A Different Side (University Park #4)

by C. M. Doporto

  At first, I didn’t see how it would work, but after fourteen days, I started becoming more aware of how the voices attacked when certain situations or thoughts arose. By day twenty-one, I was learning how to respond when the voices made their grand appearance. And by day thirty-five, I had a new playing field in my mind I’d crafted to my advantage. Growing this new landscape wasn’t easy and the old threatened to take over every time. One thing was certain: the demons didn’t like it, but I sure did.

  “You ready, man?” Josh bumped fists with me.

  “Hell yeah.” I rotated my shoulder a few times, hoping it wasn’t going to give me trouble. It was Pro Day at PHU. The day scouts came to assess the talent of players entering the draft. Although I hadn’t opted for the draft, Coach asked if I’d throw passes to the players being showcased. I more than willingly agreed. It would be great exposure for me.

  There was something about being in front of the scouts that made me more determined to win this battle. I had lived on the defensive side of life since I discovered how I was conceived. I let it shape and turn me into a person I didn’t want to be. I never thought I’d be able to change until this beautiful brunette came into my life and encouraged me to live on a different side. Without Lexi and Dr. Galen tactics, I wouldn’t be here — no question about it.

  “Relax, man, you’ve got this.” I placed my hand on his shoulder, giving him the reassurance he needed. Josh’s stats were good. With eleven-hundred and sixty-two rushing yards and six-hundred and eighty-two receiving yards, he was projected as a fifth round draft pick. But that was all before the Combine, so he had a good reason to be concerned.

  He moved his head from left to right, popping the joints. “Just a walk in the park.” Nervous energy tainted the excitement flowing over his face. Josh had missed the Combine after he sprained his big toe during practice, which sucked because he was so worried he wouldn’t get invited. His turf toe was so painful, he could barely walk on it. He and Coach decided it was best if he sat out since he wouldn’t be able to perform at his best. Pro Day was his shot at being drafted.

  We looked around for Shawn and spotted him on one of the trainer’s tables. “Are you hurting?” I asked as Marcos taped Shawn’s ankle, the one he injured during the bowl game.

  “It started hurting after that last squat. Damn thing keeps swelling,” Shawn huffed. He and Josh, along with the other draft-eligible players, had just finished being weighed, measured, and proving their muscle strength with a pre-field workout.

  Marcos cut the black tape and pulled it firmly underneath the heel of his foot. “How’s that feel?”

  “Good.” Shawn wiggled his toes. “Not too tight.”

  “After you’re done, we’ll do some cryotherapy. That should help.” Marcos gave Shawn’s ankle one more check before tucking his scissors in the pocket of his shirt.

  “Okay.” Shawn slipped his sock on and then put on his shoe.

  Josh, Shawn, and I trekked onto the field and a loud thunder roared, heightening the excitement pulsing through our veins. Spring was making its grand appearance with heavy rain and lightning while we were getting ready to heat up the field inside.

  “Damn, who’s not here?” Shawn said as his eyes scanned up and down the sideline. Media and scouts from a ton of pro teams crowded the indoor practice field, waiting for them to put their skills to the test. PHU earned the status as one of the top ten universities for developing talent, which drew a couple of coaches to the exclusive day.

  “No kidding.” Josh blew out a long breath. My friends had been working hard for this day — watching clips from previous games, honing in on areas needing improvement. Every day, I practiced with them until they were satisfied with their performance. Helping them and attending spring practice kept me focused and determined to make a permanent change.

  Bright orange cones dotted the green turf ready to test our agility. Coach stood on the sideline, overseeing his top players like a proud father. The trainers and assistant coaches darted around the field and motioned to us. “Let’s do this,” I said and they followed me.

  The assistant coaches gave us some instructions for drills and I jogged into place. I looked into the stands and quickly spotted Lexi and Shelby. Shawn’s parents, Betty and Ron Jackson, sat next to them. I really liked his family and they treated me like another son, just like Josh’s parents. Even though I didn’t have a father, Ron and Bob offered a warm seat to discuss any of my concerns or needs. I had a few times, but I let my pride get in the way and kept my issues to myself, until I met Dr. Galen.

