Dominique simply nodded her understanding. There was nothing she could add to the mouthful of wisdom her son had just spouted, courtesy of Travis and his clan. “Baby,” she said, switching the subject after a beat. “I can understand why you admire Jake, and even why you want to be like him. But please try not to get too attached. Soon, you’ll leave Middleton Prep and enter junior high. There will be other coaches, other teachers.”

“Not like Coach Mac.”

“Maybe not. But just remember that some relationships are not meant to last forever. I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“Like last time, with Kevin?”

Dominique nodded. “Like last time.” This time it was Justin who nodded, seemingly with an understanding that belied his young years. “So will you promise to remember what Mommy is saying, and not expect too much from Coach Mac? Because the truth of the matter, Justin, is that no matter how we feel about it you already have a father and his name is Leland Clark. Not Jake. I want you to stay clear on that. Okay?”

“Okay,” Justin whispered.

“I’ll speak with Leland about your spending more time with him. Okay?”

Justin nodded.

Dominique leaned over and kissed Justin’s forehead. “I love you, baby. And just for the record, I’m glad that Jake McDonald is your coach. He’s a good man to look up to.”

“So he can be like... my hero?”

Dominique smiled. “Yes, baby, he can be your hero.” And maybe mine, too.

The phone rang, and Dominique started. Her first thought was Jake and she eagerly reached for the phone. She’d been thinking of him all day.

Looking at the caller ID, her spirits sank. “Hey, Reggie.”

“Don’t sound so down, Miss Dom. This call isn’t work-related.”

“That’s okay. What’s up?”

“That’s what I’m calling to find out. Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, why?”

“You weren’t yourself today. You came in at noon and then left at four. I don’t mean to be nosy—no, wait, yes I do. But I’m concerned, too.”

“I appreciate that, Reggie. I’m fine. Just decided to take advantage of a rare day not filled with meetings to spend more time with Justin.”

“Aw, you put your mommy hat on.”

Dominique smiled. “Yes, I did and I plan to do it more often. He’s entering his formative years and I need to pay attention and step up my parenting game.”

“Well, know I’m here to help pick up the slack. And while you’re busy taking care of your son and the magazine, don’t forget to take care of yourself.”

“Thanks, Reggie. See you tomorrow.”