I'm afraid you won't be there for me when I need you the most. This isn't going to be an easy road for me. Are you willing to put in the time? It's okay if you're not."

"Of course I am. That's why I'm bringing this up. If I wasn't, then I would have left things as they were. I'm willing if you are, unless you think we shouldn't." I take a quick breath and say, "Or if you would rather date Warren instead."

It scares me that she doesn't reply right away. She thinks for a few seconds before speaking. "I realized Sunday that I don't want Warren. The entire night was...bad." She almost looks nervous. "I think I went into the date with the intentions of setting things straight with him and us just being friends. I've wanted you, but didn't know if you wanted the same things that I did. I mean, you _did_ forget our first official date."

"I know and I don't want that to happen again. I'm going to do my best to make sure it doesn't happen because I don't want to do that to you."

She rolls her eyes at me. "Felix, I know you have a lot on the brain and I have no problems reminding you of our dates, or whatever we have planned. I get that part. My bigger concern is that you forget...me. I'm not talking about the dates, but just me. You know, like how you're at a party and you leave and forget you came with a friend. That type of feeling." She looks sad and lost and I never want to see that look on her face again.

"I've never had that happen. I'm not that kind of forgetful. If we were to go somewhere together, I wouldn't leave you there because I forgot you were there, too. Abigail, I wouldn't forget _you_. I haven't been able to since that first time and the signing doesn't really count because my family had me so distracted and running around, it was crazy."

"I didn't mean you would _actually_ forget me. I meant it as you would forget that I'm part of your life. Relationships are hard and adding me and my issues to your baseball schedule isn't going to be the sprinkles on the cake. I'm not trying to push this away from us because I do want it, but I want you to be sure you've thought it through, too."

"I've been thinking about it nonstop for two days. We can do this. I can do this."

"Then okay. Let's do this."

"Really?" For a while there, I thought she was going to turn me down anyway.

"Yes, really. I do want this. Sunday with Warren proved it to me."

I grin. "You know, my ego still grew a little since you left the game wanting me more."

"Your ego sucks," she mumbles. "But you're right. That date...was a mess and I should have stayed home and waited for you."

My grin widens. "I came, too. I was so focused on seeing you that I forgot you weren't home. And then I went running."

"Ugh, more torture. I swear your legs are going to fall off one day." She giggles and then grows serious again. "I'm guessing your family _may_ have helped you with this decision."

"A little. Your ego might grow if you knew that you're only the second girl to ever meet my family." With dinner over, I stand and lead her into the living room and onto the couch. I pull her into my lap so she straddles me.

"What? The second girl?" Her brows raise with her shock. "Wow, I'm floored by that. I figured your family knew all of your previous relationships. You know," she places her hands flat on my chest, "this means your going to have to have dinner with my sisters. It's not going to be pretty either."

"They knew I dated, but they never met them. And dinner with your sisters shouldn't be too bad. LA already loves me, right?" I rest my hands on her hips, moving my thumbs over the fabric of her shirt.

"Oh, trust me, she does. I'm sure the second I tell her it's official between us, she's going to start buying bridal books. Don't listen to her though because that's a road I'm not heading down anytime soon."

"OK. What about Annie?"

"Annie will love you, too. She's just not as expressive as LA. I'll check your schedule and see when you can do it, okay with you?"

"Yeah, sure. You met my brothers and had dinner with them, only fair I do the same with your sisters." I push a few loose strands of hair behind her ear. "Have you talked enough?" I ask, kissing her neck. "Because I really want to kiss you for a while." I kiss her jaw. "Just kissing," I add, so she doesn't think I wanted this for sex.

"Okay," she breathes, pressing her lips to mine.

I move us so she's laying on the couch underneath me. She opens her mouth and I find her tongue with mine. Her moan makes me smile. I nibble on her lower lip, running my hand up her side and grazing the side of her breast. She starts kissing me harder, her fingers curling into the back of my neck.

Forgetting my just kissing comment, I glide my hand back down her side, slip it underneath her shirt, and run my fingers over the cleavage peeking out from the top of her bra. My lips move down to her neck as I push her bra up. Abigail moans and arches her back when I pinch her nipple.

I press my lips to hers again, but when she shivers beneath me, her jeans rubbing against mine, I know I have to stop. I kiss her one more time before removing my hand from under her shirt and resting my forehead against hers, both of us breathing heavily. "We should," I try to think of something for us to do besides this, but come up blank, "do something else."

"Yeah, let's see what's on TV."

We sit up on the couch and turn on the TV. Abigail leans into me and I wrap an arm around her shoulders. This is going to be a very good thing; I just know it.

***

I TAP MY nails on the side of my coffee cup as I wait for Warren. I want to tell him face-to-face that Felix and I are officially together and I want to be his friend. And because of Sunday. I'm still upset about that, but thankfully, Felix didn't catch on to it.

"Hey." Warren gives me a small smile and sits across from me.

"Hey. Did you want to get a coffee?"

"I don't think I'm going to be here long. Am I?"

I take a deep breath. This isn't the first time I've ever broken up with someone, but it's still hard. "Warren‒"

"Wait." He cuts me off and leans forward. "I'm sorry for the way I acted the other day. I have no excuse for it. I can't even blame the alcohol because I didn't drink, but please know I'm sorry."

I nod. "I accept it, but look at it from my point of view. You practically laughed in my face about my signed books. Okay, I know it seems strange that I don't read them, but you didn't have to make fun of me."

Warren slowly nods and looks down.

"Let's not mention the fact when I told you about my parents and that I was in therapy, you almost ran away from me. How do you think that made me feel?" The people at the next table look over at me and I know I should have lowered my voice a bit.

"Abigail, I'm sorry. That wasn't something I was expecting you to say. I mean, it came from left field."

I try not to smile at the baseball metaphor. "Look, you have a point. I shouldn't have blurted out like that and I'm sorry. However, I would have expected a little bit of sympathy or at least an 'I'm sorry to hear that.'" I keep my voice down this time.

"You're right and I'm sorry for everything. Does this mean we can't be friends?" Warren asks sadly.

Crap. "No, we can be friends but nothing more than that. Felix asked me to be his girlfriend last night, to be exclusive with him, and I said yes."

"You did?" Warren's eyes widen.

"I did and I hope we can be friends. I do mean that." My phone beeps.

Felix: Where are you?

Me: Be right there.

"I have to go, but I did have a lot of fun with you." I lightly kiss his cheek before I walk out of the coffee shop toward Felix's waiting BMW. I give him a huge smile as I get into the car.

"Well, hello, Felix. How was practice?" I take his hand as he heads toward our apartment complex.

"It was good. How was your day?"

"Classes were good, and I talked to Warren a little bit ago. He knew it was coming because of the way he acted on Sunday." I shouldn't have said that last sentence.

"How did that go? What all did he do, Abigail?" He glances at me and he's a little upset.

"It went as expected. He apologized and I accepted. I told him we could be friends, but we all know what the sentence really means and that was it." I ignore the question about Warren and hope that he doesn't push it.

"That only answers one of my questions, but if you don't want to tell me, that's okay." I know it isn't okay and he does want to know.

"You know you suck at flirting, but you've got the guilt trip down pat." I shake my head. "He made fun of my books. Plus, when I told him about Mom and Dad, he damn near tripped over himself to get out the door. That's what happened."

"Seriously?"

"Yep. That's when I knew you were the one for me. Because you never made me feel like crap and he did." I take a deep breath. I don't want Felix mad at Warren. "Okay, this is a bit overdramatic, but I didn't feel like he cared, that's for sure."

When Felix pulls into the parking lot, he turn to me after he parks. He has a bright smile on his face. "I'm the one for you?"

"Oh, there goes your ego again." I roll my eyes. "You know what I mean," I try to clarify to him.

"Yeah, I do."

"Anyway, he seemed fine with it." I squeeze his hands. "Now, onto a more important topic, what do you have planned for tonight?"

"Not a thing."

"Well, I hate to break it to you, but you have plans now."

"I do? What am I doing? I hope it involves you and kissing." He leans in and grins.

"Um...I will be there, along with my two sisters and my brother-in-law." I give him my biggest and brightest smile I can and hope he can come.

"We're doing that tonight? And I don't think they'll care if I kiss you."

"I know it's short notice, but Harry only has tonight off and Annie and I are about to be really busy soon with all the work that comes with the end of the semester. Let's not forget you're about to hit the road for a while. This is really the only day. And if you kiss me in front of LA, she'll post it to Instagram. So, you have been warned."

"Tonight will be fine. I'm looking forward to it."

"You say that now, but just remember two letters: L and A." I roll my eyes at him.

"I'm not worried about LA. I mean, she's a bit...you know, but she's nothing to be scared of as long as I don't piss her off."

"Please don't do that. I beg you because it won't end well for you. I can promise you that." I can see it all going down right now in the middle of the lawn.

"I'm not going to intentionally piss her off; I'm not that dumb."

"I know. I'm warning you, that's all." I give him a quick kiss.

I quickly drop off my books and change into something more comfortable. On the way to LA's house, Felix tells me all about practice and that he went to lunch with Blake and Hector again.

"Are you ready?" I ask as he pulls into the driveway. LA and Harry's house is large, but not too big. They live in a nice subdivision. I figured by now that I would be an aunt, but nothing yet.

"Yep. Are you?"

"I'm not sure, but let's go."

We both get out of the BMW and I hear LA squeal as she comes around the side of the house. She hugs me tightly around the neck. "I'm so happy you're here."

"You saw me this morning," I tell her as she lets me go.

"I was talking to Felix, Abby-bear." She laughs and gives Felix a side hug.

"I'm happy to be here and it's good to see you again."

LA leads us around to the backyard. Harry is standing by the grill. He's a few years older than LA, but he's very sweet. They make the statement that opposites attract true.

"This is Harry, my husband and the guy who gave his seat up to Abby-bear for you." LA takes Felix over to the grill. I give up on trying to get him away from her and head over to Annie to hug her. She hands me a beer.

"I think he knows that, Leigh Ann. Nice to meet you, Felix." Harry shakes Felix's hand.

"Nice to meet you, too. Thanks for giving up your seat as well. If there's anything else you want, just let me know," Felix says sincerely.

"I'm good because it seems to be working and that's all that matters, right?" Harry hands Felix a beer and they head over to where I'm sitting at the patio table.

"Okay, now that we've got that settled. Felix, this my other sister, Annie," I introduce him to my oldest sister.

"Hey, Annie. It's nice to meet you." Felix shakes her hand and he takes a seat next to me.

"Felix, it's a pleasure. LA talks about you all the time." We all laugh. "Abby-bear has said a few things, too."

"Hopefully the good outweighs the bad. Abigail talks about you two as well, and the good outweighs the bad." Felix chuckles.

"Oh, you're lying, but that's sweet of you," LA says. "I hope you like ribs, Felix. It's not throwing off some day-before-a-game routine, is it? If it is, we'll change it to whatever you want," she quickly rushes out.

"Hey, what if I don't like ribs?" I ask.

"Are you trying to win a championship?" LA snarls at me.

"I am the lucky charm," I quip back.

"Why is it that every time you say that I suddenly have a craving for cereal?" Harry shakes his head.

Felix laughs. "LA, I don't really have a day-before routine, but I feel like I should say that the lucky charm is, in a way, trying to win a championship. So, maybe you should cater to her, too?"

"Ha, LA, you should cater to me." I giggle at her.

"Please, like I'm going to cater to you." She sips from her bottle. "I think the food is ready, right, Harry? Let's eat."

We all grab plates and Harry doles out the ribs. LA had made several sides dishes.

"Felix, how are you loving Memphis?" Harry asks. "Leigh Ann told me that Abby-bear took your family sight-seeing."

"Memphis seems to be a great place so far. It was fun to finally explore it a bit and my family loved Abigail." Felix looks over at me and winks.

"Abby-bear is easy to love. She has a big heart," Annie says.

"Oh, dear. Are y'all trying to lie to the poor guy?" I groan at my sisters.

"No, you're very kind to everyone. Almost to a fault," Annie clarifies.

"I have to agree with that. You're a trustworthy person," LA jumps in.

"You make me sound like a child about to run off with a stranger who offered me candy." I stab at my green beans.

"That doesn't sound like what they're saying. They said you're kind and trustworthy and awesome," Felix says.

"Don't be fooled by the ribs and coleslaw, they're ruthless sisters." I laugh at my family.

"Do we look ruthless?" Annie jokes and winks at LA. "Felix, do you know Abby-bear wants to be a professor like our parents were?" Annie changes the subject.

"Yes, I do. I think it's cool she wants to be a literature professor, though I feel bad for any students who say they read their signed books." Felix pokes my rib and I jump slightly.

"Oh my God, do you know that, too? It's murderous if you touch them. For Christmas one year, our parents bought her a signed book and when I reached for it, I was sure she was about to claw my eyes out. Literally." LA points at her eye and a nonexistent scar.

"That's not true," I gasp.

"Yes, it is. You went postal. Felix, don't touch her books," Annie warns him.

"I won't," he says firmly. "At least now I know I'll just have to buy an extra book to not be signed when we go to readings."