  I allowed my eyes to travel up and down the sidelines, spotting several scouts I’d spoken with previously. Despite my off-field issues, I did have the attention of several teams. It was just a matter of walking that straight line and performing this coming season. As long as I did that, I had a good shot of being a top draft pick.

  Shawn and Josh were talking with their agents as I practiced throwing to a few of the players. I’d been approached by a few agents, but hadn’t decided to enter into an agreement with any of them. I still had time, but with the next season a few months away, I’d have to make a decision soon.

  “What do you think?” Coach Anderson approached me from behind just as I caught a kick from Tony Rodriguez.

  I rotated the football so the white laces were underneath my fingers. “Pretty damn impressive.” With the ball firmly in my grip, I hurled it back to him.

  “I hear you’re on New Orleans’ radar.” Coach adjusted his hat as his eyes wandered to the general vicinity of where their scout stood.

  “Is that so?” I grinned and then turned in time to catch another kick. It would be awesome to play for the team located where I was born — especially since most of my family was still there.

  “Seattle’s, too.”

  I hit the ball against my palm a few times. “That’s music to my ears.”

  “When we’re done, I’ll make sure to introduce you. I know it’s early, but their watching, so remember to do your best.”

  “Yes, sir. Always.”

  “That’s my boy.” Coach placed his hand on my shoulder. “Don’t be afraid to show ‘em what you got.” I smiled and then hurled the ball back to Tony. “Let’s get the show on the road.” Coach grabbed his whistle and blew it. “Marshall, you’re up.”

  Josh darted to the forty-yard line and Tony kicked the ball back to me. One of the assistant coaches gave the signal to begin. I waited for Josh as he paced in a small circle. It was obvious he was worked up about today. When it came to football, we were different. I played for the love it, where Josh was dead serious about it. I wanted to play professionally, but I was realistic about the opportunity. Josh’s life revolved around landing a contract. If he didn’t, I wasn’t sure how’d he survive. He stopped trekking around the field and stood in place, making eye contact with me, which told me he was ready.

  I threw the ball as Josh exhibited his skills for all to see. After a few passes, he ran his drills and the scouts from all the major teams, including Cleveland, clicked their stopwatches simultaneously to record his time. Some consulted with each other, while others remained silent as they jotted his time on note pads or electronic devices. And Josh rocked it! Dashing, jumping, catching, you name it — he did it with speed and accuracy.

  We high-fived as he exited the field. Shawn didn’t waste any time, taking the field as soon as he got the go-ahead. Tampa’s wide receiver coach stepped forward. Shawn had spent the day before interviewing him, despite attending the Combine and elevating his stock to a third round pick. No doubt, he had a damn good chance of getting drafted at a higher round.

  Shawn really showed up too, completing his drills with a vertical jump that placed him in the top five. His forty and sixty yard dash showed how accelerated he was on his feet, proving he could contest any throw on the field.

  Pro Day continued with nine other top contenders. I did my part, as coached asked, throwing passes as needed. The PHU players exhibited their
skills as the scouts actively moved about, recording the results. Coach talked with a few of the pro coaches there, along with some of the scouts. Josh and Shawn’s agents were the only two allowed to attend while the others waited patiently outside for everyone to finish so they could wine and dine their prospects. Overall, it was the biggest turnout for PHU in history. And the best part? I was a part of it.

  Once the four-hour Pro Day concluded, we hit the locker room. The coaches congratulated the draft contenders and the scouts hung around, talking to several of them. Coach was engaged in a conversation with New Orleans’ scout and motioned for me. I wiped the sweat from my face, tossed the towel in one of the dirty hampers, and approached them.

  “Raven, I’d like to you meet Myles LeDoux.” The short, stocky guy extended his hand.

  “Nice to meet you.” We exchanged a warm shake. “Glad you could come out today.”

