Fifth Round

WARNING EXTRA EXTRA LONG! Skimming will not work. There are plots within plots and this is really three sequential stories in one with side stories and many callbacks to things that happened previously in the story. If you are looking for simple, short and sweet, hit the back button hard.

As usual, this story only partly fits the category posted.

Not a stroke story and only moderate amounts of sex.

Plenty of stopping places. Just pick the end of a day. I thought about breaking it into chapters, but it was finished and my schedule would have made pacing the releases a month long- or worse- process.

I used two fake NFL teams for most of the action to reduce the number of 'The real team would never do that... or this player did this...' The Defenders are part of the AFC South and The Lumberjacks the NFC West. I don't have any idea how it would work logistically. It just does in this story and we all know this story would not happen.

The game day story writing is choppy as heck, but it's that or do descriptions of 95% of the game that are not instrumental to the story. This story is already very long. The player names are fake. THE WHOLE NFL SEASONS ARE FAKE.

Credit to George Anderson and February Sucks for any story featuring a football player being a serial seducer. Relax, No Jim, Linda, Dee, or Morrisons. Seduction mechanics are varied and entirely different. No night of the best sex with the villain and confrontational return. The story moves quickly past the betrayal. No reconciliation, either.

This is not a BTB story.

Peterbilt is a real semi truck manufacturer.

A double birdie is two middle fingers.

TA = Travel America, i. e. a truck stop with extensive facilities that will also appeal to auto drivers.

Blind Tiger. What they would call an illegal bar in the 1900s-1960s in dry counties in the US. Dry= no alcohol sales.

Revenuers= US Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents. Federal, as opposed to county, law enforcement.

Better bone up on your trivia knowledge of Motley Crue and Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure for a couple inside jokes.

Ring My Bell by Anita Ward was a disco hit featuring that lyric sung in a very high key.

In 1836, the US, technically the Republic of Texas at the time, had a famous battle against Mexico called The Alamo which is in San Antonio, Texas. This is where 'The Defenders' comes from.

I repeat names a lot for given roles. Unless noted, this story has nothing to do with other stories.

Nothing new plotwise. Just one of my overly romantic, Hallmark Channel overly sweet, overlong and overdetailed fall and rise stories. Still reading? Enjoy the ride!

Fifth Round

[Fade in intro. Action scenes from University of Oklahoma Football. Song: AC/DC Thunderstruck]

No matter how high you climb, someone is higher.

Saturday, April 30, 2022

Four people sat on the couch, their eyes glued to the TV when the announcer came to the podium and said, "With the One-hundred fifty-fourth pick in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL draft, The Portland Lumberjacks select... Christopher Anker."

Unlike the first rounders, there were no cameras in the home of David and Angela Anker's spacious Owasso, Oklahoma home, but Chris was sitting on the couch with his Mother to his right and his father next to her, and his fiance, Sydney at his left.

Chris shut his eyes, savoring the enormous once-in-a-lifetime win. All that time, all those grueling workouts, and all of that sacrifice had just paid off. Beautiful blonde Sydney was all over him, showering his cheek with kisses as his mother hugged him from the other side and his father roughly patted him on the back.

Chris's phone rang; it was Coach Holden congratulating him. He thought back to that first 7U game when he started playing. If he could out think them, he could out play them. He could figure out what they would do... figure out their patterns...

He smiled. Life at the top. That ultimate moment of reaching the top and looking down...

Friday, May 13, 2022

The first rookie mini camp was a whirlwind of the drafted and undrafted arriving. Chris had no time to spare as his last final was scheduled for Friday and a car was waiting to take him to the airport after his last exam which ended at noon. Attending commencement that Saturday was not an option, which disappointed his parents, but he was one of the elite and everyone knew The Lumberjacks came first.

After the flight from Tulsa with a plane change in Denver, a man was waiting at the end of airport security with a sign that said 'Anker'. Chris nodded at the man who led him to an Escalade, stowing his carryon, and took him to The Lumberjacks hotel located next to their facility in Hillsboro, a suburb on the Northwest side of Portland.

The driver stopped at the front door of the hotel and Chris walked into the lobby where the clerk handed him a key to room 306. The room was in a specially designated hallway with a guard at each end; keeping him in and others out. He missed his family and fiance, but reminded himself there were no guarantees in the cutthroat NFL. His odds of making the team were good, but he had to give his all and never let up.

Each day, pay attention and memorize what was said in the meeting then push the drills, then do it again... and again. Never having slacked off his workouts, he stood out as making the effort needed to be invited for rookie camp. By the end of the third day, it was eight drafted and six undrafted who were told they were to attend the regular rookie camp at the end of July.

Saturday, June 18, 2022

Chris was surprised he had been able to sleep at all the night before his wedding day, but smiled and stretched as he woke to his phone alarm playing 'Don't Stop Believing' by Journey, having been influenced by his father's musical taste. His father called his cell a minute later, starting with, "Get up, son. You have a lot to do."

While a little gruff, his father had always had his best interests at heart so he got up and met his father who helped him with his part of the wedding day.

Life was better than good because he was marrying his love and she was a beauty. The morning a blur with his father taking control of the logistics for the day for his son, "Move it, son. Eat something but not so much you will be overfull. Your bride will kill us both if you waddle into her wedding bloated."

A half hour before the main event, his father came back to him, scanning him to make sure he was presentable, "You clean up well."

Chris laughed, "That's an old line."

His father shrugged, "I'm old."

Chris rolled his eyes, "Not really, though I thoroughly resent you infecting me with an appreciation for your 80's music. It was embarrassing in high school."

He thought for a second and switched topics, "Everyone's here from our side?"

His father nodded, "My parents, my brother and his wife, your cousins, Gramma Izzy."

"Make sure they keep a microphone away from Gramma."

His father laughed, "WAAAAAY ahead of you on that one. Everyone has been told. EVERYONE."

Chris shuddered, "I love Gramma, but Sydney would kill me if the wedding is less than perfect and heaven knows what indecent stories would come out of her mouth!"

His father nodded strongly, "Relax. It's handled." He paused and laughed, "Can you IMAGINE her speech at the reception?"

Chris shuddered, "Yes and that is why we need to make sure she doesn't get near the microphone during the speeches."

His father helped him prepare and kept them both out of the way of the preparations for the bride. Finally at a quarter until one in the afternoon, David came into the anteroom of the church and asked, "Everything is in place. Are you ready, son?"

Chris nodded happily, "Yeah dad."

His dad stood in front of him and adjusted the bow tie of his tux, a real bow tie and not one of those comfortable ones on a band you could put under the collar. He stood back and smiled at Chris, "You have no idea how proud I am of you, son."

All of this for his beloved Sydney; busty, blonde, and beautiful. Being one of the top dogs in high school and in college was a privilege few men outside his circle could understand. The beautiful women, not just the pretty ones, were more than willing to give him their number. While other players on his college football team played the field, he enjoyed the company of the beautiful Sydney whom he had met at a football player party when they were both freshmen.

She was different in the best ways, more interested in shared adventures than drunken binges and she had quite a libido... He smiled. Awesome days and even better nights! ... and sometimes when her mood was right... it wasn't even night. He thought back one happy time along a hiking trail and a secluded pond, her bent over a boulder. He was going at her doggie all the while she made delightful noises and her wetness made it clear she was enjoying him as much as he was enjoying her.

"Why the dumb smile?", his father asked

He did not dare tell his dad the real reason and said, "Just thankful for how lucky I am."

His dad looked at Chris, eyes narrowed in doubt as he saw his son's goofy grin, "Uh huh. Probably thinking about the honeymoon."

*******

Tom Walters, the CEO and owner of Walters Logistics, had gone all out for his beloved daughter. The North Shore Christian Church, located in the wealthy suburb Glencoe, had been adorned with white and red roses to the point that the pews and altar were almost covered.

The prelude tones played and the guests went silent. The wedding march started and Sydney made her grand entrance on the arm of her father walking her down the aisle.

Sydney smiled at Chris from the end of the aisle as the guests whispered in audible approval at the gorgeous bride in the perfect fit-and-flare wedding dress. Chris knew he was privileged to love and be loved by such a beautiful woman who held his gaze during her grand walk up the aisle. They reached the end of the aisle, Tom lifted the veil, kissed his daughter's cheek then took his place at the front pew beside his wife on the bride's side of the aisle.

An hour later, the vows made and the reception line finished, the stretch Lincoln Navigator took the bride and groom to Lake Forest Grove Country Club where again, Tom Walters had gone all out for his daughter. White and red roses everywhere along with a white silk banner embroidered with the names, 'Chris and Sydney Anker' with 'June 18, 2022' done in red shiny silk thread. The choices for dinner were Filet Mignon, Truffle Risotto, or Chicken Cordon Bleau and the wedding cake done by celebrity cake maker Genevieve Beaumont. No side cakes for the guests, all slices were by the much sought after Genevieve.

Three hundred fifty guests dined and had dessert and the room quieted as Tom Walters clinked the crystal goblet to announce the start of the speeches. He smiled proudly, "Welcome guests! It is our greatest privilege to host you here at this grand facility. My wife Lisa and I thank you for attending. I know it was a stretch for some of you coming from out of town and want you to know, I have covered all the rooms booked at this hotel under our wedding reservation, both last night and tonight."

There were more than a few smiles as those of modest means realized the five to six hundred dollar hotel bills had just vanished.

"I won't drag on a long speech other than I am happy that my daughter, a summa cum laude graduate herself with a degree in accounting, has found love with a man of so much talent. I present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Chris and Sydney Anker."

After the applause, Tom said, "Now, we shall hear from the father of the groom, David Anker."

Chris' father, David, stood, "I will also keep the speech short and not bore everyone with overly large words and overlong platitudes. I just want to thank our host for a wedding far more grand than I could ever imagine attending and for graciously hosting me and my wife, Angela at their beautiful home."

He quipped and looked at Tom, "Yeah, Tom, I do think that golf course in your backyard is awaiting us tomorrow morning!"

There was a bit of chuckling then he continued, "Life is full of unknowns. I still remember holding my infant son for the first time. Still a vivid image in my mind as I looked down realizing the enormity of what being a parent means. Never could I imagine today. He made the NFL and has just married arguably the most beautiful bride to ever walk the Earth except of course my perfect bride, Angela."

Angela chuckled and said for all to hear, "Nice save!", and the rest of the reception laughed along.

David raised his glass, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you, Chris and Sydney Anker. And now for the best man speech. Joseph Gerard."

Joseph Gerard, a tall and fairly stout twenty-two year old black man with close cropped hair stood up, "I met Chris at the beginning of freshman year. Somehow The University of Oklahoma thought putting two football players in the same room was a good idea." He rolled his eyes and chuckled.

There were some laughs then he continued, "Well, being on the football team meant we got invited to all of the best parties!"

He paused for effect, "I thought about telling everyone about them then realized my mom taught me to not fu... er, mess up the life of a friend. I tell you, Chris is a true friend and the kind that has your back. I was there the night Chris met Sydney. ALL and I mean ALL of the guys were making plays for her and well, not doing so well. All sorts of lines and she shot them all down, sending some of the guys who used less polite lines away with a bit of embarrassment."

"Well, Chris used the absolutely most clever and brilliant pick up line I have ever heard. You need to write this one down because I tell you NO ONE could ever come up with a better line than this."

He changed his voice, imitating Chris, "Hi. I'm Chris."

Everyone laughed and after it quieted again he said, "Doubt me? She is FINE! And she married him! I salute you, Chris. You are at the top of the world looking down and I am happy for you. My best friend."

Applause was followed by the first dance, Sydney, close in his arms on a darkened dancefloor with a spotlight illuminating her graceful and his merely adequate dancing skills. After the song faded, the father-daughter and mother-son dance were concluded, and finally the dance floor opened to all until the garter toss.

Sydney smiled coyly at him and quietly whispered in his ear, "Don't go flipping the dress up. You don't want everyone to see." She met his eyes with an impish look.

It took him a second to understand what she meant as she sat down. He reached up to the upper thigh and found the garter then surreptitiously kept his hand going further until his fingers touched her bare womanhood. She jumped a bit and smiled, then flashed her eyebrows as he retrieved the garter with his own secret smile. He helped her stand then led her to the dance floor so she could toss her bouquet, one of the bridesmaids making the lucky catch.

Chris and Sydney left at half past ten as half the guests were still enjoying the evening. Sydney led him in the door with a happy anxiousness. Sydney liked sex and not while overly demonstrative in public, she was not shy once the door to their suite was closed. A wet kiss was followed by her turning facing away and, "Hurry and unzip me!".

The zipper came down and the dress pooled at the floor, she was now clad only in white stockings and silver wedding heels. She teased, "Come make an honest woman of your bride."

He took in the sight of his bride, her natural double-D chest sticking almost straight out, topped with perfect round half dollar sized areolas above a tight waist above a naturally blonde fluff of pubic hair above shaven vulva hiding her designer vagina. She was perfectly supermodel and centerfold beautiful, and she was all his.

She backed onto the bed and relaxed her hips, ready for sex and primed. Most women needed a lengthy warm up. It was almost as if Sydney had an 'on' button she could benefit from as long as her mood was right and her wedding day was one such occasion. Fast missionary sex was followed by fast doggie. That was followed by a much less urgent face to face love making tongues dancing slow session of missionary.

Sydney fell asleep happily laying half on his chest with a kiss and an "I love you, Chris."

Sunday, June 19, 2022

After their almost six hour flight to Hewanorra International Airport and another two hours to get to the resort, they arrived at Anse Marquis Whispers. Two large Black men wearing khaki shorts and bright purple logoed polo shirts met them, one opening the door and the other opening the back of the Mercedes Benz Sprinter van to get their luggage, "Welcome to Anse Marquis Whispers", he said with a grand flourish.

Sydney looked around the entry doors to the lobby, lush and flowering hibiscus and frangipani bushes on both sides of the glass doors leading inside. They walked inside and up to the counter, standing behind a naked older couple in their sixties. Their tan, bare bottoms provided some distinctly non-erotic scenery, as they discussed an issue with their room with a woman wearing the same attire the porters wore.

Sydney giggled, "I can't believe our parents picked this out!"

Chris sighed, "This is my mom's influence... and probably started by my Gramma Izzy. They couldn't stop smirking when our families told us and a naturist resort would be something she thought of. My dad is wrapped around my mom's pinky. Your family just went along."

Sydney shook her head, "Guess again. My mom thinks this is a giant hoot." She laughed, "and told me to send lots of pictures." She laughed more.

Once at the front of the line a tall caramel brown woman with shoulder length curly hair smiled, "Welcome to Anse Marquis Whispers! What name is your reservation under?"

Chris smiled, "Chris and Sydney Anker." Sydney unconsciously stood closer to Chris, her happiness easy to spot.

"I'm Camille, and I have your reservation right here. Ocean and pool view room 218. She nodded, "One of the best rooms!"

She never broke character, "You appear to be honeymooners. I can just tell. On a more delicate matter, I am asking what color ring you want." She pointed to a card on the desk, 'Lifestyle chart. Green, open. Yellow, curious. Black, closed."

Sydney beat Chris in saying, 'Black'. Chris was still digesting what 'lifestyle' meant, finally realizing open or swinging. Sydney was already slipping on a black silicone ring onto her right ring finger as Chris said, "Black!"

Sydney giggled then kissed his cheek, "Relax and go with the flow. Okay. Just because this place is clothing optional, doesn't mean I'm not yours and yours alone. I chose a black ring before you even knew what it meant."

She giggled, "Just let it all hang out and have some fun."

Once in the room, Sydney quickly stripped below the waist then seeing Chris hesitate, she undid his shorts, "Come on! We are a thousand miles from anyone we know. Let go. Okay?"

Sydney had her shirt and bra off, slipping back into her comfy sandals, and nothing else.

"Come on! Let's explore!"

The resort was literally quite an eye opener, with some exceptions, most of the human 'scenery' was rather plain and some completely unappealing. Sydney was unconcerned about their lack of dress, knowing that they were better 'scenery' than ninety percent of the rest of the guests.

What surprised Chris was he was getting looks from a number of the women who looked right at his manhood then wore disappointed looks when they saw his black ring. Sydney got an equal number of looks, but the rings did their job and no one bothered them as they explored or when they took two seats at the bar.

They explored further, a long sandy beach leading to the south with cabanas and beach tents with loungers. He stole glances at his beautiful bride walking beside him. She caught him and teased him, walking with a bit more bump in her step to make her large breasts bounce more. She giggled, "You like what you see?"

Chris knew to nod, but not stare. Still, Sydney was a beauty, and when nude, she was breathtaking. They turned at the end of the beach a half mile then turned back, enjoying the sun. Chris finally admitted to himself the whole naked thing felt kind of... freeing.

Walking back toward the resort building, Sydney pointed over at the pool, "Look! We can have dinner at the pool!"

Chris looked over to see one end of the pool had a roof overhanging it with stools along a long bar. He noted that a number of the guests were eating what appeared to be full meals at the bar. Sydney giggled, "Ever eat a full dinner naked!?"

She smacked his bottom lightly, "You will soon!"

Karaoke followed dinner with Sydney getting up and doing her own version of 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered'. Sydney kissed his cheek, "I meant that part about, 'I'm yours. Chris, this is a lot of fun for me. I'm not going to hook up with the guys who have been scoping me out and yes, I have seen them. By the way, QUITE a few of the women are doing the same with you, and yes, I see that too."

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

Chris's mom picked them up from Tulsa International airport at five that evening with a giant smirk, "So... how was it?"

Sydney giggled, "I loved it from the get go. It took Chris a bit to get used to the idea, but he came around."

She giggled, "Learned a few things. One is sex on the beach is a BAD idea. I know one place I never want sand again!"

Both women laughed and his mom nodded, "Been there done that. ONCE!"

Chris held his hands over his ears, "MOM! Too much information!"

Sydney laughed, "One drunk woman who kind of looked like Peg Bundy, but fat, came up and propositioned Chris in front of the whole bar!"

Chris sighed and Sydney continued, "Staff led her away quickly."

They had rings for us to wear which indicated if we were swingers or not. They worked for the most part. One very attractive couple came up and started chatting us up. They had green rings. She was a stunning redhead and he would have made a horse jealous."

She groused, "I shut them down before Chris could say a word and make a scene. Does everyone have to think clothing optional means 'I'm into swinging?' She lightened up, "Skinny dipping is the best way to swim though! And being starkers all the time was fun!"

Chris sighed as Sydney regaled his mom with too much information, much to their delight as Chris tried desperately to tune them out with his mom telling Sydney about adventures in her younger years.

Friday, July 8, 2022

With no time to spare, the young couple drove cross country to Portland, Chris and his bride drove into the lot of their luxury apartment tower near downtown. Hand in hand, they walked into the lobby and took the elevator to the ninth floor. Chris lifted Sydney 'carry the bride' style over the threshold as she put the key into the door of their first place together. 903 Salmon Court Unit 9A was now home for Chris and Sydney Anker.

Once inside their new home, he set her down as they explored their new home which took up a quarter of the floor. At sixteen hundred square feet and two bedrooms at four thousand dollars a month, the perfect place for an NFL player and his gorgeous bride to reside. Privilege being the sports star who had movers move and unpack everything before he had even walked in the door.

The entry itself held just enough space for a coat closet, but opened to a large great room with a balcony overlooking the Willamette River in front and city views left and right. Warm wood floors rather than cold stone, enhanced the hominess of their new place.

A kitchen with Kashmir White countertops and high end appliances was to their right and the cased opening leading to the two bedrooms was at the left end. The master suite with walk-in-closets and a spacious ensuite with a rain shower were next to the second bedroom which held two desks with two computers for a shared workspace.

After the brief tour, they walked onto the balcony, taking in the view.

Life at the top...

Friday, July 15, 2022

Chris drove his new Steel Gray Camaro SS into the lot for rookie camp, a significant sum for someone whose contract was not guaranteed beyond the signing bonus of three hundred twenty thousand dollars paid over four years. The average NFL player lasted just over three years and the salary of six hundred twenty five thousand was nice, but owning a castle sized home was out of the question. Incentives were pretty simple, plus two thousand five hundred per game played and twenty-five thousand for each interception.

Using most of his post tax signing bonus, the forty two thousand dollar car had been a bit of a splurge, but not much compared to the McLaren already parked in the lot. There were, of course, more mundane cars in the lot as undrafted invitees to the camp were included and their pay was much more modest than those who had been drafted.

His contract was modest compared to Javon Jones, the Defensive End first round pick roughly nine million for the first year, and Lamar Drake the Offensive Guard second round pick at three million, but he was far ahead of the undrafted invitees. Big money went to the first rounders.

Being a strong safety carried both promise and peril. Tackles, prevented receptions and interceptions were good news, and any time his opponent caught the ball or a runner got past him was bad news. Chris was drafted because he studied video and studied it again, trying to get inside the heads of his opponents and sometimes was just a tenth of a second quicker to read a play and prevent a catch or be there when a runner broke through the defensive line.

With a sharp mind and a business degree behind him, he was determined to make all he could in the NFL and use those connections to make use of his degree. Children pattern after their parents and his father owned Verdigris Catoosa Agricultural Distribution in Catoosa, the Port of Tulsa that shipped agricultural products in barges. Catoosa was a regional port on the Arkansas River, much of it ended up in New Orleans if it was to be shipped internationally.

Wheat, Cotton, Soybeans, and Corn: To most people it was just boring farm stuff. It was what David Anker shipped and allowed him to give Angela, his beloved wife, and Chris, his son a good life. As soon as Chris could even begin to understand what profit was, his father brought him to work in the summer to teach his son how to be a man- real man who loved his family and supported them. He learned what profit was. What the difference was between a boss and a leader. How to get your employees to do their work without having to stand over their shoulders.

As for The Lumberjacks and his fellow rookies, even the number one pick, Javon Jones, made little compared to star quarterback and hometown hero, Ty 'Norse God' Jensen who was contracted to make forty-five million... and an additional twenty million on endorsements.

The training camp located in Hillsboro was twenty miles from the stadium on the west side of the Willamette River while the stadium was just north of downtown Portland. He looked up at the team mascot on the side of the practice facility building, Woody Hax had wild red hair, a bushy red mustache, a giant axe, and stuffing inside the pants that suggested something else was quite large. Woody looked a little crazy, more like an axe killer than an actual lumberjack.

Coach Preston Holden was at the front door along with a lot of TV cameras from the local TV stations. He shook each rookie's hand then each rookie went down the line of the other coaches standing in line down the hall.

Chris noted many if not most of the interest followed Javon Jones as he moved from place to place. It was all part of the game... the business of professional football. Local press followed as each posed with a football with the official logo of the team behind them.

Following afternoon orientation and physicals and at six, they were taken to the dining hall located next to the meeting room. Big men ate big meals and Chris had to admit, the food rocked. Steak and garlic potatoes in a celebratory air. Ninety men all in a room plus coaches and staff. Chris kept going over his to-do list. Of the ninety there that day, only fifty-three would make the final cut.

Nothing was guaranteed and Chris knew to never stop pushing.

Friday, July 22, 2022

Press interest tapered out as the time went on that week until it surged again on veteran reporting day. The team made a big show of quarterback Ty Jensen showing up in his black Bugatti Chiron bright and early. Demetrius Cole, the star receiver arriving shortly after in his silver Ferrari 488, and running back Dontrell Green in his custom-painted ultra-glossy emerald green Rolls Royce. It was the big show and all part of the marketing plan.

Chris appreciated his car though it was very average compared to many of the flashy cars that came into the lot that day, all as part of carefully cultivated public personae. He pushed himself and reminded himself, three years was average. Cars that had multi thousand dollar oil changes were not part of HIS plan. Cars where you could get almost any part at Autozone were his plan. Get in. Stick it out as long as he could, and get out. No slow decline. Get in. Get it done. Get out.

Use the connections to build a business. Something to put his name on and say 'I did this'. Something that would not leave him crippled at age fifty.

Saturday, August 13, 2022

The final practice before the first preseason game. Push. Study video. Push more. The coach for the secondary said do 'this'. He did 'this'. Do it again. Do it again. Do it again. Study the offense then study more. Read them. Find their 'tells' no matter how hard they try to hide them.

Sunday, Aug 14, 2022

A wave of raucous cheering hit Chris as he walked out of the tunnel at Willamette Stadium to an enthusiastic home crowd for the first preseason game. This was it! That first real NFL game against a real opponent. He scanned the club level and found his wife in her Lumberjacks jersey sitting next to Tanisha King, the wife of Javon King, third year kicker. Their eyes met and she beamed... Life at the top looking down.

As the game unfolded, The Lumberjacks performed very well.

"Third Quarter, Lumberjacks up twenty to three. three minutes nine seconds on the clock. Matt Lyman for the Cardinals second down and ten on their own twenty yard line. Matt takes the snap going back, looking... passes... incomplete, tipped away by rookie Chris Anker. I have to say I like this kid. He seems to read plays very well and be where the ball is."

"This kid has a lot of promise to take over in a year or two for the aging Kameron Jones who seems just a touch slower this year."

Chris was pumped, it was just a tipped ball, but it was HIS tipped ball.

"Fourth Quarter, Lumberjacks up twenty four to three. Ten minutes two seconds on the clock. Matt Lyman for the Cardinals first down and ten on the Lumberjacks thirty five yard line. Matt takes the snap, hands off to Nick Washington. He breaks through the line... OH! Nice open field tackle by Chris Anker as only Modou Mbarre was behind him. Still, a gain of seven for the Cardinals."

He pushed himself up, offering a hand to Nick to help him up. Sportsmanship counted. Nick nodded in respect and their eyes met, "Nice tackle, kid." Chris showed no emotion to the veteran's compliment, but noted it. One of the things his father taught him came to mind, be cool to people until they give you a reason to not be cool.

The announcer commented, "Mark my words, Chris Anker is a name you will need to know in a year or two."

The clock wound down as Ty Jensen took a knee for the first preseason win twenty four to three. Chris looked up at his cheering wife and gave a thumbs up and she cheered even more.

Life at the top...

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Chris came home, finally having moved out of the hotel into their living room and into the arms of his very gorgeous and very naked wife who took his hand and led him toward the bedroom...

Life at the top...

Sunday, August 21, 2022

The first game away in Jacksonville. Walking out of the tunnel, he noticed his wife was in a much more secure area of seating, tucked underneath the press box and walled off from the general and possibly hostile opposing team fans.

He looked at her, cheering for him in her freshly laundered Lumberjacks jersey, oh so sexily tied for a bare midriff look.

"First Quarter, Lumberjacks up seven to three. Seven minutes thirty seconds on the clock. Andrew Beard for the Jaguars first down and ten on the Lumberjacks forty-five yard line. Andrew takes the snap, hands off to Tyree Smith. He gets past the line and... nice open field tackle by Chris Anker. Still, a gain of eight for the Jaguars."

"Once past the offensive line, if Chris had missed, it was off to the races. Each week I see that kid grow a little. It's like he is drawn to the ball like a magnet."

Chris played less than a quarter of the plays and the score at the end was Lumberjacks twenty four, Jaguars seventeen.

Sunday, August 28, 2022

Chris walked to the sidelines after coming out of the tunnel and spotting his wife next to Tanisha King again. Things had been going well, but he needed them to KEEP going well. There were cuts every week and he was determined to NOT be one of them. Concentrate... Observe... PERFORM!

"Third Quarter, Vikings up twenty one to thirteen. Four minutes thirty seconds on the clock. Cal Maarten for the Vikings first down and ten on the Lumberjacks forty yard line. Cal back to pass... He fires... interception! Chris Anker for the pick and tackled two yards further at the thirty-five yard line."

The announcer was impressed, "I'll tell you what, Kameron Jones better look over his shoulder. With a little more maturity, this kid is going places."

Chris got up from the turf and carried the ball to the sidelines and tucked the ball under his part of the bench. A souvenir for a case he would create in the future for his memories.

At the end, Chris Trotted off the field past Coach Holden who gave him a nod. This was a good sign... BUT NEVER LET UP!

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

The day felt anticlimactic, Chris had been told that he was the second string safety and that he had a spot on the roster as long as he kept up his intensity. The final three cuts had been made and Chris had made it. He called Sydney, "It's official! I MADE IT! I'm on the team!"

"AAAAAAAHHH!!!! YES!", she shrieked.

"I love you so much!"

Her voice became sultry, "I guess I am going to have to figure out some way to reward my hard-working husband. Have something.... HARD... for me?

He smiled, the evening was going to be a good one, "OH and Friday there is a celebration dinner at Gulliver's on their private deck. It's downtown with a view of the river."

Friday, September 2, 2022

Chris came home early from practice to find Sydney sitting naked at her makeup table. He smiled then went to rub a nipple, but she playfully squirmed away, "After! After dinner, okay? I'm getting ready."

She smiled coyly, "Now after dinner and when we get home. I hope you took your vitamins."

They arrived at Gulliver's, a restaurant on the thirtieth floor of the Banks building which was a twenty minute drive from their place. A circular drive was attended by valets who parked the cars led them to the entrance. Chris in his new navy blue Hart Schaffner & Marx suit walked around to open the car door for his wife. They walked inside, Chris holding the door for his stunning bride who was wearing a long gold V-neck dress that emphasized her impressive assets, walking past the press who were kept outside. As a handsome couple, they impressed and were photo featured in several local websites. The handsome NFL rookie and his stunning blonde wife in a dress with a V-neck that would be best classified as 'almost' legal.

There were hors d'oeuvres were served as Chris walked with his beautiful wife, briefly introducing her to all the players, superstar and second stringer alike. Dinner was followed by dancing. Chris was a passable dancer, dancing with his wife as a select few took photos for the local press, some of which ended up on local websites.

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Chris came out of the tunnel to the roar of an enthusiastic home crowd for the first regular season game. Scanning, Sydney was again sitting in her Lumberjacks jersey next to Tanisha King. Their eyes met and she cheered louder. He looked across the field to the Seahawks bench and went over his mental checklist for this game.

Just over three hours later, Chris walked into the tunnel happy, but a bit underwhelmed. He had nine plays against the Seahawks and Kameron Jones had played most of the game. Chris did his job, but none of the plays centered on his position. He had done his job, but not stood out.

A win's a win twenty four to ten was a nice win.

Friday, December 9, 2022

Another event for The Lumberjacks as Chris again drove them to Gullivers, arriving with his beautiful wife, him in his blue suit and her in a silver A-Line dress with a V-neck that was just enough to not be considered naked. She dressed to impress, knowing damn well her chest would impress.

Local press was kept outside except for three select and friendly news outlets who covered the event. Coach Holden came to the podium and everyone quieted down, "Welcome to the Portland Lumberjacks Christmas Charity Dinner for the Greater Portland Homeless Support Society."

He smiled and cheered, "What a year! We have eleven wins and just two losses and are leading our division! Let me introduce our host for the night, hometown hero and the man responsible for much of our success. Ty Jensen!"

Ty Jensen, six foot three, dark blonde, and square jawed, got up to enthusiastic applause, "Welcome!"

"Thank you Coach Holden. I'm humbled to be our team's spokesman for this important event for an important local charity. The work they do to help our homeless residents recover their lives to move on into recovery is very important..."

His first speech was done five minutes later and after proper applause, Ty Jensen got down from the raised podium and headed toward the restrooms.

His microphone was still live, but no one was aware until they heard him say, "Hey Sydney. Care for another round of 'Hide the pickle?' Maybe while clueless Chris is watching films on Tuesday instead of taking the day off?"

Sydney's urgent whisper hushed him, "Shhh! I told you to leave my husband out of this!"

Ty pushed a bit, "I can't get enough of you. When can we hook up again?"

She sighed, "Not here! Stop! Text me and we can work something out."

He chuckled, subtle uncaring malevolence carrying in his voice, "I will share a link with you of the video I took of us... We look damn good! Shit, I gotta piss and I have to get back to announce the dates of the food drive and..." The mic cut out.

A minute later, the room was now silent, all looking at Chris as Sydney walked in from the bathroom hallway. She was halfway to the table when she noticed everyone was looking at her and the room was dead quiet. She reached the table before she noticed Chris had a look of hurt and anger and asked, "What's going on?", her voice fearful and faltering.

Chris forced down the primal urge to throttle his cheating wife. His father's strong teaching about not hitting girls was the only thing keeping him from a felonious assault charge. The local press, cameras poised, focused on him as did more than a dozen cell phones.

ALL were recording.

Sydney sat down at her seat, looking fearfully at her husband looming over her as he clenched his fists. Ty came back from the bathroom and immediately noticed how the room was very quiet and everyone was now looking at him. He smiled carefully, using the training his agent made him take on maintaining a public persona, "What's up?"

The room stayed silent as he made his way to his seat until he saw Chris standing over Sydney. His first thought was, 'Did he know?' His second was, 'No. There is no way'."

As Ty was trying to figure the situation out, Chris shook as he looked at his wife and shouted, "Cheating with Ty! Give me my rings back! NOW!"

Coach Holden came over to Ty and whispered in his ear as Ty's smile went from confident to 'Oh fuck.'

Ty looked over at Chris and wanted to smooth things over, using his status as the city hero to diffuse things. It did not go well as he approached Chris who still silently stood over Sydney who was crying at the table shaking her head, "No... nooooo."

"Hey Chris, this is just a misunderstand..."

Ty never finished the statement as Chris swung on Ty. Chris's father David had said to never hit a girl but never mentioned not hitting the guy who fucked his wife. It was a fairly solid, jarring hit to the cheek and Ty staggered, paused and recovered then charged toward Chris connecting a minor shoulder hit before teammates swarmed the two and separated them.

Coach Holden looked in fury at Chris, "Get out! GET OUT NOW!" He pointed at the exit door. "GO!"

Chris walked out, oblivious to his wife sobbing at their table as his teammates kept themselves between Ty and Chris as he headed out the door.

Saturday, December 10, 2022

After a rough night at the downtown Hilton, Chris received a terse text from Coach Holden at six in the morning: 'Be at my office at eight this morning.'

Still in his suit, Chris arrived at ten until eight to find four security men who surrounded his car as he parked. The largest of the four came up, "You need to come with us.", he said in a flat voice that only meant business.

Chris was not surprised to find Coach Holden glaring at him in pure hate as he was led into the office, "Your stunt yesterday could have cost us our quarterback and our hopes for a Superbowl win. I am going to have to waive you. Your attack on Ty is unacceptable. He has graciously agreed to not press charges."

"He was fucking my wife."

Coach Holden shrugged, "Which is exactly why you are not in jail right now. Learn your place. He could have screwed her in the middle of Hawthorn Park with a crowd of a hundred for all I care. The only thing that matters is winning and Ty has us eleven and two. You jeopardized that and that is unacceptable. It is not your business to even things up and I will deal with his foolishness privately."

Chris sat there as Coach Holden looked dismissively at Chris, "That's it. Security will escort you out. Your gear belongs to us and security has boxed any personal items they found."

Walking out with two guards behind and one on each side, Chris sat down heavily in his car then realized the security would not leave him alone until he drove out. He looked down and thought, "Fuck. I am way the fuck overdressed. She might be there and I cannot go home." He found a nearby Target for a T-shirt, tennis shoes and jeans.

His mind a muddle, he drove aimlessly until he found a parking lot at Orenco Nature Park. He parked the car, his mind a hopeless mess until his phone rang at ten to ten and he realized he had been sitting in the park for almost two hours. His personal life had imploded just over twelve hours ago. His professional life in the first ten minutes after eight that morning. He had no idea when or if to go home. His phone rang. He almost did not pick up until he looked at the display, 'Mom'

He sighed and answered in a resigned voice, "Hello mom. I guess you heard."

His mom was distraught, "Oh honey. I'm so sorry. I'm at the rental car counter. I'll be at your place in a half hour. I'm next in line and I'll drive straight to you."

He was shocked, "What? You're here?"

His mom sniffed, "Honey. The videos of your confrontation last night are all over the internet and there are a lot of them. We made our plane reservations last night when the story hit. I got a seat on the five-thirty morning flight. I'm so sorry."

He shut his eyes. The whole fucking world knew.

She tried to comfort her son now living one of the worst moments in life, "I'm here for you, honey. Your father is on the flight that arrives at three thirty in the afternoon with four of his guys and has a Penske rental truck reserved."

He sighed, "They waived me. Ty fu... slept with my wife and I'm the bad guy for hitting him for it."

His mom sniffed, "I know. Your father texted me that they announced your waiver at eight this morning and I'm afraid the videos of you hitting Ty made things all to clear what happened. Honey, how did it go with her this morning?"

He sighed, "It didn't. I spent the night at a hotel. I'm sitting in a park right now."

She asked, "Where?"

He looked at a sign next to his car, 'Orenco Nature Park in Hillsboro."

His mom was talking in the background then came back, "Okay. I have keys for the rental car. My phone says I am forty five minutes away from there. There's a Starbucks about a mile from that park on Orenco Drive. I'll meet you there so we can sit and wait for your father to help sort this out."

There was only one good thing in his life at that moment: He had two completely loyal people rushing to his aid and he was not alone.

He was waiting at a nearby lot when his mom drove up in her rental. She got out, almost running to him and giving him a comforting hug that only a mom could give then followed him into Starbucks. He ordered an apple juice while she ordered an espresso. They sat down with his mom across from him and she said, "We will have you out of the apartment today. Your father has arranged a room at an extended stay hotel in an area called Eastmoreland. He says it's pretty quiet while you get everything organized and get a storage unit we know where you will end up."

He looked at his mom, "So not going to try to convince me to stay with her?"

She looked at him, "You were married less than six months ago. Why stay with a slut?"

That shocked him, his mom never spoke like that.

"CUCK A DOODLE DOO!" A nineteen year old kid with blue hair and a nose ring stood across from them smirking with a middle finger extended. A manager quickly walked from behind the counter and pointed him out the door. The kid scratched his nose with his middle finger at Chris before exiting.

His mom put her hands over his which had been resting on the table, but now tensed up, "Don't get up. He isn't worth it"

He looked around as the reactions among the other patrons were a mix of mocking, anger, and sympathy.

He looked back at his mom, grateful for having one person in Starbucks with unassailable loyalty with his interests at heart. All in a town where many now actively despised him. Their attitude being as long as Ty won, he could have anyone or anything he wanted. If Ty took his wife a few times, Chris should be grateful he didn't take her all the time. He smiled at her, "Mom... Thanks."

She smiled, "Honey. I carried you for nine months. You will always be my miracle baby boy."

He sighed and looked around at many people still looking at them, "Miracle?"

She nodded, "My uh... internals aren't the best for easy conception. That is why I call you my miracle and why you are an only child."

He nodded then said, "Perhaps we should head back to the park I was at when you called. There are people, but a lot fewer."

His mom nodded and they headed out, arriving at the park ten minutes later and taking a picnic table in an area with fewer people in the chilly but sunny forty-five degree air.. She looked at her phone after it buzzed a text then told Chirs, "Your father and his crew are waiting for their connecting flight in Denver."

She reached across and took his hands across the table, squeezed them gently, and smiled, "We will get you through this."

He sighed, almost babbling in confusion, "I never saw it coming. I had no clue. There was no difference in Sydney. I'm never getting married or even dating again."

She reached across the table, took then squeezed his hands, "Honey. I get that you are hurt, but don't close your heart. Loving and being loved are the single sweetest part of life."

He shut his eyes, fighting not breaking down, "I can't do this again."

She squeezed his hands, "Of course you can. Don't let Sydney win."

He shook his head, "The next one will cheat."

She sighed, "Honey, we've talked briefly about this in the past. In 1995 when I was nineteen I was a damn Playboy Playmate. If anyone had opportunities, it's me. I met your father two months after my issue came out and I never stepped out on him."

She looked at him intently, "I never gave it a serious thought. From the moment I agreed to be exclusive and yes, I told him about posing on our second date."

She chuckled, "He had no idea who I was and maybe that was the reason I liked him. I wasn't a trophy; I always dressed down for cycle meetups and I had used my middle name, Michelle, for Playboy. I was a girl he liked because we both liked cycling."

Her voice was full of conviction, "I never stepped out. Until I was thirty, men, some of them very rich and very good looking, would recognize me and many would try and many were anything but subtle. I never gave it any consideration, even during the early years when money was tight. I believed in your father and his dreams. I fell in love with him and his dreams became mine. He spoke passionately about moving crops and I saw it in his eyes and I knew he would be the success that he became."

She smiled at the treasured memory, "I got to see his success grow from the day he started."

She squeezed his hand again, "Women are as different from each other as men are. Are you like Ty? Would you ask a woman out if you knew she was married? If the wife of a plumber smiled at you, would you even try?"

He shook his head fiercely, "Fuck no! I would never!"

She squeezed his hand again, "Then what makes you think the next girl you meet is like Sydney? What makes you doubt she could be like your loyal mom?"

He opened his mouth, trying and failing to counter her. She had won the argument but only had a supportive smile, "Honey. I'm not saying go find a girlfriend today. Just open your heart to the future."