"Buy a kindle. How can you not own a kindle?" I sip my beer.

"Because I like books I can hold in my hands," Felix explains

"I have to say I love my iPad. I didn't think I would, but it's the greatest thing invented. Felix, are you a book nerd like Abby-bear?" Harry joins our conversation since he's devoured his food already.

"I like books, yeah. I don't know if you could call me a nerd, though. Do any of you share her love for reading, too?" Felix asks, engaging my family.

"I think I'm the only one here that does." Annie raises her hand.

"I love movies. I think the book ruins the movie," LA says.

"The movie ruins the book, LA," I tell her.

"Yeah, I have to agree with Abigail. Movies always mess it up." Felix puts his arm around me.

"I did like you, Felix, but you're losing brownie points here." LA points her fork at him.

"Don't get on her bad side," I warn him again.

"Please don't," Harry reiterates my warning. "She'll break your arm." He laughs and then kisses LA quickly on the lips.

"I'll keep my opinions to myself then." Felix laughs.

"Smart man. Now, the tough questions are about to come," Harry clears his throat. "Are you a chocolate chip cookie guy or a oatmeal cookie guy?"

LA gets up and clears the plates and begins to put up the food. Annie jumps up to help her. As I stand, I lean over to Felix. I inhale his citrus scent.

"LA loves to bake, but one is better than the other. Choose wisely, Neo." I snicker at my Matrix reference.

"You're not going to give me a hint?" His light brown eyes are bright as they look at me.

"She did." LA takes his plate from him. "She said one is better than the other." LA narrows her eyes at him. "Our approval depends on it."

Annie giggles and rolls her eyes. That isn't what the approval depends on, and we all know it.

"Um, well," Felix looks between everyone as we all stare at him. For him to be a big time baseball player, he isn't handling the pressure well right now. "Abigail said something once about getting extra chocolate chips on a cookie, so I'm going with chocolate chip cookies."

"Wise choice." Harry smirks and LA brings out a massive plate of chocolate chip cookies. We quickly all dive in because they're really the best thing ever.

"So, Felix," LA turns and faces him and I know that the personal questions session is about to start. "Have you ever been married before? Google said no, but it's not always correct."

"No, I've never been married," Felix answers.

"Fucked a lot of girls then?"

"Leigh Ann!" Annie grits her teeth at her. "You can't ask that."

I shake my head at them both.

"Yes, I can. He's banging our little sister. I don't want her to catch something, or have some crazy bitch coming to attack her."

I'm dying of embarrassment and I'm about to yell for everyone to shut up when Felix jumps in.

"You think I've slept with a lot a girls, possibly have a disease or infection, and have bad choice in women just because I have never been married?"

"And for your information, not that it's your business, we haven't had sex," I add and immediately regret it.

"You're not...you're not having sex with Felix Hernandez? What the hell is wrong with you?" LA looks as if I should be jumping on him at every turn.

"Oh, so now you're upset because I'm not having sex with him when two seconds ago you thought he was going to give me a disease," I argue back to her.

"Felix, these Harris girls have no filter. You need to ignore ninety percent of what they say." Harry pats him on the shoulder.

"Hey, that better be a lie." LA tries not to smile at her husband, but is failing at it.

"I think he's talking more about you than Abby-bear and me." Annie laughs.

"I agree with that statement and I'm ready for some more cookies. Since, I'm the lucky charm, I demand cookies." I reach over and grab another one.

"Fine. Felix, would you like some more cookies, too?"

"I would. I love cookies." He takes one from LA.

"You do? I didn't know that." Then again, there's a lot I don't know about him. Since we're dating now, I should probably change that.

"Well, I don't eat them often, but yeah, cookies are my favorite sweet," he explains.

"Felix, Abby-bear told us you like to run. Have you ever done any marathons or do you do it just keep in shape?" You have to love Harry. He's trying to keep Felix engaged and keep us Harris girls from running our mouth. He really is a great guy.

"I could probably do a marathon, but I've never done one. Do you run, too? Abigail isn't a reliable running partner."

"The fact that you _got_ her to run is a miracle all by itself," Annie points out.

"I thought she would never run," LA adds her opinion, too.

"I'm not a lazy ass. Tell them, Felix."

"She's not lazy. I've been impressed with how well she's done, really."

"Ha, see." I feel as if I won a small victory. Sometimes I think my sisters don't think I can do anything. Well, sometimes it can be true, but not always.

"He's just being nice." LA grins at us.

"I don't think he is and we might not want to make fun of the lucky charm," Harry says deadpanned.

"Oh, Felix." LA's eyes have a small spark behind them as she's still looking at Harry. "I know why you lost the other night."

"Leigh Ann," Harry growls at her and now we're all curious on the reasoning.

"Harry wasn't wearing his lucky socks. He went to work and didn't have them on. So, it's not Abby-bear's fault," LA says proudly as she rats out her own husband.

"Harry," Felix chides. "Poor Abigail suffered because she thought it was all her fault and really, it was yours? LA, you need to make sure he wears them next time." He holds back a chuckle as he plays along with them more.

Harry groans and we all laugh at him.

"Oh, it's not going to happen again. Trust me," LA reassures him.

"And I'll make sure Abigail wears everything the same, down to the _socks_." Felix grins and from the glint in his eye, he isn't talking about my socks at all.

The rest of the evening goes smoothly and soon we're all heading home. On the drive back to the apartment, I rest my head back and listen to the soft music playing in the car. I don't think I've had that much fun in a long time.

"Do you want another beer?" I ask him when he comes into my place.

"Nah," Felix shakes his head. "I'll have a water though."

I grab two bottles of water from the fridge and go over to the couch. I curl up next to him. "I hope my sisters weren't too bad on you."

"I had fun. All three of them care about you a lot."

I nod. "Yes, they do. Harry is really like a brother and watches out for me, too."

Felix sits his bottle down and takes mine out of my hand. "I care about you, too."

I smile. "I know you do." I know he's going to kiss me. The question is: how far are we going to go tonight? I almost didn't stop last night and I'm wondering if I have the willpower tonight.

I don't give him a chance to kiss me. I throw my leg over and straddle him since he likes it so much. I cup his face and his rough stubble tickles the palm of my hand. I softly brush my lips against his and my heart skips when I hear his soft moan.

"You like taking charge?" he murmurs against my lips.

"I guess I'm a girl who likes being on top." I drop my hands to his hard pecs.

Felix pulls back and laugh at me. "I hope not all the time. It can be enjoyable when I'm on top." He kisses my neck. "Or on our sides." He nips at my jaw line. "Or when I'm behind you." He bites my earlobe and I'm verge of panting. "Or whatever position we're in."

"You seem sure of yourself," I breathe out.

"I am, and I'm not the one rocking against me."

I gasp and stop moving my hips, which I didn't know I was doing. "Sorry."

"I wouldn't have said anything, but it's a bit rough when you don't have any underwear on."

"You...you don't have any underwear on?" I swallow back the lust that's choking me. His jeans, my jeans, and a very thin pair of my lacy thong is what's holding us back from him being inside of me. Oh, I really want that right now.

"Nope. I don't." He smirks. "Does that bother you?"

"In one way only."

"Hmm, you do have good flirting skills," he softly nips my neck again.

"Do you want to take this to the bedroom?"

Felix freezes for a beat. Did I just say that? Oh, yes, I did. He pulls back and runs the pad of his thumb over my bottom lip. "Abigail‒"

"We don't have to. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have been so abrupt with you." I try to get up from him.

"Stop." He holds me in place. "Stop," he repeats softly. "I do want to go to the bedroom with you, very much so. However, I don't want us to rush this either."

"How many times have you said that to a girl?" I scoff.

"Hey." He looks offended.

"Sorry." I drop my head. "Again."

"Let's go to the bedroom." He pushes on my hips to make me stand.

My leg wobble for a second and I take his hand, leading him down the hallway. His grip is firm in my hand and I'm glad because it's keeping the shaking down to a minimum. I'm not one to be nervous in bed, but this is Felix and he's been with supermodels before. I'm not sure how I will compare to them. I flip on my light and my bedroom becomes illuminated. The soft blues and white accents become visible and I'm glad I cleaned up yesterday.

"Relax." Felix pulls me so my back is against his chest. I feel his heart pounding on my shoulder blade. He drags his fingers between my breasts and down my stomach until he reaches the hem of my shirt. Swiftly, he pulls it off and tosses it on the floor. He pops the button of my jeans and pulls the zipper down.

"Relax." He kisses me right below my ear. "We're not having sex. Yet." He softly chuckles.

"It seems like we are." I find my voice.

"We're going to have fun first. Take off your jeans."

I hook my fingers into the waistband and begin to wiggle out of them. Felix groans as I'm moving against him.

"Okay, that wasn't my brightest idea."

I laugh as I kick them away and turn in his arms.

"Wow. I didn't think you could be more beautiful." He takes a step back and pulls his shirt off.

Son of a—

My mouth drops. If I wasn't seeing him in the flesh in my bedroom, I would have thought I was looking at one of those Google images that had been photoshopped. But he is that ripped. His six-pack abdomen is cut and his jeans hang a little low showing the deep v in his hips.

"Lie on the bed."

My legs listen to his command and I'm flat on my back in an instant. Felix hovers over me with his jeans still on and his feet bare. He starts at my lips with a firm kiss and buries his tongue deep in my mouth. He works his way down my neck as he pulls down the cup of my bra and pinches my nipple. I hiss through my teeth and arch my back trying to feel more of him.

Felix pulls out my other breast and begins to softly bite down, causing me to moan a little bit louder than I would normally. It's like a shot of pleasure through me and I can't help it. I dig my nails into his biceps and spread my legs further for him to come closer to me.

Oh, how I wish he'd take off those jeans.

He licks down my stomach to the top of my lace thong. "These aren't the ones you wear to the game, right?"

I shake my head. "No, those are a black lace."

Felix stops and looks up at me. "You wear a black lace thong to the game?"

"And a matching bra," I add.

He looks in shock and growls, "I may never get another no-hitter knowing that information now."

I giggle.

"Are you fond of these?" He bites down on my hip as he hooks the string of the thong.

"Not particularly." Before I even finish, Felix rips the thin fabric away from my body. The sting of the force makes me gasp. That's never been done to me before.

He pulls my legs further apart and my brain shuts down. I can only think of what pleasure he's about to bring me and my hormones are in overdrive. He nips at my thigh and then I don't move as he licks me.

Oh my—

He bites my clit and I yelp out his name. Holy shit. After the bite, he begins to suck me hard and the air leaves me. I can't process what's happening as he slides two fingers inside me, but the tension in my body is telling me I like it.

A lot.

I grab tightly onto Felix's thick dark hair and he continues to work me over. I can't breathe. I can't move. I'm paralyzed by his mouth, tongue, and fingers. The pressure is building in me and I need to find the release. As I'm on the verge of it, Felix removes his mouth from me and comes up to my lips. I whimper, thinking he's going to stop.

"Look at me, Abigail." His voice is gruff and I smell myself on his lips. His eyes are bright. Felix's fingers are still in me and the palm of his hand is vigorously working on me. "Look at me," he commands again and I do.

I'm shying away from his eyes, but he's locked onto mine. I can't look away. The connection is deep between us and my body begins to jerk as he finally hits the release button on the tension within me. I arch my back and yell his name. This time, I do have to shut my eyes as all the pleasure washes over me.

Felix slows his movements as the wave subsides and when he pulls his fingers out, I wince. "Sorry."

"Don't be." I'm still trying to find my breath.

"Is it bad that I really want to fuck you right now?" Felix's words cause my stomach to flutter.

"Do it then." I reach for his jeans and go to pull them off.

"No." He grabs my wrist.

"Why?"

"Just no for now." He pecks my lips. "I'm going to clean up." Felix rolls off the bed and heads for my en-suite.

I don't think I did anything wrong. However, I don't know why he's saying no to me when I'm right here and ready for him. I unhook my bra and slip on Felix's t-shirt. His citrus scent consumes me. I crawl back into bed and wait for him.

When he comes out a moment later, he seems a little tired, but smiles when he sees that I'm in his clothes.

"Stay," I softly beg.

"I don't have anything to wear."

"Take off your jeans," I counter.

"That may lead somewhere we shouldn't go yet."

"Felix." I pop up on my knees and pull him over to me by his belt loops. "Please."

I can see him battling on what to do.

"Please." I kiss him hard.

"All right, but no funny business," he finally caves.

I smirk and he flips the light off. I snuggle deeper in the bed and I hear him removing his jeans. He slides into the bed and cuddles with me. I wiggle my hips against him, feeling the heat from his body, and he groans.

"Stop it."

I giggle, lacing his fingers with mine and drifting to sleep.

***

WHEN I WAKE up, it takes me a moment to realize I'm not in my apartment and instead am lying in bed with Abigail. Thankfully, she's not too cuddled against me. She's lying on her back, her head facing the other direction. Leaning over, I place a soft kiss on her neck. She turns her head toward me, eyes still closed, so I press a kiss to her lips. A smile appears on her face as her eyes flutter open.

