Post state champs, things were going well. I was helping my mom set up for the football banquet that my dad decided we would offer at our house. It was black tie theme, and all the players, their friends, and families would be here. Really, it was going to be a big party.

Therefore, it had been a few weeks since the game. However, the spirit surrounding the win had not really died down at school. It is still talked about and the team is still hyped up.

I, for one, was definitely happy about the win. Considering it brought Ryder more college offers, that was amazing. It was also amazing watching the look on Cato's face as we celebrated. That image will forever be imprinted into my mind.

The second the game ended, Cato threw his helmet down and kicked it. It was rather funny to watch him throw his little temper tantrum. Ryder makes fun of him everyday for it.

But putting all the tantrums and such aside for now, I was getting ready for the black tie banquet. My dress was simple, yet I love it so much. It was tight fitting and long. It had a lace up back and a skirt that flowed out behind me.

Just as I finished doing my hair, I could hear everyone flood into the house, so I hurried downstairs. Many familiar faces had arrived. Obviously, the players, their families and friends were here, but also college coaches. They must have been invited to make deals with the players.

With having the state champs under our belt, most of the boys are now getting offers from colleges.

Words can not even explain how crazy this moment is because this was not something any of them could have dreamed over only two years ago.

As I spoke with many of the people who had arrived, I had to excuse myself from a conversation because Ryder and his family had arrived. As usual, he looked incredible. He wore an all black suit. Before he could be approached by anyone else, I made sure to be by his side.

"My girl," he greeted. "You look gorgeous."

"Says you. Want to go somewhere else?"

He glanced at his family, who was already in a conversation with Wynn's family.

"How could I pass up that opportunity?"

I smiled at him, and then we weaved our way through the crowd. We checked around us before hurrying upstairs and down the hallway, which led to my room.

We sat on my bed and he planted a soft kiss on my lips.

"So how have you been?" he asked, even though we were texting while he was on his way here.

I laughed softly and stood up so I was between his legs. "I've been amazing, Mr. James."

He wrapped his arms around my waist. "That's great to hear, future Mrs. James."

A smile spread onto my face and I kissed him softly. When we pulled away, I sat beside him, and he took my hand in his.

"So... you know how everyone refers to us as being together?"

I nodded, but was completely unsure of what he was getting at because that was a strange thing to ask.

"Well, ever since we got back together, we never made things official, again."

I glanced at him because this time, I knew what he was getting at. "I see, so what do we do about that?"

"Well, I could ask you, the most beautiful and amazing girl ever, to be my girlfriend, if you'll have me as your boyfriend, that is."

I peered at him with my eyebrows raised. "Are you going to?"

He chuckled. "Like I said, if you'll have me back."

"Honestly, you don't even need to ask. You know I'll forever be yours."

A smile spread onto his face and he ran his other hand through my hair. "Is that a 'yes?'"

"Always."

He sighed softly and before pulling my face to his so he could kiss me, he said, "I love you."

As we kissed, a small smile spread onto my face. It was not a big kiss or anything, but it was slow and sweet. I made sure to savor every second of it, and it was a good thing to do because we ripped apart from one another when we heard someone clear their throat.

My heart dropped into my stomach and I froze when I saw my dad standing in the doorway. No emotion was on his face as he looked at Ryder and me. Then, he made a sharp turn and left.

Ryder and I shared looks of panic but he jumped up. He took off down the hallway and I followed.

"Mr. Sloane, please stop," said Ryder as he chased him downstairs and to where the party was going on.

I could already feel the tears forming in my eyes as we entered the big crowd of people.

"Dad, please wait," I said desperately.

That seemed to work. He stopped suddenly and Ryder and I nearly bumped into him because we were right on his heels.

I think all the eyes on me were the least of my worries at that moment.

"Mr. Sloane," said Ryder breathlessly, "We can
ex—"

"No need," he cut in, "And call me Nick."

Both Ryder and I glanced at each other, and then at my dad, who was wearing an expression that did not look angry. It was hard to read, but it was most definitely not anger.

"I'm sorry, what?" I asked.

"I figured something has been going on between you two for a while now..."