They sat in the park for a while in silence until noon when his mom looked at him, "I only had something to eat while waiting for my flight in Tulsa. I'm hungry."

He sighed, "I guess I will just have to face my 'adoring' public again. I can't hide forever".

They headed to a nearby Applebees, his mom ahead of him as they walked in. She spoke to the hostess who looked at Chris with no emotion, nodded, then seated them in a corner booth where Chris was seated facing away from the rest of the dining room.

Their waitress approached with a careful smile, "Hello. I'm Casey and I will be taking care of you today. May I start you with one of our mixed drinks from the bar?"

His mom shook her head, "Iced tea, please. Sweet."

She looked at Chris, "And you?"

"Just bottled water", he replied.

She nodded politely then said, "Thank you." then left.

The lunch took forty-five minutes and Casey had been nothing but delightful and professional and the beer pretzels were oh so bad for him but oh so good to eat. Chris tipped Casey a hundred on the forty dollar bill and put a simple message on the bill, 'Thank you. I appreciate your discretion.'

His mom suggested, "Your father gave me a list of things we need. Let's head to Home Depot to get you some moving boxes and supplies."

Once done with fulfilling the list, they stopped at a park near their apartment and waited for his father to arrive with his crew. At half past four, both their phones buzzed a text, '10 minutes away with 3 of the guys. One on the way to Penske to get the truck. You got boxes as asked?'

His mom texted yes then looked at him and said, "Well. We can't delay this any longer." Chris nodded then his mom followed his car into the lot at the apartment building. When they arrived at the apartment, they found Sydney's father, Tom, at the apartment alone.

Her father looked at them and sighed heavily, "I guess I will ask if there is any hope?'

Chris shook his head strongly, "I'm still in shock, but no." He sighed sadly, "I never saw it coming. There were no signs of her affair. Did she give me sloppy seconds? Did she say bad things about me to him?"

Chris shut his eyes, forcing down the pain.

Tom nodded, "I understand. We did not raise her to be a... to do this."

He handed Chris Sydney's engagement and wedding rings, "She broke the marriage contract so you get these back. Sell them. She is with her mother and I figured you did not want to see her so they are at my hotel room several miles away."

He texted something then looked at the men standing behind David and said, "I just informed my wife that there will be no meeting between Chris and my daughter." He paused, "I take it they are here to help pack?"

David nodded. Tom sighed then said, "I will help. I have a crew coming on Monday to pack the rest and take Sydney back to Chicago. She's still my daughter. He mumbled, 'Stupid daughter'. I figured it would end since it is such a short marriage."

Tom looked at David and asked, "How much were your airfares and whatever other immediate expenses?"

David shook his head, "I got this."

Tom pulled out a checkbook, "I need the honor of my family back. At least for my wife and myself. How much did you spend?"

David sighed, "Maybe five thousand."

Tom wrote a check, "I cannot redeem my cheating daughter, but I can redeem my wife and myself. The Walters family is an honorable one and we did not raise her to do this."

He handed a check over to David then said in a resigned voice, "Well, let's get this over with."

Chris's Phone rang at six in the evening as everyone took a break and ate pizza in the rapidly packed-up apartment. Chris looked down, saw 'Roy' and said, "Shit I forgot to call my agent."

Chris answered, "Roy. Sorry man. It's just been one hell of a last twenty four hours."

Roy said, "Chris. Logistics are my job, not yours, and I've been doing my job. I would be a mess too if I were you. Anyway, you will hit the waiver wire overnight. I've made calls. Three teams are ahead of them but not interested, You are heading to San Antonio and expected Wednesday at eight for practice."

Chris sighed, "They are three and ten."

Roy gently chided him, "'Thems the rules'. You are heading to San Antonio. I will text you an address, The Defenders have a place set up through the rest of the season so you can get your feet under you."

Roy chided lightly, "Chris. Don't repeat the incident. The only reason you had any interest is because the guy literally boned your wife. Anything less and you would never play again. Coach Boone just took over a big mess so you can help each other. Look at it this way. On The Defenders, you are going to be a starter and their defense is solid being ranked fourth. You literally fill the last hole in a very highly ranked defense. That means nothing if you can't move the ball. With Ethan Carter, Daniel Hall, and Cedric Brown waived, and two other lousy investments not being renewed, they have a ton of cap room to get some offense for next year."

With the packing about ninety percent finished, they left for the night at eight. Chris was about to pull his phone out to get a hotel room when his father read the situation, "Son, you have the room next to ours."

He smiled at his son, "I got this. Okay. It's done and I have it all figured out. We have your back. Just follow me as I drive to our hotel for the night."

Chris relaxed. His father was a master of logistics.

Sunday December 11, 2022

Chris was surprised to see an auto transporter show up at half past six as they met in the parking lot of his soon-to-be-former home. His father, David, said, "You need some quality father-son time and driving a Penske moving truck to San Antonio is a way to do it. Your car will be fine and look at it this way, it's two thousand less miles on the odometer."

Chris nodded, "What about mom?"

He smiled and bro hugged his son, "She is flying to San Antonio this afternoon. We got you a place and your mom is going to make it a home for you."

Chris shook his head, "The Defenders have a place..."

David shook his head, "Son. One of the best parts of being a wealthy man is that I can do for my family. Your mom found what she says is a very cute two bedroom garden apartment in a town named Live Oak which is one town over from Schertz where The Defenders practice. Your rent is prepaid for the next year."

Chris was shocked, "But I can afford..."

His father shook his head and put his hand on his son's shoulder, "But nothing. It's done and I don't think the property manager I had come in this morning at five on a Sunday would appreciate me backing out of our deal."

Chris was surprised, "What?"

His father shrugged, "My personal assistant, Ruth, tracked the guy down last night for me and she has been working with your mom all night. Let's just say a full set of PXG golf clubs plus a deluxe cart bag, and eight dozen Callaway golf balls are going to magically show up at his house on Tuesday"

His father shrugged, "I needed something done and he now has the golf clubs of his dreams and more. His employer has the unit prepaid for the year. Everyone won. Perhaps not all on the up-and-up, but I can make it happen to make it worth his inconvenience."

He bro-hugged his son, "Let your old man take care of things. I'm pretty good at it. You exceeded all my expectations growing up and I am the proudest dad in the world."

Tom Walters showed up at seven in the morning with Lisa, his wife, to help finish the packing. By nine that morning, they finished. Chris looked around at the now mostly packed apartment.

Tom assured them, "I have the furniture rental company coming tomorrow to take this stuff away. Fortunately they did not have much of the big stuff and with almost everything else packed. I have cleaners coming in tomorrow afternoon. You will get your entire deposit back or I will sick my lawyers on the landlords. Give me the receipts for the Christmas gifts that were under the tree and Lisa will get everything refunded. Give me your new address and I will make sure you get the money."

His father pulled a business card out of his wallet and handed it to Tom, "Use my address. My money guy runs his accounts and I will make sure it goes to the right place."

Tom nodded and signalled his wife who came up and stood next to Tom. Tom spoke with contrition, "On behalf of my family. I apologize. I don't know what went wrong, but that is no excuse. I apologize on behalf of my wife and myself."

Chris sighed and shook his head, "It's all on Sydney. I didn't think you told your daughter, 'Oh, by the way, the whole forsaking all others part is optional.'"

Tom stuck his hand out and asked, "Are we okay? I mean with my wife and I, not Sydney."

Chris nodded, "I know you did your best and you always treated me right." They shook hands and the microwave beeped. His mom smiled and handed David and Chris a hot sandwich and handed a Yeti 12 soft cooler to her husband, "Six Mountain Dew and Six bottled water for my men on their long trip. See you both, Mid-day Tuesday."

They walked down and stood next to his mom's rental car. She touched Chris's cheek affectionately and said, "Son, never doubt you have your father and I in your corner. We both love you. Never doubt we are on your side."

Chris smiled, the Sydney mess hurt, but he was not alone. He never had been alone. As hard as the past two days had been, he was never alone.

He hugged his mom then his father bro hugged him and pointed at the passenger side of the truck and said faux sternly, "Go sit your ass in the passenger seat of that truck while your old man drives. You take over in four hours."

His mom kissed and hugged his father and said, "I'm off to the airport. I'll get things settled by tomorrow night."

Chris asked, "What's with the sandwiches?"

His father clapped him on the back as they approached the truck, "We're not stopping until we hit Idaho around four. Except maybe a piss break. Fuck this state and fuck these people."

Chris was shocked, "Uh Dad, I never hear you swear like that."

There was fierce anger in his eyes, "I heard local radio this morning and they all excused that shithead, Ty, and that you should just accept it because Ty wins games."

His father sighed, "I shoulda taken Bex up on his offer."

Chris looked at his father, "Who's Bex?"

"One of my guys we had packing. Ex-con I hired to run the barge loading system. He offered to 'explain things' to Ty if I would provide him with an alibi. Bad, I know, but I was tempted."

"He offered!?"

His father nodded strongly, "Son. I hired him straight after he finished his sentence for aggravated assault. Drunken fight where he beat a man so badly he spent two months in a hospital. He's a black belt in something or another that I never asked the specifics of. The other guy started the fight, but he kept beating the man, toying with him just to keep punishing. He got two years for it."

"He sounds pretty violent. You brought him here!?"

His father sighed, "For your information, Bex is four years sober now, is never late to work, happily picks up overtime any time I offer it, and calls me his adopted father."

Chris looked doubtful and his father expanded his explanation, "He doesn't seek fights or even go to bars now, but for me, he would have beaten Ty into the hospital. Son, THAT is loyalty. Remember what I taught you about being a leader versus a boss. Being a leader means many employees will damn near anything for you. I gave him his second chance and it is something he is grateful for."

His father sighed and pushed the anger down, "Don't ever repeat that story. Changing topics. There is a Flying J Truck Stop with an Arby's just inside Idaho. I figure we make it another five hours and arrive in Provo, Utah around ten."

Chris looked at the man who had made his life around his family and now stood next to him in his worst hours, "Dad?"

David pursed his lips and said, "Yeah?"

Chris smiled, "Thanks."

"No problem, son. It's all in the job description of 'father'."

Monday, December 12, 2022

After an early start, Interstates turned into four lane undivided highways in Utah as they drove into The Wasatch Range. I-15 stretched Southwest toward California and I-25 was too far East to be practical. There were no good routes from Portland to San Antonio.

Chris sat in the passenger seat as his dad did most of the driving, the treeless desert slowly turning from desolate emptiness to scrubby weeds and trees as they headed from Utah into Colorado. Chris did some of the driving near Albuquerque as they were on one of the few sections of interstate on I40 heading East and past downtown. His father, ever the planner, instructed, "In two exits you will see a big TA sign, that is a truck stop so we can get fuel easily without trying to squeeze this thing into a car sized fuel area. After we fuel and we park this thing, there is a shopping plaza with a Walmart next door for more drinks and snacks. Once stocked up, we can walk to Ruth's Chris about a quarter mile away.

Chris smiled, "Steak!? How did you pull this off? It's a perfect place to stop."

"Simple dad skills that you will learn one day."

Chris started to argue and his father cut him off in a stern voice, "Son, you deny me grandkids and I will kick your ass from San Antonio back to Tulsa. Then back to San Antonio. Then back to Tulsa."

Chris sighed and his father lightly scolded him, "Do not let Sydney and Ty win. If you never love again. If you never have that moment when you hold your infant child for that very first time and realize the gravity of what you have done. If you never have that moment when your child graduates high school or college or for that matter, is drafted into the NFL... If none of that happens, they win."

His father let the words hang in the air then said, "Lecture over."

Ruth's Chris is always amazing. It's even better when someone else pays. They stopped that night at a Courtyard by Marriott outside Lubbock, Texas, the scrubby plains stretching in every direction.

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Nearing San Antonio, the environment changed from scrubby trees and grass to greener grass and nicer, fuller trees. They exited I-10, taking the Anderson Loop East until they turned into a complex of one story semi-attached garden apartments. David's phone announced, "7564 Live Oak Garden Apartments. Arrived."

His father sent a text then said, "Ten after one in the afternoon. Your mom is two minutes away with some Chick-Fil-A. I'm starving."

Chris felt a little better. 7564 Live Oak was his place where Salmon Court had been 'theirs' and Chris needed to be in HIS place. His mom arrived two minutes later as expected carrying two big bags of a late lunch. She hugged Chris in her warm momish way then fondly kissed and hugged her husband and pointed at one of the units, "That one! Isn't it cute?"

Chris smiled as his mom had always had great taste. Each light sand colored unit was only attached to its neighbor at the car and a half garage and all units were single story. Though close together, noise from neighbors would have to be exceptionally loud to carry from unit to unit. Two large potted yellow rose plants, both still sporting Home Depot tags 'Yellow Rose of Texas', climbed up attached trellises, one on each side of the welcoming front door.

Chris walked into a furnished place except for his personal items. Furniture was placed, pictures of him and his parents were printed, framed and hung on the walls. Good memories; him between his parents at high school graduation, him between his parents at college graduation, a trip to London with his parents when he was twelve. A fully decorated Christmas tree was in the corner with lights on and a dozen presents sitting waiting for him. He looked at his mom, "How did you...?"

She hugged her son, "Never underestimate the determination of a woman to help her baby boy. Most of the furniture is rented. Except the beds. No one is going to re-rent a mattress."

They sat down at the new kitchen table. The cupboards had plates and glasses and one drawer even had silverware. She shrugged, "None of this is all that fancy. I got most of it at Walmart. No point in getting expensive stuff. Your bed is made and I bought your usual toiletries for the bathroom. I know some of it is in the truck, but you can just add it together."

He looked at his mom and then his dad, realizing just how much they had reduced the severity of a terrible life situation, "Mom and Dad... Thanks."

She mom-hugged her son, "You are very welcome. I hope you don't mind. I got a bed for the other bedroom for when we visit during Christmas. Oh, and I kept one of the keys."

He nodded and smiled because there were two people who gave him complete loyalty and though they had invited themselves, their visit at Christmas was welcome. He had a home game on Christmas Eve and travel to visit them would be a problem. Christmas alone would have been even more depressing.

That night for the first time, the hurt hit him in a different way. The bed was empty beside him. That warm soft presence of someone that belonged to him was absent. Belonging. Him to her and her to him... That mutual feeling of belonging TO another person... GONE.

Emptiness.

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

After seeing his parents off, Chris stopped his car in front of The Defender practice facility in Schertz, Texas. His new team mascot looked like a frontiersman in buckskin leathers with a rifle and a cowboy hat. Buck Long was designed just before the internet made everything 'safe' and just like Woody Hax, was a LITTLE too full in the crotch area. Local flea market sellers had a cottage industry of making T-shirts with the logo below it: 'Always looking for a good opening.'

It was a half hour before everyone else was due to report and Chris walked up to the glass-windowed door of Coach Beau Boone's office. Looking inside, Beau Boone was 'all Texas' including the weathered brown cowboy hat sitting on the side of the desk on top of his paper trays.

Chris tapped on the glass and Beau Boone looked up from some papers, gesturing for him to come in and sit. Once inside, Beau Boone sat across from Chris, "Let me be clear. I will not tolerate any violence. If something like Ty happens again, you let me handle it."

Chris nodded tentatively and a bit sourly.

Beau sighed, "I get it. I cannot fire a superstar shithead like Ty for fucking someone's wife, but I can make his life hell. You let me dish out the hell, GOT IT!?"

Chris nodded with a bit of resignation, realizing he was being given a reprieve.

Beau looked at Chris, his eyes serious and said, "Chris. If anyone pulls stupid shit. I won't sweep it away like Preston Holden and I won't tolerate shit like what Ty pulled. Trust me that I can and will dish out shovel full after shovel full of hell, but you must let ME handle it. Understood?"

Chris pursed his lips then nodded as coach Boone changed his tone to a less lecturing one and said, "I have all your stuff in locker thirty two. It took my staff nine calls to The Lumberjacks, but they got sick of us asking for all your sizes so they finally gave them over."

The locker room is down the hall. Get suited up. We face the Jets, Titans, Lumberjacks, and the Cardinals in that order. I expect you to watch extra video this week and learn their weaknesses. I expect you to help us with reads when we face the Lumberjacks. That's your strength and we both know it. Somehow you read the opposing team extremely well. You have any inkling what they will do, you let me know. We will work out some signals."

"Of our upcoming opponents, only the Lumberjacks are doing well and only the Cardinals are doing worse than us. I want to salvage a weak season out of this completely shitty season. Neither the Bears nor the Texans are going to win another game and I won't dog a season to get a draft pick. Got it?"

Chris nodded

Coach Boone scolded him lightly, "The correct response is 'Yes Coach!' He waited until Chris caught on to say, "Yes Coach!"

It was meeting time so Coach Boone led Chris into the room with the players who had assembled for the morning meeting. He looked at them, "One fucking joke about Chris. ONE and you will at a minimum get the stair treatment after practice. Some of you are blessed and some of you are not so blessed to have wives or girlfriends who would take Ty Jensen up on his offer and NOT ONE of you knows for sure what would happen if the opportunity really came to pass."

He mumbled, "They should never have repealed that law in 1973."

He looked sharply, "I shouldn't have to say this but I will! To be clear, if any of you decide to imitate Ty, you will beg me for something as mild as the stairs for all the hell I will rain down. This is a fucking team and members of a team know motherfucking well the wives and girlfriends of your team members are OFF-FUCKING-LIMITS!"

He looked around, "Capiche?"

There was silence. He repeated in a low, almost angry tone, "Capiche!?"

Everyone said, "Yes coach!"

At the end of practice, one of the players approached Chris. At six foot five and two hundred sixty pounds, Josiah Peter had a disarming smile for such a large man.

Chris smiled back at the giant man, "'Peterbilt'. Great nickname for a linebacker. You hit like a truck."

He smiled, "Thanks. Look. I'm not making fun of you as the coach warned so don't take it like that but ya oughta know, Ty got hacked."

Chris shook his head and shrugged, "And that means... what?"

Josiah said, "I saw the videos of that dinner where you found out. Remember Ty bragged about a video they took? A sex tape? Well the dumb motherfucker used 'qwerty' as his password and the video is all over the internet. I just thought you should know."

Chris nodded, "Shit. I feel for her dad. He's a class act."

Josiah shrugged and repeated, "Just thought you should know."

Chris had to admit he liked Josiah and saw Josiah wanted to say something so he sighed and said, "Go ahead and say it."

Josiah smiled, relieved, "You got to fuck those titties? Fucking DAYUM from head to toe, she was fine. FUCKING DAYUM! Those are some amazing titties!"

Chris asked with a bit of sarcasm, "Done?"

Josiah smiled, "Yeah. Thought I was gonna explode if I didn't talk about those titties! They are dope!"

Chris relaxed and even laughed a little, "She was. Hell, she is still stunning."

Josiah winced a bit and said sarcastically, "You have lots of pussy lined up for the taking if you want. You could even pick single ones. Imagine that."

Chris laughed with Josiah, "Imagine not being a shithead that fucks married women."

Josiah offered, "Since ya kept me from exploding, wanna go get a steak? I'll call my wife and tell her something's up with the team."

Chris smiled, "Can't have too much steak."

Josiah nodded, "Not possible. There's a place I go to, Alamo Prime, that has amazing steaks that you can get in NFL player sizes!"

Chris got into his car then followed Josiah to Alamo prime and walked in where the hostess looked up and smiled, "Josiah! Back again?"

Josiah smiled at her, "Hell yeah! I brought my friend, Chris."

She smiled but her eyes flickered briefly and she said, "Welcome Chris."

She was careful, she knew exactly who he was. There was no smirk or pity, just careful professionalism of a woman who had that job for several years. Chris smiled, "Thank you for your discretion."

She nodded, "No problem. My husband is a HUGE Defenders fan. He is excited about you and says the defense is pretty well set for next year. He just wishes we had an offense. I mean, DEAD LAST and by a lot! What a disaster Ethan 'Tyrannosaurus Arms' Carter was before they waived him. My husband was shocked when Baltimore picked him up for thirty-five million."

She smiled at a memory, "My hubby bought a three hundred dollar bottle of Macallan to celebrate all that cap space. I did a shot with him that night!"

She shook her head and clucked, "Imagine marrying an actual NFL player and still wanting to trade up to one that is also a magazine model. What a stupid, stupid woman."

She smiled, "Well, the women... the SINGLE women of San Antonio are all excited about you."

He let the comment slide with a simple, "Thank you.", not wanting to voice his thought that a woman in his life was the last thing he wanted.

She led them to a table in a private corner, handed them menus and said, "Your waitress will be Rosie. Enjoy your meal."

At the end of the meal, the owner, Sterling Hollister, came over and looked at Chris, "I have one of Josiah. If I comped the meals, would you sign one of our menus so we can display it over the bar?"

Chris shook his head, "As good as the steak was, I'll do it for free. I'll pay my bill."

Sterling nodded happily, "I don't suppose you would agree to pose for a picture in front of our front sign? I want to put it up in the bar area."

Chris stipulated, "Only if you let Susan, your hostess, pose with us for one of them and give it to her. She is a class act and a great benefit to you."

The owner nodded vigorously, knowing it was the best of deals, "I get many compliments on her from customers. Of course!"

After all was done, they were walking out, Chris walked over to the hostess and said, "Give me your husband's name. I get two free tickets per game. I appreciate the kind words and having someone happy I'm in town. If he comes by the training facility tomorrow, after noon, he can have them."

She gasped, "Really?'

Chris smiled, "Really. Sometimes friendly words can do quite a bit of good and I appreciated both your discretion and your kindness. If he leaves a ball or something and a sharpie, I will sign the item for him and drop it off here a few days later."

She nodded and teared up a bit, "Thank you. We will be at the game on Sunday."

He nodded, "You're going?"

She looked confused, "Who else? I love my husband and he loves The Defenders so I embraced them, too. He tagged along for my antiquing three weeks ago. That is marriage. You do it for your spouse and we do a lot of things together."

Chris had to admit he liked the woman, "So who shall I say is getting the tickets?"

She almost beamed, "Mike. Uh, Mike and Susan Danner."

Chris asked, "What does your husband do?"

She smiled fondly, "He's chief editor for Hill Country Publishing." Her smile never faded as she thought of her husband.

Chris nodded and turned to walk out, "They will be ready for pickup after noon." He walked out the door with Josiah.

Chris walked out and before they split up to their respective cars, he said, "Interesting."

Josiah asked, "What?"

Chris said, "Susan the hostess. She seemed so different. She's going with her husband to our game. She seemed so in love with him and never stopped smiling when she said his name."

Josiah said, "And why is that different?"

Chris shrugged, "Sydney just sat with some of the wives and talked all game. Any time I looked up she was just talking with the women. She would cheer me, of course, but Susan seemed interested in what her husband loved."

Josiah sighed, "Chris. That is marriage. Shanice and I do ballroom dancing. Wanna call me gay because I do ballroom dancing? I love my wife and I do for her. She does model railroading with me."

Chris was surprised, "Model railroading?"

Josiah nodded, "Yep. We even have a Youtube channel with our layout." He rolled his eyes, "Chris. Stereotypes are bullshit. My degree is in Mechanical Engineering and I had a three point eight grade point average. I grew up in a mcmansion in the suburbs of Columbus Ohio, not the ghetto. My Dad is an Engineering Prof at OSU and my mom is an RN. I've been with my wife since freshman year of high school and have only had sex with one woman, her. Oh and I like model railroads and can afford a house big enough to have a nice layout."

Chris nodded and thought about what Josiah said then sighed, "Wish women came with labels that gave a good short description, "Sane loving wife or Insane cheating bitch."

Josiah laughed, "Sorry man. It is what it is."

After saying goodbye, Chris got into his car and drove home and walked in the door to a darkened room, and looked at the lit up Christmas tree... It looked like his parents had snuck a few more gifts under the tree before they left. He was home.

Life... was better.

*******

Coach Boone had a short press session that night at five

'Sylvia Jensen Channel 6. What made you decide to take a chance on Chris Anker?"

Coach Boone looked at her with a slight bit of annoyance, "We needed a good strong safety. Now we have one. Terrel Jones can go back to being a free safety."

"Carl Kraft, Fox Sports. With his history of violence, how can you be sure Chris Anker won't be a liability?"

Coach Boone looked down at Kraft darkly, "I see by the ring on your finger that you are married. How can you be sure your wife isn't being boned by Ty Jensen as you stand here and ask me stupid questions? I can't be sure, but my gut says Chris made his grievous error because he was pushed far more than many of you clucking at me would be able to handle without a gun."

He groused, "They should never have ended that law that says husbands could shoot the men their wives cheated with."

Carl followed up, "You can't mean that!"

Coach Boone raised one eyebrow, "Can't I? Have you heard of any repercussions on Ty? He was having an affair with a teammate's wife. Mark my words, it may not be a teammate's wife, but you will hear about Ty doing this again in the future."

"Bill Williams, ESPN. What would you do if one of your players did it?"

Coach Boone sighed, "Specifically? I don't know because I expect more of my people, but I would do something and I would like to quote the great philosophers, the band Trooper who said in 1978, 'Raise a little hell.'"

He shook his head, "I sure as hell would do SOMETHING rather than pat him on the back and waggle a finger."

Bill Williams followed up, "So you think Coach Holden made an error?"

He nodded, "Unless I hear of something, he lets one part of his team shit on another part of his team because he wins games then does nothing. In the long run, Karma wins."

Bill Williams argued, "Ty wins games."

Coach Boone glared at him then said, "Fine. Give Ty your wife's cell number. She can help keep Ty happy, too. He wins games."

Bill Williams retorted, "That's not what I meant!"

Coach Boone mocked him, "So it's okay if OTHER men's wives cheat? Got it. Next!"

"Ann Armour KDEF". What is the biggest strength that Chris Anker brings to the team?"

Coach Boone liked bringing the tension in the room back down, "Enthusiasm, intelligence, and work ethic. He reads the offense well and puts in the work to do just that. He has improved on his ability to read offenses throughout the season. Then he comes to the game giving it all to make his plays. Plus, again, it allows Terrel Jones to go back to his true calling."

Friday December 16 2022

Chris was eating his lunch between drills when he was called to the front lobby of the practice facility. A man was waiting and he asked, "Chris Anker?"

Chris nodded, "Yes?"

The man sighed a bit sadly, "You've been served sir."

Chris nodded and held out his hand. There were three envelopes. One was a divorce petition in a State of Oregon envelope. One was an envelope from a Portland attorney, and the third was from T. Walters, Walters Logistics. None of the envelopes were a surprise and Chris first opened the one from Walter's Logistics.

'Dear Chris.

I hope this letter finds you well or at least a bit more settled. This divorce petition is for irreconcilable differences to speed up the process. If you insist, we will not fight using infidelity as a cause, but that will require actual court dates with you in the courtroom and it slows things down. There are no marital assets to speak of due to the short nature of the marriage and we propose a straight 50/50 split of what remains.

Please have your own legal representatives take a look at the proposed settlement pages and get back to us with any objections.

We believe the terms to be fair and if it is agreed, this mess can be completed in approximately sixty days. We will reimburse your family reasonable attorney's fees upon receipt of a notarized invoice.

Tom Walters.'

Chris called his father, "Hey dad. I just got divorce papers from Sydney."

"Yeah, I know. I've been in contact with Tom. Just put everything in an envelope and I will have it picked up by my own courier this evening. No point in dragging this out. As long as it matches the papers I received, you will get the agreement back Tuesday by my courier. Sign and I'll have everything picked up that evening at your place."

Chris sighed, a five year relationship with a half year marriage was soon to be officially and legally ended. Chris sighed, "Thanks dad."

His father had a warm tone to his voice, "Your mom and I will get you through this. By the way, your mom wants to enjoy the warm weather down there as it's getting kind of cold here. She would like for us to arrive next Thursday to hit a place they call Riverwalk for some shopping. I get to carry her bags. You know I can't say no to your mom."

Chris laughed, "Dad, you don't want to say no to her and she has you wrapped around her pinky."

His father agreed, "I love your mom beyond measure and I happen to like being wrapped around her pinky. Twenty plus years on, I love every day with your mom."

He paused, "Son. There is a woman out there for you just like your mom. Your 'Angela' is out there. It scares me to death that you don't believe that."

He sighed and paused, "Lecture over." He grumbled, "I still want grandkids."

Chris laughed then quickly changed subjects, "I'll see you both next Thursday."

Sunday December 18, 2022

Chris walked out of the tunnel and looked up at the enthusiastic crowd cheering him. No mocking, just fans wanting him to destroy their opponent. It felt great and the last week fell a little further from his mind. He concentrated on 'Destroy the Jets'.

He looked up to the club seats and eventually saw Susan from Alamo Prime who was sitting next to her husband, both dressed in Defender Jerseys cheering enthusiastically. They met his eyes and cheered more as her husband drew Susan in in a comfortable closeness. He gave them a thumbs up and they cheered even more.

They cheered more! Damn that felt good to him and his mind clicked to 'Destroy!'

"First Quarter, Jets up three to nothing. Four minutes ten seconds on the clock. Tony Brown for the Jets first down and ten on the Defenders forty-three yard line. Tony back to pass... He fires... interception! Chris Anker tackled two yards further at the thirty-five yard line. This kid is making a name for himself."

He got up with the ball and tucked another souvenir for his future display case under his seat.

"Second Quarter, Jets up three to nothing. Seven minutes eight seconds on the clock. Tony Brown for the Jets second down and five on their own thirty yard line. Tony hands off to Jawon Cree... He breaks through the line... Nice tackle by Chris Anker. Still first down and a gain of twelve, but once past Chris, it was off to the races. Chris sure is fired up"

Despite being on a team that had zero chances for even a playoff berth, Chris gave his all and, ironically, was loving playing on The Defenders. HE MATTERED!

"Second Quarter, Jets up three to nothing. Three minutes nineteen seconds on the clock. Tony Brown for the Jets second down and fifteen after a loss of five. Tony Brown back to pass. Here comes the blitz. Tony scrambling. Breaks free of Defensive Tackle Jordan Brooks running to the strong side. Tony looking to pass. OH! Sacked hard blind side by Chris Anker. A sack by a safety. You don't see that everyday. Chris is pumped up!"

"Third Quarter, Jets up three to nothing. Twelve minutes thirty seconds on the clock. Tony Brown for the Jets first down and ten on the Defenders forty-nine yard line. Tony hands off to Jawon Cree who breaks the line and a nice tackle by Chris Anker. Still, a gain of six for the Jets." An early fourth quarter fumble by the Jetes on their own ten yard line allowed the Defenders to get onto the board with a touchdown and extra point.

"Fourth quarter, Defenders up seven to three with four seconds to go. Tony Brown on the Defender seven yard line with the go ahead touchdown possible on the last play of the game. Fake handoff to Jawon Cree. Tony fires and... tipped away by Chris Anker as the clock runs out, giving the Defenders their fourth win. Chris Anker saves the day."

Running off the field, Chris saw Susan and Mike cheering him and the moment just felt right. He trotted toward the sideline and ushered them toward the bottom of the stands. Security tried to stop them until they pointed to Chris who was urging them to come closer. They were a bit too high to shake hands, but Chris said loudly, "Give me your phone!"

Mike tossed his phone down with the camera active and took several selfies with them in the background then tossed the phone back to them and gave them a thumbs up. Life climbed a little higher with each passing day. The Danners felt like his own personal good luck charms and were food for his soul.

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Chris got home after practice to find his parents with a bag of food from SmashBurger lying on the table. They stood to greet him. More food for his not-quite-as-broken soul as he said in greeting, "Mom! Dad! I love that you are here!"

They smiled and pointed at the bag, "We bought a couple burgers for you. The usual. Plain except for lots of honey mustard."

He sat across from them, "You see my game last Sunday? I killed it."

They nodded and his mom said, "We did and you did indeed as you say, 'kill it'.

Dinner and evening with two people who loved and cherished him. More food for his soul.

Life... climbed a little higher.

Friday, December 23, 2022

Chris came home to his parents at his dinner table with a fresh hot bag of chicken from Raising Cane's and two faces that were always happy to see him. His mom smiled fondly at him, "How was your day? I had the best day! Your dad took me to Riverwalk and I had the best lunch and then went shopping!"

She looked at his father with gratitude and a content smile that said a million words about how much she loved and treasured his father. She pointed at the Christmas Tree, underneath was now full of Christmas gifts and said, "We love you, son."

He started to protest, "I only have a couple things for you..."

His dad held up his hand, "Son. Concentrate on your job. We're doing this to make sure you know you have two people completely on your side. Two people who love you."

Chris smiled and his mood inched a tiny bit higher.

Saturday, December 24, 2022

"Fourth quarter, Defenders up seven to three with eight seconds to go. David Tiller on the Defender five yard line with the go ahead touchdown possible on the last play of the game. David hands off to Mack David who bounces off the line running left, he has a line... STOPPED BY CHRIS ANKER AT THE TWO FOOT LINE!"

"The clock runs out and the Defenders have their fifth win. Chris Anker again with a key defensive effort. Stay tuned for the four-thirty games featuring..."

Chris was mobbed by his teammates as Josiah, who had zero decorum, lifted Chris with too much ease. He saw his parents in the club seats, each wearing a brand new Chris Anker Defenders jersey and both cheering him along with the entire stadium.

Chris met his parents at the player exit alongside Josiah who bro hugged him just before Shanice met Josiah with a kiss and a smile. Josiah called over, "Chris! Wanna do Alamo Prime? I have a table waiting!"

Chris pointed at his parents and Josiah called over, "Bring em! Time to celebrate!"

Chris looked at his parents who nodded. Josiah offered them both his giant hand, shaking his father's hand firmly and his mother's with perfect soft control, "I'm Josiah and this is my wife Shanice. Chris is my brother-from-another-mother and it's great to meet the other mother!" He grinned goofily, charming Chris's parents. The huge man had perfect control of his demeanor, easily appearing non threatening despite his huge size and strength.

They walked into Alamo Prime and Susan greeted them warmly, "Josiah! Chris! Welcome. Your table is waiting." Josiah slipped her a hundred dollar bill with a sly smile and a "Merry Christmas.".

Josiah gave the toast as their dinner arrived, "To new cities, new friends, new opportunities, and Merry Christmas!"

Christmas eve dinner with his parents and friends. Life inched higher again.

Sunday, December 25, 2022

Chris woke at seven as that was the time he woke every day but Christmas and even on the rare day off, Chris's mind would not let him sleep too late. He walked out into the living room to find his mom sitting with a cup of coffee. While furnishing his place, she had bought a coffee maker despite his distaste for the bitter drink. There were a lot of things that showed they intended to visit often; one was pretty obvious. Each of his parents had 'forgotten' a drawer of clothes that were still in the dresser of the second bedroom. It was all good as they were welcome guests. She had a look of love as she smiled at him, "Merry Christmas, son." Her smile was so comforting and motherly as TBS streamed A Christmas Story in the background over and over for the day.

He went to the refrigerator, taking a cold bottled water. While soft drinks tasted better, he maintained his athletic diet as much as he could. A few minutes later, his father came into the room and happily announced, "Merry Christmas! Then father pointed at the Christmas tree.

His mother got up from the table, side-hugged him then gave him a cheek kiss, "I know your mind is still a jumble so think about each of these gifts as a little hug from us both."

It took him two hours to get through all the gifts. Most were small; A fishing lure, a new fishing rod, a photo book his mother made of their trip to Germany when he was fourteen... Things to remind him he was loved and to not give up hope. His parents happily watched him unwrap his trove of gifts..

His father nodded, "What do you say you help your old man cook a little bacon?" He nodded then understood why his father had two pans going. He had bought three packs of bacon and when Chris talked about his diet, his father gently dismissed him, "Son, it's Christmas and it's impossible to eat too much bacon on Christmas."

By the time they were done cooking, it was half past eleven and there was a giant plate of bacon waiting for everyone for an improvised brunch. He smiled at his two parents in silent thanks for their unwavering support. Things would have been infinitely worse without them. His mother gently put her hand on top of his, squeezing it as she took a piece of bacon from the plate.

They watched one full showing of 'The Christmas Story' then followed it with 'Elf'. No Christmas was complete without those two movies. His mother cooked Beef Wellington, more comfort and memories from his childhood. She had been making it for Christmas since before he could remember.

After dinner, his father pointed outside, "Move it. Christmas lights await us!"

A night of looking at Christmas lights, salve for emotional wounds just beginning to heal.

Christmas night... Alone. His parents had made the day wonderful, but the empty bed beside him was a reminder...

Sunday, Jan 1, 2023

The day of the hardest remaining game of the season arrived as The Lumberjacks were fourteen point favorites on their home field over The Defenders. Chris walked out of the tunnel, this time from the visiting side and this time to the loudest boos he had heard, even compared to when he played for the Lumberjacks when they played the 'hated' rivals, the forty niners.. He put his hand to his ear to encourage them to boo louder.

His father was right; fuck every person in the city.

He wanted to give the crowd a double birdie, but figured the ten thousand dollar NFL fine would not be worth it. He was saving his seed money for whatever business he would start in his future.

He used their negative energy. These were the people who cheered the man who fucked his wife. Fuck them. Fuck them all!

It went down hill, the crowd began chanting 'Cuck! Cuck! Cuck!' In the second quarter. Coming out of the tunnel at the beginning of the third quarter he saw some banners, 'Ty Scored, Chris got boned' and 'Ty + Sydney'

It didn't work, Chris used their hate as fuel.

In the third quarter the offensive line of The Lumberjacks collapsed with 3:12 to go in the third quarter. Josiah Peter broke through and smashed into Ty very hard from his blind side and flags were immediately thrown. The Referee called, "Unnecessary roughness, number seventy-seven. Fifteen yards. First down!

Coach Boone looked darkly at Josiah and said, "Peterbilt! You are going to be running the steps this week."

Coach Boone started to walk away as Josiah smirked at Chris and quietly started quietly singing in a falsetto voice to the hit song 'Ring My Bell', "Rung his be-eh-ell, rung his bell."

Chris had to look down to stifle his laughter and made a mental note to send a bottle of Johnny Walker to Josiah's place. Coach Boone whirled around looking at Chris, "Funny huh? You get the steps, too!"

With 12:45 left in the fourth quarter Chris watched Ty as he lined up. HE KNEW! The play was called and that tiny tell, that eye flick to the left. Demetrius Cole was going to get the ball about twenty yards down field.

..."Hut, hut, hike!"

Demetrius cut a tiny fraction of a second earlier than Chris thought, so he cut across a bit shallower as the ball was in the air, stretching to deflect... up... the ball drifted in. bobble... drift.... caught! With the interception, the play was broken and the field was chaotic. Chris cut back and reversed as the field went to the side he had been running toward and started upfield to the forty... the fifty. A block thrown. Two men ahead. The forty. The thirty... Another block and Ty was the only one left to stop Chris.

Hate drove him forward toward Ty. There was no way around, just through, and they both knew it.

Was that a smirk?

Hold the ball tight just in case. Their eyes locked on each other, four yards from Ty the two men were going to collide and hate was going to make it brutal.

Josiah came across the field from the left and blindside blocked Ty hard, sending him flying again. No flag. Josiah knew to not be brutal this time... well... not brutal enough to get a flag.

The field was clear! Twenty. Ten. Touchdown!

Chris was mobbed and once back at the sideline as Ty got up from the field with help from teammates. Coach Boone nodded to Chris in respect.

The crowd hated him more and it inspired him TO KEEP PUSHING!.

Despite their best efforts, the clock reached 00:00 and the teams left the field. The Defenders had lost though they covered the spread with the final score being 10- 7 with The Defenders only managing the touchdown from the interception.

Ty left the field a bit sore and frustrated with his lowest score of the season. Still, a win's a win and The Lumberjacks were the Superbowl favorites even before the playoffs started.

The mood in the locker room was more mixed than with a typical loss. Everyone expected a blowout, the Defenders had only lost by three and Chris got a good number of nods from teammates who were on HIS side. Chris got a little revenge. ESPN led with the play-of-the-day story of Chris making the interception on Ty.

As they lined up to leave after their showers, Chris called out to Josiah, "Peterbilt!"

Josiah asked, "Yeah?"

Chris smiled, "Nice hit!"

Josiah smiled broadly then clapped him on the back fondly then met his eyes, "My pleasure!"

His smile was feral.

Monday, January 2, 2023

Monday at six in the morning and two hours before everyone else was due, Chris and Josiah were at the base of the practice field stairs. Coach Boone looked at them, "One hour up and down the stairs and you better start off at a fast pace. I have a camera pointed at the stairs so I will know. Any slacking and I can make you show up on your only day off, tomorrow."

Coach Boone walked off as they started running up and down the stairs and an hour later, dog tired, Coach Boone came back, "You!" He pointed at Josiah, "Could have cost us a game. And you... are not to support any bullshit no matter the cause. Capiche!?"