"Good morning. Want to go running with me?"

Abigail groans. "That's how you choose to wake me up? No wonder you suck at flirting."

I chuckle. "Would you have preferred I give you two options? We could go running or since we're half dressed as it is, should we find other ways to get sweaty?"

"That would have been a little better," she grins.

"Well, it's game day and I need to do my morning run. Do you want to go with me? I could run my four and then come back for you and the last one." I kiss her upper jaw. "Please say yes. While I love you in my t-shirt, you look even better in those tight, little boy shorts."

"You run every morning. How is it different if you have a game?"

I shrug. "Not important." I give her one more kiss before slipping out of bed to put on my jeans, which were laying on the floor. My grin widens when I catch her watching me. I lean onto the bed, kiss her again, and say, "You have four miles before I come back."

She groans again. "Fine."

I smile in victory before leaving. I decide that since I left her apartment shirtless, and she's still wearing my t-shirt, that I would run shirtless this morning. Plus, maybe it could be motivation for her. After changing, I start my run.

Yesterday was pretty fun with her sisters and Harry. I knew I was in for it because of LA's personality and she didn't hold back either. I loved seeing Abigail with her family. It was a little odd because I felt like I fit in with them. It made me want to be that much more careful to not mess things up with her. When we made it back to her apartment and things escalated, I guess that's why I told her not yet to sex. It was almost painful though to sleep naked next to her.

When I make it back to the complex, I grin as I see Abigail making her way toward the sidewalk. Holding back on sex was a stupid, stupid idea. God, she looks good. Those boy shorts and tank top will be the death of me.

"If I had known you were running shirtless, I would have come sooner."

I laugh. "Well, let's go."

Abigail keeps doing better and better. At first, I wasn't too sure about running with someone for this. These morning and afternoon runs started for me to have time for myself and to get lost in the steady motions of my body. Abigail doesn't distract from that though.

We walk the last block back to the complex. I walk backward in front of Abigail, so I can appreciate how she looks better.

"Are you trying to show off now or something?" she asks, her hands on her hips as her chest makes the effort to rise and fall with her breathing.

"I'm giving you something to look at to make it through the last stretch." I grin and she rolls her eyes. "Do you need me for anything today besides taking you to school?"

Her eyes glide over my body slowly before she shakes her head. "No, I don't think so."

I begin to walk forward next to her. "I'll meet you back here at eight then." I give her a quick kiss before we go our separate ways to our apartments.

TODAY'S GAME IS against a tough opponent. The team has been doing extremely well so far this season. However, one of their best players was just injured and will sit this game out. It starts much like the rest of our home games, with me talking to Abigail and throwing her a ball.

"Are you bangin' her yet?" Hector asks. "Because, really, why the hell not? She's hot and you obviously have a chance since she comes to every game for you."

"Will you shut up about it if I told you she's my girlfriend?"

Hector slaps me and Blake on the shoulders. "Look at that. The two ugliest guys on the team have women and I don't. Something is wrong with this picture."

I glance at Blake, wondering if he's dating Sofia, but he only smiles a little as he stares out over the field. There's no time left for talking now. We take our places on the field and the game starts. My pitching is consistent, which is more than I can say for them. Their best pitcher is the guy who was injured. My batting, on the other hand, is decent. I don't know about anyone else, but this is my least favorite part.

I want to be the one throwing the ball, not the one the ball is being thrown toward. The game is so much better and more fun when I'm on the mound. Maybe that's a sign I should spend more time in the batting cage. I need to make sure this part of my game is up to par with the same standards I set for myself for pitching. Nonetheless, we come away with a win, the score being pretty close.

Back in the locker room after showering and changing, Hector walks over to me with Blake in tow.

"We're going to a bar to celebrate. You coming?"

"Yeah, sure." I grab my cell and keys and then we all drive separately to the bar Hector suggested. As we walk into the place, I text Abigail.

**Me:** **Don't go to sleep yet, please. I'll be there in a few hours for my post-game kiss.**

I slip my phone into my back pocket as we take seats at the bar. The bartender comes over to us almost immediately. Her arms are both full-sleeves of tattoos, which are clearly visible because she's wearing a strapless top. She has her nose pierced as well as three in both her ears, plus a bar at the top of one. Her black hair is pulled back into a ponytail and she flicks her gaze over each of us.

"What can I get you?" she asks.

We give her our orders and she walks away.

"Really, Hector?" Blake says. "She's your type?" It's then that I notice Hector is still watching her.

Without taking his eyes off her, he answers, "Beautiful women are my type and she definitely fits. Holy shit, she's pretty."

I glance back at the girl, seeing more tats on her back. She's pretty, yeah. Blake shakes his head and laughs a little as she comes back, setting our drinks down in front of each of us.

"What's your name, beautiful?" Hector asks, leaning towards her.

She smiles brightly at him. "My first name is Not and my last is Interested. Enjoy your drinks."

Blake and I laugh as she walks away. Hector's frown flattens and he glares when Blake says, "Looks like you're not her type."

"Unlikely. She probably just didn't like that I called her beautiful. I'll have her number before I go home." He sounds so sure of himself.

"Good luck with that," I laugh.

After our first drinks are gone, Blake and I get up to play a game of darts. Hector stays behind at the bar to order more drinks and to try again with the bartender.

I throw a dart and say, "Fifty bucks says he doesn't even get her name."

Blake glances at the girl. "He may be able to get that out of her, but there's no way he'll get her number. He's not that good with women."

"I'm hurt you're betting against my odds, Blake," Hector says as he sets three filled glasses down on a nearby table. "I'd expect it from Felix, but not from my wingman."

"We aren't betting against your odds. We're betting on the fact that you have no odds," Blake answers, throwing his dart. "Did she give us refills or did she send another girl?"

We look at Hector and wait for a response. "Another girl," he mumbles, shaking his head.

I laugh, drink, and then take my turn with the dartboard. Blake and I play the game while Hector switches his attention between the girl and us. After our second round of drinks, we cut ourselves off and switch to water. We watch as he manages to get her attention and makes her wait on us. He still returns defeated.

"Felix sucks at darts. Play a game with me and maybe then you'll have a better plan." Blake chuckles as he hands Hector some darts.

I ignore Blake's jab and check my phone. There's a new text message from Abigail, so I open it.

**Abigail:** J **ust a kiss? I would figure you had more in mind.**

I reply back that I'm on my way as I say, "Hey, guys. I'm going to go. Unlike some of us, I have a girl who is interested. Good luck though."

Hector glares and Blake chuckles. After paying my tab, I head home. Abigail's text has my mind running rampant, making me even more eager to see her. When I finally reach her door, I knock four times and wait. She opens the door a few seconds later. I don't waste a second. I cup her face, pull her towards me, and kiss her.

"Hey," I say, pulling away much sooner than I want. "I think since I'm about to be gone for a few days and since I stayed here last night, that you should stay with me tonight. Want to?"

She nods. "Let me grab a few things and then I'll come over."

I grin, kiss her again, and then leave. By the time I've changed into a pair of pajama shorts, there's a knock on my door. I can't wait to spend the night with Abigail in my apartment. It probably won't be much different than staying in hers, but I'm still excited. I lead her to my room. We finish getting ready for bed before climbing beneath the sheets.

Abigail's lying on her back next to me while I'm on my side, my head propped up in one hand with my other trailing down her leg. I lean forward and softly press my lips to hers once.

"You know, I've been thinking and I'm pretty sure you're addicted to kissing me," she tells me in just above a whisper.

I kiss her again, letting my lips hover over hers as I talk. "Oh, I am. I think about it all the time and when you're within reach, it's impossible to resist. You don't mind, do you?" My lips lift into a grin.

"No," she answers with a shake of her head.

"Good." I slip my hand under her shirt, letting my fingertips graze over her stomach. "What do you think of my bed so far?" My lips begin to travel along her jaw and to her neck as my thumb brushes over her nipple once.

"Is it new?" she breathes when I grasp her breast.

"Mhm," I hum along her skin.

"Then I think it could use some more breaking in."

With a smile, I lift my head. "Take off your shirt." She sits up and swiftly removes it. I drag a finger over the skin above the waistband of her shorts as I kiss her collarbone. "Tell me what you want to do, Abigail." Her inhale is shaky when I take her breast into my mouth, flicking my tongue over her nipple.

"I," she starts. My hand slips into her shorts, quickly finding her wet. "I want," she begins again. Slowly and with a bit of pressure, I rub her, moving my finger up and down, teasing her entrance. I kiss across her chest to her other breast. Abigail shifts her hips, the tip of my finger pushing inside her. "That," she finishes. Lifting my head, she corrects herself. "I want you."

This time, I don't say no. A man only has so much restraint. Instead, I kiss her once before leaving the bed to grab a condom from the top drawer of my dresser. I toss it to Abigail, pull my shorts off, and get back in bed, lying on my back. She shimmies out of her shorts and thong before climbing onto my lap.

She tears open the wrapper and then rolls the condom on me, a small smile on her face. I groan when she strokes me. It's been awhile since I've had sex and there's no telling how long I'm going to last.

"Abigail." I grab her hips, bringing her closer. She hovers over me before lowering herself and guiding me into her entrance. "Damn, you feel good." Her grin widens as she begins to move. Her hands are flat on my chest, her movements slow and teasing. "Come here." I reach for the back of her neck and pull her down to me, so I can kiss her.

We both moan as our tongues caress one another. "You're beautiful," I whisper. Her hips stay at the same pace. I lay a hand on her lower back, pushing her down faster. "You're going to kill me, Abigail." She laughs softly, pressing her lips hard against mine. Finally, she goes faster, rolling her hips. Fuck. My stomach tightens already.

I move my hand between us, vigorously rubbing my thumb over her clit. Abigail moans into my mouth, her fingers digging into my chest. If I'm going to come this fast, so is she. I brace my feet flat on the bed and lift my hips up to meet her. My hand moves from her neck to her lower back as I push her down hard as I rise to meet her again.

My hands move to her hips, holding her still. Abigail grabs my shoulders, kissing my neck, and I thrust into her hard, hard and fast.

"God, Felix," she groans into my neck.

She tightens around my cock. "Damn it, Abigail," I manage to mutter before my muscles tense and I come. I clench my jaw, as I keep moving. "Touch yourself," I tell her. She quickly brings her hand between us, rubbing her clit hard. Within a few more thrusts, she shudders, shouts my name, and collapses onto my chest, both of us breathing hard.

"Good thinking to have me spend the night, Felix," she says after a moment, causing me to chuckle.

"And we're not done for the night."

***

I SHAKE OUT my hands as my chest tightens more. I pace my living room and there's sweat on my brow. I can't do this. I can't do it at all. There's no way.

"Abby-bear, you called us over here for a reason and I'm hoping it's not to watch you walk because we've seen it already."

I turn to LA and scowl at her. Annie pats LA's knee to have her be quiet.

"I...I...can't...there's...no... way." I choke out each word and hot tears from my eyes are almost burning my cheeks. Annie goes to reach for me, but I pull away from her and pace again.

"Just tell us what happened." Annie's voice is soft.

I'm not able to say the words that are swimming around in my head. I hear them, but I can't force them out. I shake my head vigorously and Annie keeps saying my name, but isn't touching me.

"Abigail Harris, you tell us right now what the fuck is going on." I stop at LA's demand and my knees shake.

"She wants me to drive."

There, I said it. Today at my therapy appointment, she gave me a homework assignment of driving the car fifty yards just one time. She even went as far as to give me addresses for empty parking lots in the area where I could do it.

"I thought this was about Felix," LA scrunches her face.

"Felix? God, no. He's great and I'm great and we're great together," I tell her.

"Well, that was descriptive." LA rolls her eyes. "So, get in the car and let's hit the road." She grabs her keys and the jingle of the metal makes me fall to my knees.

"Whoa." Annie wraps me in her arms and rocks me.

"I can't do it," I say it over and over again as Annie smoothes my hair.

"Hey," LA bends down to me and she makes me focus on her. "It'll be okay, Abby-bear. I promise." Her tone isn't as harsh as it usually is.

There's no way in hell I'm ever going to get back into a driver's seat. No way. I haven't been behind a wheel of a car for six years. I can't put anyone else's life in danger or my own for that matter. When the therapist told me about it today, all I could hear was the crunching metal and the gurgling of my dad next to me. And the blood. There had been so much blood all I saw was red.

I won't be responsible for anyone else's life. Ever.

I'm not sure how long I sit on the floor, sobbing in Annie's arms, but when I'm cried out, LA hands me a bottle of water.

"It took me almost a year to get into a car to ride with someone. How can I possibly drive?"

"You get into a vehicle, turn it on, and go," LA states.

"Shut up!" I scream at her. It feels good to raise my voice. "Don't you think this is hard enough on me without your fucking mouth?"

LA narrows her glare at me as I stand up to face her. LA is only a couple inches taller than me, but her stance is off putting.

