Just like the volleyball night, the seniors walk by all their teammates and coaches. Unlike how the girls do it, they usually don't hug each other. However, as they walk to their families, the announcer reads over their paper, which is the same as the one we filled out for volleyball.

The juniors and underclassmen on varsity lined up on the field, and so did the coaches. I stood beside my dad. He insisted I participate in the senior night, so I gave in.

Within minutes, the announcer came onto the speaker to welcome the opposing team, and to kick off senior night. Jackson was the first senior. He walked down the line of players, and then shook hands with each of the coaches.

A few players later, it was Braxton's turn. He gave me a small hug. "Thanks for everything, Mini Sloane," he said before walking over to his family and Lacey.

But finally, a few seniors later, we were down to the last one. Ryder.

"And last, but most certainly not least, quarterback Ryder James!"

I looked down the field to where Ryder was walking. A smile spread onto my face when our eyes met.

"Ryder James has been playing football for 10 years, and plans to continue on playing in college. He hopes to go pro, but if that does not work out, he plans to pursue a business degree."

He was now at the point where he was shaking hands with each of the coaches.

"Ryder would like to thank his past coaches for helping him become the player he is today. He also wants to thank his friends and teammates for all the memories he made as a bear, but also Nick and Ainsley Sloane for being so supportive of him throughout his high school career, because he knows the college offers would not have happened if it were not for them."

There go the tears.

My eyes began to water as he shook hands with my dad. "It's been a pleasure having you on the team. I can't wait to see what else you do," said my dad.

"It's been an honor getting to play for you. Truly, thank you," he said before stepping up to me.

He opened his arms up to me. "Come here, Sloane."

Not even caring that my dad was right there, I threw my arms around him just as the tears began to fall. A course of 'awes' came from the crowd as he embraced me back while the announcer announced Ryder's thanks to his family.

When we pulled away, he wiped my tears away. "I mean it. Thank you."

I sighed a tearful sigh as he then started to back away from me, but my dad pushed me towards Ryder.

"Walk with him," he whispered.

A small smile spread onto my face as my dad gave me a nod. "I know he would want you to," he said while looking at Ryder.

Maybe he is coming around.

"Thank you," I whispered as I hurried over to Ryder's side.

Ryder smiled down at me as we took the final few steps to where his family stood. He gave each of them a hug, and I also shared one with Nancy and Tessa.

-

"Anything I should know?" Ryder asked seconds before taking the field.

"Man defense, so keep an eye out for whoever is guarding you. We think it will be number 86. He is big, but not the fastest. Just focus on your footwork and getting around him will be easy. I already told your blockers to keep an eye on him though."

"What would I do without you," he said while shaking his head with a smile on his face.

I returned the smile and gave him a nudge towards the field. "Go kick some ass, babe," I said.

Ryder adjusted his helmet and with one final breath, he ran onto the field.

"Alright," I said into my headset, "test out the defense with a passing play."

I walked over to where my dad stood with the other coaches. No words were uttered as Ryder received the ball from the snap.

As we predicted, that one linebacker made an attempt to take down Ryder, though our blockers put him down. The rest of the team's defense was nothing special. They were aggressive, but so slow. Our offense beat them easily after Ryder threw the ball to Carew. However, Carew was brought down on the 30 yard line.

"That was perfect," I said into my headset. "It appears they are not strong when it comes to defense. You have a lot of room for error, so relax," I said because I could tell Ryder was shaken up.

It did not take long after that for us to get a touchdown. The offense jogged off the field and I handed Ryder his water.

"Feeling good?" I asked.

He nodded. "Still nervous, though."

"Don't be. This team is just like any other," I said, and my point was proved when they failed to get a touchdown.

For the rest of the game, Ryder made it look so easy. He led the team to a massive win once more... but not just any win. A win that gives us the playoff title and a ticket to state.

As the whistle was blown, signaling the game was over, the team surrounded Ryder. He wore the biggest smile I have ever seen, which made my heart absolutely melt. How did I get so lucky?

"Off to another year of states," said my dad after I stopped beside him.

"I know... I hope they do well."

"With how well James is playing, I bet they will."