Mercy (Somerset University #3) - Ruby Vincent Page 0,17

had a free afternoon and watching Maverick run around in a football uniform was up there with my top favorite things. There was also the matter of keeping an eye on Aiden-freaking-Connelly.

“Mommy, will I play football like Daddy?”

“If you want to,” I said. “Or you could be my bubble boy. Stay wrapped up in plastic and never do anything remotely dangerous until ten years after Mommy is gone.”

“No,” he said, laughing.

“Yeah, I didn’t think you’d go for that either.”

My phone buzzed in Adam’s hands. I let him film the video of Maverick playing. One of the many ways he was proving he was a big boy now.

“Is it Fia?” he asked. “Are we going to see Cinnamon?”

A glance at the screen crumpled my brows. “No, it’s not Sofia.”

I answered the phone and spoke to the person I never expected to call me.

“Teagan?”

“Hey, Val.” Her cheery voice rang through bright and clear. “Is this a good time?”

“Yes, it’s fine.”

I plugged Teagan’s number into my phone along with all of the sisters just in case there was an emergency at the house. It was rare for any of the girls to use it—let alone the one still fervently denying there was more behind her absence from the house.

“Is something wrong?”

“No,” she said. “The opposite, in fact. You know there are only three girls who stayed in the house for the summer. Jade is here to keep things running, but it’s crazy boring being in this big place without everyone. You live nearby and Sawyer says you come to campus all the time with your boyfriend. I was thinking—if you had time—that it would be cool if we organized some activities for the four of us.

“Doesn’t have to be intense like in fall and spring. We could hit the gym together. Do some movie nights. Have dinner— And you’re totally thinking why in the hell would I give up my vacation, aren’t you?” She laughed. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be bugging you.”

“No, no, no,” I said quickly. “What I’m actually thinking is what a great idea that is. You guys must be numbed out of your skulls just sitting around when we’re used to doing activities three or four times a week. Of course I wouldn’t mind getting together for dinner or grabbing a movie.”

“Really? Awesome. She said yes, guys.” The last part was clearly not for me. “You’re on campus now for the football game, right? The girls and I are going for cupcakes. Meet us and we can strategize.”

“I’ve got my son with me.” I winked at Adam. “He’s not about to say no to cupcakes, but I can’t stay long. He’s got a date with Cinnamon.”

Teagan chuckled. “I won’t pretend I know what that means. Can’t wait to see him either way.”

I hung up and bent to gather Adam’s things. “We’re going to say bye to Daddy and then we’re getting cupcakes. Sound good?”

I didn’t even have to ask. Squealing, Adam took off running, leaving me standing there with his backpack held up for him to put on, and raced down the bleachers to get the goodbyes over with so he could jump to the cupcakes.

Maverick stood by the water cooler with a bunch of guys, laughing and trading conversation easily enough that I knew he was in his element. Maverick wasn’t what you’d call shy. He didn’t avoid people, crowds, leadership, or attention.

It was more that he knew himself. He had his friends, his love, his family, and his talents. Everything and everyone that made him happy was within reach. Why seek more?

He didn’t pursue college ball because his namesake and legacy, Maverick Technologies, was his future and he was content with that.

Aiden gripped his shoulder, pounding his chest with the other hand, and beaming as I caught the tail end of his praise. Maverick’s pleased acceptance shone in his eyes.

Or was he content?

“Daddy.” Adam launched at Maverick and was caught before he hit the ground. “You were so cool.”

“Thanks, little man. I won so that I could give you this.” Maverick tossed him the game ball. Adam clutched it like it was ice cream, monster trucks, and staying up past his bedtime all rolled in one.

I slid in next to them, engulfed in the thick scent of sweat, dirt, and raspberry Gatorade, and hugged my boys.

Aiden downed the last of his drink, tossed it at the trash, and thumped Maverick’s chest. “It’s not too late for you to join. Come to the next official practice and let Coach