Both said, "Yes Coach!"

Coach stalked off grumbling about 'Immature shitheads'.

As they walked a bit slowly toward the locker room, Chris said, "Josiah?"

Josiah said, "Yeah?"

Chris said, "Thanks."

Josiah smiled, "Totally worth it. I hate fuckheads like Ty. We're fucking NFL players with literal lines of single women willing to give us pussy with zero expectations other than a good fuck."

He laughed, "Though if I took advantage, Shanice would cut my dick off."

Chris asked, "Really?"

Josiah laughed and nodded, "My wife... Can deep throat my dick and fuck me dry, but if I stepped out on her... The woman scares me and she weighs a buck ten and stands five foot one."

He smirked, "And the TITTIES!"

Chris laughed, "Sounds like fun. You have a tit fetish."

Josiah grinned, "She is A LOT of fun and I love her giant titties!"

He waggled his brows then grimaced, "But she still scares the shit out of me."

Sunday, Jan 8, 2023

Chris looked up as the clock reached 00:00 and both teams left the field. The score was three nothing against the Cardinals. He could almost see the byline on the internet, "Defenders beat Cardinals in yawnfest."

The season over, theDefenders had won three of the four last games and the games had been productive for Chris with two interceptions and solid statistics for each game. He hoped The Defenders managed to acquire some offensive talent because all of The Defender wins had been because of the defense and they had not scored even double digits. The sole bright spot for the offense was running back Treyvon White and because he was the only threat, he was usually double covered.

Sunday, January 28, 2023

The invitation had come four days previous via text, the tone was of a truck horn followed by the sound of a truck hitting a car, 'Party at my house for when Detroit crushes the dreams of Portland on my 85 inch 4K TV. My house at 4.'

Chris drove up to Josiah's Hill Country Village mcmansion which was set back from the road. Half a dozen cars lined the right side of the drive including a Ferrari 488 Spider belonging to Outside Linebacker Travis Barker.

Josiah greeted him as he was walking up the drive, "Stop wanking over other peoples' cars. I should make you clean your spunk off that car."

Chris scratched his nose with his middle finger and Josiah laughed, "Fuck you, too!"

Josiah laughed and clapped him on the back, "Good to see you, cumstain!"

Six other members of the defensive team were in the living room watching the pregame in the large space.

Josiah pointed at a recliner, "You get the seat of honor and next to it is a bell on a wood stand. Every time Ty gets tackled you ring the bell once. If someone squashes him like a bug, you ring the fuck out of it."

"If he gets carried off the field, hopefully with a bone or five broken, We're all going to Alamo Prime tomorrow and we'll chip in for you to get the 'Hoss Porterhouse' which you better finish."

The announcer called the game, play after play to the third quarter, "The Lumberjacks lead The Lions twenty four to twenty with eight minutes left in the third quarter. Second down and ten. Ty Jenson on his own twenty yard line. Ty has the snap and goes back looking for a receiver. He's looking... scrambling. OH! TJ Washington hits Ty and FUMBLE! Nik Jones recovers at the ten... five... Touchdown!"

"Ty Jensen was a bit slow getting up. That had to hurt."

His teammates all looked at Chris. He was one of them. Brothers. Friends. Teammates. He rang the bell for over a minute as Josiah sang in falsetto, Rung his be-eh-ell. Rung his bell!, Rung his be-eh-ell. Rung his bell!"

After the gun ended the game with Detroit sealing their win and a trip to the Superbowl four of his teammates dragged Chris outside and pinned him to the lawn as Josiah brought over a cooler of gatorade and dumped it on Chris as Chris laughed.

Food for his soul. The final score of the NFC Title game as Lions defeated the Lumberjacks 27 to 24.

Josiah looked at his teammates then Chris and said loudly, "You look sticky and need a shower."

He called out even louder, "Anyone here want to wash Chris's front?"

"I will!" A pretty twenty-something woman with a pretty face, blonde hair and a considerable chest came into the backyard after Josiah had made a call. She smiled at him, "I'm Olivia!"

Olivia led them up the stairs, clearly already knowing the plan. Josiah picked Chris up fireman style, carrying him up the stairs then set him in front of a bathroom door. Josiah grinned, "You have your mission. We expect you to complete it." They then pushed him in the door and pulled it shut.

Olivia smiled at him, rubbing his crotch, "I'm a fan. Just let it go. I'm not looking for anything permanent and just a little fun. And I really like fun!"

She took his hand and led him toward the shower then unsnapped her summer dress to reveal she was wearing nothing underneath then got on her knees in front of him and unsnapped and unzipped his jeans, pulling his penis out then engulfing it..."

This was not her first blowjob. It wasn't her hundredth.

By the time Chris had emptied himself inside Olivia twice- once orally and once vaginally, Josiah was cleaning up after the party and smirked at Chris as he came downstairs, "Feel better?"

Chris laughed as Olivia smiled and said, "Yep!" then walked toward the door, "Thanks! I had fun!"

Olivia left and Josiah laughed, "You needed to get laid and crushing Ty's dream of a Super Bowl ring was a good reason!"

Chris laughed, "Okay. It's been a long time since I did the casual thing."

Josiah shrugged, "Don't overthink things. Tyree met Olivia at a club. She was the wingwoman of the girl he banged that night. He got her number and explained our party and our plan and she EAGERLY agreed. Chris. You are one of us and we have your back. No one on our team would pull that shit on you like Ty. NO ONE!"

"Seriously though. You needed to get laid. See yourself out. Shanice will cut my dick off if I don't take care of this mess."

He groused, "Too bad we didn't have cause to go for the Hoss Porterhouse."

Chris left Josiah's place wearing one of Josiah's ridiculously oversized robes and carrying a trash bag full of Gatorade soaked clothes as he got into his car and drove home. The sex was empty and only somewhat satisfying but Josiah was right. He had needed to get laid.

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Chris stopped his car at the bottom of Josiah's driveway as Josiah called out the front door, "No jacking off all over the Ferrari! He just got all your cumstains cleaned off from the championship game!"

Chris gave him a double birdie and as he approached, Josiah gave him a one arm bro hug, "You gotta hear my new subwoofer! We can now hear someone hopefully crushing Mr. Taylor Swift and his Chiefs."

With no true hated enemy, seating was first come, first served and before the game began, a two hundred fifty dollar tip brought a twenty-year-old Doordasher racing up Josiah's driveway with fifteen pounds of perfectly cooked New York Strip steaks with Alamo Prime's amazing seasoned fries.

Good friends, good times, good food. He belonged.

Chris laughed at the final score, Lions 31, Kansas City 28. Chris nodded and said, "Happy for Detroit and we can't have Mr. Taylor Swift running around all happy."

Arriving home, he saw his Yellow Rose of Texas plants needed some water. Familial love. He smiled as he watered them in their pots. Wherever and whenever he ended up, they were coming.

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Chris came back from the practice facility from his morning workout at noon and saw the mail had arrived. There was an envelope marked 'State of Oregon'.

He knew what it was, but it was jarring to see and read. The final dissolution of his marriage was official. The five year relationship was now legally as dead as it had been in the practical sense. The finality of it hit him, bringing him down a bit, not so much like when he first found out, but for the paths not taken and the children who would never be.

Another night in the cold empty bed.

Monday, March 6, 2023

Josiah called Chris's cell, "Chris. Wanna do steak and Alamo Prime?"

Chris was more than enthusiastic, "Hell yeah!"

Halfway through dinner, Josiah sighed, "I have more info you won't like. You know your ex is a meme right?"

Chris asked, "Huh?"

Josiah laughed, "I won't show it to you, but they made a GIF out of part of the video. He was doing her on his kitchen table and those titties of hers were going round and round. Well someone clipped the video."

He turned up the sound to hear, 'The wheels on the bus go round and round! Round and round! Round and round!"

Chris winced, feeling for his former father-in-law

Josiah apologized, "Sorry man."

Chris shrugged, "I'm mostly over it. I don't wanna see it. I kinda feel for her parents. The video is everywhere and I mean everywhere on the internet. Now a meme is bringing it up again.

The wounds were healing except for one big thing: The cold empty bed.

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

Chris was working out alone in the weight room at seven in the morning when Coach Boone came in with a tall blonde man who appeared to be around thirty years old.

"Chris Anker. Meet Wyatt Calhoun, Quarterback, formerly of The Cleveland Browns."

The men shook hands. Coach Boone looked at them both, "Shit. Private call. I'll be back in five minutes." Coach Boone walked out after giving Chris a look.

Wyatt laughed, "Now that wasn't the most obvious bullshit excuse I've ever seen. No ring and it didn't vibrate." He shrugged, "I guess he wants me to talk to you."

Chris shrugged back, "No idea why. I'm on the defense."

Wyatt suggested, "Maybe he wants you to judge how serious I am." He looked intently into Chris's eyes, "Chris I am fucking seerious as hell. I damn near killed myself in rehab. I have a couple years left in me and I want a damn Superbow ring. Maybe it's a longshot here, but I want that shot. The defense is solid, you have a good offensive line, and I know you have some solid picks and some cap space. I can be that man if you get me a receiver and some depth at either another receiver or a running threat."

Chris nodded, "Not sure on the draft plans, but if we get a solid quarterback, that makes the draft a lot easier since it makes a receiver a much clearer choice with that role filled."

Wyatt nodded, "Chris. I am serious as a fucking heart attack. You won't find ANYONE willing to work harder."

Coach Boone came back five minutes later, "Sorry. That was an important call.", then took Wyatt away for the rest of the tour.

Chris got a call from Coach Boone at seven that evening, "So. What do you think?"

Chris answered, "He knew your call was fake."

Coach Boone said, "Good. That was just another test on my part. He reads people well. I did it several times with other coaching staff. What do you think of him?"

Chris asked, "Why ask me? I can't judge quarterbacks half as well as you."

"Chris. That isn't where I am going with the question. What do you think of what he said? How serious is he?"

Chris paused and thought, "I don't know his physicals and I hear the break was pretty bad. I can tell you that he was the most serious person I have met in months. He means it when he says he wants to play and that he will work hard. That I can assure you. No one you meet will work harder at being our quarterback. Only you know if you believe his ankle will hold."

There was a long pause, "Thanks Chris." There was another pause, "You know that you read people very well and that was my whole point in this call. I needed a second opinion on how serious he is."

"He is extremely serious, coach. As serious as any man you will meet. It comes down to whether you think his ankle will hold up. He had some great years in the late teens including that close loss in the AFC championship game. He has that in him. He had shitty offensive lines in the early twenties killing his numbers and we have a pretty good one. Shit, his ankle might be because of the Browns offensive line. Everyone saw a million replays of that game. The line collapsed like a house of cards and he had no time to react. His replacement, Nathan Carter did not do any better than Wyatt. He's just younger."

Coach Boone sighed loudly, "Thanks. My gut says go for it and get a killer receiver in the draft."

"Coach. Who am I to doubt you?"

"Chris. You read people very well and you are getting better at it. Part of leading is hearing what others think and I hear you." There was a long pause, "With your confirmation, I'm going with my gut. Thanks Chris."

"No problem, Coach."

Monday, March 20, 2023

Roy called while Chris was eating dinner, Dan DeLion's Pizza was the best with a crust neither thick nor thin and gourmet pepperoni along with fresh mozzarella dollops, "Chris. Good news. With your increased playtime you became eligible for a pretty good payout from the Players Benefit Pool. Your take is one-hundred-forty-six thousand dollars or roughly right under ninety thousand after taxes. The money will hit your bank in four installments on the fifteenth of the month starting in April."

"See kid, San Antonio is good for you. It was an awful start, but it's paying you big now."

Chris was reluctant to agree, and the price had been shattering, but he saw the point. It didn't hurt that the people of the city seemed to appreciate him.

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Coach Boone stood next to an elated Wyatt Calhoun at a press conference, "I am happy to announce we have signed Wyatt Calhoun to a three year deal. Eight million this year with four million guaranteed. Significant performance bonuses for a range of things from passing yards, to touchdowns to completion percentage."

Wyatt smiled and looked at the press gallery in seriousness, "I want the two million incentive for winning the superbowl" The press chuckled, Wyatt didn't. Coach Boone smiled broadly, reading... and loving just how serious Wyatt was.

At eight that night, Chris received a text from an unknown number, 'Thanks. Your word is what tipped it all in my favor. I WILL NOT DISAPPOINT! WC.'

Chris texted back, 'NP Glad to help.'

'Now I have to decide where to live. Where are the good towns with good schools?"

'No idea. I don't have a wife or kids.'

'Forgot what happened. Sorry.'

'NP. I'm over it. Talk to Josiah Peter. He's married. No kids, but his house is VERY nice and it's a family neighborhood.'

He texted Josiah's number to Wyatt. Calhoun.

Wyatt ended with, 'Coach Boone thinks a lot of you.'

Chris smiled as life climbed just a little bit higher.

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

'Gramma Izzy is going to contact you. Be ready for some crazy.' The text from his mom was brief. It was both a promise and a warning.

'Bugs are getting worse and the humidity is annoying me. Will arrive Friday late. Don't forget my bottle of Woodford Reserve'.

Chris smiled, Gramma Izzy was ever a source of 'amazing' stories.

Friday, March 31, 2023

'At a Buc-Ees having the best fucking brisket sandwich I've had in a long time. See you in an hour and a bit' Chris smiled, Gramma was a pistol.

True to her promise, she arrived an hour and ten minutes later in her 1975 Cadillac Eldorado convertible. Top down, of course.

She parked it without a care and halfway out of his driveway into the street. She picked her suitcase out of the back seat and threw him her keys, "You figure out where to park the boat, Smokey."

Chris laughed at the insult, "That was fifteen years ago!"

She rolled her eyes and snarked, "I and I had to replace that pine tree you burned and all my azaleas around it. Playing with fireworks. You should have known better."

Chris sighed, "I was eight!"

She pinched his cheek with surprising strength for a seventy-seven year old who was fourteen inches shorter than him, "You're so cute when you are angry! Got my bourbon?"

Chris nodded, "Yes, Gramma."

He looked sourly at his grandma's haphazardly parked car then sat inside and turned the key, Whir-Brum! Rum Rum Rum... That was unexpected. Those old boat engines cranked slow and this thing had a way deeper rumble than stock. He looked at her, "What... did... you... do...?"

She groused, "Shit. That old boat engine lasted only a hundred four thousand miles. I replaced it in 1984 with a 454 Big Block. That lasted until 2018 when I got this put in."

"What is it?"

She gave an almost evil smile, "LS3. Corvette engine. Had major work done on the trans and suspension. The only part original is the body and the paint color, but even the color I had a high end gloss coat added to make the gold color gleam in the sunlight. I never woulda made it here in less than a week with either of the earlier engines. Would have had to stop every damn exit for gas. This thing gives me nearly twenty miles a gallon on the highway and 525 horses!"

He chuckled to himself, this was so 'Gramma Izzy'.

She led HIM inside, smiled, then came in with a hug, "It's so good to see you! It's been since... the wedding... Sorry about the slut."

She sat at the breakfast bar as Chris fetched a a bottle of her bourbon and brought out a shot glass.

She smiled expectantly, "I need a shot. Long drive."

She took a sip and savored it... then pounded the rest down and set the glass in front of him, "HIT ME!" Chris laughed and poured a second.

Her face got softer, "I really am sorry about your marriage. I cried for you."

Chris nodded, "I'm mostly over it."

She smirked, "You like your honeymoon location? It was my idea."

He looked at her side-eyed, "Of... course... it... was. I got used to it."

She looked at him sourly, "You have all the excuses to be young and stupid and manage to miss them all. For kicks, I took it all off at a peeler bar in 1965 in Hot Springs. What a town! WIDE OPEN! Run by the Chicago mob, they took good care of us that worked in their joints. I showed it all! Wade thought it was a hoot! Made eighty bucks, too! I liked it so much I did the showgirl thing that summer. My costume was a top hat and ankle boots, or sometimes... just two feather fans."

She smiled, "Those crazy days in Hot Springs before the feds ruined everything a few years later."

"We did the naturist thing at Oak Ridge Sun Club every weekend during the summers until Wade died in 1993. Probably why your mom was so comfortable doing Playboy."

Chris winced, "Gramma. Stop! Please."

She sighed, "Loosen up already. Get yourself a pretty girl and live a little! Your mom is a gorgeous blonde and she knew it her whole life. She lived! Took it all off for Playboy and yet loved only one man, your father. Don't think she didn't love every minute of the Playboy experience, because she did. She's proud of those pictures because she is a beautiful woman. I have no idea where you got your shyness, cause it sure as hell wasn't from my side."

She savored the second bourbon in tiny sips through the evening as she told him slightly tamer stories from her youth as a bootlegger. She talked about car chases in her car, 'Blue Belle'. Gramma was the real life 'Dukes of Hazzard.

Gramma wasn't a pistol, she was a cannon.

Saturday, April 1, 2023

Chris woke up to noise in the kitchen, the scent of bacon filled the air. He dressed and walked out, hugging Gramma, "Morning Gramma!"

She smiled, "Morning! I'm making bacon. I had to head out to some grocery store named HEB. Stupid name. The last letter was founder's last name was 'Butt'. Who the fuck thought up naming a store after Butt?"

Chris laughed, Gramma was the ultimate in unfiltered.

"Anyway. I had to go buy bacon. You didn't have any."

Chris thought about explaining an athlete's diet then realized some things are best left unsaid, "Thank you Gramma."

She smiled and pinched his cheek again, "Love you, grandson."

She switched gears immediately, "Oh, you are taking me to this place called Riverwalk. Lot's of shops. I'll let you buy me lunch."

*******

As Chris waited patiently for Gramma Izzy outside a high end liquor store, Josiah was also there and saw him, "Hey Cocktail weenie."

Gramma Izzy's timing being what it always was, she caught the exchange." She looked at Chris with an amused expression, "Cocktail weenie?"

Chris sighed wishing Josiah was anywhere but here, "It's complicated. Josiah, Meet Gramma Izzy. My mom's mom. Gramma, meet Josiah, a friend from the team."

She scoffed, "No it's not complicated. Had a black man a year after my husband died. It was 1995 and I wondered what a really big one was like. I sure found out. Walked bow legged for a week."

She looked at him up and down, settling on his crotch, "You packin?"

For once in his life, Josiah had no comeback.

Josiah spluttered, "Uh. I gotta go... uh. Anything I say will get me killed by Shanice... or your grandma. We'll talk later, Chris." He hurried away.

Chris laughed, "First time I've ever seen him without a comeback."

She shrugged, "Who is he?"

Chris laughed, "One of the guys on the team. Linebacker. A good friend actually."

She paused, "So he's on the team... showers. How much is he packin?"

Chris laughed, "Enough to make you walk bow legged for a year."

She laughed loudly, "I see at least a little of me has been passed on. Get me some Chicken Parm." She latched onto his arm possessively.

After lunch, Gramma Izzy directed the day and Chris had to make several trips to the car, dropping her purchases off to not be burdened with the Mexican Blanket or the 'authentic' moonshine jug. Once she told Chris she was done and they headed to his car, she complimented him, "Nice car. How fast does it go?"

Chris laughed, "They say 165."

"You never tried it?"

Chris shook his head, "It's not 1965 and no car can outrun a helicopter. The Texas State Patrol has plenty of those. Over a hundred and they take your license and bury you under the jail."

She made a sour face, "I get it." A minute of quiet passed as they got in. She smiled, "I remember this one time, I was drivin' a Modified Ford Customline. I had six jerry cans of hooch, going to a blind tiger over in North Wilkesboro. Well, ole Deputy Wilkerson got on my tail..."

She smiled, "Not for long."

Chris laughed, "You're so... you."

She smiled, "Deputy Wilkerson woulda shot himself if he found out he was out driven by a girl."

Chris laughed, "When was that?"

"1961"

"You were FIFTEEN!?"

A smile lit her face, "YEP! All this shopping is making me hungry and I'm feeling... steakey."

Chris was the one to smile this time, "I know just the place called Alamo Prime."

Susan the hostess greeted Chris, "Chris!" She paused and asked, "And who is this charming lady?"

Gramma Izzy laughed, "Hun. I ain't no lady. But to answer your question, I'm his gramma."

Susan laughed, "I like your grandma!"

Izzy grinned then got serious, "We need an out of the way spot for a bit of a talk..." She let the words hang.

Susan teased Chris, "Someone's in... troooooooouble!..."

Susan led them to a quiet corner table and Chris sank down in the chair heavily, "Okay... what", he said in a resigned voice.

She reached across and pulled his hands into hers. Nothing bad. Let's order first."

After ordering, Gramma Izzy took his hands, "Your mom is worried sick about you."

"Look, I'm better."

She shook her head, "You listen to your Gramma. You got unlucky with Sydney. I get it. It hurts. I never stepped out on Wade. Not once. You hear me? Not once. I didn't have another man until after Wade passed."

"But"

"Let me finish. You know your mom was a Playmate, right? Well she did something like five or six photoshoots after that for those special editions."

That was news to Chris, "But mom met dad shortly after she appeared."

She nodded, "There is a delay between the first shoot and publication. He went to LA with her for the last four shoots. He was never on set because those shoots were intense and no monkey business. There were parties she attended, and yes, he tagged along. He was proud as a peacock dating such a world class beauty as your mom. She made it clear she was with him and only him."

She looked at him intently, "They met BIG people. Rich guys, producers, celebrities. She was propositioned dozens of times by those men."

She squeezed his hands, "She NEVER even considered it. She turned down Jax Remington and Axel Gold to name two. They were on several sexiest men lists and she turned them down flat. You listen to your Gramma. I might not be around when it happens, but I want a legacy. Your mom is my only child and you are her only child so any great-grandchild can only come from you. I want a legacy and that can only come from you. I loved Wade with my whole heart."

She sighed, "Lecture over. The steaks are good?"

Chris nodded, "The best."

Chris thought for a second, "You didn't have a problem with her posing?"

She laughed and shook her head, "Honey, If I had her knockers, I woulda never worn a shirt. She looked down at her own chest, "She got those from my husband's side. His mom was quite a looker with a pair of jugs that had their own zip code. I'm a member of the itty bitty titty committee."

Chris laughed. Gramma was always entertaining to say the least.

After dinner, she looked at him, "Well, I delivered my message. I'm heading out tomorrow. Never seen the Grand Canyon and I want to see it before they bury me."

Chris shook his head, "But."

She shook her head, "I'm not sick or anything, but at my age, every day is a gift. Before I lose my marbles, I want to see the things I have missed."

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Chris was at Josiah's house party for the draft. In the days before the draft, there was a dogfight for the number three pick. The first two picks for two of the highest rated quarterbacks were set and the number three quarterback, Matthew Rivers was up for grabs. The Bears had no need for a quarterback while Denver did. They figured they could use the number five pick though it gave no indication of whom they desired and they paid dearly for it, but got even more in return for the number three.

Starting the day, previous years trades plus their terrible season left The Defenders with the number five and number six picks. A four way trade was worked out with the end result that The Defenders gave up the number five pick and received the number nine and the number twenty four pick. After the nearly incomprehensible backtrading, they had the number six, number nine and number twenty fourth pick.

Josiah looked at Chris from across the couch, "I sure as fuck have no idea what is going on. I hope it goes well for Coach Boone."

Chris nodded.

When The Texans unexpectedly took a Defensive end, Chris looked at Josiah with a huge smile, "Fuck! If he does what I think he is going to do..."

Chris smiled and crossed his fingers as a man came to the podium, "With the sixth pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, The Defenders select... Jordan Walker."

Josiah cheered, "FUCK YEAH!" and high fived over Travis Barker's head. Everyone was happy. Interviews followed. Jordan Walker was soon to be a rich man.

Twenty six minutes later, "With the ninth pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, the Defenders pick... Isaiah Williams."

The night wore on until the twenty- fourth pick as the announcer came to the podium, "With the twenty-fourth pick of the 2023 NFL draft, the Defenders choose... Donovan Fields."

Chris nodded at Josiah as the men in the room cheered. He thought, "Two receivers and a running back in the first round. We might just have an offense this coming year."

Friday, April 28, 2023

Chris and his comrades were at Josiah's again for the second night of the draft, his wife, Shanice came in smiling carrying a fresh tray of cold Sam Adams and four bags of Doritos, "Sorry guys. You're stuck with a girl in the room tonight."

She looked at Dontrell Clark who just got up and moved from his place sitting next to Josiah. Dontrell moved despite no words being said. Shanice had a presence that belied her five foot one stature. She sat close to Josiah, kissed him on the cheek, "My place is next to you." Josiah grinned. She whispered something in his ear, he looked at her breasts briefly and grinned bigger. A few minutes later as everyone had their eyes glued on the TV, Josiah copped a quick through-the-shirt soft squeeze of her braless breast. Shanice simply smiled.

She shifted a bit then without lifting it enough to expose herself, moved his hand under her shirt straight onto her right breast. Josiah just grinned as Dontrell noticed. Shanice looked at Dontell, "Have a problem? Eyes on the TV."

Dontell sighed, chastened, "Yes, ma'am."

Five minutes into the analysis the announcer answered the question of who did best so far in the draft. He answered, "The Defenders, hands down, IF... and a big if ... Wyatt Calhoun AND HIS ANKLE, work out. If not, they have another mediocre season, maybe winning eight games."

Monday, June 12, 2023

Chris was hanging out at Josiah's suburban mcmansion after their morning workout binging Maine Cabin Masters when he heard an email ping on his phone.

Email from: Sydney Walters. He thought about hitting delete, but thought it was best to face the hurt.

'Dear Chris.

I know this will ring hollow, but I feel sick about what I did.

My father said you were bewildered at the events and wanted to know if I did even worse things to you. I hope this can bring you some closure as to what happened. Ty liked what he saw in me that September Friday dinner after the final roster was announced and got someone in the office to take a phone pic of your contact details in the Lumberjacks office. I do not know who gave it to him and he did not say. He called me the Monday after the dinner offering lunch the following day. I was flattered, but planned nothing at that point. Foolish, I know.

Ty just showed me the pic of the contact sheet he had on his phone from across the table at lunch on the following Tuesday right after the dinner when you were watching video at the practice facility on your day off. That is a feature, not a fault. It's what makes you so good. You go that extra mile for your team.

I resisted all of two weeks. I was weak and stupid and I liked how it felt to be chased by the guy every woman in the country wanted. He had just been on the cover of GQ the previous month and it was as simple as that. Every girl in America wanted Mister Magazine Cover and he wanted ME. The guy every woman wanted wanted me.

He coached me on how to not give any clues so don't beat yourself up about not noticing. I'm sure I'm not the only married woman he has bedded though I do not know if the others are or were other player's wives. I did not ask.

Yes, I cleaned up thoroughly afterward and no, I did not have you do something disgusting like eat his seed. I did not say anything bad about you to him. He tried to demean you, but I told him I was there for the sex and to drop it. We were together perhaps five or six times.

That's the totality of it. Yes, he pursued me and yes he is damn good at the whole seduction thing and using his looks. No, I did not put up much resistance. The ONLY thing he has over you is the obvious. He is probably the most handsome man I or any woman have ever seen. I don't think that is news to anyone. There is a reason he has been on a half dozen national magazine covers just this year. I was flattered and entitled. My therapist says I was perhaps the most entitled woman he had ever encountered. She told me I had a 9.99 and just had to have the ten and it cost me a life most women would kill for. He was right.

Being the number one video on Pornhub sure brought me down a peg or hundred. That bus meme brought me down another hundred.

He was not bigger though I can't quite understand why men obsess about it. Hitting a woman's cervix hurts despite what men think. He was certainly not better and in fact, very selfish. Simply, I gave in to a gorgeous but shallow man for my own ego boost. I wanted that boost of getting the magazine model man and all it cost me was a marriage to the best man I know.

If it makes you feel better, I rarely leave the house. I get smirks from men everywhere I go with that 'I know what you look like being fucked' look. I want to kill the next man who walks up to me and offers his dick pic. No one would hire me so my dad hired me at the lowest level that still requires my accounting degree. I make forty thousand a year reconciling freight invoices.

I won't darken your door any further other than no excuses. Yes, Ty pursued me as he has pursued many women. I made the choice. I should have said no. I said yes.

I honestly hope you are able to get over the damage I have done and find someone who will love you for the rest of your life. I wish it could have been a loyal version of me. You are an amazing man with so much to offer and you will make an amazing father.

I screwed it up.

All my best wishes for a brighter future and I hope I have filled any gaps that leave you wondering and keeping you up at night.

Sydney'

All those blanks he wondered about in his mind were now filled in and she offered no excuses and blamed only herself. The letter hit Chris hard. It was the moment he forgave and put it in the past as a massive weight he did not know he was carrying, lifted. He brought up his phone and searched for her number and texted, 'Thanks. That kind of closed things out for me.'

Two minutes later, she texted back, 'If you need anything else to heal. Let me know. S'

A second email arrived.

'I Sydney Walters, formerly Anker, am solely responsible for the demise of my marriage. Take this letter as my highest letter of recommendation. Chris was and is an amazing man with a great heart. Whoever you are, you are the luckiest woman in the world.'

'If you need verification that this is real, I can be reached...'

Chris shook his head, "Fuck! How did that happen?"

Josiah asked, "What?"

Chris said, "That email was from Sydney explaining exactly what happened. I just forgave her. She followed it up with a letter of recommendation."

Josiah smiled, "Hate will poison you. You aren't going to get with her again are you?"

Chris shook his head vigorously, "Fuck no! It's just that I don't hate her anymore."

Josiah smiled, "Chris. That is a good thing."

Josiah thought for a second and said, "Time to celebrate! Let's hit Alamo Prime to celebrate then come back and binge some more Maine Cabin Masters."

Chris nodded with a happy grin, "Sounds great."

Monday, June 19, 2023

Chris was at home cooling some chicken breasts on a George Foreman Grill when his phone pinged a group text, "From Coach Boone. Please join me and the rest of the team at the Bluebonnet Children's Charity Hospital on July 10th, 1PM. Meet and greet children with some very severe illnesses. BCCH is one of the Charities we sponsor and one where almost no money or effort is lost to overhead and BCCH never bills the families."

Monday, July 10, 2023

At a little before one that afternoon, Chris drove into The Bluebonnet Children's Charity Hospital in the Thousand Oaks area of San Antonio and walked in. Josiah pulled in a minute later in his silver Aston Martin Vantage, greeting him, "Bro!" Then did a one arm bro hug, "Good to see ya. We'll definitely have to hit Alamo Prime after this!"

Chris nodded, "Damn right!

They walked into the lobby, Beau Boone had a bit of a sour look on his face, "Only ten of you signed up, but thank you two, and welcome Chris and welcome back, Josiah, to BCCH. Head on up to the third floor where the kids are waiting."

It was a big gaggle of kids all wanting time as he saw Travis Barker playing Minecraft with a young boy who had cancer and several others with excited kids lined up to talk to other players.

He was barely past the door when a man approached Chris, "Chris Anker?"

Chris nodded then the man smiled, "Coach Boone said you were coming. I am Doctor Adam Stevens and I have a special patient who would love to meet you. Moving him is quite a bit of an issue as he is hooked to quite a few machines and monitors. He has a heart defect, but really wants to meet you."

Chris nodded, "Of course", then followed Adam.

Adam walked over a few rooms into a hallway and into one on the right side and asked quietly, "Noah?"

An eight year old boy was in the bed as he looked over at his doctor then his eyes widened and his jaw dropped.

Chris smiled at the small child hooked to far too many tubes and wires, "Hi, Noah, I'm..."

"CHRIS ANKER! OH MY GOSH! CHRIS ANKER! CHRIS ANKER IS IN MY ROOM!!!!"

The heart monitor spiked a bit and Adam cautioned, "Easy Noah, okay? Remember to not get wound up too much. I have some rounds to make. Perhaps you two could talk about football."

Noah beamed, "This is so cool! I have Chris Anker in my room. We have the same last name! I'm Noah Anker. Maybe we are related?"

Chris shrugged, "Is your family from Iowa? My dad says his family came from Denmark to Iowa in the 1880s. My great-great grandfather moved to Oklahoma in 1942 to work in the Oklahoma Ordnance Plant near Tulsa."

Noah was a little disappointed, "Mine came to Louisiana in the 1920s. At least that is what my mom says."

Chris noted the kid deflated a little bit and suggested, "Maybe we are related from someone way back, but in Denmark."

Noah nodded then smiled brighter, "Yeah! I like that idea. Hey! I saw that awesome interception you got on Ty Jensen!..."

A half hour later, Chris walked out of Noah's room as Adam came by and said, "I haven't seen Noah so worked up... ever. Just be careful. He has heart issues. I can't get into more detail than that due to HIPAA regulations. You sure are good for him though. Perhaps you could come by once in a while and make his day."

Chris smiled, "Already promised him a picture." He shrugged, "Seems kind of shitty to carry around pictures of myself like I'm something special. The team has a site for me so I just have to figure out how to get them printed."

Adam suggested, "Just head to CVS or Walmart with a memory stick." he paused, "Chris... You are something special. Noah is so down for so many days. He carries a burden no eight year old should carry. You walked into his room and suddenly he was just an eight year old kid meeting his hero."

Chris nodded, "I'll get a memory stick on my way home." He shrugged, "I don't feel like a hero. I'm just a guy who tries to keep other guys from running with or catching a ball."

Adam liked the answer and smiled, "Being unpretentious is a good thing. Too many sports stars think too much of themselves but trust me that it will make his day when you give him that picture. Stick around and see the other kids. I'm going to take care of something."

An hour later, Adam returned as Chris finished talking with a ten year old girl with Leukemia, "I called Noah's mom and she is okay so I had this made."

He handed Chris a name badge, "We have a machine on the first floor that makes badges. Yours is purple suggesting royalty but it really means VIP visitor. It gives access to most areas with the obvious exceptions like operating rooms. Just clip it on and you can see Noah as you wish and I called so his mom is on board. You don't need to call ahead and we know you are very busy."

Adam looked Chris in the eyes, "That kid reveres you so please, come by once in a while. His mom says thanks. Turns out a nurse called and told her all about your visit and how excited Noah was so you have open-ended permission."

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Around three, Chris came by BCCH wearing his purple badge, walking out of the escalator past the nurse's station, receiving several appreciative nods and smiles from the nurses as he pointed to his badge, heading toward Noah's room.

"Hey Noah! I brought..."

A woman in her mid-thirties turned around in surprise, looking at Chris.

Noah beamed, "Mom! This is Chris Anker! I met him on Monday!"

His mom was more than a bit shocked at his appearance and finally managed to stammer, "I'm Lindsey Anker..." She paused, trying to gather her thoughts, "Thank you for giving my son your time on Monday."

Chris smiled, "No problem. He's a great kid. "Hey Noah! Here is that autographed picture you wanted. Sorry I didn't have one Monday, but I'm not all full of myself and don't usually carry them around."

Noah beamed, "WOW! THANKS!" The heart monitor jumped a bit and his mom cautioned, "Noah. Please! Be careful!"

Noah nodded, but his giant smile never faded.

Doctor Stevens came in and smiled at Chris, "I see my favorite patient has a visitor today." he nodded in respect to Chris.

Lindsey looked down at her watch, "Damn! I... have to go. I have the dinner shift at Bubbaques." She kissed her son on the cheek, "You be good for Chris." Noah just beamed a huge smile.

Once his mom left Chris had an idea and looked at Doctor Stevens, "Does he have any dietary restrictions?"

Dr. Stevens shook his head and Chris smiled, "Noah, want to have dinner with me? I could order us some steaks from Alamo Prime."

"REALLY!? OH MY GOSH! YEAH!" The heart monitors jumped a bit and Dr Stevens cautioned, "Noah. Please be careful."

Noah nodded and Chris apologized, "Sorry doc."

Dr Stevens shook his head and said lightly, " No need. I've seen Noah smile more since Monday and today than the entire rest of the time here."

Chris nodded, then asked, "How long has he been here?"

Dr. Stevens said, "Two months..." There was an awkward pause, "Hey. Why don't I show you where to have the food delivered?" It was clear that Dr. Stevens was not really wanting to talk about what door to use for the food deliveries.

Dr. Stevens walked them well out away from Noah's room, "Look. I have some leeway now as I have permission from his mom. Chris. Noah is terminal. He has three or so months left. He isn't leaving here. Not alive, anyhow."

Chris braced himself against the counter they were standing next to, "He's not?"

Dr. Stevens shook his head, "It's completely unfair. I get it. His heart is the main thing, but other organs have also degraded..." He paused and shut his eyes, "Please. I'll get on my knees and beg you if you want. Visit him. Make that kid's last days good."

Chris sat down heavily in a nearby chair and shook his head in regret, "No need to beg, doc. I'll do it."

Dr. Stevens smiled, "Chris. You are a giant among men and you don't even see it. Maybe that is what makes you a giant."

Chris sat a few minutes and gathered strength then put on a front, "Let's find out what kind of steak that kid wants for dinner."

Dr. Stevens smiled in gratitude, "Let's do that."

Chris's phone pinged and he smiled. Door Dashers were amazing fast when you offered a one hundred dollar tip. Chris ate with a food container in his lap as Noah enjoyed a small filet, periodically smiling at Chris as if he had won a million dollars. Once done, Noah set the container to the side and said, "Thanks! This was the best meal ever!"

Chris smiled, "I'm glad you liked it. You do good for the doctors and I'll bring you something from each game including the preseason. It won't be much, but I'll bring something. You need to do what your parents and doctor say."

Noah beamed.

Chris asked, "Do we have a deal?"

Noah nodded furiously and beamed more, "YEAH!"

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

It felt different to report on veterans reporting day instead of rookie day as Chris walked into training camp past the press who were being kept out until the initial press conference early that afternoon,

The biggest difference was his place on the roster was his to lose rather than a dogfight among multiple people. Two undrafted invitees were vying for his spot, but there were no early round draft monsters waiting to get him.

Still... Never stop pushing.

Chris walked in beside Josiah into that first press conference as the team stood behind Coach Boone and the entire front line coaching staff. The biggest surprise came on in the middle of the conference and about the tenth question posed to a player.

"Lynn Abrams KDEF. To Chris Anker."

Chris was truly surprised at being the subject of any interest when he had been of little interest at training camp the year previous. Interest followed mostly after the Ty Jensen debacle. He was nervous then relieved when she asked, "It has been noted that you are especially adept at reading offenses. Is this a learned skill or was it something you noticed one day?"

Chris smiled, time to credit his family, "My father owns a logistics company that moves agricultural products. He took me to work during the summers and started teaching me at a young age. One thing he started to teach me early was how to read a room and from there..."

Later that night Chris got a text, 'Thanks for the credit, but it's mostly you. Love Dad.'

Chris texted back, 'You taught me more than you will ever know. Chris'

Saturday Aug 12 2023

Chris walked out of the tunnel to an enthusiastic crowd cheering their beloved Defenders on their first preseason game. His name was called, "Number forty-four. Safety. Chris ANKER!"

The crowd cheered louder. Chris looked up to the club seats finding his parents and his good luck charms, the Danners and all wearing brick red Defender home jerseys with a gold '44', his number on them.

"First quarter with the score still zero to zero after a three and punt by Tampa Bay. Wyatt Calhoun to take his first snap as a Defender. The big question is how strong is his ankle. First and ten. Wyatt takes the snap and goes back to pass... oh... dropped by Isaiah Williams. The ball looked pretty catchable in my book."

"First quarter with the score still zero to zero after a dropped pass by Isaiah William. Second and ten. Wyatt takes the snap and goes back to pass... pressure coming and receivers covered. He tucks the ball and runs forward back to the line of scrimmage for a loss of a yard. Good thinking by Calhoun as the Buccaneers had things covered and throwing into traffic is a recipe for disaster."

"First quarter with the score still zero to zero. Defenders are third down and eleven. Wyatt Calhoun drops back and... FAKE! Donovan Fields busts out to the Tampa forty-five. Nice debut for the running back Donovan Fields. First and ten on the forty-five yard line. Wyatt sure is the thinking man's quarterback, I heard an audible on that play."

The game complete, Chris was trotting toward the sidelines toward his parents when he heard, "You had your first pick of the season. Nice!"

Chris turned toward the voice and smiled at Wyatt moving just a bit faster to catch up. Chris returned the compliment, "Your first win with us. How's it feel?"

Wyatt smiled, "I'm on top of the world! I just wanna say thanks again. It was you that tipped this all in my favor. Coach Boone thinks the world of you."

Chris stopped at the base of the wall and smiled, respect always felt good. Chris motioned his parents and the Danners to the edge of the field as Chris explained and pointed, "Wyatt. Meet my parents, David and Angela Anker and my good luck charms, Mike and Susan Danner."

He looked up and his parents and the Danners, "Toss your phones down!" Chris caught his mother's phone then Susan's. Chris looked at Wyatt, "You mind?"

