Forever Love (Now & Forever) Read online

  When she dropped Emma off the next morning at her mom’s house she said her goodbyes and gave her a big hug and kiss.

  “Don’t yell at me Emily.” Her mom said and paused, “But, just enjoy yourself this weekend, ok?”

  Emily looked puzzled at her mom. “What are you talking about?”

  “Maybe spend some time with Eric and see if a spark is still there.”

  “Mom, are you serious? I’m with Alex. I don’t want to cheat on him.”

  “I’m not asking you to cheat on him, Emily. I’m asking you to listen to your heart and see if you have forgiven him.”

  Emily sighed and kissed her mother’s cheek. “I love you, Mom but you need to get over it.”

  She smiled at her daughter and hugged her. “Just remember that you used to love him and you have a child together. Travel safe.”

  With that, Emily left the house and headed over to meet the Mason’s.

  *************************

  Emily slept for most of the flight to Denver. When they arrived at the airport she grabbed her carry-on bag and headed down the ramp towards security. She followed behind Mr. and Mrs. Mason as they approached the main doors. Emily noticed off to the side a chauffeur holding up a sign with the name “Mason” on it.

  “I think that’s our ride.” Emily pointed out as they greeted the driver.

  He confirmed that Eric had sent the limousine for them and was instructed to bring them directly to the stadium. As they passed through the city of Denver, Emily enjoyed watching the buildings unfold in front of her. The city was beautiful and she decided that she was very happy that she came to see him.

  As they pulled up to the stadium, she saw Eric standing in front of the offices. He smiled as he walked over to the limo. He was dressed in a pair of jeans and a Denver t-shirt. Emily’s heart skipped a beat when she saw him again. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

  “Are you ok, Emily?” Eric’s mom asked her.

  She nodded. “Yeah, must just be tired.”

  As the door opened, his father stepped out and hugged Eric. They talked about the excitement that was going around him as Eric helped his mom out of the limo. She kissed him and hugged him tight.

  “We brought a surprise with us,” his mom said as she reached for Emily’s hand.

  As she stepped from the limo, her eyes met Eric’s and he smiled. “I’m so happy that you are here right now, Emily.”

  He embraced her as she wrapped her arms around him. Emily whispered in his ear, “I’m so proud of you, Eric. It was long and horrible road but no matter what has happened between us, I’m so proud of you.”

  She felt his embrace tighten and finally stepped back from her. “I wanted you to come here so I can give you a tour. I have the next hour or so free but then I need to meet with the coaches and team.”

  Eric’s mom wrapped her arm around his waist and started the grand tour of the stadium. He pointed out the locker room and took them through the press room. There was a lot of buzz around them as people prepared for the big game on Sunday.

  Eric's father stopped to get an autograph from one of Eric's teammate. Emily took the opportunity to check her cell phone. She looked down and saw a text from Alex.

  Hope you are safe and sound - Alex

  I’m here safe - will talk tonight - Emily

  Eric walked over to her and leaned against the wall. “How’s Alex?”

  Emily smiled. “He’s fine. I think he’s slightly uncomfortable that I’m here with you.”

  “Isn't he aware that we have chaperones?” Eric laughed pointing to his parents.

  “I don’t think that matters.”

  “Can I ask why you decided to come?”

  Emily sighed. “I wanted to see you in your first game. I remembered back to high school, the first time I saw you play football. I wanted to feel that again.”

  Eric smiled and winked at her. “I remember the pink jersey and short shorts you wore that night.”

  Emily blushed. “I can’t believe you remembered that.”

  “How could I forget? You are so beautiful, Emily.”

  “Behave, Eric.” Emily warned him.

  He leaned over and whispered in her ear. “You are still breathtaking, Emily. You always will be.”

  Eric grabbed his parents and finished up the tour. She reached for her phone and played the video that Emma made him as he started to tear up. “I miss her every day.”

  “I know you do. I’m sorry about that.”

