The Game (That Girl, #2)(62)

“Even though two people don’t see eye to eye and fight more than get along, there’s still a love there that will never die. I want those memories.” Levi’s teary eyes turn back to me. This man in his crisp, black tux with long, dark brown hair always takes my breath away.

“I’ll always love you, Jazzy, because you taught me how to truly play the game. I always thought this pond was my home and the only place I could be happy. I was so wrong. Jazzy, you’re my 1205 Nevada Street.”

If I thought I was crying before, it’s nothing compared to now. I realize my vows can’t compare, and I honestly forget every part of them. So, I just talk to my true love as if we we’re sitting on the dock fishing together.

“Levi, you made me question everything about myself and life. You tore my world apart, put it back together, and ripped it away again. I never knew love until you. I can’t wait to live the rest of our days together.” I pause a moment to grab his hand and place it on my belly.

“Some say the best gift you can give a man is a son, so today, Levi Wilks, my Number Eleven, I give myself to you as your wife, and our son to be your next champion.”

This time the tears flow down Levi’s cheeks. Everything else the pastor says is one big, very long mumble. I’m lost in Levi’s stare, trying to drink up his emotions. “A boy,” he keeps mouthing to me and smiling.

“You may kiss the bride.”

I can only guess what our family and friends expect, since Levi is one of the biggest pervs, but I know exactly what his next move is. He hugs my lips with his, and I smile. Then seconds later he properly kisses me, accompanied with full groping of my ass.

“For the first time in history, I’d like to introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Levi Wilks.”

The ten or so steps back down the aisle, I float in the arms of my husband. Turning to Levi, I tell him something I should’ve a long time ago.

“I think I fell in love with you the first time I saw you on the doorstep.”

He pulls me in for another kiss and says, “I know I did. You’re my game changer.”

“Jazzy,” Lynlee squeals, breaking our moment, “We’re really sisters now.”

I grab her and hug her as tight as my arms will allow.

“Yes, we are. I love you so much, Lynlee.”

“No more running for either of us.”

“Promise,” I reply through my third round of tears today.

“Girls.” We look up to see the photographer. “Can I get a baby bump picture?”

We both turn and giggle like little schoolgirls. I gently place my hand on Lynlee’s belly while she touches mine. I kiss Lynlee on the cheek right as the photographer snaps the picture. She’s not showing as much as I am, yet I can see it. She and Lincoln announced a few weeks ago they were expecting, and she’s three months along. The news eased my guilt over being pregnant when she wasn’t.

“Did you hear that, Lincoln? My baby will be older, and it’s a boy. Just another QB born to destroy defenses.”

Lincoln grabs Levi by the neck, pulling him in a wrestling move. “Hey, your little bro can still kick your ass.”

“Guys, get in.”

We take a couple more shots with the brothers, then their dad joins us with Tiny, Jewels, and Jenni.

The funky reception music pulls us girls to the dance floor, while the smell of smoked meat takes the men straight to their seats. We dance until Lincoln gets the crowd’s attention. I find Levi and take a seat in his lap.

“I have to pee,” I whisper.

“Well, you’ve threatened to piss on me before.”

“It’s a real threat this time.”

“Ssshhhh!” Of all people, Jenni hushes us, and we focus our attention back to Lincoln.

“I never thought I’d see the day when Levi Wilks was * whipped.”

“Lincoln,” Lynlee howls, “I told you to take that part out.”

All the men, especially Levi’s teammates, get a good laugh.

“No, really, man, I couldn’t be prouder of you. I’ve had one best friend my whole life and that’s been you. I’ve always looked up to you.”

They take a moment and give each other a serious bro hug.

“Okay, now my turn,” Lynlee announces, saving both of us from embarrassing uncontrollable tears. “Many of you know Jazzy and I grew up together. It wasn’t pretty or easy, but something very special.” Lynlee pauses, covers her mouth, and lets the tears roll. Lincoln tries to help her, but she waves him off.

“You know, growing up I prayed every night to be placed with a normal family with a mom and dad and hot meals on the table when I’d get home from school. I wanted someone who’d bring in fancy cupcakes on birthdays and be the class mom.”

Lynlee pauses again, trying regain her composure. This time I stand up from Levi’s lap and go hug her.

“Keep going. It’s our story,” I whisper.

I lean my head on Lynlee’s shoulder as she begins to talk again.

“I wanted all those things, and at certain points in my life I would have given anything for them. Well, the cold, hard truth is this. I was stuck with a next-door neighbor girl who was nosy, annoying, and obnoxious. She moved in when I was in first grade. I’d rather sit in my room and read, but this obnoxious, wild haired, blonde girl wanted to go explore and wouldn’t take no for an answer. She’d follow me to school and follow me home, talking the whole way. I soon learned her trailer was a far more peaceful place to spend the evenings than my own home.”