Wyatt smiled and posed for several selfies with Chris for selfies for both phones. A pretty light brown haired woman with two young children in tow approached Chris's parents. Wyatt smiled then turned to Chris, "That's my wife, Katherine and my kids, Lucas age seven and Lilly age five"

Katherine saw what was going on and asked, "Can I get a few pics from the day of my husband's first win here?"

Chris held out his hands until he gently caught her phone and a bunch of selfies were taken on all of the phones then tossed back up to their owners.

Josiah came trotting over, "Chris, are you ever gonna actually just go into the locker room and not hang out with the rabble?" He grinned goofily up at Chris's parents and the Danners. Anyway, if you clean your stinky ass... tronaut... he looked guiltily at the kids, er bottom to the showers, Shanice and I are heading to Alamo Prime."

He looked at Wyatt, "You like steak?"

Wyatt laughed, "Not liking steak is blasphemy!"

Josiah laughed, "Da... arn right. Well the best around is Alamo Prime... isn't it, Susan?"

Susan laughed, Yes it is and I have a change of clothes in my car and I'm running short of time to get there by five. I have to get going. Am I seeing you... er all? Of you?"

"Y'all should come! First win of MANY this year Time to celebrate!"

Chris looked at Wyatt, "Looks like you are having steak tonight."

Wyatt quipped, "Oh the horror! Uh. Can I bring the kids?"

Chris nodded and laughed, "Just for the entertainment alone of making Josiah go a minute without swearing."

After dinner and seeing everyone off and explaining he had a small errand to run, Chris talked to Josiah as Wyatt listened in, "Remember that Noah kid? Well, I've been seeing him and giving him stuff after each game and I was wondering if you..."

Josiah smiled a huge grin, "Say no more!"

Wyatt asked, "Who is Noah?"

Chris said, "A kid at a local charity hospital. He's terminal and I've been going there to make him feel better."

Wyatt smiled and nodded, "Respect! Giving back is important."

Chris cautioned, "Don't go bragging about this. It's all about Noah, not me."

The big man made a zip-the-lip gesture. That night, Chris visited Noah as promised with Josiah in tow to a delighted Noah, giving him a freshly autographed picture of himself, Josiah, and Wyatt.

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Pregame for the first regular season game, the announcers in the booth talked about each of the teams preseasons.

"First regular season game for both teams! Well the Defenders look to have had a pretty good draft. Two wins and one loss and let's not forget that this is the first game where the first string will be used to a much higher degree rather than trying to decide roster cuts."

The other announcer agreed, "The offense is night and day better than last year. Wyatt Calhoun looks like to have been a good gamble with solid statistics top to bottom. Among their top draft picks, Donovan Fields and Jordan Walker look to be big wins. The big problem is Isaiah Williams has earned a few nicknames and none are complimentary."

"One big surprise in the other direction is SEVENTH ROUND pick running back Elias "EJ" Jenkins who had two touchdowns including a ninety nine yarder. NO ONE saw that coming."

"Just goes to show training camp and the preseason can shake out in any direction."

"On the defense Josiah Peter and Travis Barker have stood out on the defensive with two sacks each. Let's not forget about Chris Anker with solid stats and two interceptions. The whole defense seems to be picking up right where they left off."

The first regular season game! Chris trotted out of the tunnel to an enthusiastic crowd cheering their beloved Defenders. His name was called, "Number forty-four. Safety. Chris ANKER!"

The crowd cheered louder. Chris looked up to his good luck charms in the club seats, The Danners once again sitting next to his parents, all four were wearing Defender home jerseys with Chris's number on them.

Chris jogged to the sidelines for the first regular season game against Cleveland.

"First play of the game. First and ten on their own twenty three yard line after a runback from the five. Nathan Carter back... Looking... passes targeting Lamar Brown. Interception! First play of the game and Chris Anker gets a pick from the Browns and down at the twenty seven. Chris Anker starts 2023 in style!"

"Wyatt Calhoun takes over for the Defenders on the Cleveland twenty-seven. First quarter. Fourteen minutes fifty seconds on the clock. First and ten. Wyatt is looking for a comeback and a bit of revenge after a terrible ankle break early last year. The Browns replaced Wyatt with Nathan and even at the end of the season, kept Nathan as QB then released Wyatt for cap space before the draft. He drops back. He has time. The throws. Touchdown! Wyatt Calhoun's first play and what a play! San Antonio is up six nothing!"

The other announcer confirmed, "This and the preseason, I guess we have our answer about Wyatt's ankle."

Chris marked the day with an interception and solid stats. Life kept climbing!

After the game ended and some selfies taken with his parents and the Danners, Chris trotted off the field with a huge smile, San Antonio 41 Cleveland 10. Chris nodded at Wyatt as they walked in the tunnel toward. Wyatt had his first win as a member of the Defenders and even better, he had his revenge.

Chris arrived at BCCH at half after six, parking his car then putting his purple badge on and heading inside. He went past the nurse's station with a nod. The head nurse looked up, smiled, and nodded toward Noah's room then went back to her work.

Chris walked toward Noah's room then knocked on the doorframe. Lindsey Anker was standing next to a man. Lindsey quietly said something and the man brightened and smiled, "Wow. It really is you! Thanks for what you are doing for my kid."

He stuck his hand out, "Kevin Anker."

Chris shook his hand, "Chris Anker."

He chuckled, "We all know who you are. Thanks again. Noah can't stop talking about how awesome you are."

Kevin smiled gratefully, "And you are awesome for doing this."

He looked at his watch, "Shit I have to go. I have a load I have to pick up from Southeast San Antonio and head to Missoula. Have to pay the bills."

Chris nodded, "I'll be brief then and leave you to him."

He shook his head, "I'm a truck driver and heading out now as I have a schedule. Talk to my son." he held Chris's gaze giving the message that it was important.

Chris nodded then smiled. Noah's mom looked at her watch, "I've put it off too long. I have a ton of laundry to do. I have another lunch shift tomorrow. Doctor bills and all."

Chris asked, "Doctor bills? I thought BCCH didn't bill patients."

She shrugged, "BCCH doesn't bill. Shreveport Northwest Medical Center does. We moved here for Noah when BCCH accepted him."

That hit Chris hard, BCCH was a no bill charity hospital while they had come from Louisiana where the hospital had apparently run Noah's family into poverty enough they moved to where they would not be further impoverished.

Chris looked at Linsey closely and for the first time noted how weary she looked. Her child was dying and a hospital system in another state was after her financially.

Chris pulled a football out of a duffel and handed it to Noah, "This is a ball from the game. I took it from the Cleveland Browns."

Chris showed Noah the ball with a big 'Chris Anker' 'Interception' and '44' on it. Noah lit up, "WOW! YEAH! THANKS!"

Lindsey teared up, mouthed, "Thank you." and walked out softly crying.

Sunday, Sept 17, 2023

After their 24-20 win over the Houston Texans Chris caught Wyatt walking out, "Hey Wyatt. Have a few minutes?" Chris explained his idea.

After their win, Chris and Wyatt slipped into BCCH, going unnoticed until the head nurse saw them as they passed her station. She gasped slightly then smiled brightly. Chris put his finger to his mouth to ask for her discretion. She smiled and nodded.

"Hey Noah, I brought a friend."

Noah looked up and smiled a million watt smile, "WOW! I can't believe it! Chris Anker AND Wyatt Calhoun in my room!"

They talked football until visiting time was up and left Noah with a signed picture of Chris and Wyatt outside the stadium. Autographed- of course!

Sunday, November 12, 2023

Chris brought a game-worn Jersey to Noah's room after his flight back from their win in Nashville. Each week, Chris was making an effort for Noah and the Jersey was the best yet.

Sporting his purple badge, the head nurse looked up at Chris then smiled, and upon seeing a jersey in his hand, smiled even more and mouthed, "Thank you."

Chris came into Noah's room at ten until eight that evening as his parents were about to leave, their schedules full from trying to stave off formal bankruptcy., "Hey Noah! Look what I have!"

Lyndsey turned, saw the jersey then turned away, hoping to not let her son see her crying again at Chris's generosity which had happened every week. His father, Kevin, just stuck out his hand, "I don't know what to say. You've already done so much...", he let the words hang, almost losing it himself.

Chris smiled, "It's the least I can do. Noah, I have a ton of stuff to do at home. You do what your parents and doctors say. Got it?"

Noah beamed, "Yes sir!"

Chris smiled and walked out.

Monday, November 13, 2023

Chris had never sought out notoriety for his deeds for Noah. It was a simple gesture of kindness for a dying child. Josiah and Wyatt had kept their mouths shut as agreed. Sometimes you can hide all you want...

Fame found Chris.

The headline of San Antonio dot com read, 'Gridiron Heart. The Defender's player brings hope to sick child'.

Someone had been walking by when Chris had handed over the jersey and heard the conversations, sending the picture and a brief rundown of what they had seen. The site dug for the story and they found it, someone, probably staff, had spilled all of the beans, capturing the events since his first visit.

In a sad world and on a slow news day in San Antonio, the story broke...

Then it exploded.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Josiah called Chris early on their only day off, "Well, well, seems someone does something besides wanking over Ferraris."

Chris was confused, "Okay, shithead. What does that mean?"

Josiah laughed, "San Antonio do com broke the story about you and that Noah kid. It's national now. The whole fucking thing went national. The story was the lead on Good Morning America."

Chris sighed, it was never his intent, "I never intended..."

Josiah chided him lightly, dropping the guy-talk and explaining, "Chris. This is good for you, good for the team and good for BCCH. You weren't even trying and you just elevated yourself, your team, and a charity. This will bring them big money."

He paused and chuckled, "Your personal brand just went up ten fold. It's good for you, too, especially since that motherfucker from the Los Angeles Rams was caught beating his girlfriend last week. It's good for the league. You made friends in the head office you don't even know about yet."

Josiah's voice went soft, his ability to do that never ceased to be amazed at the giant man's ability to control people's perception of his demeanor, "Chris. Go with it. Keep doing your 'Aw shucks' thing. It's working, you have no idea how much."

Josiah paused, "I don't think you are going to have a lot of choice. Coach Boone loves BCCH and he knows damn well this will help them."

Chris sighed and Josiah said, "Chris. Go with it and don't fight it. Think about it this way, You just showed the entire fucking world how much better of a man you are than Ty. Right now, compared to you, he looks like the asshole he is and makes your ex look like the dumbest slut on the planet."

Chris sighed, knowing Josiah was right, "I get it. Shit, Sydney is my past. I don't need to make her look bad."

Josiah chuckled, "It is what it is. I gotta go. Shanice is buck naked and giving me the eye."

He heard Shanice in the background, "DON'T TELL HIM THAT!"

Josiah chucked, "I'm gonna get busy here. Later, bro." The call ended.

Lunch was imminent and Raising Caines was due to open so Chris walked out of his place and got into his Chevy. His neighbor saw him, nodded and gave him a big nod in respect. When Chris got to Raising Caines, he walked in and ordered his Caniac Combo. The eighteenish year old girl taking his order gave him eyes, saying without saying, 'Ask me ANYTHING, even sexual, and it's yours'.

Chris smiled awkwardly and finished his order then fished for his wallet. Before he could pull out his Visa, the man behind him slid his card in for Chris's order, punched a 20 percent tip, and said, "Your money's no good here. I saw what you did... er do."

Chris protested, "I can afford it."

The man laughed, "So can I. I own Andersen Hill Country Contracting. Just take it, son, you deserve it. Maybe someday in the future, you will let me build you a nice BIG house."

Chris gave a tight smile, "I'm not married. I don't need a big house."

The man held out his hand, "John Andersen." he studied Chris, reading him intently, "It all makes sense now and you have no idea."

He was in wonder at Chris not realizing it, "Shit. You have no idea just how big you will be after football. You don't even try. You don't even... try."

He looked at Chris and said intently, "I recognize a peer. I know because it's rare that I meet one. Twenty nine years ago, I started my company with no money, borrowed tools, and a dream, fixing up a trailer. We did one hundred ninety million last year. I see myself twenty nine years ago. You will go so far and don't recognize just how far."

He chuckled to himself, "You will create a business, of what, I don't know. But you will. I see that sharpness behind your eyes. I See it on the field every week. I saw it on Good Morning America."

He smiled genuinely, "You WILL be more successful than you dare dream. Women know it. I know your story from Portland. There is a girl out there and she will give you no choice. She will make you hers so she can be the one who can say she was yours when you just started."

He quipped, "SHE will want the big house that I will build for you. Enjoy your meal, Boy Scout."

Sunday, November 19, 2023

The press was everywhere wanting the story and extra security had been posted. It was the bye week for the Defenders and Chris took Dr. Steven's request to heart to make Noah's last days the best they could be visiting him several times, including several meals from Alamo Prime. As Chris walked out after his visit with Noah, Adam walked up to Chris, "Your first wife sure is beautiful. Mind if I give her a call?"

Chris shrugged slightly, "You know what she did?"

He nodded, "Yep. Saw the video. Ty sure is good looking. He might be handsome enough to turn me gay."

Chris looked at him, "What!? Really?"

Adam laughed, "No! But even I can tell the guy is handsome. Is she dating anyone?"

"I don't think so. We don't really talk but she emailed me once and said people recognized her and did nothing but offer ridicule and dick pics."

Adam nodded then looked Chris in the eyes and said, "Everyone deserves a second chance."

Chris looked at him and rolled his eyes, "No. She cheated. She seems remorseful, but I don't trust her for that kind of thing."

Adam looked intently into Chris's eyes, "Yes. Everyone does. My dad left my mom and I without a trace when I was fourteen and we ended up in a trailer on the outskirts of town. She worked three part time jobs to try to keep things stable, but I was the scrawny welfare kid on free lunches they all looked down on."

"Two years later, I was pissed at the world and started hanging out with a local stoner. Funny coincidence that his name WAS Steve Stone, but everyone called him Stoner. We were hanging out, being stupid, he was out of weed and needed money. He told me we would take a quick ride to where he could get some money. The dumbshit went into town, tried robbing a liquor store and got himself shot to death."

"When all the police showed up, I was just sitting in Stoner's car at the back of the lot, hoping no one would notice me and that night, no one did and I snuck away after the police and the coroner left. Turns out someone reviewed the store cams and noticed me while doing his investigation. Two days later, Kerr Walker, the chief of police of Pleasant Ridge, and a distant in-law of my mom visited our trailer. My mom was working one of her three jobs and I was alone. He asked me to or rather told me we were going to talk somewhere. He was off duty so he drove me in his own truck."

"He took me outside of town to this abandoned farmhouse. He kept playing with his gun and I was imagining him shooting me. He told me to go inside the house and I was sure this was the end. He was a big guy and I'm not so he threw me against the wall and pinned me and my feet were two inches above the floor. He told me he was tired of paying for his stupid cousin's bullshit. It took me a second to realize he was my father's cousin and felt his family's honor had been fucked up by my loser father. He said I would disappear before I broke my mom's heart even more and that he could make it look like I was just a runaway."

He sighed heavily and shook his head, "I pissed myself. It was all for show, but I thought for sure he was going to kill me and hide my body."

"He told me to straighten up OR ELSE."

He smiled, "A week later he told me I was working for Sanchez Landscaping. It was hot and awful work, but I stuck it out because Kerr would randomly show up at the sites I was working and do that 'I'm watching you' gesture. He also told me that if I had good grades from there on out, he would make sure I got through college. I'm not sure how he did it and I'm not sure I want to know, but he got the local Ford Dealer to pay a scholarship for me. They even paid for some of med school and I came out with less than half the normal debt."

He showed up at my High School graduation party with the owner of the dealership to hand me the letter promising the scholarship. After that, he went into his own wallet and handed me his own personal check for five hundred dollars for books and that each following year he would do the same. Juan Sanchez gave me a thousand dollars for as he put it, 'tequila money'."

He looked at Chris, "Kerr could have made sure I was charged with murder because as an accessory, I could have been charged with getting Stoner killed. Instead he kicked my ass back into the right path. If anyone deserves a much worse fate than your ex, it's me. I could be serving life without parole right now. Part of it was for my mom, but he believed in family honor and saw something in me. He cared enough to not destroy my life when he could have given up and made sure the rest of my life was hell."

"He held absolute power over me to destroy me completely and he chose to not use it."

He looked at Chris, "I took that second chance and became one of the best pediatric surgeons and I'm only thirty-three. Instead of a prison cell, I live in a penthouse condo and drive a Maybach."

"Maybe someone might like a date with a gorgeous woman and maybe someone will treat her like something other than a slut. Maybe someone wants to offer Sydney a second chance."

He looked at Chris with a serious expression and said, "Maybe I want that someone to give her that chance to be me. It's my risk and I would like to take it. Maybe only I can understand the value of a second chance for her." Adam's eyes bored into him, challenging him.

Chris stood looking at Adam for over a minute after he finished, then sighed, nodded and pulled out his phone. He selected the text app and selected a number he almost never used, 'You are going to receive a text from an unknown number. This is a personal friend who wants to meet you.'

'He is one of the best people I know. If you have any doubts of your ability to not repeat Ty Jensen, please decline. If you accept, he has perhaps the most compelling second chance story I have ever heard and you should ask him about it.'

'DON'T FUCK IT UP!!!!!'

'DO'

'NOT'

'FUCK'

'IT'

'UP'

'C'

Chris looked up at Adam, "You know our story. Be careful."

Adam looked him directly in the eyes, "If you met that sixteen year old me sitting in the back of Stoner's car that night, would you give me a second chance?"

Chris shook his head, "Probably not."

Adam gave a tight smile, "I don't blame you."

Sunday, January 28, 2024

The roar of the crowd after their win over the Chiefs was happy but unsatisfying. Chris had played well, even having a tipped ball, but no breakout moments. That tipped ball, a tenth of a second faster and it would have been another interception and a ball for his growing collection of 'balls he had stolen' from other teams. It had been a tough game, certainly nothing like the first game and that blowout win.

Still, the 24-20 win was the big ticket to the big show. In two weeks, Chris was headed to his first Super Bowl.

Sunday, February 11, 2024

Chris walked out of the tunnel at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas high on life as his name was announced to a mix of cheers and boos. This was it! The big show!'

He paid for two additional tickets. Mike and Susan Danner were good luck and sitting beside his parents.

"Fourth Quarter, Defenders up twenty four to twenty. Three seconds on the clock with San Francisco on their own forty-nine yard line. Justin Taylor for the Forty-Niners on the last play of the game.'

'Justin takes the snap, looking downfield. The pocket is shrinking as his teammates near the endzone are covered. He has time. The pocket is collapsing... End zone receivers covered. Justin looks to the sideline at the five and fires toward Carter Greene and... Knocked away! Knocked away hard by Chris Anker into the Defender sidelines giving The Defenders their first Superbowl win!"

Chris was mobbed by his teammates and carried to the sidelines where Coach Boone gave him a big thumbs up and pointed at the ball nodding.

Twenty minutes later, TV cut to the celebration in the locker room with Chris on a split screen from the room of Noah Anker.

Noah was at the hospital with his family and a TV crew as Noah was on top of the world. CBS had a split screen with Noah on the left and Chris on the right. Chris beamed in the interview, "NOAH! BUDDY! THIS IS THE WINNING BALL! We all signed it and I'm gonna come there to give it to you! WE DID IT BUDDY! ALL FOR YOU!!!!!!"

On the left half of the screen, Noah Anker was living his dream.

Monday, February 12, 2024

The day began with another Press conference with Coach Boone in front of the press with the team standing behind him. The team flew back Monday afternoon as the team had a morning press conference in Las Vegas had taken up the morning.

Chris arrived at the hospital at two in the afternoon, walked into the hospital and walked to Noah's room carrying the ball in his hand, his face all smiles, "Hey Noah!"

He looked around in surprise because the room was empty. He looked at the room number to make sure it was the correct room.

It was.

A nurse behind him said, "He's not here."

Chris was shocked, "What? Where is he?"

She sighed and looked down, "His heart gave out an hour after your win. He wasn't supposed to make it this long, but then you talked to him and he perked up for the football season. You kept winning games and he desperately wanted to see you and the Defenders in the Superbowl."

She teared up and her voice broke, "You were the reason. That kid loved you and loved the team. He hung on until he saw his dream come true."

She cried, "Then his heart gave out."

The world went wobbly and Chris sat down in a chair heavily, the ball in his lap. Hands over his face, trying not to start sobbing in front of the whole fucking world. It took an hour, but he went home after an hour in that chair with no one bothering him.

Someone had taken Chris' picture at the hospital. The top photo of san antonio dot com that evening was Chris with the ball in his lap with his head in his hands.

The tag line above the photo, 'One of the good ones'

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

His agent Roy left a text, 'I know you won't see this today. Call me when you can. It's important, but not all that time critical.'

His mother called at four that evening and left a message, "I know what happened. Your father and I are flying down tomorrow. We love you, son."

Chris smiled. He had the best parents in the world.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Coach Boone announced, "We are delaying our parade until Saturday when we will have a very special guest of honor at the front of the parade. The hearse for Noah Anker will be the lead car.'

He looked down, sad, "Ownership of The Defenders... and myself, are covering the funeral and burial costs. Noah will be interred at Riverbend Gardens Cemetery and a custom ten foot football theme marker will commemorate Noah."

The usual questions were asked once a few about Noah were answered. A Superbowl win was the reason for a city that needed to celebrate.

Thursday, February, 15, 2024

Chris called Roy, "Hey Roy. Sorry man. Life just..."

Roy was conciliatory, "It's all good and I know you really liked Noah Hell all of San Antonio liked him. Chris, General Motors wants to sponsor you on a commercial as does The Cattlemen's Beef Council. It's not Nike, but GM is in for seven hundred fifty thousand if you will do a Camaro commercial and The Cattlemen's Beef Council is in for a quarter million if you are willing to eat a steak and say, "Steak your claim." Oh and some billboards. They want to fill you with steak.

Chris knew the answer, make whatever you can then get out, "Tell them yes, but give me a week. I'm not in a good place right now."

Roy was conciliatory, "I'm sure they understand. I will tell them yes for you."

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Chris sat down in a convertible Camaro that Chevrolet had provided for the parade as his car was a hardtop. With only the word of the upcoming deal, GM was quick to provide a suitable car for the parade. Roy had arranged everything to make things as easy as possible on Chris. The Camaro was the car right behind the hearse carrying Noah's casket.

His father and mother in the front seats looked back at Chris as he sat between Mike and Susan Danner, his good luck charms.

Bittersweet was the definition of a city winning its first superbowl while following the hearse of a kid who died far too young.

The parade started moving...

Monday, February 19, 2024

Roy called, "Kid. The whole world loves your good guy image. With the drug running arrest of that new dumfuck on the Seahawks, everyone loves your good guy image. I got a call from Ugly Stik. Not huge money, but the biggest yet, four commercials at two hundred seventy-five K each."

Chris smiled, he liked fishing and his old Ugly Stik was still sitting in the garage in his parent's home. Perhaps he should send for his stuff on their next trip down. He quipped, Ugly Stik wants me? How fitting for me. Tell them an enthusiastic yes!"

Roy chided him lightly, "Chris. Women are drooling over you. Your ex-wife just happened to have been in the same room with the number two guy from People Magazine's 'Sexiest Man' issue.

Chris laughed, "I'm over it. Mostly." He paused, "I have an idea for an Uglystik commercial!"

Sunday, March 3, 2024

GM wasted no time, providing a car, a concept, and one hell of a nice catered breakfast from a truck for the live action commercial.

The camera zoomed into the patrolman, "If you don't want me in your rear view mirror with my lights on, DON'T TRY THIS AT HOME!"

The car was in the center of both lanes of the closed section of interstate on an early Sunday Morning before most people were out and about.

The camera panned into Chris at the wheel of the car. He turned to the camera, smirked then looked ahead. The engine roared and the 650 horsepower Camaro ZL1 took off. The second view was out the windshield with a Racelogic GPS speedometer catching the speed as it roared past one hundred miles per hour. The final scene caught him at the end of the run going 200.1 miles per hour as the car raced by.

Beau Boone called Chris that night, "Congrats kid, you're the talk of the town so make the most of it. Now business. BCCH always needs funding and their center is anything but cheap. They floated the idea of 'The Noah Anker Heart Fund' with you as a spokesman. I told them 'yes' for you."

He asked slightly sternly, "You don't object. Do you!?"

Chris laughed, "Not at all coach. By the way, I have an idea for that game ball I was going to give to Noah."

Coach Boone's tone turned supportive, "And what is that?"

Chris explained his idea, "Well, Noah's parents have this giant bill from some hospital in Louisiana before their time at BCCH. They are really struggling and they lost their kid. I was thinking of auctioning the ball. You know. Ebay does charity auctions. Maybe we can at least get them close to zero so they can breathe a little."

Coach Boone was now outright warm in his tone, "Chris, you never cease to amaze me. I will personally call all the rich people I know and make sure I mention the auction to drive up support. You get me that ball and I will make sure every person in America knows and anything above the debt will go to BCCH. How does that sound!?"

Chris smiled broadly, "You're the man!"

Coach Boone corrected him, "No Chris, you're the man. Good night, kid."

Sunday, March 10, 2024

A Silver Yukon Denali arrived in front of Chris's place and two people got out as Chris walked out the door. A woman who looked to be in her early fifties was dressed in faded jeans and silk shirt, complete with a carved bass turquoise set on a silver backing, with a classic gray-blonde bob haircut and led the man coming from the passenger side.

The man looked to be in his mid forties with a look of someone who 'got promoted from the floor' with a salt-and-pepper flattop haircut. Wearing faded jeans and a pocket logo 'Ugly Stik' button down shirt. It was clear the woman was in charge. She smiled and made introductions, "Savannah Thorne, Chief Marketing Officer for Pure Fishing. This is Austin Campbell, the marketing director for Ugly Stik."

She glanced at Chris briefly then appraised him thoroughly, looking him up and down. She shook her head and made a face, "Your ex-wife is either blind or just about the dumbest bitch on the planet."

Chris was caught off guard by her direct manner and slipped, "Uh... Thanks?"

She laughed, "Relax, Chris. I am anything but subtle and it's how I got to where I am. That and being a daddy's girl, daughter of a tournament angler." She smiled at a pleasant memory, "He took me with him every chance he could and that is why I love fishing and how it all happened."

She gestured over to Austin, "Austin is the guy who brought you to my attention and I'm glad you agreed to us sponsoring you. Anyway, Daylight is wasting and I have three of the deluxe king rooms waiting for us at the Bass Bay Resort. Their steakhouse is rated one of the best and the best steaks are ones paid for on my expense account!"

Austin knew better than to get back into the passenger seat and pointed to the front, "our guest of honor gets the good seat."

Chris hesitantly walked toward the front passenger seat and Savannah laughed, "Relax Chris, it's not like we're making him ride in the cargo area. There are no bad seats in my company SUV."

Chris had to admit by the time he hit the bed, this sponsorship thing was pretty damn cool...

Monday, March 11, 2024

It was the shooting day for the Ugly Stik commercial and his phone rang shortly after five in the morning for him to meet everyone down in the restaurant for a quick light breakfast. Daylight was wasting and this was a one day shoot. The scene unfolded as Chris cast the line and waited. Then, did it again... And again.

It took two hours, but finally a large bass found his bait and they had the footage needed.

Chris smiled, holding up the fish, then unhooked it and set the fish free, the camera showing him releasing the fish for future anglers. He showed the rod, "Ugly stik. Not pretty, but no-nonsense and dependable, like me."

He smiled and held up a picture of Ty Jensen and smiled and shrugged, "Compared to this guy, I'm ugly too."

The red band, Youtube version of the commercial showed Chris ending the commercial with him casually scratching his nose with his middle finger.

Chris was sitting home that evening when Coach Boone called, "Okay Chris. The auction for the ball is scheduled to launch on Friday at six and run until Monday at six. The NFL network and pretty much anyone they can arm twist is promoting the auction so this should end big. Ebay is putting it on the front page so, have no doubt we can pay off Kevin and Lyndsey's hospital debt.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Josiah sent Chris a text, 'Stealing your limelight you muthafucka!' a link followed.

It was a commercial on Youtube that began with Josiah smiling and wearing an impeccably tailored blue suit, "Hi! I'm Josiah Peter. Ya'll know me best as Peterbilt because... well"

The scene shifted to scenes of Josiah making big tackles. The one where he got the penalty for hitting Ty Jensen being the last shown.

"You know my good friend Chris. He's my brother-from-another-mother"

The scene shifted to the last play of the Superbowl where Chris knocked away the last desperate attempt of San Francisco to make their needed touchdown.

Josiah smiled then got serious, "We all know the tragic story of Noah. What you don't know is that before his time at BCCH, his family went into massive debt at another hospital.

He held up the ball, "THIS BALL is that ball that won this year's Superbowl. It's up for auction on Ebay who is running a no-fee charity auction. Bid now and bid high! We want to retire Noah's family's debt and any extra will go to BCCH to continue their important work as a no-bill charity hospital that NEVER bills families."

The camera panned out and slightly right and Justin Taylor of the Forty Niners came into view, "Bid now and bid high!"

The men fist bumped.

Chris sent a text, "Thanks. I'm sure it's going to help."

Josiah sent a text back, "There's a part you don't even know. But I aint tellin"

Friday, March 15, 2024

Chris drove into the lot of the typical three story glass office building then took the elevator to the third floor. The office was a simple, mid-sized and typical office with off white walls and the only thing denoting its affiliation being black and white prints of beef cattle along the walls of the lobby.

A pretty young blonde woman was sitting behind the desk in the lobby. Chris smiled, "I'm Chris Anker. I have an eleven o'clock appointment with Mr. Crockett. Five minutes later, she led him to Mr. Crockett's office with an appropriately cattle-themed glass name sign, 'CC Crockett.'

The man behind the desk looked a combination of everything stereotypically Texas and everything that looked like a wealthy businessman. He stood up to greet Chris, dressed in blue dress pants and a starched white collared shirt with the top button undone. A red necktie and a light gray, almost white cowboy hat hung on pegs behind his desk.

He extended his hand, giving the air of the alpha wolf without the bluster, he smiled, "Cody Clay Crockett. Call me CC! He smiled with the disarming smile of a leader, not a boss, "May I call you Chris?"

Chris nodded and smiled, Chris read the man who exuded power subtly, not having need to insist on titles or bravado. Chris smiled, at ease, "Yeah. I'd say my dad is Mr. Anker, but even he wants kids to call him David."

CC nodded, "Welcome to The Cattlemen's Beef Council!"

Chris smiled, "Thanks! I appreciate this and appreciate getting a sponsorship of something I actually like."

Chris asked, "You related to Davy Crockett?"

He smiled, "Yep! I am descended from his grandson Robert Crockett who came to San Antonio in 1855.

He smiled and pushed forward a copy of the contract, "Your agent gave you a copy right? You had it looked at?"

Chris nodded, "I can't believe anyone is willing to pay me to eat steak. It's like the easiest deal in the world."

CC laughed, "I like what ya did for that kid. Too bad it didn't end better, but we could use a guy like you. Women think you're hot and have a heart. Guys like that you didn't put up with your wife cheating and had that big comeback here after the disaster in Portland. You killed that last drive of San Francisco in the Superbowl. You're perfect."

A petite young brunette woman with shoulder length hair and cute face came in, not noticing Chris, "Hey dad, I ran the traffic report on our recipe videos on Youtube and..." She looked over, seeing Chris for the first time and froze then blushed.

CC waited almost half a minute, snapped his fingers to break her trance and asked, "Jes?"

She snapped out of it and looked at her dad then apologized, "What? Uh... sorry."

CC looked at his daughter fondly, "No problem. Jessica, meet Chris Anker. Chris, meet my daughter who runs the logistical end of marketing for the Cattlemen's Beef Council."

She smiled at Chris a bit unsure of herself and said a little shakily as she blushed, "Uh, nice to meet you."

CC looked at them both then said, "Jes, I'll go over the numbers with you in a bit. Let me finish with Chris."

After Jessica left, Chris signed the contract as she left and CC grinned, "She's pretty, eh?"

Chris was alarmed, "Uh. I have no idea how to answer that one in a way that won't get me killed."

CC laughed, "Son, how about honesty."

Chris smiled, "She's adorable. Her shy smile could light up a stadium."

CC smiled, "She gets that from her mom. Hell, she gets all her good looks from her mom. Thank goodness no looks from me."

He smiled broadly and quipped, "I look like a bull's ass!"

Chris was shocked and could think of nothing to say.

CC laughed, "Relax, son, it's a joke. Don't take life that seriously! Hey. I like knowing our spokespeople. What say I take you fishing on Calaveras Lake?"

Chris smiled, "I love fishing. It's been forever!"

CC nodded, "I have a nice center console boat on a trailer and we can make a day of it. Hey! What is your favorite kind of beef or steak? Ask anything and it's all part of your deal."

Chris smiled, "I love steak! A New York strip is my favorite cut."

CC wrote some things down on a piece of paper then walked Chris out, "I think this will be the first of a good thing with you, Chris."

Monday, March 18, 2024

Chris was home, constantly refreshing the Ebay auction of the ball. At five hours left, it passed five hundred thousand. It ticked up. Five-fifty. Five-seventy five. At two minutes to six, the auction was at nine hundred five thousand.

Six o'clock passed and Chris refreshed the auction. The final was more than he dreamed. One point one million. Kevin and Leah would get their new start and BCCH would get a check for over seven hundred thousand dollars. Chris sat back and smiled. A victory after a terrible loss and a new hope for the couple.

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Coach Boone called Chris, "I hope you are sitting down. I know who won the auction."

Chris had no idea, "Uh. Okay. I was more interested in what Kevin and Lyndsey got, but... what are you going to tell me."

Coach Boone said with a bit of wonderment, "Tom Walters."

Chris was glad he was in a chair, "Sydney's dad?"

Coach Boone affirmed, "Yep. Sydney's dad. Chris, he donated the ball to BCCH on condition that they cannot re-auction the ball. He is even having a custom secured display case made."

Chris sat back heavily, "He always was a class act. I never expected this."

Coach Boone in an almost fatherly tone, gently chided, "Chris. You need to believe again..."

[Song: Tim Capello. I still believe]

Friday, March 22, 2024

Chris plus thirty players from The Defenders, NFL Brass, and even Justin Taylor of the Forty-Niners were in attendance for the big ceremony. Chris held a large printed symbolic bill for $311,542.98. Josiah and Justin each held large grill lighters in front of an oversize fire pit.

Ten cable networks and numerous reporters were behind them.

Chris looked at Kevin and Lyndsey Anker with a sad smile, "I'm sorry things didn't end well for Noah... or you. We can't do anything about Noah, but we can get you back to the starting point of life and rid you of the financial burden."

Chris set the faux bill in the firepit. Josiah and Justin lit the fire pit which slowly consumed the bill. Chris smiled at the emotionally wiped out couple. Lyndsey was softly crying and Kevin was close. He nodded, a lump in his throat, "Thanks. Chris. I don't know why you did it, but... thanks. Noah's last days were everything he ever could have dreamt."

Chris bro-hugged Kevin then a similar soft one to the crying Lyndsey.

There was a long pause as if the little ceremony was going to end when Josiah interrupted, "And this is not the final act." He sent a text. Two minutes later a semi truck tractor rolled into the area and stopped behind them and a man got out. He walked to Kevin and handed him the keys, "I'm Walton Chambers, president of PACCAR that owns Peterbilt Trucks and I believe this is yours. Oh, that and a hundred thousand dollars to cover the taxes."

Kevin froze at the news, "What?"

Walton gestured behind him, "One diamond red Peterbilt 579 with eighty inch Ultraloft sleeper, five hundred ten horse PACCAR MX13 and... the works."

Josiah came over, passing in front of his stunned friend, "I have friends in high places. We thought perhaps rather than restarting from zero, you should get your restart as an owner-operator."

Kevin's face held disbelief, "I don't. I can't"

Chris recovered and patted Kevin's shoulder, "You can and you should. Maybe after losing so much, you need to win one."

Kevin nodded, damn close to breaking down...

Josiah smirked at Chris, "Surely you don't think that Peterbilt Trucks is unaware of an NFL guy with the nickname 'Peterbilt'? He smirked bigger, "Besides. I had to steal your limelight, Cocktail Weenie."

"Big Bastard! You just had to be the epic human you are."

Josiah grinned broadly and clapped Chris on the back, "My brother from another mother."

The top story on San Antonio dot com that night was a picture of Chris getting clapped on the back by Josiah as Kevin Anker stood to their right climbing in to explore his brand new and very nice new rig. The headline: 'Still one of the good ones.'

Saturday, March 23, 2024

CC backed his twenty four foot center console fishing boat, Reel Cattleman down the ramp and into the water behind his Silverado..

Once CC had it pulled over to a dock and tied off, CC smiled, "There is a care package from my direct-to-consumer company, Prime Provisions, that's gonna be delivered to your place in a week. Ten pounds, all New York Strip as you like and all USDA prime. There will be a sheet inside. If you don't send it back, another identical package will show up four weeks later. All cost is on us as we want our spokespeople using our product. The sheet has other choices for you, if you want to change it up."

Chris smiled, guess I'm gonna have to get a grill.

CC nodded, "You do that."

He went to his truck and pulled a piece of paper out of the glovebox, "Head to 'The Outdoor Living Hub' in Live Oak and give them this letter. The grill is also on us."

Chris shook his head, "I can afford..."

CC smiled, "Relax son! This is all a benefit of being our spokesman! You worry too much. You get free food instead of free shoes."

After a day of fishing CC looked at Chris, "You're one hell of a great opportunity for us. The people of San Antonio love you and I think America will, hell they already do if my daughter's reports she is getting are any indication. We don't run a lot of over the air ads. We use a lot of targeted ads on Youtube and other social media. We also do billboards, especially near travel centers."

He thought for a minute and nodded, then said, "Me and my missus want to invite you for dinner. Believe it or not, a chicken dinner! My missus has her own barbecue sauce with a nice little kick to it."

Chris almost choked, "Chicken?"

CC nodded, "Son, I love beef, but even I can't eat it seven days a week. My missus is an amazing cook and her sauce makes insanely good grilled chicken breasts."

A day of fishing... Chris enjoyed it immensely and it did not hurt that the parent company of Ugly Stik had not only sent a dozen Ugly stick rods, but nine additional enormous and oversized cartons of tackle boxes, lures and hooks from its other divisions. Enough that he would never need to buy gear for the rest of his life. One of the cartons had a box inside the box with three high end reels collectively worth over twenty-five-hundred dollars and a note, 'These three reels are the best of the best... just like you! Savannah'.

Friday, March 29, 2024

Chris arrived on time to the address in Garden Ridge that CC had provided, looking in awe at the very large Spanish Style house that was even larger than his parent's home in Oklahoma. This was no mcmansion like his parent's place. It was simply a mansion.

The end of the drive simply ended at a courtyard with no apparent place to specifically park. He figured to park on the opposite side of the five garage doors on the left side of the courtyard far enough away from the large front door to not be rude. Garden Ridge certainly had quite a few very nice and very large homes. He rang the bell and CC answered, inviting Chris in to meet his family, "Welcome Chris! This is my wonderful wife of twenty-seven glorious years, Lauren, my son, CC Junior and you remember my daughter, Jessica."

Lauren was a pretty woman in her late forties who had clearly been a stunner in her twenties. She looked at Chris and offered a soft hand then looked back to CC. Her best feature was her eyes that softened in near adoration any time she looked at her husband. He noticed CC's eyes did the same thing when he looked at Lauren and that they adored each other. CC junior who looked to be around seventeen years old shook hands just long enough to be polite as his father had instructed.

CC smiled, "And of course you have already met my super smart and extremely capable daughter Jessica, just a year out of graduating Texas A&M with a dual degree in Management and Marketing."

CC was proud and Jessica blushed a little as her father side-hugged her, "I'm so proud of my little girl!"

Lauren lightly chastised CC in a sweet way, "Honey, she is anything but a little girl."

CC nodded, clearly heeding his wife, "You're right. Impressive young woman! And my right hand at work doing all that tech stuff I suck at!"

CC nodded, "Let me show you around!"

The house was impressive. Immediately inside the large two story entryway were two curved stairways leading up to the second level. A large living room behind that with a view out some windows in the rear. The view from the living room was a floor above a large pool. After a tour of the public rooms of the large, three level house, Chris was impressed that most of the finishes were warm wood instead of cold marble.

The place seemed homey. Many family pictures adorned the walls where works of art would normally be. Pictures of the Crockett family in Paris, France and the Grand Canyon. In front of the Sydney Opera house and a different picture of them all wearing mouse ears at Disney World. The effect made the giant house into a home.

Next to the large rear living room was a kitchen and between them was a wide stairway that led down to the lower level where the pool was. CC pointed and said, "We have a lower kitchen and I have the grill going. You are going to love my beautiful bride's amazing barbecue sauce. You want mild, medium or 'trip to the hospital'?