"I'm not in the mood to hear about the poor-Abby-bear pity party." LA's voice is low. "You're not the only one who lost someone in that accident, Abigail." Even though her voice is calm, it's not what you want for Leigh Ann Harris. "I lost my parents, too. Annie and I sat in that hospital room with you every day for two weeks, waiting for you to wake up. I missed my wedding and I didn't get to have Dad walk me down the aisle, but I never blamed you for that. I know it was an accident. That semi-truck driver blew the light and it could have been any one of us. However, don't fucking start thinking I'm going to feel sorry for you. You're alive and have a lot of life to live."

My lip is trembling and I know LA is right, but I can't drive.

"Abigail." Annie walks over to us. "Do you think Mom and Dad would want you to move on with your life? LA's right. It's been six years. You could at least try."

I swallow back the lump of emotions that's choking me. "I don't know. What if‒"

"Stop it," LA cuts me off. "Any one can have an accident. You're not going to play the 'what if' game. I won't allow it."

"I can't‒"

"Enough!" LA's voice rises. "I'm not listening to this shit anymore. I'm going home." She turns to leave my apartment, but she hesitates at the door for a brief second before turning to me. She comes back and hugs me tightly. "I love you," and then she rushes out the door.

I stare in the direction she headed out and let her words hang in the air. LA's right. Mom and Dad don't want me to be this way, but there's no way I can be in control in a vehicle again.

"I'm going to go, too. Are you okay?" Annie rubs her hand up and down my back.

I nod. "I'm fine."

"I know you don't want to hear it, but she's right. You need to do this." Annie kisses my cheek and leaves me alone in the apartment.

I close my eyes and lie on the couch. I try to process through everything I went through today. The therapist thinks this is the next step for me, not only to gain independence, but to get closure on my parents' death. She's glad Felix and I had sex, too. That made me smile. She thinks since I'm in a serious relationship, driving will be easy for me. Even though, I don't think I'm in a serious relationship.

I roll my eyes. This is far from a simple task for me. It took Annie almost a year to get me into her car without having a breakdown. Can I get behind a wheel again?

Before I can think about how I'll explain I'm not doing this assignment to the therapist next time, my phone rings _Take Me Out to the Ball Game_. It's Felix.

"Hey, beautiful." His smooth voice settles my nerves a bit and a smile makes an appearance on my face.

That night in his apartment had been perfect. The kissing was mind-blowing, and the sex is something I'm still sore from. Oh, it's a delicious sore and I can't wait for him to be home in a few days to do it again.

"Hello. How's your day?"

"Long. We just got off the plane a little bit ago and I'm trying to take a nap, but I'm having a _hard_ time."

I giggle at the pun. "I could help you out if I was there," I say seductively.

"I have no doubts in my mind that you could," he groans. "Tell me about your day. How was school?"

"Felix, I didn't have classes today. I told you I had a therapy appointment."

"Right. I knew that."

"Liar. You don't remember shit, except baseball stats." If he remembers the day of the week, I would be impressed.

"All right, I lied. However, that doesn't mean I don't want to know how your day went."

"True." I take a deep breath and tell him what went on in therapy and with my sisters. I'm shocked I don't cry when I tell him everything, but I remain calm.

"So, you don't want to drive at all?"

"No," I say.

"Abigail, I don't want to push you or anything, but you should at least try."

"You sound like my sisters," I mumble.

"How about when I get back you and I head to one of places on the list and try?" He sounds hopeful that I will agree. Maybe if Felix is there, it'll be different. I wouldn't have LA yapping in my ear or Annie being all motherly. He might be what I need to steer me in the right direction.

What the fuck am I saying?

Am I really considering this?

No. I'm not. I shake my head as if he can see me.

"That's a nice offer, but I'm going to decline."

"Give me one reason." Damn, he doesn't give up.

"I could..." _Think, Abigail._ "Wreck your car. We both know I can't afford to pay you back."

"I made sixteen million dollars last year. I'm good. Besides I've been thinking of upgrade the Black Beast anyway. You'd help me out if you scratched it up."

"The black beast?"

"Stop avoiding the subject, Abigail. Now, give me an excuse."

"Um..." Shit, nothing is coming to my head.

"And time's up ladies and gentlemen," Felix says in a fake game show host voice. "I'll be home in three days and we'll do it then."

"I do want to _do it_." I laugh and his throaty chuckles fills my ear causing me to shiver.

"Trust me when I say I want that, too."

"Do you?" I dip my voice low.

"Very much so. I keep thinking of you riding me and I can't get that beautiful imagine out of my head and it's really, really hard right now."

"Really, really?" I bite my lip and my body clenches as I think about his lips on my breasts, ramming himself inside of me. "I've thought about you naked a lot."

"I keep thinking about...hang on." He stops and I hear him shuffling about and another male voice. "Abigail, I've got to go. The pitching coach wants to talk to me. I'm sorry."

"It's okay. We'll take later."

"Bye, beautiful."

Before I can say it back, he ends the call.

THREE LONG DAYS, but my sisters don't bring up me driving after the day at my apartment. I thought LA would hound me about it, but she hasn't said a word. She's mainly talked about Harry's new promotion and all of us taking a vacation this summer. I wondered if Felix would come with, but considering that baseball will be in full swing—pun intended—he wouldn't be able to make it.

The four quick knocks on my door make me run toward it. I jump into Felix's arms and kiss him hard on the lips.

"I missed you," he tells me and my heart beats faster.

"Me too." I lock lips with him again. "Congrats on the team winning every road game."

He smiles. "Yep, the boys did good. Now, tomorrow night will be the test."

"Why?" I slide down his body placing my feet back on the floor.

"I pitch again tomorrow, and if we win, it'll be our tenth straight win."

"Wow, will it?"

"Yep. No pressure, lucky charm." He winks.

"Yeah, no pressure." I roll my eyes. "Are you hungry?"

"Nope. I have a surprise." He takes my hand and I grab my purse as he pulls me out of the apartment.

On the way, Felix tells me all about a training regime he's on in the batting cage. He wants to contribute more to the team on hits and runs. He doesn't want to be solely known for his pitching, but for other parts of the team, too.

"I think that's great." I squeeze his hand. "Now, why are we here?" I look around at the abandoned warehouse. "Are you thinking about moving here?" I joke.

"Nope." He parks the BMW in the large parking lot. "You're going to drive."

"What?" I whip my face to him. "I...I...no...I...can't." My chest begins to tighten and my hands shake. I drop my gaze from his.

"Look at me." He cups my face and forces me to stare into his golden brown eyes. "You can do this. There's no one here and there's nothing around us. You can't hurt anything or anyone."

"Felix, I..." The tears come. I'm crying in front of him and that makes me feel even more vulnerable.

"Listen to me." His voice is firm. "Just step out of the car. Let's stand by the driver's side door. That's it." He turns the car off and strolls over to my side. He grips my hand and slowly walks me over to the other side of the car. We stand next to the open driver's door, but I make no move to get in.

"How long was it before you got into a car?"

"A year. Well, almost a year." I stare at the black leather seat as if it's going to jump out at me and scare me.

"What made you get in?"

I take a deep breath and think back to that day. It feels like yesterday. "The driver of the semi-truck wasn't charged in our accident, but Annie found out he had pending charges from a different accident and it was the day of his trial."

"Why wasn't he charged for yours?"

I shrug. "He received a ticket because he didn't stop at the red light, but he wasn't drunk or on drugs. There was nothing to charge him with. The laws were different back then. Now, it's changed."

Felix nods.

"I never saw him. It's almost laughable because the semi-truck was so large, but I didn't. Mom was on the phone with LA talking about her wedding and I looked away just for a second." I wipe tears away. "I always told Annie and LA that I don't remember anything about the accident, but it's a lie. I remember seeing blood everywhere and hearing Dad taking his last breath. I never told my sisters because I don't want to upset them. LA says she never heard the accident, only that the phone cut off."

Felix is quiet as he watches me.

"Dad's chest had been crushed. They tried to lie to me and say he died on impact, but I know he didn't. Mom's neck was broken when she was thrown forward." I stop thinking about them both.

"What about you?" Felix's voice is soft and sounds as if he's scared to ask.

"My airbag didn't deploy. I slammed my forehead against the steering wheel. I remember the pain and then passing out when I heard the sirens. I was in a coma for ten days and when I woke up, Annie and LA told me what happened. LA had canceled her wedding because of me. I don't think she ever really forgave me for that, even though she said she has."

Felix's brown eyes watch me carefully.

"Annie and LA sued the trucking company after the accident and the car company for the airbag not working. They both paid me a settlement and that's how I pay my bills. Annie takes care of all of that for me. Not that I can't, but I like that she handles it for me."

We both fall into silence again and I'm no closer to the seat. I keep checking to make sure it's still there, but I don't make a move toward it.

"The car isn't even on if you want to sit down. Just sit. You don't even have to go all the way in." Felix suggests.

"I know you think this is silly of me."

"No, I don't, Abigail. You went through a very traumatic event and it's something that should never be taken lightly. However, you need to keep moving forward."

My eyes move between him and the seat. I take a small step toward the driver's seat. I study every stitch of the lining of the leather. I know in my head that it's a seat and nothing will happen to me since the car isn't even running, but there's still that little voice saying 'run'. If LA had been here, she probably would have already shoved me into the seat by now. Patience is something she isn't known for.

"I have an idea, if you want to try." Felix's voice makes me jump slightly.

I nod.

"I'll sit down, not all the way in, only on the side, and you can sit on my lap. We won't even be fully in the car. I promise."

I think about it for a moment and then nod. Felix sits on the side of the seat with both legs still out of the car.

"You won't trick me, right?" I can hear my voice shaking as much as my hands are.

"I give you my word." He holds out his hand and I take it.

Ever so slowly, Felix pulls me onto his lap and even though I'm almost fully outside of the car, my body begins shaking all over.

"I've got you, Abigail. You're okay. I promise not to let anything happen to you." Felix keeps repeating himself over and over, but I can't stand it and I leap out of his lap and run. He's a lot faster than me and I barely make it two feet from the car before he wraps me in his strong arms. "You're okay. I'm here, Abigail," he whispers in my ear.

For the first time, I really feel safe.

***

"YOU DID GOOD," I say as I drive home. "You should be proud of yourself." Even though we didn't get close to driving, Abigail should still be proud. She made an attempt and is one step closer than before. I wasn't sure about taking her, but I'm glad I did. She gives me a small smile, but doesn't say anything. I take her hand and kiss the inside of her wrist. Maybe in a few days, I can get her to come back to try again. "Want to have dinner at my apartment? I should have some food in the fridge to whip something up."

"Yeah, that sounds nice."

Abigail is pretty quiet for a while. She helps me fix dinner and we eat it in silence. For a while, I worry that I made the wrong decision. Maybe she really wasn't ready. But then, when I ask her to spend the night, she agrees.

"Let's go on to bed though, okay? I'm worn out."

"Sounds like a plan."

"Thanks for today, Felix. Really."

"You're welcome." I take her hand and lead her to bed.

WE'RE IN THE locker room, getting ready for practice when the doors fly open and Blake walks in. He was the only player missing. One glance shows today is a terrible day for him. No one can look so furious and collected at the same time as well as he can. When he gets closer, I notice his busted lip.

"What the hell happened to you?" I ask before I can think better of it.

Blake doesn't bother acknowledging me. Hector, who is on the other side of him, shakes his head at me in a motion to let it go. Blake doesn't say a word throughout practice unless a coach speaks to him. Hector slaps him on the shoulder every now and then, but no one else bothers him. I just hope whatever has him in a foul mood is gone by our next game.

After practice, we hit the gym. Blake stalks over to a treadmill and starts running full speed. Hector and I start lifting some weights.

"What's going on with him?" I ask.

Hector shrugs. "He's dealing with his demons, that's all I know. He'll be fine once he works off his anger and spends some time with Sofia."

I nod.

A bright smile flashes on his face. "Your lucky charm coming to the game tomorrow?"

"Abigail wouldn't miss it." I glance at the clock. "Speaking of which, I better go before I'm late picking her up."

I have to admit, I'm proud of myself. A few details have slipped my mind, but I haven't forgotten picking her up or anything. Maybe all I needed to get my mind away from the field was someone who is worth it. Not that I'm losing focus on what's important, but Abigail could be the girl for me. The girl who allows me to commit one hundred percent to baseball, while not allowing it to overtake my life and the other important things like my family.

Shit. I was supposed to call home yesterday and completely forgot because I was with Abigail. I'll have to do it tonight or they'll add this to the list of examples of why I'm a workaholic with a one-track mind leading to baseball.

I frown when I park on the curb where I'm supposed to meet Abigail. She hasn't seen me yet because I've parked a few spaces farther down than normal due to limited space and because she's currently talking to Warren. What the hell? The closing of my car door gets lost in the sound of traffic. I walk around and lean against my car, waiting to see how long it takes her to look for me. Warren's eyes have looked up behind her, toward me, so I know he knows I'm here.

My arms fold across my chest as another minute passes. Abigail laughs at something he says, my frown flattening. Why is she talking to him anyway? Finally, she glances around and notices I'm over here waiting on her. Her smile widens, but I don't return it. Warren is looking too smug about keeping her attention for so long.

"Bye, Warren," she says before turning to walk my way. "Hey, Felix."