  He inclined his head and his perfectly molded hair followed his movements. It reminded me of Jimmy Johnson’s hair, except he was a much younger version. “Me, too. PHU makes fourteen for me. I still have about five more to go.”

  “They sure keep you busy.” I rested my hands on my waist and took a silent breath. Scouts typically asked coaches questions about their players. I had no idea what Myles and Coach Anderson were discussing, but whatever he asked me or wanted to know, I had to be honest with him. It wasn’t like I could hide my past.

  “No question about it.” He smiled. “So, how’s that shoulder doing?”

  I rotated my arm a few times, cupping the edge of my blade. “Right now, fine. I’ve had a few flare ups, but muscle stem therapy and cryotherapy seem to really help.”

  “That’s great. Not many universities are using cryotherapy. Glad to hear you’re a step ahead.”

  Coach crossed his arms and tucked his hands against his chest. “My boys are important. I need them in the best shape and injury free.”

  “Sounds like you’re doing a good job of rehabbing them.” Myles gave me a quick once over. “I really like your deep pass and your accuracy has really improved.”

  “Thank you.” I held back the grin dying to escape. “I’ve been working hard.”

  “It shows.” He inclined his head. “Keep it up and practice reading your defenses and creating a pre-snap plan.”

  I nodded. “Coach and I have talked about it. That’s what we’ll be working on this coming season. My goal is to be ready on deck for next year.”

  “Sounds good.” He patted my left shoulder. “Stay clean and out of trouble and I’ll see you soon.”

  “Yes, sir.” Those last words hit the center of my chest like a wrecking ball. It shouldn’t have come as a surprise, but it was never easy hearing about my mistakes.

  “Coach.” Myles shook Anderson’s hand. “It was a pleasure, but I’ve got a plane to catch.”

  “Thank you for visiting. We appreciate it.”

  Myles grabbed his bag and headed toward the door. Coach didn’t waste any time leading me to Seattle’s scout. The conversation wasn’t as warm, and his analysis of me indicated I had more weaknesses than strengths. I thanked him for the advice and made a mental note to discuss it with Coach later. Some of it was news to me, but if it was an area of concern, I wanted to know so I could work on perfecting it.

  After the quick chat, I headed to the shower and then got dressed. I wasn’t sure if Lexi had already left, but I didn’t want to keep her waiting any longer. I exited and spotted my beautiful brunette standing next to Josh and Shawn’s parents. Josh was out of the locker room and already sucking face with his girl. Shelby was wrapped around his torso as they kissed like they hadn’t seen in each other in weeks.

  Lexi stood in place, eyeing me from top to bottom. Maybe it was my tight, purple Under Amor shirt that had her wiggling in her jeans, or my slightly wet hair, but her glare spelled out what she wanted. I couldn’t wait to peel off her jeans and slide my hands underneath her oversized sweater that bared some skin.

  Damn! My woman was tight.

  “You were great!” She threw her arms around my neck, holding me tightly.

  I rested my hands on her waist. “I did well?” I smiled, seeing the satisfaction on her face. It pleased me to know she was proud of my performance.

  “Hell yeah, baby. You had those scouts turning their heads even though they were supposed to be watching your teammates.”

  “Really?”

  “Yep.” She pressed her lips to mine and we kissed, although I wasn’t able to stop grinning. Meeting the scouts was great, but hearing more were watching me had me ready to float to the clouds.

  “I just have to keep playing well and next year, I’ll be here.” I glanced over at my buddies. Camera and reporters surrounded them and for once, it was nice to have some breathing room. “Better them than me.”

  “Yeah, well, they just saw you.” She winked.

  I did a quick glance and saw Jenna, the reporter who couldn’t seem to stay away, making a path toward me. I shook my head. This girl never gave up. Looking at Lexi, I asked, “Are you alright with all of this?” The past few years I’d become accustomed to the media’s attention, but it was definitely something new for Lexi.