Chris laughed and said, "Medium."

CC gestured down the rear stairs which led to a walkout basement great-room with large triple sliders that allowed the whole space to open to the beautiful backyard.

Their large pool deck held a large elegant round glass top table with an umbrella over it where Chris was seated between CC and Jessica.

CC was a gracious host bringing up ideas for some future marketing, "I was thinking of having you grill some of our best new recipes for our video channel on Youtube. Jessica, why don't you tell Chris about our strategy and the positive trend in viewership."

Chris looked at Jessica as she talked about the strategy and how their viewership had increased in the past year. Chris paid attention but found it hard, his mind kept going back to, 'damn she is cute'. It didn't hurt that she was also brilliant.

Once dinner was complete, CC said, "Chris, I have a few things to show you in my office."

As they walked out toward the office, Chris asked CC a bit tentatively, "What would you do if I asked your daughter out?"

CC smiled, "I'd say my plan worked."

Chris did a double take and was surprised, "Eh What?"

CC laughed, "You think I want my daughter to be alone? She is an adult and I support her having a normal social life. She's twenty-two, not twelve. You have a great heart, kid and I think you would treat her the way she should be treated."

His demeanor changed after a pause, "I guess I best bring this up now. Just be careful because she has her own scar like you. She was left at the altar and I mean she was in her dress at the church when the worthless coward of a groom texted his own father who had to bear the brunt of telling me personally. The hundred twenty thousand dollars I wasted on the wedding was nothing compared to watching my little girl shake and sob. He crushed her heart and he crushed her self esteem even worse."

He sighed angrily, his eyes held fire, "Having to watch that damn near killed me."

He relaxed slightly, "I wanted to kill Connor. That's his name and they met in college. That fucker had a sidepiece who got mad and made threats to break it off with Jessica or she would go public. He sent that text to his dad all of ten minutes before I received a text from his sidepiece with proof of his cheating. It's been just over a year since that dark day. She's twenty two and too young to have had her heart ripped out like that. Yet it happened."

Chris asked, "She's only twenty two?"

CC nodded, "My Jessica was a star in high school. She graduated high school a year early and college a year and a half early."

He bragged, "She had a lot of AP credits, worked like crazy and took summer classes. You get the idea. Sue me. I run the council and hired my daughter. She does a great job and the actual head of marketing is Karen Jones who runs a small office in Oklahoma City."

He sighed, "I'm kind of hoping you two can find common ground on what happened. She knows exactly what the pain of betrayal feels like."

Chris was looking for words and failing as CC said, "In case you haven't figured it out, Chris, I like you. I know what you did for Noah. I know you won't use the powers given you to hurt others. You could pick up married women in bars easily yet I can tell you won't. Sometimes the most powerful thing to do is nothing. Real power is leaving the world a little better off each day for having been in it. That is why I selected you for our little ad campaign. It's why I am thinking of other campaigns with you behind that one."

He paused, "And it's pretty obvious now that is why you were sitting next to her at dinner. It was all part of me and my wife's evil plan. Ask her out and the way she was making eyes at you. She will say yes so don't be a dick about it. She likes dancing like every woman, but she likes adventures or a nice dinner, too, so start there if you suck at dancing."

"It was Jessica and I who started and finished hiking the Southwest Coast Path in England... all six hundred odd miles of it over five years while my son and wife toured London, Paris, and other touristy places. Yeah, she's a total daddy's girl, but relax. She will ask for your time far more than asking for things."

He smiled, "Some of my best memories are me and my daughter along that path with the Bristol Channel to our right and English countryside to our left on a cool breezy and sometimes even sunny day. We took thousands of pictures."

He pointed at a picture of himself and Jessica on the south coast of England in front of an island with a castle atop it. He smiled, "That's St. Michael's Mount. One of many amazing, shit, almost magical places we passed on that path. St. Ives was another one. The water was almost the same color as the Caribbean. THOSE are the kind of things she will want from you. She would go back a hundred times if she could and she would like that far more than any diamond or expensive car."

He smiled at the clearly treasured memories, "Maybe you could make some memories of your own."

He challenged Chris, "Chris, you're a dater, not a player. I read people very well and you two can be very good for each other. She has a great heart. JUST LIKE YOU. If it doesn't work, it doesn't work. Just be honorable."

CC made a big show of returning to the dining table, talking about the council then asked his wife to help clear the table while Chris sat next to Jessica.

As CC set the plates down in the kitchen, he looked out the back window to see Chris talking to Jessica, "Lauren! Come quick"

She was just in time to see Jessica nodding yes fiercely to something Chris said.

CC looked at his wife and offered a fist bump which Lauren met and said, "BOOM!"

Monday, April 8, 2024

Chris received an email from Savannah Thorne. Your commercial debuted on Saturday during the first final four game between Purdue and NC State. At the bottom of the commercial we suggested people head over to Youtube to see the red band version.

IT'S A HUGE HIT!

We have four million views!

By the way, Austin says thanks. We pay bonuses when our people perform and his suggestion of picking you up was a huge success so his bonus this year is gonna melt his bank account. Next time he's in town, he says he's buying you dinner.

By the way, sending a carton with more goodies for you including our new latest and greatest Zenon reel.

Thanks for being part of the Pure Fishing family!

Savannah.

Friday, April 12, 2024

Chris arrived nervous as CC answered the door, "Welcome Chris. Jessica is upstairs with her mom."

CC rolled his eyes a bit, "Chris. Relax. It's just a date and Jess has been looking forward to it all week. I'm not an ogre. Where are you taking her?"

Chris said a bit tentatively, "Alamo Prime. They know me."

CC smiled, "Good move. She loves that place. Just make sure they know medium rare does not mean it is still mooing. Sometimes they are a big light on the medium part of medium rare."

Jessica came down in a mid length A line dress that showed a bit of cleavage, but not enough to send the wrong signal to her father who seemed at ease with the idea of Chris and his daughter dating him.

As they walked out the door, CC locked the door, turned, then scooped up his wife and carried her over his shoulder grunting and climbing the stairs, "Me take woman. Me strip woman nay-ked! Me fuuuuuuuck woman! Me fill woman with much big gooey! Grunt!"

Lauren laughed with delight and no alarm, "CC you ox!"

At no point did she argue the point about heading toward the bedroom, or later when he playfully chased her naked out the lower level door toward the pool, gently smacking her ass she giggled running to dive into the pool.

Friday, April 19, 2024

"Where are you two headed?"

"Natural Bridge Caverns has a concert. It's actually in the cave. I figure she loves country music and a band called Hill Country Creed is playing. Nearby is some place called The Limestone Bistro"

CC smiled and had a hard time not doing a giant fist pump. Chris was making a serious effort getting serious with his daughter and his approach was pretty damn close to perfect.

As Chris walked Jessica out the door and the door closed, Lauren came around the corner wearing nothing, "Once again we seem to be alone on a Friday night. Chris and Jessica sure seem to be hitting it off and that makes me so happy and you know what being happy does to me...?"

CC grinned, nodded at the bedroom, and Lauren nodded. CC started walking slowly toward the bedroom, "Yep. Happy Lauren is horny Lauren."

He teased her, gently grabbing her ass, "You're almost always horny."

"Complaining?"

"NOW I DIDN'T SAY THAT!"

"Just keep making me happy. I love my life with you."

CC reached across and side hugged his wife, "I love you beyond all measure, Lauren."

Sunday, April 21 2024

CC answered the door as usual with a smile and happy greeting. Jessica's healing was reason that he was enjoying Jessica's dates almost as much as she was. She had healed from Connor's betrayal and was smiling pretty much non-stop, "Chris! Back again so soon?"

He smirked then clapped him on the back, "Jess will be down shortly. Where are you headed today?"

Chris said, "The Pearl District. Jessica suggested it."

CC laughed, "Smart man, taking her where she wants to go. Make sure to hit the farmer's market, a place called Jorge's George-E-Us Jerky sells this amazing spicy Mexican beef jerky she can't get enough of. For lunch, hit La Gloria. She loves that place.

Chris looked at CC, "You are really pushing this."

CC shrugged, "Guilty. Chris. Jess smiles... A LOT, now and I want to keep her smiling. She's my daughter... Shit. Sorry for all the girly mush, but it's something you won't understand until a nurse hands you an infant and it is YOUR child."

"Chris!" Jess called from the top of the stairs with a huge smile, walking down quickly and planting a lip to lip kiss that was a bit more than Chris was expecting in front of her father, "I'm so glad to see you. I'm ready!" The smile never left her face as she backed away and picked up her clutch and nearly bounced to the door.

After they had walked out, CC smiled then looked at his wife who had seen the whole exchange, "It's good to see her smiling again."

Lauren nodded, "Yeah. She has him hooked pretty good."

CC nodded, "He doesn't seem to be fighting it."

Lauren nodded and smiled, "Jessica smiling again..." She let the words trail off with her own happy smile.

*******

Chris opened the door and instead of getting in, she lip locked him hard, "Mmmm. Been waiting to do that all morning."

Chris grinned. It was easier to kiss her when her dad was not literally ten feet away, even if he was pretty sure her father liked him.

Arriving just before half past ten at the farmer's market, she went straight to Jorge's and immediately picked up the mega bag of Pico Picante jerky and pulled her Visa Card before he could offer his own. She teased, "If you want any of his stuff, you need to buy your own bag!" She was teasing... kind of.

She offered him a piece and he was happily surprised, "Damn that is Good! Not hard like the cheap stuff. Spicy, but my mouth is not on fire."

She gestured to the wall with an exhaustive chart of the four dozen varieties they offered, "They give samples!"

Twenty minutes and one hundred fifty dollars later, they walked out with their haul.

They made their way to La Gloria after Jessica 'suggested' he needed the Texas silver belt buckle to prove he was a 'proper' Texan now.

Lunch was all it was made out to be and Jessica asked, "What are we doing next weekend?"

It was abrupt yet it wasn't. Jessica was easy to get along with and as her father had suggested, she was all about adventures. There was the occasional splurge like the three pounds of Jerky he had just impulsively bought, but no 'I want a diamond ring and pay for my car.' from her.

Chris teased, "I dunno, but maybe you need to take ME to lunch next Sunday as it is MY birthday."

She grinned happily, "DEAL!"

Friday, April 26, 2024

Chris arrived at the Crockett home at half past five that afternoon and rang the bell, CC answered and smiled at Chris, "Welcome! Jessica will be down soon."

CC sat across from Chris in their huge, but somehow wonderfully warm living room with its view over their large pool. CC chuckled at Chris's slight nervousness, loving the fact he was respectful of the father of the girl he was dating.

Jessica came into the living room wearing tight jeans, a western style hat, cowboy boots and a petite woman sized white cowboy hat.

Chris knew the opportunity to give a good compliment, "WOW!"

Jessica beamed, turned half way, gave a little butt wiggle then turned back, "Why thank you kind sir!"

Chris shrugged, "But I am way underdressed."

Jessica laughed, "Not for long!"

As they left and the door closed, Lauren turned to her husband, "Do you think he knows she has him hooked?"

CC laughed, "Not yet. Give it until they..." he frowned then gave a resigned nod, "You know."

Lauren laughed, "How do you think I hooked you?"

CC laughed, "Meaningful conversation and that is my final answer."

Lauren laughed, "I didn't mean the part leading up. We are so good together on all levels. I mean the part that set the hook so I could reel you in. The part that made it impossible for you to escape."

CC gave a false innocent smile, "Why I don't know."

Lauren laughed then approached her husband and unzipped him, pushing shorts and underwear down then pulled his manhood out which was becoming rapidly erect, "Remember our third date?"

There was no build up. She opened her mouth then started pleasuring him. She had no mercy, pleasuring him and ripping any climax control he had away. Two minutes later, he came. She made a big show of swallowing his load and mock said, "Yummy."

She smiled then said, "I can do that any time I want, taking all control away. You tried holding back."

She laughed, "Not on my watch."

He laughed, "You know I never fought you, reeling me in."

She hugged him then took hold of his penis, using it like a leash leading him toward the bedroom, "I know. We are so good together on all levels and that includes the ones out of the bedroom... but for now we are heading into the bedroom."

She gave him a loving yet wicked grin.

*******

Chris opened the door of his Camaro with a grand flourish, "Madame, your chariot awaits!"

Jessica giggled, "Why thank you kind sir, give me your phone so I can set maps for you."

He handed her the phone with maps open as she typed in 'Western Boot' then set his phone in the cradle, "You're going to go all out for me tonight. Got a problem with that?"

He smiled then started the car, taking her hand across the console of the car and said, "None at all."

An hour and a half later, Chris was still in the same jeans and dress-T-shirt, but was now in a dark brown cowboy hat and cowboy boots which were comfortable enough to be worth the four hundred dollars he had just paid.

They drove into a parking garage a block from Riverwalk and walked with Jessica leading them as she clearly knew where they were heading.

The top story on a slow news night on San Antonio dot com, 'Local sports hero out on the town with daughter of area businessman.'

Below was a picture of Chris and Jessica dressed up at a country dance club in Riverwalk. There was a small story below it.

Saturday, April 27, 2024

Jessica smiled at Chris as they got into the car. Chris said, "I figured we could hit Alamo Prime then maybe some mini golf."

He started the car and Jessica was uncharacteristically quiet then said, "Chris, we have to talk."

His heart sank, "What?"

She rolled her eyes, "Nothing bad unless you want it to be bad. There is a park about a mile on the left, Concho River Reservation, pull in there."

Chris was nervous as they pulled in and parked. She took his hands, "Chris, I have had the best time in forever. I know you know my story. I am so attracted to you, you have no idea..."

Chris filled in the pause sadly, "But..."

She shook her head, "No but... AND." She looked at him seriously. "Chris, I am falling hard. Hell, I already fell in love when I laid eyes on you."

She blushed, "Shit that came out wrong. Sorry. Don't be scared, I'm not going to ask to move in with you. I can survive if you don't want me, but I am too close to the point of no return. You need to choose. Ask me to be your girl and I will say yes. Let me make it clear what it means. It means you think we MIGHT go all the way. It means you think you might give me a ring someday. It means you think we might grow old together."

Chris was about to nod when she put her finger on his lips, "Let me finish. I've seen too many relationships fail because women think men can read minds and I know damn well you can't. That means rules. The ugly truth is people need to set them BEFORE things get too serious"

She sighed, "I need things. My ex wrecked me in so many ways. It means we are both always open to telling the other where we are and with whom. I mean being up front about it before it happens. It means for example being up front in that every three months, I have lunch with William Thomas, the CMO of The Alderson Buying Cooperative. They take part in a lot of co-op promotions with us."

She laughed and said, "It doesn't hurt he's fat, bald, and smells faintly like a slaughterhouse. He is also owner of just that, an actual slaughter house south of Dallas."

Chris nodded, "I like that one. You know the story about Sydney. The whole world knows that story."

She nodded, "Yeah. I know. I know my dad told you my story. We both got screwed over by the people who were supposed to be the last ones doing it."

"Ugh. This is embarrassing, but as far as intimacy. It is hard to get into bed the first time, but once we are intimate, you will have a hard time getting me out of bed. Sometimes you will just need to couple with me and you will be out of bullets and only able to get hard and I will need that from you. Sometimes I just need to feel you inside me because sex is in my head more than my privates. SOMETIMES it's about orgasm. ALWAYS, it's about two-become-one. Being physically intimate gives me an intense kind of high and I need that high with a frequency that will leave you drained and wondering 'how could she want it AGAIN?'."

"Regardless, I need cuddles and tons of them. I need..."

She repeated, locking eyes with him, "I NEED to be held. You need to show me, not just tell me I'm your girl and I'm special to you."

She sighed and looked at him, scared, "How badly did I scare you. It's just that I don't believe in changing the rules and saying, "Surprise, I'm never a quick lay."

She made her final pitch, 'If we become official, I'll come home with you and we can spend the evening together, you know, all evening. I'm on the pill and I am clean. I don't like condom sex because two-become-one means no barriers to that most intimate touch."

Chris smiled, "Jessica. Everything you need sounds like heaven to me. You know some guys do like cuddling. I do."

He admitted and laughed, "Though afterward is better so things aren't so urgent."

There was a pause and he asked her, "Would you be my girlfriend?"

She side-hugged him awkwardly. The seatbelt restraining her in a car not meant for side hugs.

She smiled, "Take me to your place. Perhaps a quick stop at Walmart for some cheap towels. I hate wet spots and I uh, let's say you won't need any KY."

Chris asked, "No dinner?"

She shook her head, "The truth is that it has been a long time and I'm unbelievably horny. We'll order something Doordash... She smiled, "After I wear you out."

It was hard not to speed to his place after a Walmart stop. The bag was in her hands as she walked into his place for the first time trying to figure out the layout. He pointed the way then she took his hand, pulling on it toward the bedroom. She dropped the bag and unbuckled her jeans, shimmying them down, panties and all. She sat and pushed them past her calves and once done, Chris was still unbuckling when she reached across and pushed his jeans down. He was half hard. She stroked him as he was trying to step out of them.

"Now! Just... Now"

She laid back and opened her legs. Her vagina was glistening. He aligned and pushed in a little. She wasn't lying about her ability to lubricate. "In this time. Just in."

He stroked in a few times and sank to her depths. She wrapped her legs around him and pulled him down, "Don't move."

Mmmmh. The flutter started then built. He hadn't done a thing. He felt her flutter more. Her breathing picked up, building. The fluttering became stronger, almost gripping his manhood. She held him there as the walls of her womanhood gripped him stronger and released then gripped and released. Over a minute later, the fluttering weakened and stopped. She let out a huge sigh of relief, "It's been too long. Damn I needed that."

Chris looked at her, "I didn't do anything."

She laughed, "Sometimes a girl just needs it. Going forward we can wait longer to get into the actual sex, but it's been a long time. A year."

She laughed, "Sorry about that, you didn't have yours. Chris. Go for it."

He was still inside but he was a bit confused." She chided gently, "Chris. I had mine. Go for it. Our timing is off on the first time together. No worries."

She laughed, teasing in a fake porno voice, "Fill me with gallons of your hot cum!"

Chris laughed then she nodded, "Chris. I had mine. Go for yours. This is the first of many rounds. You are due your own release."

He started stroking. It took a few minutes to build up, but he came hard around five minutes later. Once his last spasm had finished, they lay together a second, still connected until she laughed a minute later, "You're getting heavy and we need to clean up. Get off me."

He got off. The towel was a sound idea. There was a lot of their mingled juices on the towel and leaking out of her opening. She got up with the towel underneath her, her top still on. He watched her bare bottom head to his ensuite.

Three minutes later she came out, "Clean up. We'll go another round... or ten." She smirked and he wondered, 'Could she be serious?'

He walked to the en suite. She lightly spanked his ass and in a mock deep voice, "Move it toots. I need more."

Once cleaned up, he laid down and she laid on his chest, then kissed his cheek, squeezing a side hug, "Good stuff. You cuddle nice, too."

She played with him for a while until he started getting hard again...

Chris learned his girlfriend had quite a libido. Part of it was easy to figure, the more he cuddled her after sex the more she purred and seemed happily content. The more content she seemed the more she played with his manhood and when he was hard again, she smiled, rolled onto her back and opened her legs.

Chris was indeed out of bullets after the fourth time he had ejaculated. Their fifth go, he was able to get hard... just. Inside her, she looked up with a dreamy happiness at him. Two became one. He got it now. She loved that act of intimacy as its own reward.

Two became one.

Two WERE one.

It was almost midnight when Chris walked Jessica into the door of the Crockett home, feeling awkward as CC and his wife were in the living room watching TV as they walked in. Jessica turned and kissed him, wrapping her arms over his neck so he could not escape then kissed him with a lingering kiss that only lacked tongue, "I had the BEST time. She gave him a secret smile. See you tomorrow for some... hiking."

He did not notice that last pause.

Chris walked out as Jessica almost skipped into the room, "Chris and I are officially a couple and we have an early day tomorrow. Goodnight!"

As Jessica disappeared up the stairs, Lauren turned to her husband and said, "You know they..."

CC nodded, "Yeah. I'll never get used to the thought, but I know. He is good for her."

Lauren giggled, "He must have given her a crusher the way she is glowing. She almost looked like a lobster."

CC shuddered and Lauren lightly chastised him, "Honey. That is the best sign. He cares that she gets her release like you care that I get mine. It's a sign of kindness and also respect. He knows she is due every bit of enjoyment as much as he is."

He patted his hand sympathetically, "Honey. He belongs to her now. It's just a matter of time, now. I think he knows it and he seems happy about it."

CC nodded, "I know. I'll always be her dad... I'll just concentrate on how happy she is."

Sunday, April 28, 2024

Chris rang the doorbell at eight that morning as he and Jessica had agreed. CC answered, "Hi Chris!" He shook his hand firmly and enthusiastically, "You know women. 'She'll be down in 'a few minutes'." He made air quotes over 'a few minutes' while rolling his eyes a bit.

He brought up, "Your star is clearly rising. I was thinking of a few billboards. I'll get with your agent, but expect them some time this week. I have some big news. I bought four dozen heifers and two bulls to start a new company. Full blood Wagyu. Perfect bloodline. Jessica is a fifteen percent owner as is her brother. I'm naming the company Crockett Wagyu Reserve."

He paused and looked Chris in the eyes intently, "You know I could sell you a fifteen percent stake for a hundred grand. Technically the stake has a book value of seventy thousand or so today. Think about it. Chris. I never miss on this kind of thing."

Chris nodded, "I'll have my agent hook up with his legal guy. Probably yes, if he likes it."

CC smiled, "Chris. You won't see a dime for at least five years. In ten years, you will be patting yourself on the back so hard you will need a chiropractor."

Jessica interrupted them, "Hi Chris. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"

Chris looked at the top of the stairs. Every time he saw her his mind thought, 'stunning'. He had a mental image of her body from the night before. She was not hot in any big boob commercial sense of the word as she had B-cup boobs... but perfectly shaped with perfectly round pointy areolas... She was the definition of girl-next-door adorable. Petite almost to the point of tiny. Thin. PERFECT.

He tore his mind away. He didn't need to have those thoughts right now in front of her father.

She had a large bag and box in her hand, "No way to wrap the bag that doesn't look like crap."

He looked, "The George-E-Us Giganto bag of Pico Picante jerky?"

She nodded, "You said you couldn't get enough of it. I took that as a challenge!"

She smirked, "I'll show you the box later!"

The jerky gift was... perfect, just like Jessica. The box was a wrapped mystery.

She was dressed in light gray capris and a slightly tight sky blue top. A hint of cleavage, but not enough to alarm a loving father. She was carrying a wrapped box about twelve inches long and five inches square, wrapped in bright green paper with a red bow. She came down and gave him a kiss a bit more intense than he thought she should be giving him in front of her father. She smiled, "So good. Let's go. By the way, Happy birthday!" She showed him the box.

He opened the door for Jessica and they walked out.

CC sighed and looked at his wife, "You know he actually thinks they are going hiking."

Lauren laughed, unbuttoned his shorts and started stroking him, "Guess she inherited my libido. The poor guy has no idea what is about to hit him."

He sighed, realizing the intense sexual nature of his little girl then shook off the uncomfortable idea. Lauren was nearly insatiable. It was a double edged sword. Keeping up with her intense needs meant he had developed a taste for vaginal secretions.

The opposite of insatiable was much worse. Take the blessings you get.

She smiled at him, "She will be gone all day as will our son."

She gave him THAT smile and he was completely drained from last night. 'Time to drink pussy'.

*******

Chris started the car and drove out of the driveway, looking at Jessica, "I read about Palmetto State Park. It has a lot of trails we can hit."

Jessica reached her left hand across the seat into his and put her hand on his groin, "Chris. We aren't hiking today. Take me to your place."

She held up the box, "I hope you like butt plugs. It's only a three incher to match the ten inch strapon. It's a beginner's size. The strapon is named Big Black Mike!"

He looked at her alarmed. She held no smile. She was kidding, RIGHT?

They got to his place and she put the box in his hand, "Time to unwrap BIG BLACK MIKE!" She still had no smirk as if she was kidding.

He opened the box, inside was a curling iron box with an old curling item in it. She giggled, my curling iron broke last week and I found the box in the trash. Look inside closer: A Texas State Park pass card. She giggled, "Got ya!"

He had to admit, she was sassy and he loved it.

Chris paused and Jessica filled him in almost matter-of-factly, "Chris. You are mine now. If you haven't figured it out, I'm not an easy girl to get into bed, but now that we are a couple, I am the easiest girl you will ever meet. I like sex. I like it a lot. The entry fee is a full relationship, but once you have paid, I am the easiest girl on the planet."

She looked at him smiling seductively, "I will wear you out. Remember what I meant about sex being a process, not a single act."

Chris chuckled, No way she could wear him out.

Seven hours later, he was out of bullets and worn completely out. She was laying on his chest happy, playing with his completely flaccid penis. She giggled, "Can't seem to wake Mr. Happy."

She kissed his cheek, "Today was wonderful and I'm still horny as a goat."

Chris sighed, uncomfortably, trying to explain that four times in a day was a huge number for a man to ejaculate. He couldn't do it again. He was literally out of bullets. She kissed him, "Relax Chris. I know you're drained." she stroked him and gently patted his sleeping penis, "Drained completely."

She requested, "Sit up and make a pile of pillows to lean against. She flipped and laid her bottom on his lap, legs open, "Give me your hand. Two fingers. I am going to teach you how to diddle me..."

She did just that and came easily once she showed him the right technique, "That feels nice. I love it when you touch me there."

She was nearly insatiable.

Be careful what you wish for.

A half hour later she was sated... or at least seemed sated, "I'm hungry. Feed your girl."

"Where am I taking you?"

She shook her head, "I have more plans for you, sir! Let's Doordash something."

He was alarmed and she giggled, "Chris. Today is unusual as I don't need it that much... well usually... understand, it has been a year and I crave physical intimacy in all forms. I was starving for it. Okay. I was starving. Things will calm down..."

She laughed, "Well... a bit."

She got serious, "Yesterday, when I came so fast our first time. That was a physical reaction to something all in my head. I came because I was starving for sexual intimacy. That whole body shaking toe curler I had yesterday was all upstairs in my mind. It was like the first meal after a year of starving."

She smiled and stroked his cheek, "And boy was it a good one!"

She flipped around, embraced him and kissed him, "And I had some really good ones today. REALLY GOOD!"

She teased, "Before we start round two hundred forty nine. Feed your girl."

He realized he had a problem, the problem men dream of, his girl was a nympho. She was HIS nympho. It struck him that once they were an item, she was very casual about her nudity as she had made no move to get dressed at any point during the day.

He asked, "So what do you want for dinner?"

She thought, "Chinese. I love Beef Chow Mein."

He mock bowed, "Your highness shall have what she desires."

She waggled her brows, "What I desire will be after we eat, but I AM hungry."

He got on his Doordash App and found a local place, offering a nice twenty dollar tip. Be good to those who need to Doordash to make ends meet.

The doorbell rang. Chris got up from lying next to Jessica after their... how many??? time that day. She craved physical intimacy was an understatement. He put on a pair of shorts to answer the door, "That's probably our Doordash."

Jessica smiled and said, "Bring it back in here and we can get to our next round."

He thought, 'Next round!???' He looked down at his shorts, Mr. Happy was comatose. Once Jessica gave herself to him, she gave herself completely and sex was as much psychological as physical. She craved being with him in the most intimate way.

He walked to the door and pulled it open expecting a Doordasher. It wasn't. His mom came in immediately and hugged him, "Surprise! Happy birthday, honey. Your dad and I wanted to surprise you and take you out for your birthday."

Chris was caught off guard, "Uh. MOM! You're here."

Jessica came out from the bedroom starkers, "Hey Chris, did they remember... ah!"

His mom looked up to see Jessica full frontal. Jessica's mouth dropped and their eyes locked as she swore, "SHIT!" Jessica turned and ran back to the bedroom.

His mom looked back, her husband was still outside. She smiled, "Naked. So... Is she someone special?"

Chris shut his eyes. This was not the way his mom should meet Jessica. He nodded, "My girlfriend officially as of last night."

"AAAAAAAAAHHHH! YES!!!!" She came in hugging Chris fiercely.

The questions came out in a torrent, "What is her name? How did you meet her? One day. How long have you known her?" What does she do? What is her family like?

"Uh. Old guy is still standing outside. Did I hear something about a girl?"

Chris sighed, "Give me a minute."

He walked back into the bedroom to an embarrassed Jessica gathering her clothes from the floor. He apologized, "Sorry. My mom is very much a mother hen and kind of just walked in to hug me for my birthday. My dad was still outside. He didn't see anything."

Jessica was alarmed, "Your mom sure did!"

Chris nodded and nodded, "Sorry." He paused, "They want to meet you. My mom especially."

Jessica sat down heavily figuring out which side of her panties were the front. She started dressing, "Ugh. This is so embarrassing."

Jessica came out a few minutes later, pink faced with embarrassment, "Hi. I'm Jessica."

His mom was too happy for anything approaching subtle, closing the distance and giving Jessica a giant hug, "I am so happy to meet you!" The hug was almost a crusher.

His father gently chided, "Angela. Let the girl breathe."

She let go of the hug but not completely. She scanned Jessica a quick once over, "You're adorable!"

She blushed, "This is so awkward. You saw me naked."

His mom laughed, and pulled out her phone and tapped the screen, 'Siri, who was the Playboy Playmate in March 1995?'

Siri answered, "According to Playboy dot com, Miss March 1995 was Michelle Hamilton."

She smiled, "My middle name is Michelle and my maiden name was Hamilton. I would be the biggest hypocrite in the world if I made a big deal about it. Besides, you are perfect!"

Jessica scanned his mom, realizing she was very gifted in the chest department, "You?"

Angela laughed, "Relax. We all have bodies." She was still too overjoyed, and grabbed Jessica again for another mama bear hug.

"I"

"AM"

"SO"

"HAPPY"

"TO"

"MEET"

"YOU!"

Chris sighed, "Uh, formal introductions after the most informal possible. Mom, this is Jessica. Jessica, this is my mom."

His mom brought her hand to her mouth in stark realization that Chris smiled when he said Jessica's name. A smile she had not seen since before he had learned of Sydney's cheating.

HE HAD HEALED! He had finally healed. His mom came in for mama bear hug three then lost it, bawling, "He's smiling again! Thank you for that. Call me Angela, even my mom hates being called missus."

She finally let go of Jessica then came in for her last mama bear hug, "I'm so happy!"

David patted his son roughly on the back in the most fatherly manner possible, "Son, she looks great with you. Let's head out to dinner to celebrate! MY TREAT! What do you think... Jessica?" He was looking up awkwardly on the last word.

Jessica looked down, she had not put her bra on and her nipples were still hard as heck making bullets in her top. She looked down, "Uh. let me finish getting dressed." She walked back into the bedroom and removed her top and replaced her bra before replacing the shirt. She sighed and thought, "Great. I met his mom getting a full frontal of me and met his dad showing blaring pokies." She steeled herself and walked back out to head to dinner.

His father, David, asked, "Where we head..." Oh right, let me guess, Alamo Prime?"

Both nodded and he chuckled, "Have they assigned you a permanent table yet?"

Chris laughed, "No, but they are talking about it."

They arrived and Susan greeted them, "Chris! Jessica! And Chris's parents, David and... Angela!" It took her a second to recall Chris's mom's name, but it became clear why Susan was so good at her job, "Table for four?"

Chris nodded and Susan seated them at one of the best tables well away from the kitchen or bathrooms. Jessica and his mom were fast becoming old friends, their side conversations and affinity becoming evident.

Dinner was the usual... Fantastic.

Friday, May 2, 2024

Chris was nervous as CC smiled as he answered the door, "Hi Chris. Jes is finishing packing. Perhaps you should volunteer to carry her case down. She is looking forward to your trip to South Padre Island."

Chris was unsure and felt awkward and CC was an expert at reading a room. He turned to Chris and said seriously, "Chris. Relax. I am well aware that my daughter will be sharing the same bed this weekend... again"

Chris reacted in shock and CC sighed, "Yes. I know it happened. She inherited her mom's glow and last Saturday she came home glowing like a Christmas tree."

Chris asked, "Glow?"

CC sighed, uncomfortably, "When I do right by my wife and give her... her release, uh in bed. Her face and neck flush a pink color. Jess had one hell of a lot of glow when she came back last week."

He shuddered, "This is not a fun conversation for me, but I am not an idiot and I appreciate that you understand that her... uh enjoyment is as important as yours. "You have her consent and that is all I need otherwise I am the biggest hypocrite in the world because I was balls deep in her mom on our third date. I could not get enough of her and she was happy to oblige. We fell in love hard, fast, and never looked back."

He sighed uncomfortably, "Look. Chris, it's the most human thing there is. You think I don't know what it is like? The times before my wedding courting Lauren are a lot of my very best memories."

He shuddered, "Ugh! I hate this conversation. Just treat her as she deserves and I am fine with you."

Jessica called from above as she neared the stairs with a carryon and a wheeled suitcase behind her, "Hi Chris!"

He smiled as she looked up then he said, "Wait! I'll get your case!"

Jessical smiled and waited at the top. Before he could pick up the case she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his face down, gave him a medium heat kiss, then smiled, "I missed you..."

She looked back briefly at her parents, "See you Monday!"

As CC closed the door and Chris drove away, Lauren looked at her husband, "Well so far our plan looks like it's working."

CC smiled, "And with Jess gone..."

Lauren smiled reading her beloved husband's mood, "Why mistah. I see a predatory look in your eyes. I do hope you're not planning on looking under mah dress to find that I forgot mah panties then bending me over the kitchen table and taking mah virtue... again and again until you are unable to take more of mah virtue!"

CC smiled, approached his wife, and did just that... and more.

*******

Chris walked Jessica to the car and opened the door, ushering her inside.

Getting in and starting the car, Jessica was giddy, "This is going to be so much fun!"

Arriving around five and after checking in at their hotel, they walked two blocks to a restaurant featuring a sign with a friendly looking and brightly colored iguana in a sombrero, 'Teo's Tex Mex'.

After ordering their 'famous' chicken fingers she put her hands in his, "Chris. I am having the best time with you." She paused, "A girl could get very used to this and be very happy." She held his gaze.

He smiled, "Me too."

*******

After cleaning up, she padded into the bed, still naked and cuddled up to Chris, her head on his chest. She leaned up and kissed his cheek, "That was glorious. I damn near passed out when you went down on me."

He squeezed a side hug and chuckled, "Glad you approve."

She squeezed her own hug, "You gave me one hell of a toe curler. I needed that. You're amazing."

He smiled, it was one hell of a compliment, "You're not so bad yourself."

She looked at him seriously, "Yeah, but it's harder for girls. It's automatic with guys. You stick it in. Wiggle it around and you have it. Simple. I want you to know, I appreciate what you do for me." She held a serious look then smiled, "I appreciate you."

She yawned, "I'm awesomely sated and sleepy, but I can't sleep spooned. I just can't actually get good sleep that way. Good night." She rolled over and fell asleep quickly.

Chris laid in bed sleepy, he mind a bit of a whirl in a good way. He listened then realized that soft naked woman... that presence of a woman willing to be naked and asleep trusting and that vulnerable.

That naked soft warm presence in bed with him overnight was back and it was....

GLORIOUS

Friday, May 24, 2024

Chris came to the house for their usual Friday night date. CC answered the door as usual, "Welcome Chris! Jessica will be ready in a few. You know better than to rush her."

Chris chuckled, knowing better than to rush a woman getting ready for a date.

CC looked at Chris seriously, "I have a request."

Chris shrugged and CC continued, "I want you to come to Disney World with us in June. We've been planning it since before you two even met."

Chris liked the idea, "Sure! I can afford..."

CC rolled his eyes, "Kid, my treat and before you say some stupidity about separate rooms. We have already established that I know you are bedding Jessica on a regular basis."

He shook his head to clear uncomfortable thoughts, "For crying out loud, the number of times she comes home with a lobster-face glow makes me wonder what brand of vitamins you are taking and if I should start taking them."

Chris was unsurprisingly silent.

CC shuddered, "She's getting her... uh release which shows respect. You keep doing that."

He shuddered again, "EWW! I can't believe I just said for you to keep uh... that... with my daughter. Ugh. I get that it is what people do when they are dating. Nuff said."

He paused, shuddered to regroup then continued, "Just say yes to a week at Disney on me."

Chris nodded, "Okay. Yes."

CC smiled, relieved to get into the mundane part of the conversation, "Great!"

Chris asked, "Disney?"

CC laughed, "I love the park, Epcot, too. The other word for too old for Disney World would be 'dead'. You can never be too old for a fun day at a theme park. We'll do Universal, too. I'm buying the whole nine yards. GO BIG OR GO HOME!" It was a side CC had only hinted at before. He was going all out.

Chris was a bit hesitant, CC read him, "Kid, Jessica is always smiling and humming to herself now and you are the reason. She hasn't been that way since before Connor crushed her. I will pay ANYTHING to keep that smile plastered on her face."

He looked at Chris with a serious look, "Look I don't publish it, but just say I'm not on any billionaire list, but I can afford eleven days in Orlando that will knock your socks off and the cost is my LAST concern. My family is my first concern and you are the key to her smile. I love that smile."

He repeated, "I will pay ANYTHING to keep it there." He heard Jessica coming and said, "I'll be in touch on the trip thing."

Jessica came down wearing a T-shirt and jeans, "Ready for me to kick your ass?" She stuck her tongue out then came in for a kiss that had a little bit of tongue on its own, "Ready to lose?"

Chris could find no good answer so simply said, "There is nothing I can say that won't get me in trouble."

Jessica giggled, "I knew I was dating a smart guy. Let's go and get your ass-kicking started." She smirked at him as he walked out after getting the door for her.

Lauren giggled after the door closed, "Think he will figure out we used to have season passes at Kartland?"

CC laughed, "Well, the way she is going to hand him his ass on a platter will give him a clue."

He looked at his wife with a predatory smile, "And somehow we seem to be alone again. Whatever shall we do?" His hand was already under her shirt where it met a bare breast. She lifted her shirt, now bare above the waist then pushed his face to her nipple, "You have your assignment. Get to it mister."

He kissed then sucked and eventually did a lot more, ending the night with them christening a pool lounger now needing to be cleaned of their leftovers.

Jessica did indeed kick Chris's ass at Kartland and later that night after dinner and even more sex, admitted why.

Thursday, June 6, 2024

A stretch Escalade arrived at Chris's house at seven and Jessica hopped out, knocking on his door hard. Chris answered, "Wow. Someone's excited."

Jessica nodded, "It's you AND Disney World! What could be better?" She came in for a pretty hot kiss then broke the clinch, "Now move it!" She patted his butt then cupped it, "Move it, buddy!"

Once inside the limo, CC greeted Chris warmly and handed him a paper with his ticket. Chris looked at the seat number, "2B". Chris did a double take, "First class?"

CC smiled, "Relax kid. Just sit back and enjoy. This whole week is my treat!"

He left the 'I sure as hell can afford it' left unsaid.

CC smirked, "I figured Jessica got the window. You don't object, do you?" he teased.

A half hour later, CC had arranged for their luggage to be picked up so they only had to deal with their carry ons. Security was faster than Chris was used to, turns out a perk of their first class tickets.

First class. Chris had only experienced it once and that was on his honeymoon with his ex. It was a welcome and much more comfortable experience. His father had typically had his family fly coach, using his money to get them nicer hotels and locations over the transportation to and from the location.

A limo driver with 'Crockett-Anker' sign awaited them at baggage claim. The whole thing was very quick and already planned and they arrived at half past four.

CC went to the desk, retrieving their reservations on the Club level of The Contemporary Resort.

He talked to the desk clerk for a few minutes then summoned everyone to the desk and pulled out his phone. He looked at five boxes sitting on the reservation desk then started handing one box to each person, "Let's see Classic Minnie for my amazing wife. Millennium Falcon for Chris. Disney Princess for my awesome daughter. Iron Man for my son and... for me... classic Mickey logo in solid black."

Chris asked, "What are these?"

CC answered, "Magic bands. I paid for all day Lightning Lane Premier Plus at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney Studios. We get to skip the worst lines. The bands act as line passes."

Chris was a bit shocked, "Wow."

CC smiled, "Go big or go home, kid. I'm gonna enjoy this."

He pulled the key cards from the desk, "Here are your key cards. Both rooms have a park view!"

Chris was a bit nervous taking the card knowing Jessica was in the same room, CC read Chris, nodded and said very quietly, "Kid. Just keep that smile on her face. That is your only goal as far as I am concerned. Keep her smiling."

They rejoined the rest of CC's family as Jessica snatched one of the cards away from Chris with the biggest smile, "This is going to be so great!" She almost bounced to the elevator to the 14th floor where their rooms were located. She smiled at her father, "Thank you daddy!" Their gaze met and he understood this was about more than just the trip.