"Hey, are you ready to go now?"

Her smile falters with confusion, but she nods. I open the door for her and then walk around to get in myself.

"Were you waiting on me? Why didn't you just come get me?" she asks.

"Wouldn't want to interrupt your conversation with him. Why are you talking to him anyway, Abigail?"

"We're in the same class, Felix. I'm not going to stop talking to him. Wait...are you jealous?"

"No, I just didn't figured you'd talk to him outside of class still."

"Well, you're definitely not going to like what I have to say next, then. He and I have been paired up for a project."

I'm quiet for a second. "Well, at least it's not voluntary, I guess. You'll still be able to come to the upcoming games, right?"

"For Pete's sake, Felix. I'm not going to miss any games."

"Just making sure. Don't need to get irritated over it."

"I'm not. I'm really not, but I gave you my word. I don't want you upset about Warren. You have nothing to worry about, okay?"

I nod. "If you say so."

"All right, that's it. Either you believe me or you don't, but I'm not going to deal with this attitude from you. Are we clear?" There's a little bite of anger in her tone.

"I said I believed you, Abigail. I'm not trying to pick a fight with you, so lay off."

"Okay. Okay. I apologize, but please trust me. That's all I ask."

"I trust you." And I do.

"Good because I'm wearing the lace thong set for the game tonight. Hope that isn't _too_ distracting?" She leans over, kisses the corner of my mouth, and I groan.

"The point of you going to the game is so I can win, not so you can distract me."

She shrugs. "It's a tough job being a lucky charm."

I laugh and pull into the parking lot of our apartment complex. "While I would love to spend some time with you, I hope you're not expecting me to. I forgot to call home yesterday, so I need to do that."

"That works perfectly because I have homework to do."

And with that, I kiss her and we go our separate ways.

HAVING ABIGAIL AT the game didn't seem to matter. We lost. Horribly. It was an excruciating, crippling kind of loss. At least, it felt that way yesterday. Today, I'm in the middle of my long run as part of my post-lost-game routine when the music stops playing in my ears. I glance down to my armband where my phone is and see an incoming call from Hector. After pulling out my earbuds and removing the phone from the case, I answer right before it goes to voicemail.

"Hello?"

"Hey, I need your help with something."

"I kind of have a routine I follow on days like this." Why does he need my help specifically?

"I wouldn't call if it wasn't important. It's Blake."

"What are you talking about?" I finally stop running, so I can pay attention.

"Just meet me at his house. I'll text you the address."

Something tells me this isn't good. Hector sounds way too serious and the simple fact that it's Blake makes me think it's bad. I run the rest of the way to the complex. After running up to my apartment to grab a shirt, I get in my car. Hector's text said to be quick, so hopefully, it won't matter that I could use a shower and a change of clothes.

Turns out Blake lives fifteen minutes from where I live. I'm surprised when I pull up to a nice house instead of an apartment. Hector is banging on the door, pacing, by the time I get out of my car and walk up to him.

"What the hell is going on, Hector?"

"We need to get inside to check on him and the door is locked. Dumb ass remembered to lock the door." He shakes his head, but I'm still confused. "Explaining can come later. Help me get into the house."

"Does he have an alarm system that might go off? We could check the windows to see if any are unlocked."

"No alarms. Let's do that. You take the left side, I'll take the right."

We go our separate ways and I keep looking over my shoulder, waiting for someone to see us in broad daylight trying to break into someone's house. Upon the third window I try, it moves some.

"Hector!" I call out. "Got one." He jogs around. "I think it's jammed though." It's higher up, so if we do get it opened, I might have to help him climb inside. We each take a side and push and jiggle the window until it creaks loudly as we push it upward until it opens. Hector glances at me and I wordlessly hook my hands together for him to use to help lift him up.

"Fuck!" he mutters. The window fell down onto his back. Luckily, it wasn't but a few inches higher anyway. "I'm going to kill him." Hector climbs the rest of the way in and tells me he'll let me in the front.

I go around, nervous about what we'll find inside. Hector is silent as he leads me into Blake's house. He stops outside of a door before turning to face me. Before he can speak, my phone rings with a call from Abigail.

"Hold on a sec," I tell him. "Hey, beautiful. Whatcha need?"

"I know you're busy with your whole game after thing, but I wanted to tell you I've decided to try again with the driving."

"That's great," I tell her, feeling as if the longer we stand here with Hector looking annoying with me is going to make whatever is on the other side that much worse. "Wait, what?" I ask because I stopped paying attention for a second and have no clue what she said.

"I said that you absolutely must not forget this. My therapist is going to be there with me, so maybe things will go better, but I want you there, too. I mean, if you'll meet us." She sounds unsure and nervous, probably over driving again.

"Of course I will. Look, I'm in the middle of something and really need to go, but you have my word, Abigail, and I'm really proud of you."

"Thanks, Felix."

We say goodbye and Hector grabs the doorknob, finally speaking as he turns it.

"I can go ahead and tell you that whatever is on the other side of this door is not a regular occurrence for Blake, so don't start judging him."

That doesn't sound too good. Regardless, I nod, and he pushes the door open. We're hit with the stench of alcohol, which is never something you want to smell coming from an athlete, especially when we're in the middle of a season. Blake is passed out on his bed, lying on his back, shirtless. There are what appear to be new bruises on each side of his ribcage and his lip looks as if it was busted again. He's suffered through one hell of a beating, that's for sure.

"Damn," Hector breathes. He steps closer to Blake and shakes his head. "Help me carry him into the bathroom. There's only one way he'll wake up and we need to go ahead and get him up."

"You've done this before?" I ask as we each grab an arm to carry him.

"No, but I know it's happened once before." Hector pushes the shower curtain out of the way and we gently sit him down in the tub. "Heads up, he's going to be more pissed than usual." With that, he turns the shower on with cold water coming out.

The water soaks Blake quickly, but it takes about a minute before he startles awake. He curses under his breath as he shuts off the shower, glancing at us looking as pissed as Hector said he would be.

"Why are you here?" he asks me.

"Because you locked the door and I needed his help. I couldn't get ahold of Sofia, so it was Felix instead. Deal with it."

Blake's eyes narrow at the mention of Sofia. "You shouldn't have tried calling her to start with."

"Well, I did. You need to get yourself ready for practice and thanks to us, you have plenty of time." Hector's phone rings. He checks it and glances at Blake. "Do you want me to answer or ignore her?"

"Ignore her. I'll smooth things over with her later." He sighs at the thought. He looks us each in the eyes before forcing out a mumbling, "Thanks." Blake stands a little straighter, wincing a bit, but he adds, "Y'all can go now."

"That's it?" I finally speak up. "Thanks and a get out. No one is going to explain this?" I glance between Hector and Blake.

"No," Blake answers, his tone curt. "I don't have to explain a damn thing. Hector dragged you here, not me. Now, if you don't mind, get the fuck out of my house."

"C'mon, let's go," Hector says.

Shaking my head at both of them, I start walking out of the room. Once we're back outside, Hector thanks me for coming to help him.

"Blake doesn't like people knowing his personal shit. He tolerates that I know, which he didn't choose to happen. I told you he had his demons and now you've gotten a glimpse of them. Cut him some slack."

Like that explains much of anything. "Fine. If you happen to need my help again, just call."

***

"HE'S GOING TO be there?" LA gasps and sets her fork down.

"Yes. He told me that he'll be there." I cut into my chicken.

"And you're not going to remind him?" Annie asks confused, sipping her water.

"Nope." I shake my head. "He really cares for me and he's not going to forget. This is a big deal. He'll be there." I nod at them both.

Tomorrow is going to be huge for me. When I tell my sisters today at our lunch, they are very supportive, but upset they won't be there.

"It's not that I don't want you two there, but Felix seems to help me a lot. Not that you two don't, but I think I'll be nervous if you were there." I push my plate away.

"We understand." Surprisingly, I hear LA's voice first. "You will be great."

"Yes, you will." Annie pats my hand.

I relax against my chair. I didn't realize how nervous I had been telling my sisters, but they love me and I love them.

"YOU KNOW WE could have studied at your apartment," Warren says sitting across from me at the coffee house.

"We could, but I'd prefer this." Plus, Felix wouldn't like that, I think. I saw the jealousy in Felix's eyes during our conversation. He trusts me, but there's no reason to rock the boat by having Warren at my place.

"Is it because of the baseball guy?"

"Warren," I firmly say his name. "Felix is my boyfriend. Now, we have a project to do. I think we should focus and get it done."

He sighs. "Sure."

I can clearly see he isn't happy, but I push it out of my head and turn back to the books and papers sitting out in front of me. Thankfully, Warren does the same thing and we begin to work easily together.

After an hour and half of British Literature, I'm done. I know I need to get this done, but tomorrow is heavy on my mind and I want to get home and watch the game. Felix isn't pitching, but I still watch. I think it's in my lucky charm job description.

"I think we're done. We made some good progress today." I close up my books and laptop.

"Yeah, I think you're right." He follows my lead and we leave the coffee house.

"You don't have to walk me to the bus stop." Warren is keeping stride with me.

"I can take you home," he suggests.

"I'm fine." I sit on the bench. "You can leave."

"I'll wait with you. I'm not a dick, Abby."

"I know you're not."

Warren sits next to me, but remains quiet. For it to be a Sunday, the traffic is heavier around campus than usual. "Am I a bad guy?"

"What?" I turn to him.

"Am I a bad guy?" he repeats.

"Why would you ask that?"

"I," he stops for a second and collects his thoughts. "I thought you and I really liked each other," he mumbles.

"Warren," I softly say his name, suddenly feeling bad. "I like you, but we weren't compatible."

"And you and Mr. Baseball are?"

"Yes, we are. Warren, I care for you as a friend, but nothing else." I softly pat his hand. "I'm sorry."

He looks down as my hand is still covering his. "Will you promise me something?"

"Sure."

"When Mr. Baseball breaks your heart, will you give me a second chance?"

I give him a small smile. "I promise."

He nods and the bus pulls up. I quickly get on the bus. I know I told him 'I promise', but I regret it. I shouldn't give him hope like that. Felix and I are strong together. Tomorrow is going to prove it. He won't forget. He's going to be there for me, just as I'm there for him.

When the bus stops in front of my complex, I head straight to my place to get out of the heat. I drop everything to the floor and lie on the couch taking in the cool air. I'm trying to calm down as thoughts about tomorrow begin to wash over me. Being behind the wheel of car is scarier than anything that I've ever done.

I reach for my phone and call Felix.

"What are you doing right now?"

"Nothing in particular. You?"

"I had lunch with my sisters today and then a study session with Warren. What time are you landing tomorrow?"

"Noon, maybe? I think that's right."

"Perfect. I can't wait to see you. I've missed you."

"I think I've missed you more. Traveling with a bunch of guys isn't always fun."

"Oh, I'm sure we will have some fun tomorrow," I flirt with him.

"I promise you we will."

TAMARA, MY THERAPIST, and I are still standing in the empty parking lot.

"Abigail, he knew the time, right?"

I nod. I'm hurt, mad, and embarrassed. Felix still hasn't shown up. I didn't remind him because he promised he would be here.

"Let's reschedule for another time. He must have gotten caught up at the stadium."

My heart drops. Yet again, baseball is before me. I'm being pushed to the back burner and this time, my therapist is standing next to me witnessing it all.

"Abigail, I'm going to say this again; maybe you should be single for a while and focus on you. You've never done that before."

I nod, but don't say anything as we climb into her car and she drives me back to my apartment.

When I watch her pull away, my body becomes hot with rage. Pure pissed-off rage, and it's Felix's fault. I stomp across the courtyard to his apartment and pound on the door.

When he opens the door, I begin to sob. I can't stop the tears from coming. "I can't believe you. Out of everything I've asked of you, you fucking forgot, Felix!"

"Abigail, calm down. What did I forget?" He tries to console me by reaching for my hand.

"Don't touch me right now, Felix. I asked you to meet my therapist and me today because I was going to drive. I stayed up all night worried to death about it. Do you know the only time I felt okay about it was when I thought of you being there for me? I know we haven't been together long and I know I carry a lot of baggage, but you've helped me a lot. Not now. I asked you for one thing. One thing!"

"That was today? I know you told me about it, but are you sure you told me when? I wouldn't have forgotten something this big, I don't think." He looks as if he's really serious. How could he forget this?

"I did. You said you were busy, but I told you the day and time. I asked you not to forget. You said you wouldn't, but look at this!" I hold my arms out to show him he forgot me again. "How could you do that? I absolutely one hundred percent trusted you and this is how you pay me back?"

"Abigail, I'm sorry." He pushes his hand through his hair. "I was in the middle of helping Hector with Blake and I must not have heard when. I'm sorry and hate that I messed up, but it won't happen again, I promise." He tries to grab my hands again, but I step back from him. He looks as if I slapped him.

"It's not going to happen again _to me_. I knew baseball was your priority when this started and you knew I was trying to piece my life back together. Thanks for the help, but don't bother coming around me again. I need someone I can count on, and that's not you, Felix. Not now, anyway." Tamara's words come back to me. She's right. I need to find _me_ again.

