Tears rolls down my cheeks. I try to be unshakable, to be strong for him, but I can’t. “I don’t want you to hurt,” I whisper. “Don’t worry about me.”

He strokes the back of my hand with his thumb. “I do worry about you. My only girl. My sunshine. You’ve always carried so much for your brothers—always been there to help them navigate the emotionally muddy waters when they struggled. You’re like your mom like that. A light in the darkness.”

My chest shakes, and I draw in one ragged breath, then another. A tear plops onto the back of my hand, and Dad rubs it away with a trembling thumb.

“I hope you know how proud I am of you.”

“I do. I know.”

“I know you have more to worry about than boys and falling in love, but since I’m not going to be here, I want you to promise me you’ll protect your heart. Don’t give it to anyone who will be careless with it. Don’t settle for anyone who doesn’t make your soul sing.”

“Dad . . .” I shake my head. This isn’t fair, but we’ve had years we didn’t think we’d get, and I know it’s time. “I love you.”

He pats the back of my hand. “I love you too, sweet girl. To the moon and back.”

Another sob rips from my chest, and I sink to my knees beside his bed, letting my daddy stroke my hair with those frail hands that used to be so strong. Letting him comfort me through my tears one last time.

Easton

“Can’t you call him or something? Tell him who I am and that I want to see him?”

“Ma’am, no one is allowed back to the players’ rooms without prior authorization.”

I thought I recognized that voice when I got off the elevator, but I can hardly believe my eyes when I see Shayleigh Jackson arguing with security in my hotel.

“Please? We’re friends. He’ll want to see me.”

“If you’re friends, you should call him.”

“She’s with me, Troy.” I rush forward before Shay can do something reckless like try to push by him. I can’t see her face, but I can hear the desperation in her voice, and I wouldn’t put it past her.

Shay spins around and barrels into me, throwing her arms around my waist. I wrap her up against me and close my eyes as I memorize the feeling. It’s been so long and . . . God, when did she get so small? She feels tiny in my arms.

Troy arches a brow in question, and I nod, reassuring him that she’s welcome here.