  Eric shook his head and grabbed her hand. “I messed up. It took me months to get my head back on straight. One of my teammates and I have become very close and I told him about our situation. He has helped me start to grow up and has taken me under his wing,” Eric paused and grabbed Emily’s hand. “The one thing he told me is that if you love her, don’t give up on her.”

  Emily closed her eyes and when she opened them she smiled at him. All she could do was nod.

  CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

  The rest of the evening flew by. Eric took them out to dinner and showed them around the city. He was recognized by some fans when they were leaving the restaurant and he stopped to sign autographs. He also smiled for pictures and then headed back to his truck.

  He dropped them off at the hotel and said good night to his parents. He walked Emily to her room and she opened the door.

  “Thanks for dinner tonight. I’m glad I came.” Emily looked into his eyes as he smiled at her.

  “I’m happy also, Emily. It was nice to hang out and not fight with each other.”

  Emily laughed. “Lately, we have been alright. We can hold a civilized conversation without ripping each other’s heart out.”

  Eric leaned against the wall next to her and lightly traced the side of her face with his fingers. “You know I still love you, right?”

  “I know,” Emily whispered.

  He leaned in closer, “What’s wrong?”

  “It’s nothing, just a lot of stuff going on in my head lately.”

  “Do you want to talk about it?” Eric asked.

  Emily closed her eyes and thought about that question. Did she want to discuss the fact that her feelings for him were resurfacing and she was torn between him and Alex? She worried that people were going to think she was taking him back because of his money and fame. She loved Alex so much and knew she would be devastating him if she allowed herself to love Eric again.

  “Emily?” Eric asked again turning her face towards him. “Open your eyes, Gorgeous.”

  Emily opened them and looked into his eyes. “We should say good night, Eric.”

  He nodded. “I won’t fight with you, Emily. We can talk when you ready, ok?” He leaned over and kissed her softly. “See you tomorrow.”

  “Good luck with the game.”

  “Thank you.”

  When morning arrived, Emily rolled over and felt alone. She was missing Emma and most of all, Alex. She sighed as she got up and headed into the bathroom. When she returned, she picked up her cell phone and tried to call Alex. His phone went straight to voicemail. She left a quick message telling him that she was thinking about him as she heard a knock on the door.

  She looked through the peephole and gasped, “Alex!”

  “Hey Baby!” Alex swept her up into a big hug and kissed her soundly.

  “What are you doing here?” Emily asked with a smile on her face.

  “I missed you and thought I would surprise you.”

  “You did! I’m so happy to see you. Did you just get in?” Emily asked.

  “Yeah, I need a shower and then I want to take you to breakfast. We will head over to the stadium after we are done."

  “Did you get tickets for the game?”

  “I bought a ticket online, same section as you but a few rows up. I will be able to watch and make sure no drunken fool gets near you.”

  Emily laughed and hugged him tight. “I’m really happy to see you, Alex.”

  She felt him kiss the top o
f her head, “How did last night go?”

  “It was fine. We had dinner with his parents and that was it. I came back to the room, watched some TV and fell asleep.”

  Alex smiled and kissed her lightly before disappearing into the bathroom. Emily heard the shower turn on as she grabbed her cell phone and sent Eric a text.

  Alex showed up this morning, going with him to breakfast - Emily

  OK - limo will be at the hotel at 11am to pick you up - Eric

  See you after the game - good luck - Emily

  As soon as Alex finished his shower, they headed downstairs for breakfast. They found a table off to the side so they could have a conversation with each other.

  “How’s Eric doing?” Alex asked.

  Emily knew it was killing him to ask about Eric but tried to remain positive. “He’s nervous but he will be ok. I’m worried about him though.”

  “Why’s that?” Alex asked.

  “Eric’s father has always demanded the best out of him. He pushed him to excel in all his football programs. I’m worried that his father will be putting thoughts into his head about not failing today.”

  Alex nodded. “I was very fortunate to have a supportive father. But, I had friends whose father’s were very strict. It takes a toll on the children.”