Once at their floor, they separated, the one bedroom for Chris and Jessica to the left and the two bedrooms for CC, his wife and his son to the right. He looked at his watch, "Let's get a move on and head up to dinner at The California Grill, I got us early reservations so we can hit Lake Buena Vista afterward."

Chris asked, "Is that where we are eating?"

CC nodded, "Chris, wait till you see it!" It was the first time Chris had seen a slightly childlike part of CC. He was already enjoying the time.

CC went to the hostess and gave his name, the hostess nodded and took them to a window side table. CC sat with a big grin, "Don't look at the prices. This week is all about maximum fun! Chris, I highly recommend the Wagyu strip loin. Chris. Let go, Okay? You cannot bankrupt me, this IS about maximum fun."

Chris nodded, "Then that is what I will have."

CC smiled and said happily, "I am having that, too!"

Dinner was everything advertised and an evening listening to a live band at Ragland Road Irish Pub capped the evening.

Friday, June 7, 2024

'The Middle' by Jimmy Eat World coming from Jessica's phone woke Chris at six. Chris took a second to realize where he was. Jessica opened her eyes and upon seeing Chris and realizing where she was, she smiled, bounced naked out of the bed and stood next to him, unconcerned about not being dressed, "Come on! It's a Disney day!"

She went into the toilet then emerged with her makeup kit and stood in front of the mirror, nude, getting ready. She caught him looking, smiled and wiggled her ass, "Glad you like what you see... but MOVE IT! Time for THAT later."

The last thing she did was get dressed. Perhaps it was her comfort around him. Perhaps she liked teasing. Perhaps she liked showing him the goods. Perhaps all three. Once ready, it was a quarter to seven when they walked to CC's room and knocked.

Jessica asked her father, "Contempo Cafe?"

CC nodded, "Yep. Quick, easy and pretty cool!"

Located in the lobby of the Contemporary resort with the monorails and the rooms tiered overhead, breakfast was indeed, quick and pretty damn cool. A quick ride on the monorails and through the Disney Hotels guest gate brought them into the park with the famous castle in the background. Jessica handed her phone to her mom, "Get our picture!" Jessica was almost floating as she walked, taking Chris's hand and leading to a spot where her mom could get the picture with the castle in the background. The first picture was pretty tame, the second one she got him in a pretty hot clinch, and by the the third picture, she grabbed his ass while in the clinch.

Chris moved in shock, but Jessica had a surprising grip with her free arm around his neck.

Walking away, Chris was a bit leery. CC, ever the room reader, quietly passed and said, "Kid, that smile she is wearing is your only concern."

The haunted mansion was first up, CC nodding to every Memory Maker photographer and every post ride photo op. CC kept showing that rare almost childlike side. He also noted Lauren's hand was always on his ass while walking close. She would periodically either squeeze his ass or give a quick side hug. Peter Pan's flight and the Winnie the Pooh ride after that. Lauren would stop often and look at trinkets. CC would tap something in on his phone, nod then they would continue.

It was eleven when CC teased, "We definitely need to have some pain to pay for our day." He pointed at 'It's a small world'.

Chris gave a tight smile. Jessica kissed his cheek, "Come on spoilsport!"

Chris sighed as Jessica led him toward the ride. One good part of the painful music on the ride was Jessica sitting very close, leaning on him, that perfect smile never leaving her face. Once out of the ride, Lauren said, "Sorry folks. Hungry again."

Chris looked at Pinocchio Village Haus and shrugged. CC shook his head, "Blech! Probably ninety bucks total for a crappy burger and a drink for us.

Lauren nodded, "Not going back to that one. How about Skipper Canteen?"

CC bowed to his wife, "You wish madam!"

It was still a bit jarring how different CC was once inside the park.

The day wore on, most rides covered, dinner was at Be Our Guest' inside of the Beast's Castle, another part of CC's determination to 'go big'

All rides covered in a darkening day, CC Jr. led the way out of the park, CC and Lauren ahead of them, her hand STILL on his ass, he realized Jessica's hand was on his ass. He looked at her, she looked back, that perfect smile looking back at him. He looked at CC, so comfortable with his wife of two decades... STILL in love. The path was indirect, CC looking at his phone with some kind of list. He would buy something or another at each place along that path and Lauren would give him a cheek kiss each time. Chris bought them both several matching T-shirts, which earned him a cheek kiss, and one outright makeout snog, from Jessica.

He looked back at Jessica again. She smiled back with a sweet warmth that could heat a mansion...

And for the first time in a very long time... He looked at Jessica...

He believed

Saturday, June 8, 2024

The week was... an epic blur. EPCOT, Disney Studios, Universal Studios, Universal theme park and more. The Lightning Lane Premier Passes making the days fuller. Kennedy Space Center, Pirates Dinner Show, Medieval Times the list was long and CC never tired. Despite being in his late forties, CC never tired.

Monday, June 17, 2024

Chris arrived home at five and crashed into his bed, the previous week in Orlando had been one of the best in his life. He needed to get some good sleep. Jessica had made it clear Tuesday was for 'Some good luvin'.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Chris was laying with Jessica, her head on his chest. She kissed him, "Mmmm, that was wonderful, but I think your noodle is down for the count, good thing I'm sated... of course, it's gonna take some serious cuddle time to complete this wonderful evening."

She rubbed her cheek on his chest, "So, so good." She sighed. Happy.

Chris phone sounded, "Mama always said"

Jessica looked at him quizzically, "What was that?"

Chris laughed, "A ringtone from Forrest Gump. I have it as my text ping when my mom texts me."

She giggled with fondness, "You're such a mama's boy." She clarified a bit, "In the best of ways. You know they say you can judge a man by the way he treats his mom." She kissed him, "I believe that. See what she wants."

He read it to her, "Welcome back Disney Boy! Time I heard your side of the trip. Jessica made it sound epic! CALL ME!"

He was a bit confused, "You talked to my mom?"

She nodded, "Several times a week. She is an amazing woman."

Chris sighed happily then stiffened, "You don't talk about us?"

She laughed, "Of course we do." She giggled, "Yeah. Last time we talked, I talked about how good you lick my pussy. Oh and how big and thick your giant black cock is!"

It took him a second to realize her jesting, "I'm not black... Damn. I walked right into that one."

She nodded, "I have said indirectly that you are a courteous lover and implied I enjoy our intimate times. More in thanking her for raising you to realize that mutual pleasure is important. We have talked about a lot of things. The whole Playboy thing was probably the wildest."

He sighed, "I never looked at the pictures. She's my mom!"

Jessica giggled, "I figured as much." She teased, "She sure has big bazookas!"

Chris was a bit shocked, "You looked?"

She laughed, "Of course! She's not my mom. I can see why Playboy picked her. I looked at her pictures, dropped my panties, and diddled myself."

It took him a second to realize she had been teasing him again, "YOU!"

Jessica laughed, "Okay. So ya got me. I looked a few times out of curiosity. Your father did marry a beautiful woman. Call her back."

She giggled, "But not facetime!"

Chris looked at Jessica with a bit of a sour face then hit his mom's cell number, "Hi mom! Yeah. Disney was great."

Jessica got an impish look and said loud enough for his mom to hear, "We're naked!"

Chris yelped, "Jessica. Jeez don't say that."

His mom laughed, "No denial? Tell Jessica that is a good thing! My courting time with David are some of my best memories. Yes, those kinds of memories. Relax son, it's the most wonderful and human experience there is."

His mom correctly read his awkwardness with humor and changed the subject, "So tell me about Disney!"

Chris told his mom all about the trip and how grateful he was to CC for the trip. Jessica would occasionally play with his sleeping member to tease then kiss his cheek affectionately. Once done with the trip his mom said, "So, the main reason beyond catching up is we haven't seen you in a while. July Fourth is coming up..."

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Josiah called Chris while making dinner, his voice faux suffering, "Hey cocktail weenie. You know I am hurt. I tell ya hurt you haven't even texted me in three days. Think you can stop filling your girlfriend's pussy long enough to go to the opera this Friday night?"

Chris said, "OPERA!?"

Josiah laughed, "I told you I'm the opposite of every stereotype there is. Yes, a giant black man is going to the opera this Friday."

He paused and sighed heavily, "Shanice loves it and she scored four tickets. Primo tickets. Shanice says they are very expensive and I have to go... PLEASE SAVE ME! I don't wanna be alone for this torture. Please! As my brother from another mother... save me! You and Jessica. Help your brother out!"

Chris sighed, knowing Josiah was the truest of friends and once in a while, you need to share in their torture, "No promises, but I'll ask Jessica."

Josiah sounded grateful, "Thanks man! Maybe we can sneak a twelve pack of Sierra Nevada Pale Ale."

Chris laughed, "You know you are dreaming."

Josiah sighed, "I know." He paused and sighed in an even more resigned tone, "I know".

A half hour later Chris texted Josiah, "BIG BASTARD! Jessica loved the idea of going to the opera. Now I'm going to be tortured on Friday."

Josiah sent a devil horn emoji. By the next day, Shanice and Jessica were fast becoming texting buddies.

Friday, June 21, 2024

Chris arrived at CC's home wearing his good blue suit and CC answered the door as usual, "Chris! You clean up well. Jessica is looking forward to this evening."

Chris smiled, tightly. CC understood, "Chris. I appreciate what you do for my daughter. Jessica smiles all the time now and she is really looking forward to this. He nodded. I get it, you're not looking forward to it."

He shrugged, "You do for your woman. It's a respectful thing." He nodded at Chris in respect, appreciating he was doing this for Jessica.

Jessica came down with an overnight bag in addition to her purse, "See you Sunday, dad!"

They left and as the door closed, Lauren called from the top of the stairs, "You! Bedroom. Naked! Now!!!! MOVE IT!" Looked up at the top of the stairs to see his naked wife with a big smile and faux demanding expression.

CC smiled and finished the thought, 'When you do for your woman, she will do for you.'

*******.

As Chris held the car door for Jessica, she kissed him. It took him a second to realize she was carrying an overnight bag, "Oh. Wait. You said Sunday."

She nodded, "Sunday. Chris. My dad knows. Shit, and you know he knows. We spent a week in a separate room in the same hotel as my parents during the Disney week. Stop worrying already. My dad is not an ogre and he likes you. I need lots of 'alone' time with you." She arched her brows and briefly rubbed his crotch.

"And I am going to get it. Maybe not as much as that first marathon, but you will be very tired. Sex is mostly in my head, not my body. Coupling with you. That act... makes my heart dance."

She smiled a happy smile, "And I intend to have my heart dancing most of the weekend."

She smiled to an impish one, "Opera. I know you aren't into it and you know I WILL pay you later..." She held his gaze, "A LOT"

He laughed, "You will anyway. Probably wear my dick right off."

She smiled, "Ooooh a challenge! I like it. Wear Chris's dick right off."

She changed her voice to a faux computer voice, "Challenge accepted."

The opera was tolerable. Turns out they had Sierra Nevada Pale Ale on tap. The San Pedro Performing Arts Center was modern enough to have unexpected amenities like a dinner table section and unexpected beverage selections. Seating was surprisingly comfortable and the pale ale made the night tolerable.

Good news came in the middle of the production in the form of a text, 'Can't wait to see you for The Fourth before you head into training camp. Mom: "

Of course his answer was, 'Can't wait.'

Jessica did indeed tire Chris out afterward. His dick was not worn off late that night, but it was in a coma.

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Chris's parents arrived five minutes after four and Chris answered the door. His mom came in first with her usual mom hug then looked around, "Where is Jessica?"

Chris shrugged, "She said she didn't want to impose when you got here."

His mom was surprised, "Impose?" She sighed, looking at her son sourly.

She pulled her phone out and selected and made a call, "Jessica? Why aren't you here, honey. It's been ages since I saw you. Yeah. There's that Italian place at Riverwalk we ate at last Christmas and I've been dying to head back."

"Yes you."

"Okay twenty minutes. Dress casual but not dumpy. See you soon!"

She looked at Chris and sighed a bit exasperated, "Clueless man. She's part of you and I like her." She held his gaze, "She is very good for you."

Jessica arrived as promised and they headed to Riverwalk. Dinner was good as expected and David was paying the check. Chris's mom was happily chatting with Jessica, "Maybe we could look around. Maybe catch some live music."

Jessica nodded, "Okay, but not too late, Chris and I had plans tomorrow... oh. Right, you're in town now. Well the plans were pretty simple. A day at Longhorn Cavern State Park."

His mom nodded, "Sounds like a great day and why the concern over being late?"

Jessica shrugged, "Have to head home to be able to get up early enough and get ready."

His mom laughed and rolled her eyes, "Pu-lease. Which drawer is yours? Are you up to one or two?"

Jessica shook her head questioning, "What?"

His mom laughed, "Oh, honey, let's not pretend. I had one drawer at David's place six weeks in and two drawers plus one in the bathroom two weeks after that. Tell me the truth. If we weren't here, would you have spent the night with Chris?"

Jessica blushed then nodded.

His mom, "How many drawers do you have?"

Jessica sighed, "Two... and two in the bathroom."

His mom side-hugged Jessica, "Honey. He smiles a lot more now and those smiles are because of you. Couples do what they do because it is the single best part of being a couple."

She looked Jessica in the eyes seriously, "Spending the night together being intimate is good for you both. I don't want you to miss out on such a night because we are there."

Jessica was at a loss for words. His mom announced for all to hear, "Jessica is spending the night. Any objections?"

She looked at Chris and Jessica with a slightly sharp tone, "Stop pretending."

Thursday, July 4, 2024

Jessica woke a few minutes before Chris, going into the en-suite, doing her business and brushing her teeth. She walked out of the bedroom wearing one of Chris's promotional jerseys which covered her to her knees.

Chris's Mom looked up and teased, "Not going to come out starkers?"

Jessica shook her head and winced a bit as she remembered meeting his mom, "I've made enough of a show."

"Honey, men love it when you trust them enough to walk around in the buff. Once we are gone, you do that and I'll make sure I don't barge in next time."

Jessica softly smiled, "Deal. It's kinda fun and I do trust him. He sure loves it."

"All men love it."

Jessica smiled, "I like making him happy."

Chris's mom looked at Jessica, paused then her hand to her mouth in realization then smiled broadly, "You love him. I can see it."

Jessica nodded nervously, "From the time I laid eyes on him. I hope he will come to love me."

His mom took Jessica's hands into hers, "Oh, honey, relax. He already does. Give him time to figure it out."

Jessica nodded, "I hope."

His mom squeezed her hands gently in a momish kind of way, "He does. I see the way he looks at you. Let him figure it out."

Jessica was reassured, nodded then snarked, "Nothing but Jessica under the shirt." She hitched up the shirt to her hip which was bare. Nothing private showed then she dropped the hem of the shirt. She plopped down on the other side of the table after pouring a glass of orange juice.

His mom teased, "Recovery from the night?"

Jessica gave a 'secret' smile, "A girl never tells."

His mom teased back, "Oh honey, nice try, but you're still glowing a bit."

Jessica blushed and the women went silent upon hearing movement in the hallway as Chris came into the kitchen.

Chris came into a silent room, "What are you two conspiring about?"

Both women said at the same time, "A girl never tells." The women looked at each other and laughed.

Chris looked at them with a bit of wariness, "Uh huh."

His mom stood and kissed Chris on the cheek, "She has never said a single bad thing about you. She held his gaze then realized her husband was the only one not in the kitchen. "I'm going to fetch your dad."

As Chris joined Jessica for a glass of orange juice, It was suspiciously long before Chris's dad came out with a dopey smile, "Sorry for the delay. Your mom will be out in a minute." He smiled a bit more dopey, "She's brushing her teeth."

Jessica laughed realizing what the dopey grin and his mom's sudden need for oral hygiene meant.

His mom came out without a single bit of shame or acknowledgement, "So... What's for breakfast?"

Chris's dad beamed, "Got bacon!?"

Chris nodded, "Dad, I knew you were coming. 2 packs in the refrigerator."

After cooking two packs of bacon and two hours of driving, they arrived at Longhorn Cavern State Park. Chris noted more than once, his father was in the passenger seat while Jessica and his mom spoke in hushed tones, often laughing.

At lunch near their destination Chris asked, "So what were you two conspiring about?"

Jessica blushed and his mom smirked, "A girl never tells."

His father cautioned Chris, "We won't find out and we don't want to know."

Chris' mom touched her husband's hand, "You're right, but relax, nothing bad. I love you with my whole heart."

That made his father smile. The long tour and drive back ended at Alamo Prime; a good day all around.

Friday July 5 2024

At five until five in the evening, David pulled in behind Chris at the Crockett mansion, looking at his wife, "Okay, that is one hell of a house!"

Angela nodded, "I kind of knew they were far from poor, but this!"

Chris walked back to his parents car as they got out and looked at his father, "Yeah, I know. It's actually bigger than you think. There is a walkout lower level at the back so it's three stories, not two."

The door opened, CC and Lauren walked out, "Chris! Chris's parents. Welcome to my humble abode."

He stuck his hand out, Cody Clint Crockett, call me CC!"

David smiled, liking CC's no bluster alpha wolf vibe.

The house tour was impressive inside as much as it was outside. The backyard was laid out with a big tent, a portable bar with two separate barbecue trailers smoking away. One for beef ribs since pork ribs were blasphemy, and the other was for barbecued chicken. A DJ was setting up his sound system.

The big tent was designed for comfort on a hot but now cooling day, outfitted with big fans along the top and misting fans along the rear side, additional open tents were strategically located along the pool for drink and snack tables..

At half past six the sliders along the pool deck were opened fully, making a huge indoor-outdoor space, the DJ started and the guests filtered into the well appointed back yard.

More guests arrived, totalling twenty five or so, CC's friends and some business contacts. As dinner time neared, CC made a quick speech, "Welcome friends! No long speech. Thank you all for coming. Dinner is your choice of beef ribs orUSDA Prime burgers on the left trailer. We gave chicken tenders and chicken breast sandwiches on the right. Seasoned fries are on the table at the end along with a good assortment of condiments."

By eight thirty, ten guests remained and by nine, it was CC and his family and Chris and his family. CC talked to the DJ and the music switched to slower, more romantic songs. Sixpence None The Richer, 'Kiss Me' started the set. CC offered his hand to his bride and they danced, swayed really. Lauren did not care, it was his loving gesture that meant everything.

Jessica mock pouted and Chris offered his hand as Jason Mraz 'I'm Yours' played.

Two dances in, CC asked David if they could switch partners. David smiled at the man who was nothing but respect, "I think my wife would love that"

Bodies were kept a respectful distance apart.

CC said to Angela, "You did a great job raising your son. He's so good he's almost like a character in a story."

Angela smiled, "Your daughter is a ray of sunshine. Chris smiles a lot now."

CC nodded, "Jessica is the same. I know Chris's story and how he was hurt. Jessica had similar. Left at the altar. She was so sad for so long. Then your son came into her life. She hasn't stopped smiling since. I think that common experience has bonded them."

The stereo continued to play and the parents switched back to their spouses.

The DJ went to a classic song, When I see you smile, by Bad company.. A piano solo started, followed by 'Sometimes I wonder..."

Halfway through the song, CC heard Jessica gasp and looked over to see his daughter with the brightest smile, catching the most magical words, "I love you too!"

Jessica was held tightly in Chris's arms. CC looked over at David and Angela and they had caught it too. Angela had melted, hand over heart, knowing her son had confessed his love to Jessica and his feelings were returned. She looked at her son and his love safely in his arms. Angela had seen that perfect moment for her son... Chris and Jessica continued to dance slowly to the end ..."Baby, when I See you smile, at me..."

Perfect flowed into perfect with Snow Patrol, Chasing Cars as Jessica just swayed in Chris Arms... in love... the world faded away.

Saturday, July 6, 2024

Chris woke up to Jessica cuddling into him. He rolled onto his back, she put her head on his chest, sighing contentedly in a half awake voice, "Good morning. I love you."

Chris repeated, "I love you too."

He looked at the ceiling and thought, 'I swore it could never happen again.' Jessica cuddled a bit closer, dozing and he admitted to himself, "But it did." he smiled. It FELT so good. She stirred then woke fully rubbing her cheek on his chest. "Good morning!"

She sat up, "Wow. Gotta pee. Gimme a few." she came back out a few minutes later and stretched, catching his eyes settling on her naughty bits. She teased, "Do you like what you see?"

She faced him full frontal, teasing, then got onto the bed, sat down and leaned back, legs apart, exposing herself completely, "What about now?"

He laughed then pulled her close then flipped on top of her. She smiled and relaxed her legs, "Go on. By now you know I want to."

There was no way he was going to climax, but he put himself inside her. She shuddered a bit, "You feel so good inside me."

Fifteen minutes later, she was sated though neither had climaxed. He understood she simply craved the act of coupling which included a nice and rather vigorous session of doggie after the first few minutes. Those words afterward fed his ego, all part of her intent, knowing to build her man up, "Being with you. Chris, you have no idea how much I need that."

A few minutes of cuddling later she realized, "Wow. I'm hungry. I'm gonna clean up then head to the kitchen. Come sit with me after you clean up." She put on his Jersey and walked toward the kitchen.

By the time he reached the kitchen, Jessica and his mom were conspiring. Jessica got up and kissed him a little too strongly. He knew he was being set up and asked, "OK what do you want?"

Chris's dad walked in and took the scene in, hearing Chris's question, "Oh, this can't be good."

The women said at the same time, "Spa day!"

His father sighed and looked at Chris, "Well, I guess we could go to a sports bar." He looked at his son, "father-son day."

Chris nodded then smiled, "Go-karting!"

His father smiled.

Jessica blurted, "Let's call my mom! She loves spa days."

Chris realized Jessica bonding further with his mom suggested, "It's only fair to call her dad."

It was becoming second nature as the two families were beginning to intertwine before his parents departed for Tulsa the next day.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Chris got a text from Gramma Izzy, "Heard you got a girl and dropped the L-bomb on her. Good for you! Will be there on Friday to meet her and make sure she's up to snuff. You and her facetime me tonight. I wanna get to know her a bit before I get there.'

Chris laughed and smiled, Gramma Izzy was something else. No one was quite sure what that was. He shuddered wondering how 'direct' Gramma Izzy was going to be in the call. Jessica called and suggested a dinner together cooking a Chicken Parm recipe she had found online. While they cooked, he told her about Gramma Izzy, warning her about her unconventional opinions and blunt demeanor.

Dinner came out perfectly and afterward they waited for the call. True to her word, Gramma Izzy facetimed them both at the prearranged time, congratulating them on their newfound love and telling them she looked forward to meeting Jessica face-to-face

After the call ended Jessica looked at Chris, "I have no idea what you are talking about with Gramma Izzy. She had perfect manners. What time will she arrive on Friday?"

Chris shrugged, taking the win he got and guessed, "Maybe around one in the afternoon. That's the time she arrived last time."

It all seemed too good to be true.

It was.

Friday, July 12, 2024

Around nine in the morning as Chris shuddered on round... four?, surprised he was able, as he emptied himself inside Jessica who was smiling, "Good one?"

She had a happy smile as she gently stroked his cheek, "Seeing you have that moment and knowing I gave it to you, bliss."

She shifted her back a bit and teased, "Okay, you're getting heavy. GET OFF ME!"

She got up walked toward the en-suite with a washcloth held under her vagina, "Give me a few to... clean things up then join me in the shower?"

Chris smiled. Life was perfect. He gave her what he figured were between five and ten minutes to clean up then joined her for some enjoyable time washing each other. She got out first, dried off and headed to the kitchen, unmindful of her undressed state, getting a pitcher of orange juice from the refrigerator. She turned around and...

Gramma Izzy was sitting at the table with an amused expression. A bottle of bourbon in front of her and a shot half empty.

Jessica just closed her eyes and sighed, not bothering to try to cover. Izzy had seen everything and covering would do zero good. Izzy scanned her, her eyes settling briefly where every man would. She nodded approvingly, "Nice equipment. Tight tummy. Nice trimmed fur over the slit. Smallish boobies, but beautiful full shape to them and zero sag. Nice little ass. Nice tanned stems. You keepin' my grandson happy?"

Jessica was stunned, ruefully thinking, 'Can I meet any of his family without displaying... something that is supposed to be covered?'

A half minute later, Chris walked out equally naked, "Hey Jessica, can you pour..."

Gramma Izzy was smirking, looking right at his nearly comatose package, "Not as big as the black man I had. Hi Smokey!"

Chris covered his penis with his hand, "Uh. How did you get in?"

She shrugged, "Picked the lock."

He sighed, "Of course you did."

She smiled in faux innocence, "I knocked. No one answered. I figured you were out. It's hot outside. You want an old woman to bake waiting on you?"

Izzy looked at Jessica's face and commented, "She's glowing a bit." She nodded as her eyes shifted to Chris, "Looks like you were raised right and got your girl off a time or two this morning."

Chris and Jessica had no place to take the conversation, Izzy plowed on after a sip of her bourbon, "You're too uptight about it. Me and Wade were four or five times a week twenty years in. Screwing someone you love is the best thing there is."

She rolled her eyes and muttered, "Up tight. Youth is wasted on the young. Go get dressed, I'm hungry and IHOP will object to you walking in with your pecker showing."

Chris and Jessica retreated as Gramma Izzy sipped the last of the bourbon and rolled her eyes. She had been talking to them for over two minutes as if nothing was unusual.

After breakfast, Izzy wanted to see The Buckhorn Museum and saloon. At the saloon, Izzy was nursing her bourbon after a pulled pork sandwich which was wolfed down with surprising speed. Jessica's phone chimed a text. She read it then responded then seemed a bit frustrated. She sighed, "Dad wanted us for dinner. I told him we were with your grandma. He invited her and won't take no for an answer. He says he is cooking bacon wrapped tenderloin."

Izzy smiled, "Now why would anyone not want bacon wrapped tenderloin?"

Jessica looked at Chris with a resigned expression, "Looks like my Mom and Dad will meet her."

Izzy smiled. Jessica and Chris were frightened.

Chris admonished Gramma Izzy who was sitting in the passenger seat, "I don't think her parents are quite ready for your... bluntness. Could you dial it back a bit?"

Izzy just reached over and pinched his cheek, not answering the question, "You're so cute."

They were expected at five that evening, arriving right on time. Chris sighed, got out of the car and opened the door for his grandma after helping Jessica out of the back seat of his Camaro Coupe. Jessica gave him a sour look, "Your back seat sucks and I'm not sitting back there again. We will use my Lexus next time."

Izzy looked at the sprawling Spanish style house, "Nice place. Your daddy's loaded."

Gramma Izzy walked ahead as Chris quietly said to Jessica, "Your parents have no idea what is about to hit them."

Jessica shook her head and shuddered a bit.

Even before they got to the door, CC opened it with a smile, "Welcome! My security system said we had guests in the driveway. Welcome to my home!"

He gave a polite hug to the small and thin Izzy who asked, "You got bourbon?"

CC laughed a belly laugh, Chris and Jessica looked at the ground defeated, knowing a verbal hurricane was about to hit.

Five minutes later, after the introductions, things started going downhill for Chris and Jessica when CC asked Jessica, "So you just met his grandma today? How did that go?"

Izzy answered before Jessica could and three minutes into Izzy's story, CC and Lauren had lost it completely, continually laughing, "She came out naked and you saw her COMPLETELY!? Him too?"

CC and Lauren thought the story was the funniest in the world. Izzy looked at Jessica who was blushing, "Honey, you have nothing to be ashamed of. If I still had a body like yours, I would always be starkers, showing off the goods."

CC and Lauren laughed, trying to stifle it, but failing completely.

Izzy shrugged, "Tell me it's not true. Young and beautiful. Nothing more glorious than a beautiful young woman bare to the world. Not the best sunset, not the perfect mountain scene. Jessica you should be proud, you are GLORIOUS in your birthday suit."

She winced, "No one wants to see an old biddy like me." She groused, "Pancake tits. They were damn nice in 1965 though! I had perky B-Cups and you could hang a shirt on a hanger from my nips!"

CC and Lauren lost it again. Chris was dying inside as he did not want to know about his grandma's boobs. Jessica felt sorry for her man.

Izzy looked at Chris and Jessica, "Lighten up. I saw you both naked and you did not spontaneously combust. Fuck each other until you literally cant do it any more. These are your peak years. It's never going to be this good again. Savor these times. There will be great times ahead, but savor these times. It's never going to come back. Savor them and remember them!"

Her tone changed, she got up and put her hand gently on Chris's cheek, "Honey. I'm begging you. Savor this. Memorize these times. Take a million pictures. Write it all down! This is peak life. Don't let it pass by without making sure you can remember as much as you possibly can."

She sighed, paused then suddenly changed tracks, "I'm hungry. When do we eat?"

Izzy toned it down a bit, well for Izzy.

She nursed only her second bourbon. Izzy loved the drink, but took the tiniest savoring sips. She smiled, "I've had a good life."

CC raised his own shot glass, "To good lives!' Izzy took another tiny sip.

CC toasted in agreement then asked, "Where are you from?"

Izzy smiled, "Wilkes County, North Carolina until I was eighteen, then Tulsa."

CC asked, "What did your father do?"

Izzy's expression was almost feral, "Farming... and bootlegging."

CC nearly choked on his sip of bourbon, "Eh, what?"

Izzy was proud, My daddy was Jesse Sutton. Wilkes County was the heart of moonshine country.

CC thought for a second, "Wait. Isn't that NASCAR Country?"

Izzy nodded, "Yep. Johnsons, Suttons, Hamiltons... Nance. I knew them as a girl. I remember when I was eight, Junior Johnson came to our house and talked to dad. Junior was still bootlegging until 1956 when they caught him the final time. Once out, he did more of the racing thing. We went to some of the early races. I met Enoch and Gwyn Staley at North Wilkesboro Raceway. These were the early days, long before TV."

Jessica had forgotten her embarrassment and was becoming more interested in Izzy's story, "So your father was a bootlegger?"

Izzy smiled, even more feral, "So was I!"

Jessica gasped, "NO!"

Izzy smiled a wolfish grin, "Oh yeah."

Lauren filled the pause, "AND!"

Izzy laughed, "I was a total Daddy's girl. He wasn't like a lot of the men of the time and taught me the business. Did my first hooch run at fourteen. Ran two crocks of shine to a place over in Winston-Salem. Daddy gave me ten dollars after."

Lauren was shocked, "He had you making runs?... At fourteen?"

Izzy smiled, "I loved it and ten dollars for two hours of work was a fortune back then. Minimum wage was seventy-five cents. Next run was bigger, five jerry cans. Daddy gave me fifty bucks!"

She smiled, "He told me he was holding my money for a while. I did some runs and he didn't give me anything but promised me he would do good by me. Three weeks later, he gave me my first car, a 1955 Chevy 210 modified with heavy springs and a Caddy motor. I had my first chase in that car."

She laughed at the happy memory, "No one could catch me! They woulda jumped off a bridge if they knew a fourteen year old girl had beat them."

CC refilled the shot glasses, enraptured, "Fourteen!? Go on."

Izzy smiled. Chris smiled. Gramma Izzy loved her stories and the scary part they were true.

"Well, daddy brought me into the business. I only had a younger sister, Lanney, no brothers" She smiled, "My daddy loved me with his whole heart. Treated me like any other business associate. Taught me recipes and even bought me my first still for my birthday. We kept it on an abandoned farm that was over a hill. No roads went there. That is why it took so long for them to catch up to us. Nothing was on our farm."

"I met my future husband Wade Hamilton my third year in high school, yes I graduated. I was a part time shiner for nine months and full time during the summer. Wade and his father worked with my father sometimes. They were in it too. I married Wade right after graduation. Eighteen, I know, too young, but that was how it was in those days."

"Well things were good until 1964. I had more than a few chases, but no one could catch me. I upgraded my car to a 1962 Daytona Blue Chevy Biscayne with the 409 in it. He upgraded her and I called her Blue Belle."

She smiled impishly, "She had almost five hundred horses."

"In July of 1964 Clay Strickland drove to our farm hot, said revenuers were coming in force and they had our names and where our stills were. There were dozens of officers. Clay Strickland was the building custodian so they ignored him as part of the background. He said they were perhaps an hour and a half or two hours out."

"Wade and I lived in the house next door, just a little four room house maybe five hundred feet away. We left a half hour later."

"I remember that night. No moon. Daddy told us twenty minutes to pack whatever we could get into the cars. We left all the furniture behind. Most of our possessions. Just two suitcases. The road to our farm appeared to end... but it didn't. It was just a track really, but connected on the other side of the hill to another road to the west. Daddy threw some old branches across the end so it looked like it just stopped. We left North Carolina permanently that night."

CC almost whispered, "You had nothing."

Izzy shook her head amusedly, "I wouldn't say that... You would be surprised how many twenty dollar bills fit in a shoe box."

She smiled, "The answer is thirty eight thousand dollars and Wade had a box much like mine. My daddy had a big briefcase with almost three hundred thousand in it."

She smiled, "Three and a half days later, we rolled into Tulsa. One of the Mills in Greensboro had burned a few months back and my daddy's story was he was part owner and the mill was not going to be rebuilt. He moved money around. It all appeared legal. It took him five years, but by then he owned five lumber yards. Wade bought a hundred acres off a new interchange on I44 and opened a truck stop in 1967. We put half down on land and a small building with fuel pumps, taking most of the money we had left after buying a nice three bedroom ranch."

It took off. Wade and I did well until he went off and raced some other overgrown fool. The bootlegger in him never did die out and he had to prove his mustang was faster than the other guy's. Trees can't jump out of the way as he learned in 1993 when I was forty-seven and Angela was seventeen."

She sighed wistfully, "I still miss my foolish husband. I loved him completely."

Lauren was stunned, "Woooooow. What happened to the guy who warned you?"

Izy laughed, "Clay Strickland? He showed up two months later. Daddy handed him a sack with around fifteen thousand dollars in it. My younger sister married him a year and a half later."

Lauren dabbed her eyes a bit at the sad end of Izzy's husband.

CC looked at his watch, "Damn. It's after midnight. I'll set up one of the guest rooms."

He raised his brow at Chris who seemed unsure, "Chris. Just don't. I know you are going to ask about a separate room. Just stop. She spent last night at your place and I am not a moron. Just head up with her to her room and if you... do anything... try to keep the noise down."

They went up, and Lauren helped CC put everything away. She kissed her husband, "Did you ever think you would have one of your daughter's boyfriends sleeping over in her room with your blessing?"

He sighed, "No, but she doesn't do anything but smile and hum to herself. I've never seen her so happy and if that means..."

He sighed, "That. Then that is a price I happily pay."

Lauren hugged him, "You are the best man I know, Cody Clay Crocket. THE BEST MAN."

Monday, July 22, 2024

Chris drove into the lot of the training facility, the press now much more interested in him than previous years. This year he was scheduled to arrive fourth at fifteen after nine in the morning. Each of the first twelve arrivals being five minutes after the other to allow the press to cover each arrival. It was all part of the very calculated and planned media coverage for The Defenders. Coming out of his car, Chris was followed closely by reporters getting their shots and asking questions that were not going to be answered.

Everything was choreographed.

Josiah came in ten minutes after Chris, whispering in his ear, "Cocktail Weenie. After this year, "I'm gonna be scheduled ahead of you. Cocktail weenie ahead of Peterbilt, it ain't right I tell ya!"

Chris looked at his giant and smirking friend then casually scratched his nose with his middle finger.

The press conference was typical, with too many fawning questions asked to get fawning answers for the fans. Things went smoothly until about ten questions into the conference when a man stood up and asked, "Todd Trencher, Willamette Media. This is for Chris Anker. Did you know Ty Jensen is number one on the sexiest men list for People Magazine this year?"

The usually chatty press section went eerily quiet and everyone was looking at Todd.

Chris put the situation together from his time in Portland, "Welcome. Todd the Toad from KPOR. Yeah. I remember you. I remember one of your jokes causing a divorce. Very funny getting audio of that guy's wife talking about his inadequacies in bed and playing it for the whole city to hear. I bet his kids love having divorced parents. Kick any kittens on your way inside today? Maybe set a nun on fire? Funny stuff!"

Chris shrugged, "As for Ty, you could ask him if being listed as sexy in People Magazine is as good as having a Superbowl ring. Oh wait. He doesn't have one."

Security prevented Todd from asking a second question as Todd shouted, "Cuck! Cuck! Cuck!"

Coach Boone apologized, "Sorry on behalf of our security. We did not see this coming."

Chris shrugged, "When you are well known, you attract good, bad, worse or even people as awful as Todd. I'm fine. It was a long painful road, but I have the best girlfriend in the world and I could not be happier."

The rest of the press conference went as planned with Chris getting three more, much more relevant questions about strategies and their draft picks.

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Chris came out onto the afternoon practice field inside the practice facility. Fumble drills were up, both loving and hating them, the love coming from his ability to read ball movement better than most. He looked to the sidelines and did a double take, Jessica was front row and center in the 'WAG' section, typing on a laptop wearing a team jersey with his number on it. Hearing the players coming in, she looked up and smiled broadly at him. She quickly lifted her shirt showing a bikini top on with their team color brick red color with '4' on each cup then quickly brought the jersey back down.

Chris trotted over as his team continued to filter out, "Jess... You're here?"

She looked incredulous, "Of course I'm here. I'm your girl. I'm madly in love with you and my place is wherever you are."

"You got the day off?"

She shook her head, "This facility is amazing and the wifi is top end. I have my laptop. Been here three hours. I wanted a good seat and I got it! My dad says, 'hi'."

Chris seemed confused then she laughed, "Chris, I'm a low level manager on the beef council. It does not matter when or where I get my work done, as long as it's done. So I've been working on a couple of our new Youtube videos while I was waiting for you. Hell, my dad suggested it, reminding me I'm not chained to my desk. You know damn well he likes you."

She looked at him slyly, grabbed his jersey and pulled. Her weight being much less than his, she ended up out of her seat with her arms around the back of his neck. She kissed him hard anyway, "Hi! I love you. Bleh! You taste like sweat."

He set her back, "Uh, I'm not sure now is the time."

She giggled, "Why not? I'm an official WAG now. I even have my badge... see!" She held up a placard with her picture attached to the bottom of her jersey, 'Jessica Crockett. Chris Anker. 44'. Coach Boone approved it himself. He says 'hi'. Oh and expect a lecture from him. He says that your team is big on keeping stable relationships stable. It keeps drama down and that is why the WAG section is so nice. Oh and Gatorade is free at the back drink bar!"

She gestured at the seat, "These are nice!. Nice and cushy, they swivel, even recline a bit. Electric power and the screen thingy in the left arm rest even has today's schedule. Chris looked at the seat which looked more like an international first class airline seat than anything in a stadium.

"You're getting off on this!", he was surprised at his realization.

"She looked at him, "Um. Duh! Of course I am. My boyfriend is an NFL player." She rolled her eyes, "Good grief. You think this is anything new? Women have always taken pride in getting a high status guy. And I happen to be head over heels in love with the best NFL guy in the league!"

"Chris. This is nothing new. Women seek out and are attracted to successful men and yeah, I like the ego boost that being 'Chris Anker's girl' gives me. This should not be news to anyone with half a brain. Hardcore feminist and hardcore tradwife standards are dumb! I'm me and damn it, I have a hot NFL player boyfriend and that gives me one hell of an ego buzz!"

She looked at him a bit annoyed, "Transparency is critical to us making it and I won't varnish the truth. Online extremists on both ends are exhausting and the only attraction standards that matter are Jessica's... and I am VERY attracted to you."

She lightened up, smirked and looked at his crotch, "You've been gone half a week and I'm already horny as a goat. When are they letting you out of training camp jail?"

Chris laughed, "Friday, August second. You know Coach Boone and discipline."

She gave him an impish smile, "You know I'm gonna put your...'giant cock' into a coma when you're released. Right?" She made air quotes at the 'giant cock' term. It was not an insult, but a deliberate play on something they both knew. Chris was completely average in the size department.

Over the next week, Jessica was always the first into the WAG section and the last to leave. She would be working on her laptop when he was not there and cheering him on when he was. It made Chris smile.

Jessica was devoted.

Friday, August 2, 2024

Coach Boone called Chris into his office first thing that morning, handing him a piece of paper, "The owners want to make a big deal with our scrimmage with The Texans. Saturday is the usual light stuff and Sunday the real deal. Saturday, we are doing a charity drive. I signed you up... You don't mind... Do you!?"

Chris read the print proof and smiled, "Not at all, Coach!"

*******

Chris came home very tired after the last practice. After parking his car and walking into the kitchen from the garage he heard the doorbell ring.

He looked out the door through the peephole. All he could see was the hazel iris of an eye very close to the other end of the peephole. He knew immediately and opened the door. Jessica was standing outside stark naked.

He was shocked, "Someone might see you!"

She laughed, "No one did, relax. I had a lookout and I stripped off inside the car. I only dashed naked from the car to your door." She turned and waved at the car on the street, "By mom! See you Sunday!"

