“Should’ve been you out there, kiddo,” Dad said.

“Amen. But we certainly gave them a run for their money.”

“How do you feel about the Cheetahs? Are you going to stick with them?”

“Starting at the beginning makes all the difference. I feel like being part of this greatness only happens once in a lifetime,” I said.

“You’ve done an amazing job.”

“He brags about you to anyone who will listen,” Judy said. She handed him a beer and kissed him on the lips. She gave me a beer and squeezed my shoulder. Our relationship was new, but I liked her. She gave my dad a peace that I hadn’t seen in forever. When the Titans won the Super Bowl, I was happy for them, but couldn’t shake my jealousy.

“Welp. There’s always next year.”

I rolled my eyes. “Dad, that’s the most overused phrase in the NFL.”

“I think in any sport.” He turned off the television. “So I heard that Grayson and Parker are getting a divorce.”

“Yep. It was just finalized.”

He turned so he could see me better. “How do you feel about that?”

I knew what he was really asking. “I feel like it’s the best thing for their relationship. It’s an amicable split, Dad.”

“Is she back in your life?”

“Yes, and no, the divorce isn’t because of me.”

“I like Parker, but she broke your heart and I don’t want the same thing to happen again. I know you’re an adult now, but you’ll always be my little girl and I don’t want you to get hurt.”

I shrugged like the fate of my future and my heart wasn’t a big deal. “If it doesn’t work out, then I’ll move on.” I could tell he wanted to say something, but he pursed his lips instead. I was thankful that he was respectful of my decisions no matter what he thought of them.

“I want you to find love. Once you do, it’ll change your life forever. Hopefully, you’ll have it with Parker, but if not, just know there are so many women out there who would love the opportunity to spend time with you. You’re such an amazing person, Sutton. Never forget that.”