"You are a priority for me. You can count on me, too. Give me another chance, please. I don't want to lose you because I was distracted during a phone call. I would've been there for you no matter what. You have to believe that." His voice cracks just a little bit and I wipe the tears from my cheeks.

"I do believe you, but I need more than words. I need to fix...well...me. I can't do that when I'm constantly reminding you I'm important. I love you, but I can't babysit you. I know that's harsh and selfish to say, but I need someone in my life who wants to put me first. It doesn't have to be _all_ the time, but certainly the times I need you there. Felix, that isn't you right now."

The words are like a running water fountain coming out of me. I just told him I love him, too. Like either of us need the extra pressure.

"With the exception of this time, when have I not been there for you? I don't always remember things in your schedule, but I've been there when you needed me. I haven't forgotten doing anything with you since my family visited. You can't tell me you love me and break up with me all in the same breath. Just give me another chance, Abigail. I won't make the same mistake again."

"Felix, I need to finally fix me," I repeat again. "And you need to focus on baseball. We're in the right relationship, but at the wrong time. I can't have that right now, and you can't either. I truly do love you and wish you all the best." I rush away from him as quickly as my legs will take me, the tears streaming down my face even faster.

***

I STARE AT where I last saw Abigail, fighting the urge to run after her. Once again, I ruined a great relationship, one that easily had the potential to turn into something long-term. How many more times can I fail at this? How many more times can I disappoint a girl because I wasn't listening when she spoke or because I let baseball run my life? Maybe Abigail does need to focus on herself and work on herself.

But I do _not_ need to focus on baseball.

It's what got me into this mess to start with.

" _We're in the right relationship, but at the wrong time."_

So, what? If I wait, she'll come back to me? I doubt she'll want to do that. I left her hanging in the very beginning, again when my family visited, and once more today. No one wants to deal with that. Despite doing my best to remember everything she told me, I failed epically at the most important thing. If a relationship with Abigail didn't last, I won't be able make another one last either. She was the one girlfriend I wanted to never lose.

And now, I have.

My phone rings, pulling me out of my thoughts. I close my apartment door and walk over to the end table where my cell phone is.

"Hey, Mom," I answer.

"It's been two weeks, Felix. You were supposed to call me yesterday and you forgot again."

"No surprise there," I deadpan, before sighing. "I'm sorry, Mom. I've been busy."

"Too busy for your own mother? What's going on, Felix?"

"I don't want to talk about it," I tell her as I sit down on the couch.

"Whatever's bugging you is either baseball or Abigail and since I plan to ask you about both, you might as well tell me now." When I'm silent, she states, "Something happened with Abigail, then. Talk to me, Felix. I'm sure it's fixable."

"No, it's not." Taking a deep breath, I recount what happened. "I was only half listening to her, so I didn't realize I agreed to a time as well. I would have been there for her. This was too important and too big for me to miss, and I did anyway. I deserve to be single for the rest of my life because I don't think anyone will ever be as great as Abigail and I don't want anyone else. Even if she wants to get back together in the future, we shouldn't. She obviously deserves better than me. I mean, I don't even call my mom when I tell her I will."

Mom is quiet for a few seconds. "Stop throwing yourself a pity party, Felix. You and your obsession with your career has gone on long enough. There is a fine line between being committed and letting that commitment run your life, which is what you've been doing ever since you started playing professionally. You do realize your playing days are numbered, don't you? They always have been. You need to consider what comes after. Unless you want to be alone and out of touch with your family, then you need to start changing. Baseball gave you a second chance for a good life. Don't let baseball be the very reason you lose it."

THE NEXT DAY we leave for another string of road games that last about a week and a half. It's not until the second game when I close my eyes before a pitch to picture Abigail in efforts to summon a little good luck that I realize she won't be coming to the home games anymore. As if a preview of what's to come, we lost the game. In comparison to what I've already lost, I don't really care.

We only lost that once while we were on the road, and now that we are back in Memphis, we have a day off. Sitting in my apartment sucks, so I change, grab my earbuds, and decide to run. When we're on a trip, I resort to running on a treadmill. I'd much rather run down a sidewalk, through a park, or anywhere else but inside on a machine. The fresh air, albeit humid and hot, fills my lungs and is much welcomed.

On my second lap of my route, I stop short at the sight before me. Halfway down the block at the coffee shop is Abigail and Warren. They are just walking in, so either she's moved on or they've been studying. It doesn't matter because she's not mine anymore. Once they're inside, I start running again, wondering if Abigail will even notice me running past. Part of me hopes she does, part of me hopes she doesn't.

I end up running three more laps, my legs begging and pleading for me to stop, before I give up for the day. My luck has officially run out. I slow my pace once I reach the complex, finally giving my legs a break, but when I see Warren and Abigail about to approach the same stairs I'm going to have to take, I pump my legs faster to avoid them. I don't bother a glance their way before I take the stairs two at a time until I reach my floor.

Following my mom's advice has been harder than I thought it would be. Calling home more regularly I've been able to do. But as far as stepping away more from baseball, it's been hard. If I don't hang out with teammates, then I'm stuck at home alone. What else am I supposed to do? Without knowing people outside of baseball, I'm kind of limited.

Still, I've made changes in other areas. I take more pauses and breaks and pay attention to those around me. I listen when they talk. It all seems slightly pointless to myself because there's only so much I can do when the only person I'm proving that it's possible to is myself and my family back in California. But I guess actually talking to them more is good enough for now.

The first home game proves to be one big distraction. LA and Abigail's seats have Harry and some other guy in them instead. I'm not the only one who notices either.

"Where's the lucky charm, Felix?" Hector asks.

I've been able to avoid talking about her with them so far. "Not coming. We're on our own. For the foreseeable future," I add before he can ask.

He nods. "It's a good thing we have talent, then."

Abigail is on my mind the entire game. I miss her like crazy. I think I even miss her sisters, too. Although, I'm sure if I were to run into LA, she'd inflict physical harm. The thought makes me smile as I drive home and stays as I take the stairs up to my floor. When I glance up at whoever is making their way down, the smile fades.

Warren.

God, what is he doing here this late? Is he— No. I stop the thought before it goes any further. I don't want to know. I give him a nod and continue on my way.

"Warren, wait!" I hear the voice I've missed terribly.

As if this couldn't get any worse.

Abigail's step falters for a second when she sees me, but luckily, I get to turn and head down the hallway toward my apartment. As I change for bed, I can't help but think that maybe I should consider moving. I can only take so much of seeing Abigail and Warren together. I can only take so much of seeing Abigail, hearing Abigail. Besides, out of sight, out of mind, right?

Doubtful.

Abigail might as well have moved into my mind with how often I think about her. She's made herself a nice little permanent home there. My best hope is that she'll fix herself and forgive me.

***

"IF YOU DON'T talk about it, then I can't help you." Annie pushes the piece of chocolate cream pie in front of me.

"I don't know anything anymore." I take a bite of the creamy deliciousness. "I miss him a lot. It almost killed me not going to the game that night. Plus, I've seen him around the complex. I want to run up and hug him, but I can't do it."

"Why?"

"He forgot me. He said he was going to be there for me, and he wasn't."

"I'm not taking his side, but you knew how forgetful he is _and_ he does have a lot going on."

"I told him‒"

"Was he listening to you? Don't you remember how many times Mom would say something to Dad? Sometimes you have to snap your fingers and stomp your feet and triple check that men pay attention. I think it's in their DNA that they have selective hearing." She grins at me and pats my back.

"It's not selective hearing. He didn't hear anything I had said. Nothing. He forgot me. Is that love?"

Annie's eyes go wide. "Did you say _love_?"

"You know what I mean." I drop my fork and look away from her. I already blurted it out to Felix and I sure as hell don't need to hear from Annie now.

"Do I know? Do you love Felix?"

I brush the stray tear that appears out of nowhere off my cheek.

"Talk to me, Abby-bear."

There's no point in hiding my feelings from Annie. I tell her everything. "I felt safe. For the first time, I didn't worry at night when he was around. I could talk to him easily. He didn't make fun of my books, or school, or anything. He was sensitive when I told him about Mom and Dad, and I had the greatest time with his family. I...I fell in love and he forgot me."

"Being in love means you have to forgive. Relationships aren't easy, Abby. Both of you have a lot of growing up to do."

"Hey, I'm grown," I cut her off.

"Abigail." Annie firmly looks at me. "You are not grown. Felix's focus is on baseball and yours is therapy and school. You need to find the middle ground. You can't fly off at him when you know how he is. He came into this relationship knowing you had issues, but he didn't sway. He even took you out in a fifty thousand dollar car when he knew you haven't driven in years."

I hate that she's right. Felix has told me time and time again that he doesn't remember personal information. Hell, he even told me he forgets to call his own family and he's known them much longer than he's known me. But I needed him. I bet when his family needs him, he's there for them.

That's the difference.

How important am I in his life? Or, will I ever be more important than baseball? Could I survive being second chair to a sport? He did tell me I'm a priority, but he never said he loves me, too.

I'm a lovesick fool. My life isn't some romance novel. Would a major league baseball pitcher really love me? I doubt it. Maybe we can still be friends. I did enjoy our time together in the beginning of it all.

"What are you thinking about?"

I pause and look at my oldest sister. "My messed up life."

FOR THE PAST three nights, I've not been able to sleep. The nightmares keeping coming and now the therapist wants to put me on medication to help me sleep. I've never been happy when she puts me on pills, but I don't want to be a walking zombie every day either. The best medication would be Felix's arms around me or me curled up along his side.

The knock on my door wakes me up from a sleepy dream of Felix's body against mine, and I open the door for Warren. I have to say I'm glad this is the last day that we have to have a study session together. The project is due Friday and then it's the start of finals week. I have a love-hate relationship with that week. I love that it's almost over, but I hate that I become a sleepless, emotionless zombie. Then again, so do all the other students.

"Hey, Warren." I step back and he walks through to the kitchen.

"I thought I would bring the snacks tonight." He pulls out a six-pack of beer and a bag of pretzels.

"Great." Expressionless, I watch him sort out the papers I have in front of him.

About two hours and a couple beers later, we're done. I print out the final copy and we triple check, but it seems as perfect as it's going to be. I rest back on my chair.

"Wow, we're done." I close my laptop.

"We sure are, and," he dramatically lifts his finger and then punches down on the _enter_ key. "It's now sent to Professor Bing. No more classes." He chuckles.

I close my eyes and exhale. "That's a great feeling."

"We make a good team." He grips my hand.

"Yes, we did." I move my hand and begin closing the books and stacking them in a neat pile.

"You look tired."

"Haven't slept well," I answer quickly and shuffle more papers around. I don't know why, but my gut is telling me to get him out of the apartment.

"Anything I can help you with?" He closes his laptop and stands up with me.

"Nope, I'm good. I'm glad everything went smoothly with the project." I hand him his notebook.

"Yeah, me too. Do you want to grab a bite again?"

"No," I answer quickly. "I'm going to rest tonight and maybe study a little bit before bed." Maybe he'll take the hint and leave.

"Okay." He packs his backpack and I lead him to the door.

I'm about to open it when he yanks me toward him and shoves his tongue into my mouth. I push against his chest as hard as I can, breaking free from his lips. I roughly brush his taste from my skin and narrow my eyes at him.

"How dare you?"

"Oh, come on, Abby, you've been flirting with me for days now. Don't stand there and tell me you didn't want me to kiss you."

"I didn't!" I seethe at him. "You don't go around shoving your tongue into women's mouths without an invitation. Now, get out of my house." I jerk the door open. "Now," I repeat firmly.

"Fine. Whatever." He rolls his eyes and rushes out.

I slam the door with all my might and lock it. _That jerk_ , I think. Wait until I tell Felix—

I stop. Tell Felix, what? He and I aren't together anymore. I wouldn't be telling him anything. I pick up my phone and see the last few texts of our last conversation.

I miss him.

God, I'm a fool.

"I'LL BE BACK in two hours," LA tells me as she drops me off in front of the library. She didn't want to go to the reading with me and I'm okay with that. I need some relaxing time.

It's been almost three weeks without talking to Felix. I keep staring at my phone and wish more than anything that he would call me. Annie told me I'm a fool for not talking to him. I've seen him a couple times around the complex and I've been watching the games on the TV. The Angels have lost the last ten games and the media is ripping them apart.

As much as I hate to say it, it's probably because of me. Felix was even pulled from one game and I watched him kick over the water cooler in frustration. I almost went to his apartment that night.

Almost.

My therapist wants me to try and drive again and I pretty much told her 'no'. I can't do it. I tried and I failed. There's no point in beating my head against a steel wall. LA bitched at me about not attempting to drive again, but I ignored her. Eventually, she shut up about it.

Tonight is about the semester ending celebratory party and me. Okay, a _party_ is a stretch since I'm going to another James Diamond reading alone. I'm not sure why he's coming to Memphis for a second time, but I don't care as long as I get to hear him again.

When I take a seat in the back, I try not to tear up. This is where Felix and I met the first time. It was even at a James Diamond reading. I close my eyes and wish he was here. Maybe Annie's right. I am a fool. Each day, I miss him a little more.