Lauren shot them both a grin and drove away.

She smiled then walked in close, kissing him hot, "Eww. You taste sweaty again. Guess we will start with a shower after you go get the grocery bags on your driveway... unless you WANT me to walk out stark naked to get them..."

"You wouldn't."

She raised an eyebrow. He sighed, "You would."

She laughed, "Go get the groceries. I'm making you dinner... after the shower and after one session to take the edge off. You have no idea how insanely horny I am right now after two weeks without."

"I'm dead, Jessica. Just dead."

She smiled and rubbed his groin. One part of him was far from dead after two weeks without, "Not all of you is dead."

He started to say something. She shushed him with a finger to his lips, "Let your girl handle it, okay. Let your girl pamper you. Let her show you how much she loves you and just how much she appreciates you. Just relax and I'll handle everything."

Once in the shower, she washed him head to toe then started with a blowjob. He lasted ten seconds before having a groaner that seemed to last forever. She swallowed then rolled her eyes as she said, "Better than the finest vintage wine." It was a gentle tease, she had previously described swallowing as something to help get him off and it tasted like brine, not fine wine.

After a cleanup she used his rapidly regaining manhood as a leash, directed him to lie face up on the bed. She worked herself into arousal then coupled to him, using him for her own release. He was tired, but it was heavenly being inside his beloved. She had hers then fell to the side and relaxed her legs. He was still hard. After two weeks without sex, his control was minimal. She looked up at him as his last spasm finished. Her smile.

Perfect.

The dinner she made. Perfect.

Two more couplings. Perfect.

Post coital cuddles. Perfect.

That warm sweet beloved naked presence beside him in bed as he drifted off.

PERFECT.

Saturday, August 3, 2024

Chris came out onto the practice field. Jessica was as always, front row and center of the WAG section with her laptop. Her dedication was heartwarming. It was those little things that kept him falling further in love with her. She showed up hours early to get the best seat then used the downtime to finish whatever work task needed her attention. When on the field, she watched HIM. Cheering HIM. Supporting HIM.

The scrimmage was the lighter one. The Texans deliberately ran rookies against Chris, humbling some, veterans and rookies alike. A few stuck out. One of the Texans rookie, 6th round rookie running back, CJ Evans was surprisingly hard to tackle without help. Chris complimented him, "Nice. Not quite nice enough, but it almost worked... ALMOST."

Chris grinned and helped the rookie up. CJ shot him a giant grin, figuring he might well see CJ in the future.

Once the scrimmage was done, they went into a separate half field facility used for kick practice for the media event.

Coach Boone his voice carrying over the speaker system

"Welcome press and welcome fans to 'Texas Is All Heart!'. This evening's charity event is for the Noah Anker Heart Fund. Ten dollars per autograph, no limit as time permits. We have Four players from The Defenders; Wyatt Calhoun, Chris Anker, Josiah Peter, and Donovan Fields."

Coach Boone continued, "First, we have a bulk order by a devoted and I mean DEVOTED FAN. Let's have this devoted person come out now."

Jessica, dressed fully in Defenders fan gear, came out pulling a large wagon with an unknown load covered by a drape, pulling it up in front of a stunned and flustered Chris. She stopped the cart a few feet away then came in close, grabbed him by the neck and kissed him hot, going for his tonsils, "Hi! I'm your number one fan."

She pulled the drape revealing the wagon was full of official NFL Footballs still in their original boxes. She giggled, "I have an order here for you for fifty signed footballs."

Chris was standing there stunned, mouth agape. She gently put her finger under his chin, closing his mouth, "Close your mouth. You'll let flies in."

The levity released the tension and Chris asked, "What are you going to do with fifty footballs?"

Jessica knew a huge opening when she saw it and said with overdramatic query, "Good question. What am I going to do with fifty autographed footballs? Maybe some kids want them!"

Fifteen seconds later, fifty excited kids from BCCH came onto the field waiting for one of the balls.

Then three more carts were brought onto the field, one for each Defender player. She was overly dramatic when she said, "Or perhaps each kid should have four balls, one from each player."

Chris smiled, "I love you, Jessica."

She smiled then kissed him downright indecently, backed off and said in front of the whole crowd, "I love you, Chris. Completely."

The front page of San Antonio dot com featured a picture from that evening with that final kiss the byline read, 'The ultimate come back from behind win!'

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Chris came out of the visitor tunnel to the boos of a hostile crowd. Still, he was excited for the preseason of another year and hopes for success. Jessica was attending along with her father though finding them in the crowd may prove difficult. He found them in a semi closed in section right under the luxury suites, relatively safe; they were dressed down to avoid conflict with the locals; Dallas fans were a fiercely loyal bunch.

Once he found them he smiled, giving them a thumbs up then went to his sideline.

Coach Boone smiled, "Chris. Coin toss! Call it right!" He nodded at Chris. The nod of respect and for his contribution in preserving their Superbowl win.

Chris called tails. Chris chose to receive after winning the toss.

Any time Chris looked toward the stands, Jessica met his gaze with a smile and a mouthed, "I love you."

It felt good, Jessica was paying attention and just waiting to smile at him, letting him know he was half of 'we'.

The Defenders lost 14-13 in what was largely dedicated to testing out who was going to be cut. Most of the seasoned first string players got limited playing time. The drive home on the team bus, a bit somber though the loss did not count for anything. In fact, the next day, ten players of the ninety that had made the initial trip, were waived.

Sunday, September 9, 2024

After a one win and two loss preseason, Chris was a bit nervous with the unfavorable results. He had faith in Coach Boone who had emphasized in the weeks meetings that preseason was about setting roster, not winning. As additional evidence, both losses were the first two games where the veterans had limited playing time. Twenty cuts had been made after the second game, whittling the team down to a more manageable 60.

Cuts came slower after that until the final two cuts the day after the last preseason game. Chris felt for Terrel Breeze and RJ Smith who had come so close, but so far from their NFL dreams. The Defenders won that final preseason game, mostly testing combinations of the veterans on the same plays with the more promising rookies.

Today was the real deal. Today counted. Today was going to be hard.

Chris walked onto the field at M&T Stadium, scanning the club level seating, finally spotting Jessica, her parents, and even her brother along with his parents. He flashed a thumbs up and went to his bench. Josiah was designated team captain to call the coin toss, which he lost. Chris casually scratched his nose with his middle finger as Josiah came back. Chris teased, "Call it right next time."

Josiah farted in Chris' direction.

The Ravens elected to receive and Chris took the field. The Ravens managed to push it to the 27 yard line, but had to settle for a field goal. The Defenders ended up punting against a tough Ravens defense then the Ravens stalled again, forced to accept another field goal.

"First quarter with the score six to nothing after a three and punt by Defenders. Carter Ellison up for The Ravens who start at their own forty yard line. He lines up... back... fires... Interception! Chris Anker has the ball... run off the sideline at the fifty. WHAT A PLAY. Chris came across the field like a missile, no way Carter would have seen that one coming."

The other announcer half agreed, "Except Chris Anker is like some kind of mind reader from a carnival with an almost eerie ability to read people. Chris Anker's first pick of the season." Chris carefully clutched the ball, avoiding a ref who wanted it back, then carefully tucking it away for his collection of souvenirs. That trophy case in his future was going to be Fort Knox AND fireproof.

The score went back and forth until the final play of the game.

"Fourth quarter with the Defenders clinging to their lead 21 to 20. Six seconds left with Carter Ellison up for The Ravens at The Defender twenty yard line. He lines up... back... fires... DEFLECTED! Where the hell did Chris even come from? WHAT A PLAY! Chris knocked the ball into the lower seats in the stands!"

"Time out and The Defenders win 21-20."

The one announcer exclaimed, "Credit to both teams. THAT was football. A grinding match against two powerful teams. The unofficial player of the game is obvious. Chris Anker has some ball finding GPS.."

Chris was mobbed by his team, Josiah lifting him far too easily to the sideline and a Gatorade dump.

Friday, January 3, 2025

Chris had just returned from the gym after his workout, getting ready for their final regular season game against the Colts. Walking inside, he paused and looked at the walls of his place, pictures of himself and Jessica now adorned the walls, blended with the ones with him and his parents. Loving and being loved, images of dozens of their adventures together made this place home. Christmas had been better than the past few; having Jessica in his life made the holidays special.

His phone rang. Chris looked at the Caller ID, "Roy".

Chris answered, a bit puzzled, "Wasn't expecting a call from you. What's up?"

Roy chuckled, "The Defenders reached out to me. They know a good thing... fuck, a great thing... when they see it. They have reached out. Chris... Are you sitting down?"

Chris said a bit unsteadily, 'Yeah. This IS something good, right?""

Roy chuckled, "You could say that. Chris, your third year will be done shortly. I won't get a date until after this Sunday since setting one is not allowed until then, but they want to meet with me about extending your contract as soon as the playoffs are done."

"Chris, they want to extend you five years, three guaranteed. No numbers yet, but you can pick out your Mansion. I'll get you enough of a signing bonus to afford one."

Chris was stunned but the mansion did not really appeal to him, "I'm fine where I am. I like my place."

Roy chuckled, "And ridiculously humble. You're like a human golden retriever. That alone is probably worth a million."

Chris asked, "How much are we talking about? A million or two?"

Roy laughed, "They called this afternoon, but you are off by a factor of five or more Chris, right now, the stats show you are the number five strong safety in the league. Nevermind your batting away the ball to cement a Superbowl win last year."

He quipped to Chris, "Maybe we can call you Batman."

Chris was glad he was sitting down, dumbfounded, "What?"

Roy laughed, "One of my favorite things is telling my clients they are going to be filthy stinking rich. I'll be in town some time after the Superbowl to negotiate in person with them. I'll take you out to dinner and let you know how things are going."

Chris debated who to call first, Jessica or his parents. T-mobile's ability to have multi party calls solved the problem. He selected Jessica then each of his parents and hit send. His mom picked up first, "Chris. You are calling your dad at the same time. Is everything okay?"

His father picked up, "Is something wrong?"

Finally Jessica answered, "Hi Chris! Want me to spend the night!? I'll wear you out again!"

His mom chuckled. Young love was three parts lust and no parts filter, but it was a grand memory she cherished from her own early days with David. "Hi, Jessica. We're also on the line."

Jessica sighed; once again her timing was perfectly bad, "I can never get this stuff right."

His mom said, "Enough. Jessica, you're supposed to want to do all of that 'stuff' and I'm not an idiot. Chris. What's up."

"I'M GOING TO GET A CONTRACT EXTENSION. Roy says big money!"

"I'm proud of you." said by his father who was drowned out by the two women on the line, "AAAAHHHH! YES!"

Chris realized that moment... life at the top looking down.

Somehow, this top was even higher.

Sunday, January 26, 2025

"Fourth quarter, four seconds on the clock for the AFC championship. Bills over the Defenders twenty to seventeen. Four seconds to go. Defenders call an onside kick. Players line up in formation. All hands players on deck! The kick... wobbles into Tyrone Greene, ball still free. CHRIS ANKER HAS THE BALL! He's at the thirty, forty, fifty, forty, thirty, twenty ten...

And!...

Chris anker down at the two foot line! Tackled by Antione Sands. Bills WIN another trip to the Superbowl! Twenty to seventeen! What a final play! One for the highlight reels for years to come!"

The announcer said, "We'll have to give the unofficial player of the game to the Bills Quarterback, Josh Allen. Damn close honorable mention to Chris Anker who damn near pulled a win out of his... uh... backside."

The other announcer quipped, "I'm sure the Defenders front office is dreading meeting Chris's agent. Rumors are swirling that they're pushing for an early contract extension."

Chris got up on his hands and knees, so close but so far from pulling it out. Close only counted for hand grenades. Antione Sands offered him a hand up with a nod. Chris nodded, "Good to see you again, Antione. Always good to play against a fellow Sooner! Go OU! You were in my draft. 4th round, right?"

Antione nodded.

He sighed, looking sourly at how close the goal line was, "Nice tackle, I see a contract extension coming your way."

Antione smiled and nodded, "I think I see one in your future too. Better luck next year." He smirked, "But not too much!"

Chris made a small dig, "You oughta come down to San Antonio after the Superbowl. Buffalo is too fucking cold in winter and we can bullshit about our time at Oklahoma."

Antione smiled, "You buyin?"

Chris smiled, "You like steak?"

Antione laughed, "What kind of dumbass lunatic doesn't like steak?"

Chris nodded, "I know a place. Alamo Prime. You fly your own ass out of the tundra and I'll spring for the steak."

He laughed, "What if YOU pay the airfare and I buy the food?"

Chris rolled his eyes, "I'm not that fucking stupid."

Antione laughed, "Smart move, my wife would kill me if I headed into the sun while leaving her back in the cold. You woulda been stuck with two airfares."

"I remember you were always with that girl.... you did marry Cam... uh... sorry."

"Camryn. Yeah. Married right after graduation. Sorry about Sydney."

Chris sighed, "It sucked, but my current girlfriend is the best."

Antione nodded, "I figured a girl would get you back in the game."

Antione clapped Chris on the back, "Gotta go. I'll get in touch with your agent after the big game." Walking back, the puzzled, 'Crhis wants to hang out. Hes 's like some overgrown happy puppy." Deciding to not overthink it, Chris was one of the good ones. It was sure that several players would create bad publicity for the league with scandals, violence... or both.

Besides, not liking steak WAS fucking stupid.

Friday, February 14, 2025

Antione and wife Camryn came out of the airport, and upon seeing the 'gray camaro' chuckled. The car was really meant for two people and no more. The big man climbing into the back seat after gesturing her to the remaining front seat of Chris's Camaro, "Dude, your car's back seat is fucking tiny!"

Chris laughed, started his car and revved it slightly, "Yeah, but it's a helluva lotta fun."

Antione laughed, Chris was ridiculously easy to like and he was not stupid enough to suggest his wife sit in the back.

Chris smiled, "My girlfriend, Jessica will join us at Alamo Prime."

Antione asked, "Not picking her up?"

Chris laughed, "No. She won't sit in the back seat. She did that once... not again, and she's tiny."

Antione laughed, "Asshole. But a big lineman is supposed to fit back here?"

Chris laughed and scratched his nose with his middle finger, "Josiah Peter and his wife, Shanice are joining us. Gotta spread the happiness that steak brings."

Chris smiled, "Sorry about the Eagles, you guys played em tough."

Antione sighed, "Still feel the Eagles go away from a few penalties, but... our loss. Guess I'll have to drown my sorrows in a Hoss Porterhouse that you are paying for. Yeah, I looked online. 4.9 stars on Tripadvisor. The place must be one of the best."

Susan saw Chris walking in, "Chris! Good to see you again. Jessica is sitting with Josiah and his wife. You're seated in a nice corner table so you won't be disturbed. Chris smiled and said, "You're always the best."

She smiled at the compliment then smiled more at the offered hundred dollar bill. Susan led them to the table, "Rosie will be your waitress. Enjoy your night."

After Rosie took their orders, Camryn had a glint in her eye, "Chris. Your old nemesis stepped in a big pile of shit... again." She looked around and faced Shanice and Jessica, "I'm sure glad The Eagles defeated the Lumberjacks in the NFC championship game. It happened the week before the Superbowl."

Shanice and Jessica were all ears, Shanice smiled, "Do tell!"

Antioned sighed, "Camryn. I'm not supposed to talk about it."

Camryn laughed, "YOU made the promise. I sure as hell didn't, and it's not official anyway. I found out from Imani Washington, wife of one of the Eagles players who got it from Tanisha King, wife of one of the Lumberjacks players.."

Antione sighed and shook his head, "I'm not hearing this. La la la la la."

Camryn kissed his cheek, "You're such a stick in the mud. There is no official ban and I heard it from Tanisha. Besides, I'm not protecting a tomcat like Ty. This one is going to break up a family with kids."

Shanice exclaimed, "No!"

Camryn nodded, "YEP! Remember Chad Channing of Channing Dodge-Ram? His trophy wife sampled Ty and he found out!"

She looked around slyly, "Chad demanded an extension of his exclusive sponsorship to bury the story. They have three kids! He keeps the contract and he files his divorce only for irreconcilable differences instead of making a big stink."

"The contract was supposed to be up and they were in talks with a different dealer group at some multiple of what Chad was paying. They are PISSED! Coach Holden got his ass chewed on by ownership and they may actually try putting a leash on Ty. Only the higher ups at the Lumberjacks know how many of his escapades Holden has buried."

Chris had mixed feelings. The whole Sydney thing felt like decades ago. He had truly moved on and Jessica fit him far better than Sydney. On the other hand, apparently three kids were going to deal with Ty's predatory nature. Yes, both were guilty and bodily autonomy was a right. It was also contrary to marriage vows and marriage vows were a contract which Ty had help destroy.

Fortunately the women switched to telling their men they got to hold bags the following day as the women were going to hit Riverwalk.

Monday, February 17, 2025

Mid morning, the familiar Peterbilt Truck smashing into a car sound ringtone played on Chris's phone. Chris looked at a text.

'Chris. U busy?'

'Not calling me cocktail weenie? Who died?'

'Chris, this is serious. Ty is at it again or rather he's been caught again. Not a teammate, but I feel for the guy because it's all over the internet and bigger than when it happened to you because a local shock jock is pushing it hard.'

'Again!? With what Camryn told us the guy just keeps fucking whatever he wants. What a shithead. Who this time?'

He added, "Does he EVER put his dick back in his pants?"

'Can U handle a video?'

'Am I or anyone I know in it?'

'No. It's from a loge from the Portland Trail Blazers two days ago.'

'I can handle it.'

Josiah sent a link from the subreddit 'watchpeopledieinside'. It was a video taken from someone in a VIP suite at the Moda Center in Portland. There were perhaps two dozen people in it, most dressed nicely. The scene was happy as game noises played in the background and the video went from person to person in a seemingly random manner. They would pan to the people in the suite then to the game for about half a minute until somewhere offscreen, a man says with quite a bit of alarm, "What!? The noise in the suite quieted considerably but the voices were still not particularly distinct."

There was an indistinct female voice saying something then the man said, "Telling me ahead of time does not make this okay."

The camera swung around to a front-side view of a man on the right and a woman on the left with her being closer to the camera phone. You could see his face, but not hers.

She was facing partly away and her voice was still indistinct. He said, "If you do this, we are done."

Ty Jensen came from offscreen to the left, offered his arm and the woman who walked away with him. The camera then focused and zoomed on the man sitting glumly in the chair sitting with his hands on his head in disbelief and distraught.

Five seconds later, the video ended.

Chris texted back, 'Damn, that brought back more than one bad memory.'

Josiah texted, 'The poor guy is going through the wringer locally. As usual, people are excusing and some of them are cheering it on. Throw in the shock jock and it's a giant shitshow.'

'I can identify with that.'

'Maybe you can give him some wisdom that ONLY you could provide. Local press is between unsympathetic and just... some are just evil. That shock jock is running with it on his website.'

'Todd The Toad'?

'Maybe. I dunno.'

Chris texted, 'I found out maybe six months ago the Wheels on the Bus meme was made by Todd.'

'FUCK!'

'He gets off on being... shitty. It works too. He's number one in the morning drive radio market ages 18 to 24' He featured a video where some guy's wife was calling her husband a loser in the bedroom. Someone sent Todd the video and he played the audio a million times on his show and had links to the video. They ended up divorced. Todd thought it was funny and his audience ate it up.'

The press quickly identified the woman as Chloe Taylor, wife of a local restaurateur. Pictures of Ty and Chloe were on various gossip sites and it did not take long for Chris to track down her husband, Ryan Taylor. From there, Linkedin showed him to be the owner of a local restaurant, Malt & Marrow.

Chris sat and thought hard about making the call. He realized that sometimes you at least have to offer and if they say no, you tried.

Chris waited until a half hour before opening, figuring the owner and some staff would be in before they opened. Chris called and a woman answered, "Malt and Marrow".

Chris sighed, "Is Ryan there?"

"He's not taking calls."

"Please. I'm..."

The woman finished, "Going to pile on to one of the best bosses I've ever had. One of the best persons I know. Go to hell..."

Chris sighed, "I'm Chris Anker. I have the same love for Ty Jensen that Ryan has."

The woman stopped and paused, "Wait... Chris Anker... from the Lumberjacks a couple years ago?"

Chris confirmed, "Yeah. I figured I could at least let him know there is a road up. It's gonna be shitty as hell. But there is a road up."

The line went silent and twenty seconds later, a man answered with a huge melancholy sigh, "Damnit Emma, I said no calls."

Chris corrected him, "I'm not Emma."

The man growled, "Another sycophant ten year old fan of Todd. Let me guess, you want to tell me a cuck joke."

"I've been where you are. My wife was cheating with Ty. I found out at a charity banquet in front of two hundred fifty people and the local press."

"Shit!... Chris... um..."

"Anker."

Ryan chuckled a bit, "Great. I'm a fucking charity case being helped by another charity case."

"No, you're not. I just thought if I called, I could help you understand there is a road up."

"Doesn't seem like it."

"Ryan, I'm not gonna lie. It took me two damn years to even have a date... at least a real one."

"I'll never date again."

Chris chuckled, "I said the same thing a hundred times. Then people conspired and played matchmaker. I'm in a serious relationship with a girl who is a literal game changer."

"You poor dumb bastard."

Chris chuckled, "I woulda said that exact same thing three years ago. Been dating my girlfriend, Jessica, for over a year now... and I'm happy in ways I didn't know existed with my first wife."

"Her father told me something... some of the wisest words I ever heard. Guarding your heart yourself against others is your own hell, a self made prison living alone. Someone you love guarding your heart and having your back, is heaven of being part of something bigger."

"You're fucking Socrates. Can I quote your great wisdom, mister philosopher?", he said with an edge of weary sarcasm.

Chris sympathized, "Right now, life is shitty as fuck. It will get better."

Ryan chuckled and said, still sarcastic, "Wow, oh, wise one. At least you got the shitty part down."

'Look. I'm not gonna tell you it's gonna be easy. My blood family came to my literal rescue, flying cross country to help me. I would have crashed hard without them."

Ryan sighed angrily, "My mom is saying to give her another chance. MY MOM! No fucking way. I had a hell of a time not telling my own mom to fuck off."

He sighed explosively, "You know my cheating cunt of a wife actually came in and told me it was just a one off and she would never do it again. I told her to go away. She got mad and told me we had to talk about it."

Chris chuckled, "You know 80's music?"

Ryan was confused, "What!? Not really. Why?"

Chris paused then said, "My dad infected me with an appreciation for it. When you told her to leave you could have quoted other great philosophers besides myself."

"Who's that?"

Chris said in faux seriousness, "The great philosophers, Motley Crue, who said in 1989 and I quote."

"Don't go away mad."

"JUST GO AWAY."

There was silence for a minute.

For the first time in sixteen hours, Ryan laughed.

"By the way, my name is not Socrates, it's So-Crates."

"What?"

Never heard of the other great 1980s philosophers 'Bill and Ted?"

"Huh?"

"Never mind. Look up Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventures some time to get your mind off the shit."

"Uh, okay. You're full of... something. At least none of it is mean."

Ryan sighed, sensing that he may have an ally when most were enemies, "Not gonna tell me to stay with her?"

"FUCK NO! I eventually forgave Sydney, but there was not one fucking snowball's chance if motherfucking hell I was staying married to her."

"Any more wisdom, oh great one." His tone was almost sarcastic yet turning almost warm.

"Don't go after Ty. ANYTHING happens to him and they'll come looking for you first. You can't actually force her out of the house. That's an internet trope that never works and only pisses off the judge hearing your divorce. Lawyer up and do everything he or she says and don't do what they say to avoid. I got a long list of don'ts. It wasn't fun, but I got through it."

"So I can't burn Ty at the stake?"

"I would pay to watch that, but, no. He isn't worth prison for. Chris laughed, "Besides I would rather see you launch him from a trebuchet into a cliff."

"What the fuck is a trebuchet?"

"A medieval siege weapon used for launching rocks and hurling them long distance."

Ryan chuckled, "How about a debarking machine used to strip bark off logs?"

Chris countered, "How about a St. Catherine's wheel?"

Ryan asked, "What is that?"

Chris laughed, "Look it up. Just don't do it right before you want to go to sleep."

Ryan paused and quietly said, "Chris?"

"Yeah"

Ryan sighed, ""Thanks. I'm better... or perhaps less awful."

"No problem. You can save my number. If you need to just bullshit. I'm full of bullshit."

Ryan was bitter, "Ty keeps getting away with it."

Chris agreed, "Yep. Someday it will catch up to him and he will meet a guy who is not afraid of prison."

Ryan paused, "Thanks Chris. I'll save your number."

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Roy picked Chris up from his place in a rented Maybach. Chris got into the passenger side, "Nice car, I'm renting for you."

Roy laughed, "Chris, it's all part of the percentage you give me and it comes out of my end. Dinner is on me... Some place called Elevé at the top of the Cartier River Center Tower."

The elevator opened to a small lobby with glass doors ahead of them that opened automatically as they approached. The place smelled like a big dinner bill. Roy read Chris's uncertainty, "Chris, you still don't see just how big you are."

They approached the hostess station as Roy led the way, "Fitzgerald."

The hostess looked up, "Yes, of course." She looked at Chris, "And Mister Anker." Right this way.

Roy clapped him lightly on the shoulder, "She knows you. See!"

They were seated at a window side table thirty-five stories above the ground, "It's been a productive day. Coach Boone is pushing for you so we are not too far apart. More has to be done, but things are looking good. Let's order and I will give you some initial ranges."

The waitress came, took their drink orders, and promised to return soon, telling them they could partake of the salad cart that would soon be at their table. It was a revelation to Chris having the salad bar come to him on a cart rather than going to the bar. It was also a revelation to have a second cart come by with one hundred different salad dressings available including over a dozen different vinaigrettes.

Roy smirked, "Never been to a place like this?"

Chris shook his head, "My parents went to a place for their twentieth anniversary. It was in Tulsa, though. Kinda similar, but not quite as...", he laughed, "Snooty. They had this chocolate mousse thing that was so rich I could only eat a little of it.'

Chris looked at the menu, "Shit, most of the names are in French. Don't let me order frog or brains or something."

Roy laughed, "Just read below the name. It's all in English. Besides, frog actually tastes good."

Chris shuddered, "Don't make me puke on you."

Roy looked at the menu, "Try the second one down."

Chris saw, 'Filet de Bœuf, Sauce Périgourdine' but read, "Filet de boof, sauce per-a-gor-dine?"

Roy laughed, "A Frenchman would hate you for that pronunciation. It's tenderloin and it won't make you puke on me."

Chris nodded suspiciously until he read the line below it that indeed said tenderloin then relaxed, "Okay."

Once ordered, Roy beamed, "How does fourteen to eighteen million dollars sound?"

Chris was glad he was sitting, "Over five years?"

Roy smiled, almost feral, "No. Over one year for five years. They are already aiming at locking you up for five years. They only want to guarantee three years and of course, I start out at five years guaranteed. We still have a ways to go, but they are being honorable so I am, too."

"Coach Boone started us off right, telling me I was going to ask twenty odd million per year and they would start with ten. 'Let's both admit the market says fourteen to eighteen and cut the bullshit'. I like him. Straight shooter."

Chris, you are looking at somewhere around sixty to eighty odd million dollars with a nice signing bonus. Coach Boone thinks the world of you. You were the reason he signed Wyatt Calhoun who was also part of your big Superbowl win last year."

He paused, "Sorry you only got to the AFC Championship this year."

Chris shrugged, "It hurt then, but I'm already thinking about next season."

"The owners of the team love you as does this whole damn city! You can't buy that kind of good publicity you are generating and you just keep doing it."

Roy shrugged, "That's all I know at this point. We will have a call later this week. If anything comes up, I'll call immediately."

The waitress sat a tray on a stand and started putting plates on the table, Roy smirked, "Enjoy your 'boof'."

Chris looked sourly at Roy, "Dick."

"Yep and this dick will drive a hard bargain for you."

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

From highs to lows. Chris's mom called him at half past ten that night, crying, "Chris. Gramma Izzy died earlier this evening. The funeral is on Saturday in Jacksonville..."

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Chris woke up a bit disoriented until he realized he was in a hotel room in Jacksonville, Florida. Gramma Izzy was gone. The void in his life where she had been was an ache that would never go away, just fade. He forced himself up and to get dressed then met his parents for breakfast at a nearby Waffle House.

He looked at his mom across the table, it was the saddest he had ever seen her; her shoulders slumped; he understood. Gramma Izzy was a force of nature, one he would miss.

DAMN! He missed his crazy gramma.

It was unusual that a funeral would only have the burial urn sitting on a fancy cherry table. She had insisted that they use the cheapest way that was still respectable. Cremation and a silver plate urn fit that well.

The urn was a simple solution. It was silver plate with a simple, 'Isadora Grace Hamilton' and '1946-2025' etched on the side. No thousand dollar custom urn, or three thousand dollar casket; a simple one ordered from Amazon had been waiting in her condo. Those were also clear instructions and the urn was to accompany his parents back to Tulsa to be buried next to her husband.

She would have liked that.

Per her wishes written in crystal clear, if 'blunt' language, the service was short, her instructions crystal clear, 'Don't waste ten minutes blathering about my death. That would be fucking stupid.'

Another simple line, 'I had a great run! Celebrate my memories and no tears allowed!"

There were, of course, tears, but there was even more celebration of Gramma Izzy. Stories flowed and distant family attended. How many people were former bootleggers? How many were running hooch as a teen? Hell, how many were driving a hundred miles an hour in car chases at that age? Jokes about women drivers aside, she was an ace!

Chris walked around, seeing faces he knew and others he didn't. A much older man was near the urn, clearly pondering the moment. Chris was intrigued enough to ask, "How did you know my Gramma?"

He turned and looked at Chris, scanning him, "I knew her and her family back in Wilkes County."

Chris was surprised, "Wow. Way back. Old friends?"

He chuckled, an ironic twinkle in his eyes, "Not exactly. I'm Frank Wilkerson."

Chris was at a loss for words and the old man smiled, "Yes, THAT Frank Wilkerson. Sheriff, though at the time, I was a very young deputy."

"You were talking?"

He nodded, "Last September, she came to Wilkes County and was at the cemetery visiting her grandparents' graves. I was there to visit my parents' graves and we got to talking."

He read Chris and his surprised expression, "Son, the past is long gone. Hell, nowadays, with the right permits, moonshine is legal, though they call it 'craft liquor'. He chuckled, hell, they encourage it now because it brings money into rural counties".

He paused and dropped a verbal bomb, "I was with her when she passed. I just stayed in town until the funeral." Chris was completely stunned and Frank offered, "Want to sit?"

Chris nodded shakily, "Uh.... yeah."

"She passed quietly, you know. We were on her balcony, sipping bourbon, watching the tide go out. It was sunset... pretty evening. We talked about the old times. We nodded off. A few minutes later, I woke up, she was awfully still and I realized she had passed."

He sighed, "There's no good way to die, but that is probably the best. Quiet. Content."

He smiled, "Time heals old wounds." He paused and let the silence hang for over a minute then offered, "I was there the night her family got away."

He smiled a secret smile. Chris caught it, "What are you NOT saying."

He chuckled, thought, then admitted, "Well that day in 1964 that they drove away... Night really. The revenuers were at the sheriff's station with their cars. Probably around fifty of them. It was going to be a big raid to crush the moonshine capital of the US."

He rolled his eyes and scowled, then smiled, "Yeah, I saw Clay Strickland sneak away to warn them."

Chris put the part he knew with the part Frank had told him, "Her sister married Clay! Gramma told me the story. He showed up in Tulsa two months later."

He thought for a second and looked at Frank and realized the implication, "You saw him sneak away... and you did nothing!"

Frank had a glint in his eye, "I didn't like revenuers. None of us in Wilkes did. They had a long list of suspects they were going to raid en masse to crush the spirit out of Wilkes. Hell, they thought of all of us as dumb hicks, even us in the sheriff's department. They came back with some of the people, but not all."

Chris read Frank's expression, "There's more."

Frank shrugged, "Well they were using our cells as a temporary lockup. It was full and no one even had a place to sit."

He scowled, "They were using the sheriff's desk as if they owned it. On his desk was one sheet with the master list of people and addresses and each person or family had a separate sheet in a different pile. Around midnight they had brought back most of the ones they were able to catch. They separated the papers into two piles. The people they got and the ones they didn't. Well they came and went and let's say the master list and a few of the sheets of the ones that got away... their papers 'blew away in the wind'."

Chris was glad he was sitting, "So that is why the feds never caught up to Izzy and her family!"

Frank shrugged, "Maybe and that's my final answer. Back in Wilkes... We didn't like the revenuers. They weren't part of us. They treated us like shit and as far as the locals were concerned, moonshine was a local issue."

*******

That night, only her family gathered around a laptop. His mom had long ago known her mom would put all the important things in that drawer and in that drawer, there was an envelope clearly marked, 'Open me after my funeral'

Inside was a USB stick with a sticker that said, 'Play me'

The video autostarted and Gramma Izzy's face appeared immediately, shifting a bit as she adjusted the camera at the top of the laptop.

"Well, since you are viewing this, I am taking a dirt nap."

"First. Sal Rosenbaum is my lawyer. He has the will and all my instructions. It's all taken care of and there is nothing to fight over, everything goes to my daughter and her family."

"I sure hope you did not roast me wearing any of my good things. No point in burning anything for the urn."

"Angela. There is another envelope at the bottom of that center drawer marked 'Angela'. There are things and instructions in that envelope. You need to look inside that envelope alone when you get back home."

"Chris. Dear, sweet Chris. I hope you are still going with that Jessica girl. She's the feisty woman you need. I hope you are still screwing her silly, but please, make an honest woman out of her. She will be a great mom."

She smiled, "You are very good for each other. I can see the way you look at each other. It is the way Wade and I looked at each other and that is a good thing."

"Well, I guess that's it. I want you to know that I am deeply grateful for my family. A life well lived is a gift and I have had that life."

"Love you!"

She reached toward part of the computer and the video ended.

Monday, March 10, 2025

Chris's mom called him, "Gramma had more instructions for me in that envelope at the bottom of the drawer. Chris, I have to ask you something very serious. Are you close to... you know... proposing to Jessica?"

Chris was glad he was sitting down at the abruptness of the question then admitted, "Yeah. I've been looking at diamonds."

His mom said, "Don't"

Chris was shocked until his mom told him why, then he smiled.

Monday, March 17, 2025

Chris's phone buzzed and he picked up, "Hey, Roy. Still a bit down, but... give me some good news."

How does, "Seventeen million five hundred thousand! sound" Five years total is over eighty seven million. Rather than bitch at each other we met in the middle with 4 years guaranteed

Chris sat down heavily, "I don't know what to say... I..."

Roy laughed, "The best part is your signing bonus will be thirty million! Even after I get done picking your pocket and the feds take half your pocket, you are looking at something around seventeen million net to you payable ten days after you sign! I'm flying in tomorrow! That is unless you don't want seventeen million dollars in a couple weeks."

Thursday, March 20, 2025

It was all timed, of course, at exactly one thirty, Chris walked into the press room of The Defenders practice facility as cameras clicked and reporters waited. Chris walked up to the table to Coach Boone, paused then had their symbolic handshake then Chris sat down at the table next to his coach; the wall behind him adorned with the Defenders name and mascot.

Local and national sports press crowded the room. Feel good stories about good people were in short supply in professional sports. With the drip drab of NFL players creating scandals, Chris was the breath of fresh air the NFL brass loved. Today, the good guy with extreme talent was going to make it big; and the public, hungry for a genuine hero winning, would eat it up.

Off to the side, his parents, the Danners, and Josiah and his wife stood, as witnesses and his emotional support. After a short press conference with all-too-predictable questions, the press filed out as fast as it had filed in. Chris walked over to his parents and local support system, "Thanks for being here."

Josiah looked at him and laughed, "With this money, I figured you might be able to afford some dick enlargement pills you see on the internet, cocktail weenie."

"Asshole."

Josiah grinned.

Michael Danner thanked him back for letting him bear witness to the signing, the opportunity of a lifetime for a loyal team fan. Chris's dad clapped him on the back and handed him a card, "Mark, our money guy needs to talk to you. You had a lot of money before so he could do typical management, but now you have a mountain of it coming. You need to give him several hours on the phone. He will be here next week to get you to sign everything."

He smiled, "Damn, I'm proud of you, son!"

Josiah bro hugged him hard enough Chris wondered if he had some broken ribs.

Friday, March 21, 2025

Chris was in his back yard grilling two strip steaks waiting for Jessica when his phone buzzed. Looking down he was surprised to see it was Ryan Taylor, "Hello".

Ryan teased, "Hello So-crates. Yeah, I watched that movie. Funny 1980s shit you could never do in a film today, but I enjoyed it.

"I gotta get the fuck outa portland. One more joke featuring some form of the word cuck is going to land me in jail. Bergen Group Restaurants was interested in buying me out before the mess with the soon to be ex. I told them no at the time, but I gotta get out of here and start somewhere new. How's the steakhouse situation there?"

"Sorry man, Alamo Prime is the big fish here. I'm there enough they know me by name. Friday and Saturday the line is out the door."

Ryan sighed, "Shit. Maybe another town, it's just I could use a friendly face or two."

Chris thought for a moment, "Chicken. We need a good chicken place. Sit down, but no wait staff. Someplace where the chicken does not have more breading on it than chicken and someplace people can take their kids and not end up with a hundred twenty dollar check after tipping."

"Chicken? Damn, I know restaurants, but I've owned a steak place forever. I need a concept and a plan."

Chris had an idea after thinking, "I'll talk to my girlfriend then give her your number. She's damn amazing at marketing."

"Thanks. You know you've shown me more kindness in a couple phone calls than I have received from most everyone else in the past five weeks."

"Sad"

"Yeah, it is."

Thursday, March 27, 2025

"Hello So-crates."

Chris laughed, "What can I do for you Mr. Chicken?"

Ryan laughed, "Well... Want to invest some of your hard earned money?"

"What!?"

"I'm almost ready to leave Portland. I was driving into the parking lot of my restaurant when I saw this purple haired asshole in my parking lot carrying a sign with a picture of Ty Fucking Jensen. I was actually thinking of running my car into him until Emma came out with the janitor's bucket and dumped the mop water on him. He swung on her and hit her then she brought out a can of bear mace."

"No charges, but local police are not amused and watching them both."

He groused, "Todd the Toad hired the guy and an accomplice to video my reactions using a Go-Pro. Again, no charges, but I'm going to get myself or Emma thrown in jail. I'm training the new management as part of my deal with Bergen to buy me out."

"My soon-ex wife wanted to fight until I said fuck it and offered to sell the restaurant rather than fight putting a theoretical value to it. After paying the bitch off and selling our place and all that bullshit, I have Two point one million and a Penske truck full of my shit waiting to roll."

"My problem is, I ran some early numbers and launching the restaurant is one point one million all in. Cash flow is a thing and I don't want to sink all my money in one place while leaving me significant reserves for the rest of my needs. I need two hundred fifty thousand to make sure cash flow doesn't squeeze me out of business before it gets some legs to it. I had twenty percent available for the two hundred fifty grand, but your girlfriend beat you to ten percent of it. She bought ten percent at one twenty five after her father looked at the idea... shit.... HER idea I'm pretty sure she had it just lying around a bank or something."

Chris laughed, "She probably does. Her father has been building her wealth since she was born."

Ryan complimented, "Your girlfriend is ridiculously brilliant."

Chris smiled proudly, "I know, but where did that come from?"

"I explained what I wanted to do and she just ran with it."

"She came up with the idea for the logo featuring a friendly looking and brightly colored parrot holding a 1960's style electric guitar, then gave me the name, 'Rawk and Roll". You know, parrots sound kind of like 'Rawk'."

"The idea is so good I just offered to sell her part of it before contacting you. I figure I'd get it back ten fold in marketing ideas with her on board. She said yes, the next day. Her father ran my background and I get the feeling a hundred thousand really isn't much money to her or her father."

"Once she was on board, the next day after that, I had a concept menu, a marketing plan, and even a few interior renderings. Then she hit me with a whole bunch of ideas like buy a regular entree and you can get one very low priced kids meal. That way two parents can come in with two kids and not go bankrupt but one parent coming in with a baseball team won't bankrupt me. Then she hits me with ideas about different flavors and food themes and a hundred things, all brilliant and all at once. Oh, and we're adding pulled pork to the menu- all Tex Mex in a rock-and-roll decor."

"Anyway, she insisted I offer you the remaining ten percent interest for one hundred twenty five thousand dollars, just like her. I mean, I would ask for some publicity and showing up a bit, especially at launch to generate local interest, but I'll run it and we can work out a percentage of EBITDA. Sorry. Accounting term."