  Emily quickly agreed. “You should have seen him in high school. He won most of his football games, earned the scholarship to Syracuse but it wasn’t enough until he made the major league. Now, I’m wondering if he will be pushing Eric to be the best in the majors. Is that stupid?”

  Alex reached for her hand and bought it to his lips. “No, you care for him. It’s sweet. That’s why I love you. You are always looking out for your friends.”

  Emily smiled but couldn’t help but feel guilty. She had done nothing wrong but she knew that she had to figure out her feelings that were there for Eric. She looked at the clock on the wall and turned back towards Alex.

  “Let’s take a walk before the limo arrives. I think I need some fresh air.” Emily stood up and reached for his hand. He left a tip on the table and they walked out of the hotel.

  They headed down the street and stopped at the shops that were open. They entered a small sporting goods store. Emily smiled as she spotted a row of Mason jerseys hanging on the wall behind the register.

  “That’s pretty cool, huh?” Emily asked.

  Alex smiled. “Yeah, I never knew a football player before. Did you want one?”

  “You don’t have to buy me one. It’s ok. I’m sure if I want to get one, the actual guy can give me an autographed one. After all, I did have his child, he owes me that much!”

  Alex laughed and walked towards the other side of the store. Emily continued to browse the racks of older jerseys and t-shirts. A bunch of guys came into the store and loaded up on game day merchandise. She overheard them talk about Eric and hoped he would live up to all the hype. She came across a row of pink jerseys and laughed to herself as she spotted the Mason one hanging on the rack.

  She grabbed her size and headed towards the counter. Alex spotted her and gave her a strange look.

  “You want a pink jersey?” Alex asked.

  “It’s an inside joke but I think if he sees it, he will feel more confident.” Emily tried to explain without telling him the story of their first date back in high school. As they headed back to the hotel, they talked about his gallery. He was finished with the construction phase and beginning the designing phase. Emily was excited because Alex asked for her help throughout the process. When they returned to Buffalo, it would be time for the painters to bring his gallery to life.

  About an hour later, the limo showed up for Emily and Eric's parents. She kissed Alex and smiled at him. "Have fun today, we will meet up later."

  Emily waved goodbye as the door closed behind her.

  When they arrived at the stadium, Emily followed the usher to their seats which were directly behind the benches for Denver on the fifty yard line. She looked around as the fans found their seats and started their Sunday rituals. She smiled as she spotted some fans wearing Mason jerseys and felt Eric's mother grab her arm.

  "Sweetheart, look over there!"

  Emily turned her attention towards the sidelines where one of the female sportscaster's interviewed Eric. He had his game face on and was in his zone. Emily's heart beat faster as she watched him. She couldn't hear the interview but as he finished, he turned and spotted Emily in her seat. She knew by the look on his face that he spotted the pink jersey and a sensation rushed throughout her body. He winked at her and went back into game mode.

  The workouts concluded as the team started to run off the field. Emily watched Eric as he ran through the tunnel. She turned to look up into the stands and spotted Alex staring at her from his seat. She waved at him but he didn't look happy as he slowly waved back.

  CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

  Emily quickly got into the excitement of the game. Eric had a rough start but he was slowly finding his way. Every time a huge defensive player would bring him to the ground, she closed her eyes and prayed that he would get back up.

  The atmosphere throughout the stadium was surreal. The fans cheered for Eric and showed their support for the team. Emily kept looking behind her at Alex but lost him in the shuffle of all the fans. She glanced over the crowd when she felt Eric’s mom grab her hand and point towards the field.

  Eric was lined up in the shotgun position and looking to throw the ball down the field. He searched for his receivers. He was attempting to score his first touchdown. Emily took a deep breath as his offensive line tried to hold back the monsters that wanted to take Eric down to the ground. He brought his arm back and the ball sailed through the air. Emily saw the entire moment play out in slow motion in front of her when in reality it was over in mere seconds.