That's it. Tonight, I'm going to swallow my pride and talk to him. I hope he wants to talk to me. When I open my eyes, I gasp.

Felix is here.

He's sitting about five rows in front of me. I would know that shaggy brown hair anywhere. Should I talk to him now? Will he make a scene? I don't think he will, but I'm not sure how he's feeling either. I make my move to go to him, but stop when the announcer comes to the podium.

For the next hour, I don't hear a word the announcer or James Diamond says as I stare at the back of Felix's head. I've always loved readings, but right now, all I want is for this to be over. I want to talk to Felix and I want to do it now.

Once the lights come up and everyone begins to shuffle out into the lobby, I make a mad dash for the door. I want to make sure he doesn't leave the building without seeing me. I stand by the front door and notice him slowly making his way through the crowd. Our eyes connect and I don't know what I should do. Wave? Run to him? Stand here like an idiot? I can't read his expression, but he makes his way to me.

"Hi." I wave my fingers like a fool.

"Hey, Abigail. Enjoy the reading?"

"Yes, it was interesting. Did you enjoy it?"

"Yeah. How'd you get here? Do I need to watch my back for LA?"

"LA brought me, but my sisters are Team Felix. You don't have to worry about anything. I'm the one who sleeps with one eye open," I nervously giggle at him. I'm hoping my makeup is still holding up and he can't see the dark circles under my eyes.

"Well, do you want me to take you home? No sense in LA coming all this way if I'm here."

"Are you sure? I mean, I don't want you to go out of your way if you weren't planning on going home yet."

"I'm sure. I wasn't going anywhere after this."

"Oh, okay. I'll text LA then." I grab my phone from my pocket and send a quick text to LA. She sends a quick reply of 'talk to him', but I ignore it for now. I follow him out to his car, and like always, he holds the door open for me. Once he climbs in, we head toward our apartment complex. "Hey, you didn't hurt the water bucket, did you? The one you kicked?"

He chuckles. "No, it walked away uninjured. You saw that?"

"I've been watching the games on TV. I thought maybe my lucky charm mojo would work through the TV waves, but it doesn't look like it's helped at all."

"My way of summoning your mojo didn't work either, if it makes you feel better."

"What way was that?" I ask confused.

He looks a little embarrassed as he explains, "Well, once at an away game, the bases were loaded and I needed to get the last out. I, uh, would close my eyes and picture you before each throw. I got the out."

"Really? You thought about me when you were pitching in a game?" I never thought about that before. I figured once he's on the mound, his only focus is the batter.

"Yeah, you were my lucky charm and it calmed my nerves more so I could focus better."

"I _was_? Am I not anymore?" The tears rush to my eyes at his words. My feelings are actually hurt that he doesn't think so anymore.

"Would you consider yourself my lucky charm still?"

I don't answer him right away because I don't trust that the tears won't fall. He parks in a spot closer to my apartment and turns to me. He's waiting for an answer.

"Would you like to come up for a beer?" I still ignore him, but I'm thankful my voice doesn't crack.

"Sure."

When we enter into my place, I quickly grab the first beers I see and we sit at the kitchen table.

"What kind of beer is this?"

"Oh, some cheap crap Warren brought over a couple weeks ago." I take a sip.

"Right. Warren. I saw him around." I'm not sure how to take his tone.

"Well, you won't be seeing him anymore that's for sure. If you do, it'll be with two black eyes, given to him by me." It comes off angrier than I meant for it to, but the thoughts of our last encounter are still fresh in my mind.

"What did he do this time?"

"I can tell you the truth and then you'll fly off the handle and put him in the hospital, or I can say I took care of it and he won't be around anymore. I think we should go with the latter."

Felix narrows his eyes. "Does LA know what happened? If there's a sister who would go crazy, it's her. Did you tell her?"

I laugh. "If I think you would put him in the hospital for what he did, LA would put him six feet under. To answer your question, hell no I didn't tell her." It feels good to talk to him again and I take another sip of beer.

"I would have agreed to the latter option if I knew that she knew. But if you don't want to, then don't. You have no reason to want to tell me anyway."

I roll my eyes. He seems to be acting like a brooding child. "He pushed me up against the wall and kissed me and I didn't want either of that to happen. Happy now?"

"No, I'm not happy!" He raises his voice and shakes his head. "I knew I didn't like him for a good reason."

"Keep your blood pressure down, okay? I handled it. I threw his ass out and told him to lose my number. I haven't heard from him or seen him around campus. I didn't ask you up here to talk about Warren, you know."

"Why did you ask me up here, Abigail?"

I'm quiet for a moment. I need to tell him the truth. I need to open up to him. In the words of Annie, I need to grow up.

"I'm an idiot. I'm not sure if you received that memo, but Annie and LA keep reminding me of it daily. I...I miss you. These last three weeks have been horrible and it's because I don't have you in my life. I'd rather us be friends, then to not have you at all." There. I told him what I'm feeling. Now, he knows the truth, but I'm scared of what he's going to say.

"You're not an idiot. Your reaction was justified, but the rest of what you said? That, I agree with. I miss you, too." He pushes his beer away and looks at me.

"I was so mad at you, Felix. My reaction was from rage because you weren't there and embarrassment as I stood in an empty parking lot with my therapist. I felt like a fool and I hate that feeling. You deserved to be yelled at, but I should have never left you that day. I can't sleep. I barely eat. I don't like me without you in my life.

"I don't think you realize how much you really helped me. I know it's sound insane because we hardly know each other, but it's true. I felt different with you. I was safe. You made me feel like me again. That's why I fell in love with you." I swallow back the lump of emotions that's about to choke me.

"If I had given you my complete attention when you called, I would have heard all of what you said and I would have been there. I never wanted you to be there alone. I don't think it sounds insane either. I know I didn't say it before, but I love you, too."

"You do?" My jaw falls open in shock. "Why the hell do you love me? I'm a basket case, in case you haven't noticed."

"Because you're more than just a basket case. You're kind, smart, a good sister, and an overall incredible person. Being a basket case is just icing on the cake." Felix winks and grins at me.

I laugh and it feels good. "This whole time I thought you only wanted me for the black lace thong and bra I wear to the home games."

"That's like having a whole extra cake you don't have to share." Felix pauses and his face grows serious. "I'm sorry I wasn't there, Abigail."

"It's okay. I'm sorry I flew off the handle at you. However, we don't have to worry about me driving ever again and you can be my chauffeur when school comes back in session."

I stand and dump the crappy beer down the drain. Felix follows me into the kitchen.

"Wait, what? You're not still trying to drive? Why not? You need to try, for you, for your sisters, and for your parents."

"I can't, Felix. There's no way I'll be a safe driver on the road." I lean against the counter, crossing my arms, and shake my head. I close my eyes tight and will the tears away.

"You can't or you won't?" His tone is soft. "There's no such thing as a completely safe driver. That doesn't mean we should all stop driving, stop flying planes, and start walking everywhere. You didn't kill them, Abigail, and it wasn't your fault."

"Will you be there?" I whisper, half hoping he didn't hear me. "If I try again, will you be there?"

"Wouldn't miss it for the world. So, what do you say?" He takes a step closer to me.

"I will try one more time, but if no progress happens, I'm getting that chauffeur's hat for you and then you're stuck with me," I joke with him.

"There will be progress, I'm sure of it. You can do it." I can feel his body heat because he's so close to me.

"Thank you, Felix. I've really missed you." I lean in closer to his lips.

"I've really missed you." Felix's warm breath makes my skin sizzle.

I close the distance between and we both moan at our connection. He fists his hands in my hair. I open my mouth wider and our tongues entwine. I feel his hardness growing between my legs and I rock my hips, teasing him.

"Please tell me you have a condom." I lay my forehead against his.

"In my wallet."

I pop my eyes open. "Take me to the bedroom, Felix."

He grasps my thighs and lifts me up. I wrap my legs around his hips and he carries me off to the bedroom.

Felix tosses me on the bed and we both strip out of our clothes as fast as we can, only pausing for a quick kiss or touch. Once we are completely naked, there isn't time for foreplay. That can come later, because right now, we need animalistic sex, not sweet lovemaking. It's been over three weeks for us both and our hormones want this as much as we do. Felix rolls on the condom as I take off my thong and lie on the bed, waiting for him.

"I really should take my time with you, but I don't want to."

"Felix," I arch myself closer to him. "Please, I need you now."

He says nothing else. He positions himself at my opening and slams me into me. I've never been one to have rough sex, but after these past weeks without him, I'd let him do just about anything he wanted to me at this point.

We quickly find our rhythm and it's almost like we've always been connected to each other. Our love surrounds us as we both find our release in a few short minutes. I knew we wouldn't last long. Not because of the roughness or the quickness of our motions, but because we missed each other so much.

"Sorry," Felix pants in my ear.

"For what?" I ask, trying to catch my breath.

"The second round will last longer."

"Well, my legs aren't shaking because I didn't get off; I can tell you that much." I giggle and Felix laughs.

***

THE TENSION THAT has been present in my muscles every game since Abigail broke things off with me is completely gone as I take my place on the mound. In fact, my body feels loose as if I just had a full-body massage. There's no doubt in my mind that I'm relaxed and confident because Abigail is among the crowd. Still, I roll my shoulders, fiddle with my hat, and take a deep breath.

Blake gives me the signal and I pitch, hearing the sweetest sounds in the world. The thump of the ball landing in the glove followed by, "Strike!" I try not to get too excited. My terrible playing these past few games could be all my fault. I could still play subpar today. But who am I kidding? My lucky charm is here and losing while she's here is rare. Plus, I can tell this is going to be a good game.

If Blake, with his nickname of Grumpy, can walk into the locker room with a wide grin on his face for the first time ever, I mean, _come on_. How can we lose when that guy comes in happy? We make it through the first few innings with little issues. Even my batting is better than it was at the start of the season. Granted, I have been working on it more.

I steal glances at Abigail when I can and wink at her. I've been full of happiness since we worked things out. She told me two days ago when we're going for her to drive again. She asked if I wanted her to remind me, and I told her no. I'm certain I would have remembered the first time around had I been listening. I heard her this time and I won't forget about it. I set up an email alert and posted sticky notes in my bedroom, bathroom, locker, and in my car as a precaution though.

With a shake of my head, I clear my thoughts. I need to focus on the game right now. Sweat trickles down my back causing my shirt to stick to my skin. Damn, it's getting hotter by the second out here. My dry throat makes me wish I'd had some water before we took to the field again. I roll my shoulders, turn the ball over in my hand, and wait for Blake to give me a sign I like.

His chin lifts slightly. I rub my palm on my pants, sneaking a glance at the player on second. Something in me doubts he'll make a run for it. I find the grip I want on the ball, relax my shoulder, and throw a fastball. The batter swings too late and misses.

Strike three.

Game over.

Back in the locker room, I'm grinning like a fool. Hector slaps me on the shoulder as he heads to his locker. "About time you learned how to pitch a decent game," he jokes.

"He doesn't deserve the credit. His lucky charm showed up. Give her our thanks," Blake says with a chuckle.

I smile, deciding not to reply. I will definitely show Abigail how thankful I am for her later. Once we're dismissed for the day, I drive to the complex, park, and take off to Abigail's apartment.

Tomorrow is the big day. She's going to drive. I'm excited for her because this is a big step, one she probably needed to take long before now. It doesn't matter though, because she is moving forward. I jog up to her floor and knock. When she answers, I grin. Abigail smiles in return and steps aside for me to come in.

"You have to be a believer now," I say, taking a seat on her couch.

Abigail sits down next to me, rolling her eyes. "Yes, I believe I'm your lucky charm."

"The team sends their thanks." She laughs. I lean toward her to give her a soft, slow kiss. "So do I." I lean against the back of the couch and take her hand. "How nervous are you about tomorrow?" Her eyes widen just a little and I add, "Did you think I'd forget twice?"

"No, but you can't blame me for being unsure. I'm really nervous already. Are we sure I should do this?"

"Don't be nervous. I'll be there and it's a super short driving trip, so nothing will go wrong. Don't you think you need to do this?" At least if she thinks she does, then she'll be a step closer to being ready and losing just a bit of her nervousness.

Abigail sighs. "Knowing that I need to do it doesn't make me want to do it."

"Yeah, but just think, you don't have to drive from here to California tomorrow. You're taking baby steps, so it'll easier to do."

She nods. "You're right." After a moment, she says, "Let's talk about something else now. I don't want to think about it any more than I have to."

I stand, pulling her up with me. "How about we celebrate instead?"

Abigail smiles before leading me to her bedroom.

WE'RE IN AN abandoned parking lot, leaning against the driver's side and waiting for her therapist to get here. Abigail has her arms folded across her chest, her foot tapping against the ground. She hasn't spoken since we arrived almost five minutes ago. I move to stand in front of her, unfold her arms, and wrap them around my waist as I hug her back. I'm hoping to somehow pass along a little strength since the therapist is running late.

"Here she is," I say when she finally arrives. "Ready?" I ask, glancing down at Abigail.

