Page 60 of Broken Rivalry
She takes a deep breath, turning to face me, her eyes searching mine. “Poppy, about the interview…”
“Why didn’t you tell me, Mom?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.
Her eyes hold a faraway look. “I didn’t want to give you false hope, Poppy. But Sarah Miller from the agency called two days ago. The job as a fundraising administrator… it’s perfect for me.” She turns to me, her eyes shimmering, hope and apprehension intermingling in their depths. “They’re offering a position with an option to relocate. We could get an extra three hundred dollars a month or a three-bedroom house in Brenthill. We could finally leave this place behind, Poppy.”
“Brenthill? That’s a big change, Mom. When will you find out?” Brenthill. The name alone evokes images of green meadows, good schools, and a fresh start.
“It would be a fresh start, good schools for the boys,” she replies, wringing her hands. “I should find out in a couple of days.”
“It lasted a while. That’s usually a good sign, right?” I try to offer some comfort.
She gives a half smile. “I don’t want to get my hopes up too high, but with that salary… it could change everything for us.”
I nod, taking her hand in mine. “About the car. It’s being taken care of. You’ll get it back in working order in a day or so.”
Her eyes narrow, her gaze sharp. “This morning, when I called, were you with your boyfriend?”
I frown, taken aback. “Who?”
She smirks. “Your brothers mentioned a boy… Jeremy?”
My cheeks flush, betraying me. “It’s complicated, Mom.”
She chuckles. “Isn’t it always? Is this his car?” Her eyes scan the plush interior of the luxurious vehicle.
I wince, nodding. “Yeah, it is.”
“Rich boy, huh?” she teases, but there’s a trace of genuine concern in her eyes.
“You don’t like them, I know, but…” I trail off. But what, Poppy? This is even worse. He’s the son of the man who destroyed our life. “He makes me happy, Mom. And it’s not about the money or the car. It’s… him. The way he listens, the way he understands.”
She leans in, her voice gentle. “I don’t have a problem with wealthy people, Poppy. If this young man makes you happy, then I’m happy for you. Just remember to be careful. Money can be intoxicating, and it’s easy to lose oneself in its allure.”
She reaches across the seat and pulls me into a hug. I sink into it, craving my mother’s love. As we pull apart, Mom plants a gentle kiss on my forehead, her eyes filled with hope tempered by weariness. “Take care, Poppy,” she whispers.
I watch her retreating figure, the weight of our shared burdens evident in her every step, as she heads back to the trailer. Closing my eyes, I send a silent prayer to the universe. Please, let Mom get this job. After all she’s been through, she deserves a break, a bit of the luck that’s been eluding us for such a long time.
Starting the car, the engine purrs to life, and I navigate my way back to campus, and my thoughts drift to Ethan.
The thought of seeing him, with his comforting embrace and understanding gaze, fills me with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.
A pang of realization hits me as I recognize the depth of my feelings for Ethan. I am far more attached to him than I ever wanted to be, and it scares me to know that despite my best efforts, I have fully opened up to him and given him the power to hurt me.
All I can do now is trust in the bond we’re forming and hope that he’ll never betray my vulnerable heart.
Chapter 20
Ethan
The stadium is alive with energy, the anticipation palpable. For most, today’s game is a matter of pride, a chance to prove themselves. For me, it’s personal. Sure, we could afford to lose and still make it to the playoffs, but that’s not how I play. Especially not today.
The noise of the crowd is a constant backdrop, but my focus narrows to a specific section: the family and friends’ stands. Poppy is there, looking radiant and relaxed, her eyes scanning the field. Beside her, Vanessa and Eva chat animatedly. Eva’s attendance is a surprise. She’s not one for sports, but her presence today speaks volumes about her bond with Poppy.
I can’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment as I spot the sweater she’s wearing. I had left a jersey with my number in her room, a silent hope that she’d wear it. But Poppy’s always been unpredictable, and I respect her for it. Still, the fact that she’s here after our night together means more than any jersey ever could.
Stretching my legs, I feel a burst of energy. Last night was my second time making love to her, and the intimacy, the connection, was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Waking up with her in my arms was pure bliss, and it’s given me a boost of confidence for today’s game.
“Maybe you should stop daydreaming about your girl and focus on warming up,” Liam’s voice cuts through my reverie, a hint of amusement in his tone.