  She heard the stadium erupt as Eric’s wide receiver brought down the pass and fell into the end zone. The players crowed around him and the referee brought the ball over him. He ran off the field and down the sidelines. Emily smiled as he ran over to her and jumped up onto the wall and handed her the football.

  “You never stopped believing in me, Emily.” Eric said as he pulled off his helmet and kissed her. The fans cheered as he hopped back down to the field.

  Emily held the ball with both hands as the guys around her clapped and cheered for her. She noticed the big screen at the end of the field had the image of Eric kissing her. She quickly turned around and looked up trying to find Alex but she noticed that his seat was empty.

  Mrs. Mason reached for the ball. “Let my husband hang onto to that for you, these guys will try and steal it from you all afternoon.”

  “Thank you. I can’t believe he gave it to me.”

  “I’m not surprised, Sweetie. He loves you, he never stopped.” She turned back to watch the game as Emily felt her cell phone vibrate in her pocket.

  She reached for it and looked at the screen. I will be at the hotel - Alex

  Emily sighed. I’m sorry - Emily

  She sat down and tried to focus on the rest of the game. It didn’t take long to get right back into the action. The entire game was fast paced and Emily was realizing this is where she wanted to be.

  As the moment overwhelmed her, she sat back in her seat. She felt Eric’s mother sit down next to her. “Emily? Are you ok? You look white as a ghost!”

  Emily stared at her as her heart started to beat out of her chest. She started to cry as she realized that she still loved Eric. She wanted to be with him. This is the life she wanted and dreamt of.

  She looked at Mrs. Mason and nodded. “I’m ok. I just lost myself for a second but I will be ok.” She smiled and stood back up just as Eric was slammed into the turf by the defensive end of Indianapolis. She stopped breathing as he wasn’t getting up right away. She looked at Mr. Mason and he wasn’t breathing either. She quickly glanced back towards the field as the team’s medical staff dashed out onto the field.

  The stadium was quiet, the fa
ns watched what Emily saw unfold and everyone was panicked. Emily saw the medical team put their hands around Eric’s neck for support as she felt Mrs. Mason’s arm wrap around her.

  “It’s going to be ok, Sweetie. Don’t cry. Eric is a very strong boy, I’m sure he just had the wind knocked out of him.”

  Emily nodded but couldn’t help the tears. She wanted to be next to him to make sure he was ok. She couldn’t take the unknown much longer. She spotted out of the corner of her eye the cart coming onto the field. She sat down and started to hyperventilate.

  Eric’s mom sat down next to her and watched as her son was lifted onto the back of the cart. Emily stared at Eric as he was strapped into the vehicle. She started to breathe again when she saw Eric give the thumbs up as the cart started to take him back to the locker room. The stadium rose to their feet and cheered for him.

  Once the play resumed, Emily looked at The Mason’s for guidance. “Emily, head back to the hotel and we will call you as soon as we hear something. I promise you that we will contact you. We are going to try and get some information and follow him to the hospital if we have to. Ok?” Mr. Mason grabbed her hand and led her through the crowds of drunken men.

  Once they reached the gates, Mrs. Mason opened the limo door for her and kissed her cheek. “Please tell him that I love him, ok?” Emily said.

  “Of course, Sweetie, I will call you.”

  Once the door closed and the limo started to take her back to the hotel, she broke down. She knew that she couldn’t live without him. It was killing her on the inside that she wasn’t by his side right now. Yes, they had their issues but she knew in that moment that she had forgiven him for his past mistakes. She couldn’t be without him. Their paths kept coming back to each other and it was time for her to grow up and get her man back.

  As she arrived back at the hotel, Alex ran outside to meet her limo. She was able to send him a quick text message to let him know what was going on. He pulled her from the limousine and embraced her.

  He kissed the top of her head and she broke apart in his arms. “I’m so sorry, Emily. Jealousy is a very ugly thing. There is no reason for my behavior.”