She looks a little pale, and she shakes her head. I give her one last squeeze before letting her go as her therapist approaches us.

"I'm sorry I'm late, Abigail."

"It's fine."

She turns toward me. "You must be Felix. I'm Tamara. I'm happy you're joining us today."

"Nice to meet you," I tell her, shaking her outstretched hand.

"How about we start by just sitting in the car, Abigail?"

Abigail nods. I open the driver's door for her and Tamara tells me to leave it open for now. Then, I take the seat behind Abigail while Tamara takes the passenger seat. Her eyes find mine in the rearview mirror and I smile.

"How are you doing?" Tamara asks after a few minutes.

"Okay, I guess."

"Let's shut the doors then."

We close our doors and Abigail takes a deep breath. Tamara waits another few minutes before asking her how she's doing again. When Abigail gives her the same answer, Tamara's next step is putting on our seatbelts.

"You're doing well, Abigail," I say, earning a grateful glance from her.

"Yes, you are," Tamara agrees. "Let's crank it now."

I can hear the keys rattling in her shaky hand, but she starts the car.

"I don't know about this," Abigail tells us, the nerves clear in her tone.

Tamara beats me to reassuring her. "Yes, you do. Look around, Abigail. There's no one else here but us. You are in complete control. You got into the car, put on your seatbelt, and started the car. When we take the next step, you'll have the power to move it into gear, drive however far you want to go, and then stop."

"I could hit your car," she tries.

"You could, but you won't because you're steering."

Abigail lifts her hands to the steering wheel. She grabs it for a couple of seconds before letting her hands fall back into her lap. Tamara seems to be waiting for Abigail to take the next step on her own.

I lean forward to poke my head between the seats. "What's your plan if you do drive?" I ask. "Where are you going to go in the lot?"

"Oh, um." She seems to think about it. "We could go down to that lamp and then turn around."

I'm impressed and proud she's willing to go that far. "Sounds good to me."

Now, it's whenever she's ready. Abigail's hands return to the steering wheel. She runs her hands around it as if she's getting a feel for it. The moments drag by until her hand goes to the gearshift and she moves it into drive. She takes another deep breath, her hands taking position at ten and two.

I grin widely when the car inches forward as she lets off the brake. Her knuckles are white with her grip, but she hasn't stopped yet.

"Just to the lamp and back," I remind her of her plan.

She nods, but doesn't reply. She puts pressure on the gas, just a little, and picks up speed. We're probably only going ten miles an hour. It doesn't matter though. Abigail circles around the lamp until we're back where we started. Her stop is smooth and she quickly shifts it back into park before getting out of the car, the engine still running.

I get out as well and wrap her in my arms. "See? Piece of cake."

She laughs. "Yeah, if you say so." Her hands are trembling even though she's trying to hold them steady against my back.

"Doing okay?" I ask anyway.

"Just give me a second," she mumbles into my chest.

By now, Tamara has come over to where we are. She's smiling like I am. Our girl did well and we know it.

"I'm so proud of you," I whisper.

She briefly squeezes me tighter before taking a step back.

"You did great, Abigail," Tamara starts. "If we meet here about once a week or so, we'll be able to get you comfortable and back on the road soon."

"Once a week it is, then." They say their goodbyes, and then Abigail faces me again. "Thanks for coming with me, Felix."

"I'm glad I was here to see you do that. Your sisters are going to be happy to know you did it, too. As long as my schedule works out, I can come with you for the rest if you want."

"Thanks. Let's go home now."

"Wanna drive?"

She laughs and shakes her head. "No, I like having a chauffeur. I need to milk it while it lasts."

***

I SMILE STARING at the screen. Grades are officially in and I passed all my classes with flying colors. I lean back in my kitchen chair and think about the beginning of this semester. I had no boyfriend. I sure as hell wasn't going to attempt driving a car. Nope, neither one of those crossed my mind.

Now look at me. I have Felix in my life, we're happy, and I drove. Well, I didn't drive far, but I did a little bit. My smiles falters when there's knock on the door. Annie and LA are here and we have one thing on our to-do list we haven't touched since our parents died.

Today, we're going to do it.

When I open the door, they both are dressed similar to me: shorts and a tank top. It's hot outside and I know all the moving we're planning on doing is going to make it much worse.

"Ready?" LA asks and I nod, grabbing my keys.

The three of us head off to LA's Nissan and I sit in the back. As we take off toward the other side of town, none of us say anything. We know this is going to be hard for us, but we'll do it together.

Annie, who can't stand the silence, begins telling us about her class and all of the end of the school year stuff she has to do. I still haven't spoken as LA turns into the storage building's parking lot. The three of us get out of the car and walk down the long alleyway toward the orange garage-like door that houses our parent's belongings.

Annie unlocks it and the metal clanks and bangs as she yanks it up. We stand next to each other as we stare at the dusty boxes and furniture.

"Why haven't we done this already?" LA asks.

"Because we were busy," I answer.

"Because we have careers and lives," Annie adds.

"Because we've been avoiding it." As always, LA tells the truth. "Well," she takes a deep breath. "Let's start."

LA picks up the first box and opens it. I look over at Annie and she nods at me. With shaking hands, I walk in next and open a box.

After two hours, several tears shed by all three of us, and a lot of sweating, the moving truck pulls up. We decide to donate everything we don't want to a local domestic shelter. We're keeping the pictures, home movies, and a few other things. LA's keeping the china because Annie and I don't want it. I'm keeping a blanket that laid on the back of the couch. Annie's keeping a few of Mom's purses.

"Want to get some ice cream?" LA asks as we load everything into the trunk. Annie tells the manager we were finished and our building is now empty.

"We're a sweaty mess. I don't think they would let us into any establishment like this," I tell her.

"I agree with LA." Annie comes up behind me. "Ice cream sounds really good right now."

"Fine." There is no point in arguing. I'm hoping I don't see anyone I know.

We pile back into the car and LA drives us off to the ice cream parlor. Again, it's quiet and I know we all are reflecting on everything we just went through. We closed the final door of our parents' lives and we closed the final door on _our_ lives before they passed away.

I think about my parents. They were both amazing and loving. I couldn't have asked for two better people in my life. Being in the car and driving the short distance I had, I remember what LA told me before. My parents wouldn't want me to not live my life. I know in my head it was an accident, but my heart still hurts over the fact I had been the one driving the car. Tamara keeps telling me I will always feel this way, but it's how I deal with it that will help me get back on track.

I follow LA and Annie into the very cool ice cream parlor and Annie giggles.

"Well, looky looky," LA turns back to me and winks. "Seems like someone took an earlier flight home."

"Huh?" I don't understand what she's saying until I look over her shoulder and see Felix sitting with Harry at one of the tables. He smirks when he sees me, and Harry waves his hand, showing five cups of ice cream sitting in front of him.

My heart skips a beat and I rush over to Felix. He's exactly what I need at this moment. Yes, I love my sisters more than anything, but Felix has become my rock. He stands as I reach him. He engulfs me into his arms, and instantly everything is better.

"You weren't supposed to be here until tomorrow."

Felix pecks my lips. "I took the morning flight. Harry just picked me up a little bit ago."

"I'm really sweaty and dirty right now."

"No big deal. I'm washable." He winks.

I giggle as I take the seat next to him and he hands me a cup, which has two scoops of vanilla ice cream in it. Annie and LA take their seats and Harry hands them their cups. LA's right, the ice cream was a good idea. The coolness soothes my body heat.

"Did you ladies get everything done?" Harry asks.

"Yes," LA says sadly.

"The truck picked up everything we didn't keep," Annie further explains.

Harry rubs LA's back and she leans on him. "Did you keep anything?"

"Mom's china and some pictures." Her voices cracks and it breaks my heart to see LA, the strong one, sad.

"Overall, it was a good day," Annie tries to be upbeat.

Felix squeezes my hand and I smile up at him. "Did you keep anything?"

"A few things."

"Well, I don't need to keep anything because my memory of asking your father for Leigh Ann's hand in marriage is forever burned in my memory." Harry chuckles.

Annie gasps. "I was there that day. How could I forget?"

"What happened?" Felix asks.

"At first, Dad tried to make sure Harry understood how _wild_ LA really was." Annie giggles.

"I told him how much I loved her and I could handle anything she threw at me." Harry kisses LA's temple and a small blush crosses her face. "Of course, he finally gave his blessing and we now have our happily ever after."

Annie and I 'awe' Harry's sweet words.

"Now, she's a housewife," Annie jokingly pinches LA's arm. "Who would have thought that?"

"Hey," LA points at her. "I'm a good at my job and my job title is housewife extraordinaire."

We laugh and I can feel all of us relaxing. We begin to tell stories of our parents. Annie tells of her college graduation where Mom cried through the entire ceremony. LA tells of the time she tried to sneak back into the house after staying out past curfew and blamed it on a power outage that she didn't know the time. Our dad said it was a creative excuse, but she was still grounded. I told of my very first date when Mom _and_ Dad just happened to end up at the same movie as my date and me. Felix laughs as do we at our silly antics and the tales of our parents.

Soon, the ice cream is gone and it's time to go. Felix rides back with LA, Annie, and I to our apartment complex and helps me carry in the one box I saved. I hug both of my sisters tightly and go into my place where Felix is waiting for me.

"Are you sure you're okay?"

"I'm sad," I tell him truthfully. "But we've been putting it off for years and we needed to do it. Now, how was your game?"

"Good. We lost, but overall, we did well. Anything else happening I should know about?"

"Oh," I perk up. "I passed all of my classes this semester."

"Outstanding. There wasn't a doubt in my mind because I knew you could do it."

"I'm glad for you because I had all kinds of doubts. Now," I look up at him. "I'm very dirty and I need a shower."

Felix moans.

"Care to join me?"

He smiles. "I thought you'd never ask."

I OPEN MY eyes and Felix is still sound asleep next to me as I ease out of the bed. I pull one of his shirts over my head and go into the living room. The box still sits on the coffee table. I open it and pull out the blanket. I trace my fingers over the patterns and smile at all the times I curled up under it when I was young.

I pull out the pictures. Some are of me as a baby. A few are of my sisters and me, but there are more of my parents and a lot of them when they started dating. They looked happy and so in love. I don't remember a lot of fighting between my parents when we were growing up. I only remember happiness and lot of love.

"Abigail?" I look up and Felix is coming toward me in his boxers. "You okay?" He kneels down and wipes my cheek. I didn't even realize I had been crying.

"I'm okay. Just looking through memories."

"May I?" He holds out his hand and I hand him the few pictures I'm holding. "Wow." He takes a seat next to me. "You and Annie look like your mom." He flips through them.

"Yes. LA looks like dad." I point to the one with all of us.

"They look very happy," he says after a moment of silence.

"They were. They loved each other so much."

"I can tell." He sits them on the table. "Are you okay?"

"I am now. Felix," I take a second to compose myself. "I'm really happy with you, and I love you. I want you to know that."

"I love you, too. One day, you'll have a happy family like your parents had."

"Do you think we have that? I'm not talking like marriage or anything, but happiness? I even saw it with your parents."

"Yeah, I think we do. I'm never happier than when I'm with you."

"I feel the same way. I love you, Felix."

"I love you, too."

***

### About the Authors

LINDSAY PAIGE is a romance author from North Carolina who has published YA, NA, and Sports romances of her own. She is a huge hockey fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins and loves read. When not writing, Lindsay is focused on completing college.

MARY SMITH was born in Chicago, Illinois, but currently lives in West Virginia. She is an avid reader, co-founder of Book Nerds Across America, and author of NA, Paranormal, Sports, and other romances. She goes nowhere without her cell phone or Kindle. Mary loves anything to do with Chicago Blackhawks, Patrick Sharp, and hockey related!!

DESPITE THEIR LOVE for different teams and players, Lindsay and Mary write sports romances to vicariously live through their characters and their experiences with these hot athletes. Together, they have written The Penalty Kill trilogy, Oh Captain, My Captain series, and The Ninth Inning series.

Authors Links:

Facebook

Lindsay: facebook.com/authorlindsaypaige

Mary: facebook.com/authormarysmith

Twitter

Lindsay: twitter.com/lindsaypaige11

Mary: twitter.com/marysmith1980

Blog

Lindsay: authorlindsaypaige.blogspot.com/

Mary: authormarysmith.blogspot.com/

***

### Coming Soon

The Ninth Inning series presents

Memphis Angels' catcher, Blake Foster.

Blake Foster has a love/hate relationship with the game he plays for a living. On good days, he smiles and enjoys baseball. During the rest of the time, he's battling his demons and looking out for his mother. He has a hard time keeping ahold of the good things in life no matter how badly he wants them.

Sofia Gardner might come from a rich family, but she has worked for the opportunity for a position on the staff for the Memphis Angels. However, when she meets Blake, she realizes there's more to him than his constant grumpy expressions. She feels he needs a friend and in her good-natured way, she reaches out to him, only to find the demons he's battling are much worse than she thought.

When the bases are loaded and it all comes down to the catch at home plate, can they get their out or lose it all when it matters most?

_Blake_ , book two in The Ninth Inning series, releases October 25, 2015.

***
