Total pages in book: 79
Estimated words: 73794 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 369(@200wpm)___ 295(@250wpm)___ 246(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 73794 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 369(@200wpm)___ 295(@250wpm)___ 246(@300wpm)
“The last thing I want to share is that I’m bisexual. And I know some of you are probably wondering why I’d even mention that. Who I date or partner with shouldn’t and doesn’t have anything to do with my ability to coach. It’s not relevant to my years of leadership experience. I’ve got a stack of references at the ready that speak to the things that are relevant, but I also know there are some people who might care.”
I paused for another breath and a quick glance around the room. A few people were nodding, but I couldn’t be sure what part of my speech they were agreeing with. Coach Willard looked none too happy with his arms crossed over his chest. I hadn’t warned him any more than I’d warned Caleb for a similar reason. I hadn’t wanted him to talk me out of my choice. Now it was done and out there, and he could choose to withdraw his support or not, but I stood steady with the conviction I’d done the right thing.
“For those who think it might matter, I’m sure you’ll have your chance to inform the school board of any concerns before next year. I wanted this information out in the open for a lot of reasons. Like Coach, I don’t like rumors.” That got a soft snort-laugh from someone, possibly Eric or Angel. “Primarily, I want to earn the team’s trust, and I can’t do that if I’m keeping some big secret. But more importantly, I’m aware I’m a role model. And someday, there will be a kid on this team—maybe even one of yours—and my being out and open about who I am will matter to them. I don’t ever want anyone to feel like they don’t belong.” I made eye contact around the room, not singling anyone out but trying to make my point clear.
“Hear that? Y’all bring whomever you want to homecoming.” Cosmo’s strident interruption got a round of hoots and laughter.
“Exactly. There’s a place for everyone on our team. And being out matters to me because I might want to bring a date to homecoming or dance at the next fundraiser with someone special.” Not looking directly at Caleb at that moment took an act of tremendous willpower. “To wrap things up, I’d like to thank Coach for the opportunity to be an assistant this year. If anyone has specific concerns, they can talk to me after.”
“Or me.” Angel stood next to me, looking every bit the protective mama bear she’d grown into.
“Or me.” Cosmo joined his mom, and then John and Eric also stood.
“Or us.” Stu and most of the defensive line stood along with several other players until a good portion of the room was standing and clapping. All I could do, however, was sit before my shaking hands and knees gave me away.
The meeting ended shortly after my speech, and I made my way over to Coach Willard.
“Should have warned me,” he grumbled.
“Would it have made a difference in your offer?” My stomach churned.
“You going on about me saving your life.” He shook a thick finger at me. “Can’t make me all misty in front of the team. You saved yourself, Capo. And those sisters of yours. Remember that. And as for whom you dance with, all I care about is that I never have to chaperone another homecoming dance.” He gave a curt nod before adding loud enough for everyone around us to hear, “See you at practice.”
As I made my way to the cafeteria exit, I had to endure hugs from Angel, back pats from Eric, and kind words from several mothers, and then finally, right when I was almost free, I felt a familiar hand on my shoulder.
“You said people should come up to you afterward if they have concerns.” Caleb had a hard-to-read expression without his usual smile.
“And you do?” I glanced longingly at the double doors. If he was going to reject me outright, I might prefer a bit more privacy.
“Yes. I’m concerned about this homecoming date of yours.” He narrowed his eyes.
“Jealous? Or here to apply?” I smiled at him. “Because the position’s already yours.”
“You sound rather sure of yourself, Capo.” Despite his stern tone, he finally returned my smile.
“I am.”
“Not worried about your feet?” Caleb raised his eyebrows. “I’m rather notoriously bad at dancing.”
“My feet will survive.” I laughed, only too happy to be discussing high school dances. Hell, I’d take Caleb to Mars if I thought it would ensure a future. “As will our reputations. Yeah, we’re former coworkers, and maybe there will be a little gossip if we’re together openly, but we can weather that.”
“And some things are more important than reputation or gossip,” Caleb said solemnly.
“Couldn’t agree more.” My chest felt light, like I’d won an Oscar, Heisman, and Medal of Honor all on the same day.