  “Of course.” She shrugged, like it was no big deal. “I’m excited. You’re going to have a kick ass year.” She unhooked her arms from my neck and stepped back.

  I touched my forehead to hers. “Baby, as long as I have you by my side, I know it will be.”

  She gave me a huge smile and then ushered me off to the information sharks. This time, the questions stemmed around my appearance at Pro Day and not what had happened over the holidays. It was a huge relief and I didn’t mind answering their questions.

  As I chatted with the reporters, something struck me on a different note. I already knew I was madly in love with Lexi and wanted to be with her forever, but did she know that? There was only one way to prove my devoted love for her and her birthday made the perfect venue. We hadn’t been together very long, but I was willing to take the risk. I didn’t want to lose her again. Before meeting back up with her and my friends, I pulled out my phone and dialed Mr. Marshall.

  “Tell me you got some good news?” he answered, not bothering to say hi.

  I was little confused by his question, but apparently, he was keeping up with my steps. I played along, hoping I was on the right path. “I had a kick ass day here at Pro Day and several scouts were taking note of my abilities.”

  “Yes!” I heard him slap his mammoth hands together. “Sing to me, baby.”

  I laughed. “Sorry, Mr. Marshall, there’s only one person I sing to and that’s Lexi.”

  He chuckled. “Good, let’s keep it that way.”

  “Speaking of, I’m calling to see if you know anyone who sells diamonds.”

  “Diamonds?” he snorted. “So, you’re ready to take that step?”

  “Damn right I am. Besides, I need to get rid of some cash.”

  “Ah, okay. Glad you called me. I know just the right person. In fact, he owes me a favor and the good thing, his jewelry store is right there by PHU campus on University Drive.”

  “Perfect.” I pumped a fist in the air.

  “I’ll give him a call and text you the information.”

  “Sounds like a plan.” Things were lining up perfectly. I took a deep breath and pushed away the negative thoughts swarming in, telling me Lexi would never want to marry a guy like me.

  “Good luck, Raven, and congratulations.”

  “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

  “Anytime, son. Anytime.”

  I hung up the phone and slid it in my bag. It took every effort to conceal the excitement pumping through my veins. Lexi was good at reading my emotions; I just hoped I could wait two weeks. But before I did, I knew I had to do the honorable thing and call her dad.

  Σ

  Chapter 39

  Love is a friendship that has caught fire. It is quite understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is
loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.

  ~Ann Landers

  I thought about texting Lexi and telling her to pack her bags because we were going to South Padre Island for Spring Break, but I decided to surprise her instead. It was Thursday morning and Spring Break would officially start in twenty-five hours. I headed to Baxter building for my last class of the day when my phone rang.

  “Hello?”

  “Hey, Raven. It’s Joe.” His Spanish accent made it easy to recognize him.

  “Joe, my man.” I let out a slight chuckle. “Tell me you’ve got some good news for me.” I had met up with him a few days after Mr. Marshall sent me his contact information. Not knowing much about diamonds or jewelry, he showed me some pictures from catalogs and I picked a ring for Lexi. He asked if I wanted to design it, but I opted for a safer route and chose one I hoped she’d like.

  “Sure do.” His voice lilted. “The ring came in yesterday and I’ve set the diamond in the center.”

  “Awesome!” I pumped a fist in the air. He hadn’t been sure it would come in before Spring Break.

  “It’s ready and let me tell you, she’s a beauty. Lexi’s going to love it.”

  I glanced at my watch, finding I only had ten minutes until class started. I’ll head over after class and pick it up.”

  “Sounds good. See you then.”

  I sat in class, not paying attention to the words coming from the professor’s mouth. All I could think about was Lexi. Her beautiful face…the sparkle of her brown eyes, the perfect slope of her nose that led to her plump, full lips. Lips I wanted to kiss all day and night. Her contagious laugh that ended in a little gasp, which she hated, but I loved. Lexi was perfectly amazing. Beautiful in every way. The best thing? I was days away from asking her to be mine forever.