Page 87 of Bad Ball Hitter
There is a long silence from the other end of the line and then a deep sigh. “Fine,” he grumbles at last. “I’ll call Boston tomorrow.”
He hangs up abruptly, still seething, but I don’t care. I toss the phone aside and wrap my arms around her.
“But … Drake…” she stammers, her voice shaky. “That’s so much money. You can’t just … can’t just turn that down. Not for me.”
She sounds uncertain, conflicted. But beneath that, there is a glimmer of hope in her eyes—hope that I choose them over the money.
“I can,” I say simply. “And I did.”
She blinks up at me, seemingly at a loss for words. Slowly, a soft smile tugs at the corners of her lips. “Are you sure?”
I nod. “I’ve never been more certain about anything in my life.”
“You’re staying,” she says, more as a statement than a question.
“I’m staying,” I draw her closer to me. Her hands come up to twine around my neck. This right here is all I need. I lean down and capture her lips with mine. It’s a kiss filled with promises. A promise of a future together, a promise to never leave her side, and above all else, the promise that she is infinitely more important to me than any career or money.
We break apart, but I don’t let her go. “You’re my home, Lila. You and Jake.”
Tears well up in those bright blue orbs again and spill over, but this time, they are accompanied by laughter. She throws her head back and lets out a small laugh that echoes through the room. It’s like music to my ears.
“Drake,” she whispers as if she’s still trying to make sense of it all. “You really mean it.”
“Yes,” I tell her honestly, entwining our fingers together. “I want a life with you and Jake.”
I can see the moment she realizes I’m serious. The walls surrounding her heart crumble swiftly, and I’m greeted with a sight that leaves me breathless.
In all her radiance, Lila smiles at me with tears streaming down her face.
“I love you,” she admits softly as if it’s a secret just meant for us. “I never stopped loving you.”
My heart swells at her words. I pull her closer to me, and she melts against my chest. I bury my head against hers and whisper, “Marry me.”
CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR
Lila
Catcher Drake Gunner Turns Down Multiyear Contract to Stay in Boston, Fans React.
By Tinley Bosley, Sports Journalist, New England Globe
In a surprising turn of events, star catcher Drake Gunner has turned down a lucrative multiyear contract offer from an unnamed team to remain with the Boston Bears. This decision has ignited a wave of reactions from fans and analysts alike, cementing Gunner’s status as not just a player but a beloved figure in Boston sports.
The Offer
Details of the offer have not been officially disclosed, but sources close to the negotiation suggest it was a substantial deal, both in terms of years and financial commitment. The unnamed team was reportedly willing to make Gunner one of the highest-paid catchers in Major League Baseball.
Gunner’s Decision
Despite the financial allure and the security of a long-term contract, Gunner chose loyalty over the lure of a new opportunity. In a statement released by his agent, Gunner said, “Boston is my home. The fans, the city, the organization—they’ve all given me so much. I couldn’t imagine playing anywhere else.”
Fan Reactions
The news of Gunner’s decision has been met with overwhelming support from Bears Nation. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of gratitude and admiration for Gunner’s commitment to the team.
“I’ve been a Bears fan for over 30 years, and this is one of the most heartwarming moments I’ve experienced,” said local resident Mike Reynolds. “Gunner’s loyalty to Boston shows he’s not just a great player, but a great person.”
Another fan, Sarah Donovan, shared, “In an era where players often chase the highest bidder, it’s refreshing to see someone who values loyalty and the love of the fans. Gunner is a true Bostonian.”