Fumbled Hearts (Tender Hearts #1)

by Meagan Brandy

“About two years ago, I was on a business trip in California.” Shit. “I ran into an old friend from college while I was there,” he says softly and my body grows tense. “He played for the Tomahawks, my friend.” “He must have been a good football player,” I respond, not looking at him. I see him nod in my peripheral. “He sure was. His coach told him he was a Ferrari with nitrous - inconceivable and priceless.” I bust up laughing, a breaking feeling hitting my chest at the same time, because those words are to a T. “Arthur Miller, running back. First round draft pick.” Ian nods. “Arthur Miller. He was on his way to his coach, or former coach turned owner’s, funeral the day I saw him.” I nod, my eyes searching for imperfections in the wood grains on the porch ceiling. “He doesn’t realize, does he?” “I’m no liar, Mr. Monroe.” I purposely go with his last name. “If he ever asked, I’d tell him, but it’s completely unnecessary and insignificant. I don’t like people knowing about my life because it’s my business. I’ve shared things with him I haven’t shared with anyone – not that that’s your business - but some things aren’t factors in who I am, and that’s one of them.”

“So, I now own half of a professional football team. So, my grandfather has two Super Bowl rings and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Who cares that my parents owned and operated the number one sports photography company in the country? While those things are awesome, they’re mine.”