Chris laughed, "I have known what EBITDA is since I was twelve. My father owns a logistics business in Tulsa and brought me into work every summer starting when I was six. I'm in, If Jessica's dad thinks it will fly. It will. He has a mountain of business interests."

Friday, April 4, 2025.

Chris's phone rang... Damn. His eyes opened, it was still dark outside. Fuck. He had a nice handful of Jessica's right breast and his morning wood was against her bare bottom. It was heaven and someone was bothering him while it was still dark.

He rolled over as Jessica groaned a bit in protest. Taking his phone he saw it was six in the morning, "Dad. You're killing me. It's six in the morning."

His father chuckled, "Get off Jessica. Get dressed and showered. Your money hit at midnight last night. Mark was on the five thirty AM flight from Tulsa and he will be in Live Oak around one this afternoon where you will meet him at his room at The Courtyard by Marriott."

"Meanwhile, you need to get a whole load of paperwork together to start setting things up. You have an eight AM appointment. Head to the Marseille BankTower on the third floor, downtown San Antonio where you will meet Gillian Jones of HRH Partners who is going to present you with a literal mountain of tax forms, powers of attorney, and every other financial and legal business nightmare my life has been. Congrats kid, you're in the money big leagues now. Chris, Jessica needs to be elsewhere, I know you two are serious, but until she is your spouse, you do this alone."

Jessica was rousing, still disoriented, but her first smile of the morning was the best way to start

"My signing bonus hit the bank last night. I have to go do legal stuff."

"AHHH! YES!" She bounced out, "Congrats. I LOVE YOU. I'll get out of your hair."

She went into the bathroom then emerged brushing her teeth, facing him while still naked, deliberately making her breasts jiggle. She loved her power to distract him.

When he arrived at the first appointment, a man named Elliot Harris was introduced as 'his lawyer' and he was told to sign something. Elliot cleared his throat, expecting the paper with his hand out. He scanned it then handed it to Chris after nodding.

And this...

And this...

It took several minutes for each step. Elliott looked at each paper or contract, even objecting to a term in the tenth or fifteenth or whatever item it was. Chris trusted his dad and Elliott was somehow sent by his dad. One of the items took Elliott fifteen minutes to finish. He said, "Page two is supposed to read one half percent, not one percent. Elliott was not only an attorney, he was some kind of speed reading savant.

The afternoon was similar except Elliott mainly stayed in the background as he went over reams of diagrams and charts and... it was mind numbing. In the end, Mark suggested they head to a sports bar, have dinner, and finish.

Chris arrived home at nine, exhausted. How could signing papers be exhausting?

Jessica called, "Hey Chris. LOVE YOU! How did it go?"

Chris sighed, "I'm exhausted. How could signing papers be so damn exhausting?"

She laughed, "I had my day, too, and you're right. It was exhausting. Though, my money guy had an amazing catered lunch sent in."

"Huh?"

Jessica laughed, "Chris, you know damn well that my dad is um, well your gramma put it best, LOADED. He set up a trust the day I was born. He has been offloading money and creating companies and LLCs and just this monster list of holdings and putting them into a trust for my brother and I our entire lives. Four days after I turned 18, I spent the day with my money guy signing things and getting plans in place. I will only gain control over parts at certain ages, but I still had to choose between a low, medium, and high path depending on how aggressively I wanted my money to be handled.."

"What are you saying?"

"Chris. My dad has been building my wealth for 23 years. I'm worth way more than you. Even after your contract is finished. Sorry."

Chris laughed, it only made sense, "Damn, I walked right into that. DUH. Of course your dad has been doing that."

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Chris texted CC, "You available?"

CC texted back, "Sure. What do you need? Jessica is with her mom at the grocery store."

"I need to ask you something."

THOSE words hit CC hard, he knew and smiled, "Why don't you wait until my wife gets back. Relax son, I'm going to say yes and Lauren will skin me if she doesn't also get to be in on it. I'll have Lauren send Jes out on some overlong errand."

CC responded two minutes later, "Lauren is sending Jes out. I'll text you when it's okay."

At forty minutes after seven, CC texted, "My wife and I would love to hear what is on your mind."

He texted, 'Relax, kid, we're looking forward to this.'

Chris sighed, so much for surprise.

The front door of the Crockett home was open before Chris had stopped his car. Lauren came out first, her face glowing with a giddy excitement as CC smiled, welcoming Chris. CC led Chris into the large family room and smiled, gesturing to a sofa and asking wryly, "Why, whatever would you want to talk to us about, Chris?"

CC and Lauren, their excitement easy to read, had enormous grins.

Chris spluttered a bit, still nervous though the upcoming answer was obvious, "Well, uh. Jessica and I have been dating for quite a while and well, we are in love. Uh, I would like your blessing to marry your daughter."

CC smiled and Lauren was hugging him before CC could say, "We would love to welcome you into our family. Our answer is yes."

Chris gasped a bit as Lauren had a strong hug for a female. It was a true mama bear hug.

Once CC had extricated Chris from his wife's hug, he patted him on the back, "Chris you are like something from the past when honor meant everything. We will do anything to help you prepare your proposal.

He met Chris's eyes, "Relax, son, she's gonna say yes. You're damn near all she talks about."

Chris shrugged, "I'm not sure I have a place or a plan, but I'll think of one."

Lauren intervened, "Let the woman tell you how to make a proposal that a woman will treasure until the end of her days."

Chris looked at CC and seeing the wisdom of her words, nodded in agreement.

Saturday, April 19, 2025

Chris arrived with his parents per the plan at half past five, CC answering the door before he could push the doorbell, 'Chris!"

He smiled brightly, "Son."

That one shocked Chris and CC cleared the air, "Relax. It is all arranged. I've had workers preparing the backyard and I've followed all of Lauren's suggestions to make this perfect for Jes. Soon we will be family and I don't think there is a better man out there to welcome into my family."

CC had gone big for his little girl, having sent her out with her mom for an entire day of high end spa treatments followed by a five star 'girls' dinner. Workers had been hired and descended on the backyard to create the right atmosphere.

At half past eight, Jessica came into a dark house with her mom and saw a strange glow coming from the backyard. She looked at her mom, "Mom, what's going on?"

Her mom could not hide her own giddy excitement. That funny smile her mom had been trying to hide was now obvious. Jessica paused then suspected.

Her mom suggested, "Maybe we should see if your father is in the backyard." That quirky grin did not fade. The suspicion grew.

Lauren gestured her daughter to head down the stairs ahead of her and out the sliders to the back yard, now filled with faerie lights. She saw Chris ahead of her standing in his Hart Shaffner and Marx navy blue suit with a ring box in his hand and a hopeful smile.

She knew.

Looking left, Chris's parents, David and Angela. Behind them, Chris's best friend and his wife, Josiah and Shanice. Looking right, her father and her brother.

All of this was done for her. They had all set up to make this moment perfect.

And it worked.

Chris got down on one knee. Jessica was almost jumping in anticipation with the biggest smile of her life, waiting to say yes. He saw her eagerness which made things infinitely easier, having his answer long before she spoke a word. Chris opened the ring box, inside was an antique platinum ring with a half carat European cut diamond. The band, intricate with a leaf pattern on each side of the diamond.

"Jessica, would you do me the great honor of marrying me? This was my gramma's ring. She wanted me to give it to you."

That news broke Jessica, her eyes filled with tears as she nodded and presented her ring finger, finally she squeaked out, "Yes!"

Jessica watched as he put the ring on her finger. It was actually happening. IT WAS ACTUALLY HAPPENING!

She kissed him then needed that hug, the hug of the man she was going to grow old with. Tight. Warm. Just right.

She looked at them and beamed, "I'm getting married!!!"

A DJ, previously hidden, saw CC signal and the sound system started and lyrics played, "Sometimes I wonder..." THEIR song started...

Friday, June 6, 2025

Ugly Stick had contacted Chris, wanting to shoot another commercial and knowing the NFL season could be tight, wanted to make good use of Chris's contract. Savannah Thorne and Austin Campbell arrived at Chris's place again, this time, two overnight bags were sitting just outside the front door instead of one.

Chris answered the doorbell with Jessica standing beside him. She smiled, "Jessica, your idea for the commercial was one of the best I've heard in a long time."

Chris pulled Jessica into a nice side hug, "She's the best. Soon-to-to be my wife."

Savannah uncharacteristically melted, "Aww. You two are adorable!" She shook it off and looked at Chris, "I knew a girl would snatch you up."

She looked at her watch and said, "Daylight's wasting, let's get moving. We will start shooting bright and early tomorrow morning. I have three of the deluxe king rooms at the Bass Bay Resort. Hope you like steak, Jessica because we are headed to their steakhouse and I can't wait to have one, paid for on my expense account!"

Saturday, June 7, 2025

The director shouted, "The Reel Catch. Take one!"

Chris fought a big bass with his Ugly Stik rod, eventually landing the good sized bass. Chris said his line, "Another nice catch, thanks to Ugly Stik. The only pretty thing I need is my fiance!"

The shot widened out to Chris facing the camera and Jessica at the other end of the boat, seated at his back dressed down but adorable as ever in an Ugly Stik T-shirt, jeans and an Ugly Stik hat with her own Ugly Stik rod in hand.

As Chris mugged for the camera with his fairly impressive fish, Jessica held up a line with two slightly larger fish and flared her brows.

"And CUT!"

He looked at Savannah who shrugged, "Doing this was supposed to take longer. First take.... Well it was perfect. Uh, guess we could all fish for a few hours. I have gear in the back of the SUV."

Chris thought, ''Yet another great thing about Jessica, she likes fishing.'

Saturday, August 30, 2025

On the one week before the regular season was to begin, and once again, Chris was woken by 'Don't Stop Believing', the words held a different meaning to him now, overcoming the disaster and Portland. The solid marriages of those around him and the love of Jessica had given him new faith where there had been none.

He rolled onto his back and thought about how Jessica had smashed her way through his emotional walls with ridiculous ease. Blessings can come from unexpected directions. His father knocked on his bedroom door, "Time to get up, son. We need you to be there for Jessica and not give her any slight inkling you aren't going to show."

Chris knew the power he held over her heart... the power to devastate her, and he was determined to never use it. He got up and with his dad's help was at Garden Ridge Community Church an hour early so as to not raise any alarms. Jessica must not be given the slightest hint of a doubt.

He sent a text to her, 'Can't wait to marry you! 'heart' Chris'

He got back a dozen 'heart' emojis a minute later.

Chris was in the groom's room at the church when CC knocked on the door and David answered it. CC asked, "May I come in? I am unaware of any rules against anyone seeing the groom."

David smiled, "Of course not. Come in."

CC smiled then pulled a silver pocket watch out of his pocket, "This is one of the things my great, great.." He counted his fingers as he spoke, "... Great, Great... Great Grandfather, Robert Crockett owned. I am passing it to you so that it may pass to one of your children."

Chris clipped the watch onto the vest, stunned, "I.... I'm honored."

CC smiled, "That day you met Jessica in my office. Son, I had the pleasure of seeing my daughter fall in love. She took one look at you and fell helplessly in love with you. That wound she carried from Connor healed completely that day. The scar remained, but she finally healed and her heart believed."

"I saw her heart torn to pieces that day she was left at the altar, but she never loved him like she does you so it worked out and she is marrying the man she was supposed to marry all along. Perhaps it was fate that she got the same scar just like you so you could understand each other on a truly higher level."

"Confession time. I know you know part of it but the full truth is we planned the whole thing out even from the point of arranging to meet you. My wife saw that picture of you mourning Noah Anker on San Antonio dot com and told me I had to work with her to make you our son-in-law. I agreed to see what happened and once I saw her fall in love, the whole time, we were interviewing for the position of son-in-law."

"To her, the sun rises and sets with you. She took one look at you and fell in love so my wife and myself did everything we could to encourage it."

He sighed and almost teared up, "Please. Guard her heart. You could hurt her a hundred times more than Connor ever could. Remember what I said about having power and not using it."

Chris shook his head, "I would never deliberately hurt her!"

He smiled warmly, sighed and said with a soft voice, "I know, son, I know."

He chuckled, "It's a bug and a feature... and apparently a trait she got from her mom. On our tenth anniversary, Lauren admitted it happened to her. When she met me, she fell in love right then and there and knew we would have a great life together. I have no regrets. Lauren is all I ever dreamed of for a wife. All these years later I am happy and content with my life. I wish you the same."

He looked at his watch, "Fifteen minutes to showtime. This time, Jessica is going to leave the church on top of the world."

With a couple minutes to go, Jessica walked out of the dressing room a little nervous in her ankle length A-Line dress. CC read her mood, "Relax. He's here and he is very much looking forward to marrying you."

Jessica thanked her father's small courtesy in reassuring her with a small cheek kiss, "Thank you, daddy."

CC smiled, "You're welcome, Jes. Relax and enjoy your day. This one is going to fulfill your dreams."

They reached the entry doors and Jessica made her grand entrance on the arm of her dad, saw that Chris was waiting for her at the end of the aisle, and melted. That perfect smile, knowing this time, it was going to all work out.

At the end of the aisle, CC lifted the veil, kissed his daughter's cheek, whispering, "Savor this. Every second. Enjoy."

Jessica nodded and joined him at the altar. In honor of being Chris's good luck charm, Susan Danner, dressed in a definitely reusable and very pretty dusty gold slip dress, was the maid of honor. Her long-standing role as Chris's good luck charm for games expanded to be a blessing for their marriage.

Josiah, in his oversized yet perfect tux, was best man for his brother-from-another-mother. Jessica broke several times during her vows, Chris almost did once, and the vows were made and the rings exchanged. Jessica looked Chris directly in the eyes when she said, 'Forsaking all others'. And even ad libbed, "I promise."

Two became one.

Chris walked out of the church with his bride and stopped when he saw Gramma Izzy's Golden Caddy Convertible gleaming in the weakening sunlight, waiting to take them to the reception. He smiled. It was a perfect fit for the day. Josiah played chauffeur and with a grand bow and flourish said, "Your ride awaits."

The bride and groom made their grand entrance and took their seats at the center of the head table, Josiah taking the seat to the other side of Jessica and Susan on the other side of Jessica. Once all had arrived and everyone was settled, it was time...

"And now, we have the first dance between husband and wife."

A Piano solo started... THEIR song played, 'Sometimes I wonder...'

Jessica put her arms around Chris's neck, looked up and slowly danced to 'When I See You Smile', the song that was playing when he had first told her he loved her.

That circle had completed in that perfect moment of the spotlight on the darkened dancefloor as she looked up at her husband with the perfect smile... The song faded and the moment ended as the rest of the guests joined them on the floor.

Once the dance was done and the music faded, the lights came up and it was time for the speeches.

As everyone seated again, CC clinked his goblet, "Welcome friends and family. Thank you for coming. It is my privilege to host the wedding of my beloved daughter and her husband, a man I have come to admire. A man, though from Oklahoma, has a heart as big as Texas. Ladies and Gentlemen, I toast, Chris and Jessica Anker. Now the groom's father."

David stood, "I thank CC for an event as grand as his heart. I could not ask for a better father-in-law for my son."

CC smiled widely.

David continued, "I am grateful that my son has found love with such a wonderful young woman. The journey in life can have a lot of big bumps." He let the words hang just a moment then finished, "Here's to the rest of the road being smooth."

He looked over at Josiah, "Have anything to say? ANYTHING?"

Josiah laughed, "My momma didn't raise me to mess up a time like this. Chris, you are the big man among big men. You have touched many lives for the better, mine included. I'm glad you have healed and now join your life with your wonderful bride."

Josiah sat down, glanced over at David with a smirk as if to silently ask, "You thought I was gonna mess up his best man's wedding speech?"

They were about to go onto the dinner when Angela interrupted, "There is one more toast."

A large TV was wheeled in. His mom used the remote to start. A face appeared... Gramma Izzy, "Hello Smokey. Now that I'm dead, there is nothing you can do to avoid me giving you a proper wedding toast. No one is going to deny the wish of the departed. Avoiding me worked the first time... It ain't working today."

"My Wade was taken too early. Racing at his Age!... not his best moment. Big trees can't dodge a Mustang. I guess it was always in him."

She smiled wistfully, "Harkens back to our bootlegger days. He never grew up. I guess that is why I loved him. My point is to love each other as if it is going to be your last together and remember every day is a gift."

"My golden boat is yours. You need a big boat to haul my grandbabies and their crap in style and my gold Caddy is style. When they are old enough, take them to The Grand Canyon in it like I did. My spirit will be along for that ride."

She smirked, "And my Caddy sure can kick ass!"

"I only ask three things, "One is to love each other until death do you part. If you seek contentment from each other rather than excitement, it comes a lot easier. The second is that you pass my rings on. They were my grandmas and I want them to stay in the family. Give them to your grandchildren. Failing that, give them to my sister's grandchildren or their kids. Three. A wood box will arrive with all but one of my bottles of my Woodford Reserve at your place in a few days. Your mom has it and will ship it so it arrives after the wedding. On your anniversary, toast your ole gramma with a shot."

She smiled. "I wish I coulda been there. Love each other into old age!"

She laughed, "And fuck each other silly!"

"I love you Chris..."

Her smile shifted a bit as she changed her smile and her focus becoming softer, "and Jessica... You're an amazing, smart, feisty young woman."

She smiled broadly, "Izzy approves."

The video ended and a silver cart was brought out. On top was a single bottle of Woodford and a small stack of shot glasses. Each member of the Ankers and the Crocketts tipped a shot of Woodford to remember Gramma Izzy

Dinner came out after the speeches, strip steaks from Prime Provisions, grade-A Prime of course. Vegetarian alternatives were available for those blasphemous to refuse steak. The wedding cake was cut, no mashing when they fed each other the pieces. There was a message there too; be kind.

Coach Boone was there with his wife, kids and his older grandkids. Michael Danner was there for his wife, it was also the highlight of Michael's year as he met a dozen players as Chris led him around to personally meet them. Kevin and Lyndsey Anker attended, arriving in their rig. There was a distant sadness behind their eyes, but they looked worlds better then when he had seen them last.

Chris had invited Ryan, but was surprised to see him with a woman. Still hand in hand with Jessica, he approached.

Chris found it amusing, "Well... look what the cat dragged in. Hello Ryan. This sure looks like a woman. I thought you swore women off after Portland."

The woman grinned knowingly, "I'm Emma." The woman smirked, waiting for Chris to make the connection.

Chris was shocked, then recalling the bear mace incident, smirked as big as Emma, "I'll be a son-of-bitch! This IS a surprise."

Ryan looked at the ground with an ironically happy resignation, "She showed up at my new place three weeks ago... with a suitcase and a U-Haul."

Emma's smirk was so faux innocent it was almost evil, "I always liked him and he had left Portland. It was now or never... we can't let the good ones get away. Can we?"

Chris laughed then laughed louder, "You are so... caught already. Who is the poor dumb bastard now?"

Ryan sighed, "I am."

Emma smirked, "Hey. HE was the one that kept emailing me talking about his new restaurant and stuff, even after his divorce was finalized. What can I say, women like sweet, strong and successful men."

She shrugged, "I have to powder my nose." She kissed Ryan's cheek, "Be back in a minute."

Ryan wisely said nothing. Chris clapped Ryan on the back, "Two things. First, women run good relationships and she is running you. She bear maced a guy on your behalf. A good sign if there ever was one. Ryan. Two. Believe. Okay. Let me show you the shorter path because I took the long one. Just believe."

Jessica smirked for a big verbal bomb, "By the way. She lied."

Both men looked at her shocked and Jessica clarified, "The way she looks at you. She loves you Ryan and has for a very long time. I know you're not there yet. Understand that she loves you. I can see it. It's a girl thing. We can tell. Sharing your dreams with a woman who likes you is just about the biggest invitation we know for us to seduce you and emailing her your plans, was just that."

She laughed, "This is YOUR fault!"

She looked slyly, "How long until she was in your bed?"

Ryan sighed, "About five minutes after she arrived."

Jessica laughed fully, "SEX! Our best and most devastating weapon and what's great as it is a very pleasurable weapon to use! She hooked you in record time! Good on her!"

She got serious and met his eyes, "She chanced EVERYTHING to follow you. She always wanted you and respected your marriage until it was gone then picked up her entire life and she drove two thousand miles to follow you. Think about what that means."

Jessica tugged on Chris's sleeve, "Come on. The poor guy has a lot of thinking to do and only a few minutes to do it before Emma gets back."

Guests started to drift out around nine that night. As things started winding down after dinner, Josiah asked Chris, "Smokey?"

Chris sighed, "Was visiting gramma. There was a pine tree... and a bottle rocket my friend and I had fired. Pine trees burn easy when it's dry. She never forgot."

Josiah laughed, "Now that is funny!"

Chris gave him a sour look, "Not really."

Josiah clapped him on the back, "Yeah, really"

He grinned evilly, "Smokey!"

December 25, 2025

There was a knock at the door, "Chris. Get off my daughter. Both of you get your asses downstairs. We do Christmas right in this household. Early with lots of presents then we have LOTS OF BACON!"

That woke Chris with a start, a bit disoriented until he realized he was in the Crockett's mansion.

Jessica giggled, "And what if I want you ON me?"

She teased only a couple seconds then bounced out of bed, heading into the en-suite then emerging to brush her teeth facing him full frontal nude, as always adding some extra breast jiggle as she brushed. She loved the distracting power her nudity held over Chris and was unafraid to use it.

He grinned then got up, going to touch her womanhood. She skittered away shaking her head then headed back into the bathroom to spit and rinse, "Nuh uh! Get a move mister. The tree is waiting!"

After brushing his teeth and a proper good morning Chris, they dressed and headed down to the great room overlooking the pool. CC and his wife did Christmas the same way they did Disney, Go big or go home. They went big. Lights, garlands and Christmas decor were everywhere in the common areas of the home. The center of Christmas was the twelve foot Christmas tree that dominated the great room.

Chris walked into the great room, hand in hand with Jessica. His mom looked over at him and smiled, loving the sight of his son loving and being loved, "You two are endearing. MERRY CHRISTMAS!"

His dad joined them from the kitchen, handing his wife a Christmas hot chocolate then sitting beside his beloved on a loveseat to the right of the tree. CC and Lauren came out, followed by CC Junior.

CC smiled, loving playing host, "Welcome family! Merry Christmas!"

Before any gifts were opened, CC turned the eighty inch TV on, changed the channel to TBS; no Christmas was Christmas without 'The Christmas Story' playing all day in the background.

Jessica looked over at nine identical enormous boxes, all wrapped in shiny red paper with green bows sitting next to three long cylinders wrapped identically. She looked at the tags, "They say Jessica! Ohh! They're huge!"

Chris laughed and handed her a box the size of a shoe box, "Those are for last. This is for everyone, but my beloved wife opens it for us." he smiled at his father-in-law, "Your generosity during that Disney trip taught me something. I shouldn't be reckless, but money should be used for making memories. So... inspired by my father-in'law, this summer... Jessica, "Open the box."

Jessica opened the box then froze and looked at Chris... you mean?"

Chris smiled, "Hold up the paper."

It was an 11x17 paper folded in half. Jessica held it up, on it was a picture of Minehead, in Somerset. Chris smiled and looked at CC, "You said some of your best memories were walking the South West Coast Path with Jessica over several summers. I figure the long side of two weeks each year for the next four should cover walking the entire length. This time, EVERYONE goes."

He smiled at CC, "MY treat. No arguing... right CC?"

CC smiled and shook his head, "Damn kid, you're like some internet story character written by a nutball. Way too good to be real."

Chris shrugged, "You told me about making memories. I took that lesson to heart."

Chris had a hit on his hands and he knew it. Smiles all around.

CC gave his wife a trip to Dominica. CC junior got the laptop to end all laptops to take back to college.

Chris's dad gave his wife a Rhine River cruise. The gifts seemed endless, taking over two hours to unwrap, even with two people unwrapping at the same time.

Jessica looked around, multiple trash bags held all the discarded wrapping and only the nine enormous boxes and cylinders remained.

Chris pointed to one of the boxes, There's a big envelope on one of them, open it."

Jessica hurried to open the envelope and was briefly confused. There was a small pile of papers and a card. Chris said, "Read the card."

She opened the card, 'Dear Jessica. Your commercial with Chris was such a rousing success that we want to include you. You are his perfect foil.

Together, you're adorable.

Contract enclosed. Also enclosed is enough fishing gear to last a lifetime, just like what we sent Chris.'

Welcome to the Pure Fishing family.

Savannah Thorne'

Jessica teared up a bit, the commercial had been fun and she loved fishing with Chris.

Lunch was a pile of bacon half a foot tall and dinner was Beef Wellington. The final act of the night was watching the film Elf. Christmas is never complete until Elf has been seen at least once.

Walking up the stairs that night hand in hand with Jessica he asked her, "Good Christmas?"

She smiled, "The best, but not quite complete." She looked around, saw no one was around, then rubbed his crotch, "Complete will be after you make love to me..."

Sunday, February 8, 2026

Super Bowl Sunday! The second one for Chris.

Chris came out of the tunnel at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, California to a crowd half cheering and half booing in an electric atmosphere. The big show for the second time! At the end of the national anthem, two F35's screamed past the stadium on a low pass, adding to the spectacle.

Life at the top!

Once introduced, Chris went to his bench then scanned the club level finding his wife, in-laws, his parents, and his good luck charms, The Danners. All were wearing new Chris Anker number forty-four jerseys.

Elias "EJ" Jenkins was designated captain to make the call. His 102 yard miracle run having given The Defenders their final score in their win over The Bengals in the AFC championship game. Wyatt Calhoun, Chris, and Josiah accompanied him to midfield where the head referee explained the toss. Juan Morales and Javier Hernandez were the special guests to flip the coin, having rescued a mom and her three kids trapped in a rapidly sinking vehicle during the Hill Country Floods of the previous July.

Elias correctly called the toss and deferred.

Chris teased Josiah about him guessing his previous toss wrong, "See. I can do it. EJ can do it. Why are YOU the only one who gets it wrong?"

Josiah made it a point to fart on Chris after he sat down at the bench waiting to be sent on field.

The first three possessions were three and outs Washington taking a three to nothing lead near the end of the first quarter.

"Washington leads San Antonio ten to seven with three minutes seventeen seconds to go in the second quarter. Third down and eleven.. Washington on their own thirty-two yard line. Carson Blaine has the snap and goes back looking for a receiver. He has time... he looks. He looks again, pressure from the strong side. Jared Jones is breaking left. Blaine passes... knocked away hard by Chris Anker. Washington will be forced to punt. That's the second hard tipped ball by Chris. Carson needs to be careful, Chris is once again using his voodoo skills to home in on the ball."

The halftime score was still ten to seven at the half. The game remained close throughout the second half. EJ Jenkins finally got The Defenders into the lead halfway through the fourth quarter.

"The Defenders lead Washington twenty four to twenty with one minute seven seconds to go in the fourth quarter with two timeouts. Second down and seven.. Washington on their own forty. Carson Blaine has the snap and goes back looking for a receiver. Dashawn Dixon is breaking. Blaine passes... interception! Chris Anker has the ball and... OHHHHH!"

Five seconds later the announcer sighed, "UGH! That is not good. I don't think knees bend that way. This looks bad. Very bad."

Medical staff were on the field quickly andChris was taken off the field in a golf cart, stopping only long enough so Chris could watch his team and run out the clock. His knee hurt like hell, but somehow it hurt a little less with their second Super Bowl win.

Six hours later, Chris was in a hospital room with his wife, both sets of parents, and Coach Boone. Doctor Patel came into the room shaking his head, "Sorry. I can fix it enough for you to be a husband and father pretty well, but you are never going to play professionally again."

He looked at some paperwork, "You will need surgery which we tentatively have scheduled Next Monday, February the 16th."

Coach Boone looked like someone killed his puppy as he closed his eyes in regret. There was now a big hole in the defense that needed filling the next year. He nodded his head, being the strategic planner, he was already doing mental draft moves. Still, there was one task to be completed. He went to a duffel bag he had sitting on a chair and brought out a ball signed by all his teammates, "They wanted you to have this."

He smirked at Chris, "It's the ball you stole from Washington, signed by everyone."

Chris sighed knowing this was the end of his NFL playing days, "Sorry coach. I guess this is the end."

Coach Boone sighed heavily and nodded regretfully, "I guess so." He patted Chris on the back, "Two times you cemented our championships. It was great, but too short of a ride."

They told me I was crazy to hire you after you slugged Ty. I saw part of myself in you. You'll forgive me if I pat myself on the back for doing it.

He smirked. Chris laughed, Coach! Don't be a stranger. You're family as far as I'm concerned.

Josiah knocked on the door frame with Shanice, "Well, well, someone doesn't wanna play with me anymore. I'm hurt. I'm hurt, I tell ya!"

Chris smiled at his brother-from-another-mother, "Well, you and your patented farts. You can melt steel with those things and I need to escape them. By the way, it drifted toward Jordan Walker more than me. He said he owes you."

Shanice looked at them sourly, "Children... Language you two!" She nudged Josiah, "Oh, right. Here." He handed Chris a get well card. Chris smiled wryly then shifted his gaze from Josiah to Shanice, "Thank you Shanice. We all know Josiah woulda never thought of it."

Shanice kissed him on the cheek, "You're part of my family too. He'll never admit it, but he'd be lost without someone to insult on a regular basis."

A nurse came in asking, "A Mike and Susan Danner are here as are Ryan Taylor and Emma Fields. They say they know you."

Chris smiled, "Send them in!" He had friends. LOTS OF THEM.

Tuesday, June 21, 2050

Chris came out of his memories, a wall of potted Yellow Roses of Texas were behind him on the back terrace of the large house that John Anderson had built for Chris and Jessica. The original two plants were still in their original containers and placed at the center. In front of them was a coffee table book with Gramma Izzy's smiling face and the title below it, 'Izzy'. 'Pictures and stories from a young bootlegger'. 'By Frank Wilkerson. Edited by Michael Danner.'

He smiled and squeezed the hand of Jessica who leaned her head on his shoulder, "Happy anniversary to my wonderful bride."

She turned her head, kissed his cheek then settled, leaning against his shoulder.

He looked at his son, "Anniversary dinner with my family and both sets of parents at Alamo Prime. Life is good!... and next Saturday, you marry Allie and the cycle repeats."

Matt asked, "We're going from the church to the reception hall in the gold Caddy right?"

Chris nodded, "Of course. I'm having it detailed tomorrow."

Matt smiled, "Good memories in that car. I remember our trip to The Grand Canyon." He thought for a second then laughed, "That car sure could kick ass!"

Chris looked at his son sourly, "One hundred forty two miles an hour, you coulda got yourself killed."

Matt smirked, "I didn't know you had a GPS hidden in the car and it was a runway at an abandoned airport, the only traffic was a snake I pancaked. The two month grounding was totally worth it! Allie liked it, too."

Chris sighed, "Too much of my Gramma in you."

Matt figured saying nothing was the best option at that point.

Chris changed the subject, "I think you picked better than I did on my first wife. It took me two tries."

Chris smiled and looked at his wife, "Twenty-sixth anniversary with your mom. Sydney did me a favor and your mom is a much better fit. She loves and understands me in ways Sydney never could."

A minute later, Chris's phone rang and he answered it, "Hey Josiah!"

"Another one?" You're just taking advantage of me."

"No, I don't regret our deal. I make a ton off you just in royalty fees and you are just calling to brag. That's what? Twenty one? Yeah fuck you too buddy. Tell Shanice hi, big bastard."

"Later."

Matt looked at his dad, "The way you talk to your friends. He's my godfather!"

Chris laughed, "I assure you son, he gives as well as he takes. For your information, he greeted me as 'cocktail weenie'."

Matt looked at him shocked, "I didn't need to know that."

Chris looked sourly at his son, "There's nothing unusual about that part of me either way. Thanks kid. Your godfather is a freak of nature. It's a wonder your godmother can walk."

Matt was alarmed, "Ugh! How do you know this?

Chris thought for a second and said with faux sincerity, "You know what BBC porn is? Well my first wife wanted me to sit in a chair. Josiah came over and Sydney had this thing called a cock cage..."

Matt asked shocked, "What!? Really?"

Chris lightly thwapped his son on the back of his head, "No! I can't believe you even thought it could be true. I met Josiah after Sydney and I split and... UGH! How could you think that poorly of your old man?"

He looked sourly at his son, "I know because after each game I played on The Defenders, he would come strutting into the showers with a proud grin and that thing hanging down between his legs swinging back and forth like a clock pendulum."

Jessica scolded them, "Enough of this. Honestly you two." She asked Chris, "What's going on with Josiah?"

Chris smiled, "He's opening another Ankersteak Sandwiches in Denton in six months. He was calling to flex and tell me how he doesn't owe me any franchise fees."

Matt asked, "Everyone else has to pay. Why doesn't he?"

Chris shrugged, "There are a few who have master franchise agreements. He was my first franchisee. Hell, at that point I was only toying with the idea when he called and asked to see me."

"The first Rawk and Roll restaurant opened in Live Oak on March first, right after my final game. I was there to sign autographs and schmooze for the first week. It sure worked and our investment in Rawk and Roll went so well, Jessica wanted us to try a similar thing but with steak sandwiches with a Tex-Mex twist. Your mom being the marketing wizard she is, nailed it and things took off."

Josiah had just retired after getting his knee whacked one too many times and knew we were doing extremely well. He knew I was toying with franchising and asked me how much for all of the DFW area for a franchise fee. I joked about a million dollars and he had to do our commercials for free for the rest of his life. He wrote a check right then and handed it to me then told me he owned Dallas and Tarrant counties plus any counties that bordered directly on them. That million helped me open the fourth and fifth stores in this area without touching our master trusts. He has done almost absurdly well. Honestly... I'm happy for him."

He smirked at a thought, "And his 'red band' Youtube commercials for Ankersteak are internet legend. He is the arch master of colorful words and crude double entendres."

She smiled with a distant look, "He is a good friend. Good enough we asked him and Shanice to be your godparents."

Chris leaned back, "That and he is an amazing spokesman in our commercials, for which I pay him Nuh-thing!"

"My best man from my first wedding and college roommate, Joseph Gerard, owns the master agreement for the Tulsa area."

Matt thought for a second then asked, "Speaking of your first wife. Whatever happened to Sydney?"

Chris shrugged, "She's Doctor Steven's wife."

Matt looked shocked, "Your ex-wife is THAT Sydney!? He grimaced, "I was hoping you would say she was kidnapped and sold to a Mexican whorehouse."

Jessica scolded her son, "Matt! Sydney is very nice and with all the charity work she does for the Noah Anker Heart Fund. You take that back!"

Matt looked at his mom in shock, "You work with her!"

She nodded, 'I do. She dedicates an enormous number of hours for the fund."

Chris said patiently, "Matt. She STILL apologizes every time I see her and it was twenty eight years ago. She isn't my problem any more. With the millions she has helped raise for the Noah Anker Heart Fund, I'm good."

Matt thought for a second and asked, "Wait. You once told me she headed back to Chicago with her parents. How did she end up here?"

Chris said, "I met Dr. Adam Stevens during the whole Noah Anker thing. One day he asked me about my ex, telling me she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. I asked him if he knew about how she and I divorced. He said yes and he had even seen the video of her and Ty on the internet."

Chris laughed, "He asked my permission to call her and I told him it was none of my business other than I warned him to be careful. He called her and flew her down and they had several dates which went well, obviously. After the dates, he told me she said she hadn't been on a date since she and I split. Men were boorish to her wanting to send dick pics. Doctor Stevens was the first to treat her as more than a slut. They hit it off and had a lot of very blunt conversations. It worked out and they are still married over twenty years later."

"I still remember Doctor Stevens telling me everyone deserves a second chance and recounted his own second chance. No way I was doing that with her, but it was his decision. Once they married, she was always volunteering for the Noah Anker Fund and eventually was on the board of directors along with your mom. As for penance, she has dedicated over two decades to the fund and taken zero pay. Matt... TWO DECADES with no pay to help hundreds of families with very sick children, she had paid her penance as far as I am concerned."

Matt nodded, "I guess that kind of works. What happened to that guy she had an affair with? Ty something?"

Chris smiled with a bit of a satisfied look, "He got traded to The Giants in early 2026. Rumors swirled he was caught with someone's wife, someone important in Portland politics, but nothing went public. He was traded for a second round pick while still racking up wins so whatever it was, it was bad. He kept up his seduction games... not a great idea to do this in New Jersey. He probably bedded the wrong woman and they found most of him in the Port of Newark in 2028. They never found his head or one arm."

Matt smiled and Chris laughed, "I thought you would like that."

After a few moments, the doorbell rang and Matt said, "That's Allie!"

A minute later Allie sat down next to and very close to Matt as he asked, "Okay. What did you two want to talk to us about?"

Chris pushed forward a piece of paper and smiled, "I wasn't going to do this in front of the whole wedding. You will both be working for Josiah Peter for a year, first as an assistant manager for half a year and then a half year as a full manager of a store. Once you have completed your year, this master franchise agreement will take effect. It's for Travis County and each county that directly borders on it."

Matt was dumbfounded, "What?"

Jessica went over to hug her son, "Honey. Your father and I are giving you the master Ankersteak Sandwiches franchise for the Austin area as a wedding gift."

Chris looked at his son fondly and said, "Son, your mom and I are proud of you doing so well in high school and college. You need to learn the business, but today is why I never issued any franchises in the Austin area despite all the letters I get wanting us to expand there. Plus, I figure an hour and a half is a good distance to live from adult children. Close enough to visit with no fuss, but far enough to be... well far enough. Don't worry about financing, at least for the first location. Mom-and-dad-bank is open for business once you have completed your training."

Allie was hugging Matt as he said, "I don't know what to say."

Chris suggested, "I would say you need to call your godfather, Josiah, to tell him you will be starting after you get back from your honeymoon."

Sunday, August 14, 2050

Chris looked at his friend and smiled, looking down on the playfield, the clock ticked to the top of the hour and Chris announced, "Good afternoon San Antonio! I'm Chris Anker."

Josiah smiled back at his friend and said, "And I'm Josiah Peter."

"Welcome to the first preseason game for our beloved Defenders on KDEF, the radio home of the Defenders, also streaming on Sirius XM..."

[Fade to black. Song: The Beatles. Long And Winding Road.]

*******

Author's notes

This story is mostly inspired by Joe Horn and Golden Tate who allegedly had an affair with a teammate's wives. It is also inspired by Fletcher Cox, who had an affair with a veteran's wife and faced little to no backlash. Decades ago, I had a friend who was a bartender in a dance club area of a major city. Even in the 1990's, a lot of pro sports players of all leagues had zero care whether the woman they hooked up with was wearing a ring, some wives got found out, but the sports godlings never got blowback and were back at the clubs the very next week.

Yes, I obsess over steak. Guilty.

Until 1973, Texas had a law which stated: "Homicide is justifiable when committed by the husband upon one taken in the act of adultery with the wife, provided that the killing takes place before the parties to the act have separated." Fun huh!?

Chris being blindsided by Sydney's cheating was deliberate and I wanted the readers to be blindsided without the usual evil smirks telegraphing what was already obvious. Ty was experienced at helping to hide the affairs of his conquests. I have a friend whose wife had an affair with a 'family friend'. The friend was a 'dom' and it was the peak '50 Shades' years. He coached my friend's wife and she hid it well until one day she closed her phone a little too fast... The point being, no smirks and no speeches about 'being the alpha', 'cuck' this or 'real man' that. Yes, we all knew it was Ty from the get go, I just wanted a different angle.

I do a LOT of research on a lot of my stories. I know I have a lot of the details of the NFL wrong. I stopped watching them when my city lost their team to another city. I watched a lot of Youtube videos and read a lot to get at least some of it correct. I do a lot of Google street view exploring for my settings. Orenco Nature Park is real and extremely beautiful. Riverwalk is also real and very cool.

I was shocked how 'little' new players make past the first two rounds of the NFL draft. I originally had Chris, a 5th rounder, making 3 mill a year when that is closer to second rounder money. He certainly makes good money, but not, 'Hey I'm gonna go buy a castle and a Bugatti' money. Big money goes to the big names and a good number of players make the league minimum. The top 10 players often take over half of the overall payroll for any NFL team.

My big goal for most of my stories is the MC is happy where he is at the end. Chris was truly and deeply content and happy at the end of my story.

Oh, and of course, as usual, I prattled on and on and ON! ... made it way too damn long and told you details you did not care about!

The Angela's heart melting scene is inspired by Kayla Knies Photography photo 'When all eyes are on the bride, but your son is the groom' Truly a once in a lifetime capture by this talented photographer.

Yes, spelling Gramma Izzy was deliberate, yes I know it is actually Grandma. Yes, there is a small stub of a story simply titled 'Izzy' which will talk about her outrageous life. That one will be a monster but not likely in Loving Wives. No publication date promised. Will cover her bootlegging days to the present.

I hope you enjoyed the journey.

Tomh1966