"And you didn't care?" I asked.

He looked at Ryder and a look of sorrow appeared. "No... after realizing the image I had of you, Ryder, was wrong, I felt terrible for keeping you two apart. Ryder, you are the perfect young man for my daughter, and I am so sorry for putting you two through so much."

I think we were both shocked at the words that had just come out of his mouth because neither of us said anything.

"However, please keep the... physical affection... to a minimum," he said, which he was most likely referring to him walking in on us making out only moments before.

Ryder's face fell into a smile and he laughed. "Mr. Sloane—"

My dad raised his eyebrows, and Ryder corrected himself. "Nick, thank you so much. Truly," said Ryder.

I was completely shocked because I would have never guessed that my dad would approve of me dating one of his players.

"You won't regret this, I promise Ainsley is in good hands with me," he continued to say.

Dad nodded and looked at me. "As long as she is happy, then I am too. Keep doing what you're doing, James," he said before heading off.

Suddenly, Ryder pumped his fists into the air and turned to face me. "This has got to be the biggest win ever."

"I know...are we dreaming?"

Ryder approached me and pinched my arm. "I don't think so."

I found myself laughing softly and burying my face into his chest. He tightened his embrace around me and held me so close. Really, I think this had to have been one of the happiest moments of our relationship.

Ultimately, the night was amazing considering Ryder and I no longer had to hide.

And after dinner was served, we made our way outside with everyone else so my dad could give out the awards and such.

Each player received a trophy and a patch for their lettermen. Also, a few of them received individual awards.

"Alright, from the very beginning, I saw a lot of potential in this player, after all, he was already an amazing player when I took on this team," said my dad. He was about to give out the final award, which was the MVP award. By his first sentence alone, I knew this award was going to Ryder. "From then on, this player has grown into such an amazing young man and an incredible player considering he has twelve offers from colleges. On and off the field, he is an incredible person, which is why I think Ryder James is most suitable for this award, so James, come on up."

I clapped alongside everyone else as Ryder made his way over to my dad. They shook hands and my dad gave him another patch for his lettermen, and also a certificate.

"Thank you, coach. It's been an honor playing for you, and I know I speak on behalf of all the guys."

Many of the players nodded and a few cheered in agreement. "None of this would have been possible without you, and for that, we all want to thank you."

Many of the players stepped forward and gifted my dad with a plaque. "We know this is likely nothing compared to your rings or other awards... but we figured it would help you remember us," explained Ryder as my dad gazed at the plaque. It had the team picture on it and read, 'Number 1 Coach.'

A smile spread onto his face and he handed the plaque over to my mom so she could hold onto it.

"Boys, I thank you for letting me be your coach. It has truly been an amazing experience. I'm going to miss the seniors on this team, but I can't wait to see where you all go in your football careers," he said as the guys gathered around him.

"Us too coach, but you know, the water looks really nice right now," said Braxton.

Nearby, was the pool. The moonlight reflected off the water.

Before my dad could even react, a group of players had swept him off his feet and threw him into the pool. Ryder was one of them. Laughter came from all over as my dad popped up from beneath the water. He was laughing, but pointed an accusing finger at Ryder.

"Don't make me take back what I said."

Ryder stopped laughing immediately and hurried over to the pool edge. He stuck his hand out so he could help my dad out of the water. However, my dad chuckled and took Ryder's hand...but only to pull him in.

Cheers could be heard from all over as all the players began to leap into the pool.

I shook my head and laughed as they splashed around in their suits.

"Ains, come here," called Ryder, from where he stood in the shallow end.

"No, you'll pull me in!" I cried.

He pouted at me. "I would never!"

I crossed my arms and shook my head. However, someone came up from behind me and pushed me in. I landed in the cold water and Ryder wrapped his arms around me. I turned to see my dad laughing, because he was the one who had pushed me in.

I shook my head at him, but also laughed as I wrapped my arms around Ryder's neck. He rested his forehead atop of mine while everyone around us splashed about.

Things really could not get any better than this...

"You belong with me, Sloane," he whispered into my ear, "forever and always."