Run With My Heart (Texas Tornadoes Sports Romance Book 1)

by Lorana Hoopes

  “There you two are,” Kenzi said, hurrying up to them. “The kids have been asking for you. They want to give Tucker his gift.”

  “Let’s not make them wait any longer,” Shelby said with a smile. She led Tucker to the middle of the room and held up her hands to get the attention of the crowd. “Thank you all for coming out. I especially want to thank Tucker Jackson and the rest of the Texas Tornadoes for helping out. I know the kids have enjoyed having you here the last week, Tucker; and as a way of saying thank you, they have a gift for you.”

  Tucker watched as Benji rolled his direction with a colorfully wrapped package on his lap. “I hope you like it, Mr. Tucker.”

  “I’m sure I’ll love it,” Tucker said as he took the box. He shot the crowd a teasing grin. “Should I open it now?”

  “Open it,” the kids hollered back at him.

  “Okay, okay.” He tore the paper and lifted the lid to see a football inside. “Ah, you guys, this is great.”

  “It’s not just a football, Mr. Tucker,” Benji said with a shake of his head. “Take it out.”

  Tucker did as instructed, and his throat swelled with emotion as he pulled out the football covered in kids’ scribbles. They had all signed the football and some had even left him a note or encouraging word. “This is perfect, guys. Thank you.”

  And it was. Tucker knew that even if they made it to the championship game that this would be the highlight of his season.

  19

  The ringing of his phone woke Tucker on Christmas morning. Was it his father? Whitley? She’d promised to call when his father got released. His hand grabbed the phone, and he hit the answer call button without looking at the caller ID.

  “Hello?”

  “Tucker? It’s Coach. You ready to suit up today?”

  “Suit up? But I thought I was suspended.”

  “You were, but your teammates called the league last night and said they weren’t playing without you. Then the league received a second call informing them of Mr. Renfrow’s decision to pull his donation to the community center. In light of those two things, they have lifted your suspension.”

  His teammates refused to play without him? Tucker could barely believe it. Here he’d thought he wasn’t fitting in on this team, yet they had shown up to help him out last night and then stood up to the league for him. He couldn’t have asked for better team members. “Thanks, Coach. I’ll be there.” Tucker couldn’t help smiling as he hung up the phone and headed into the shower. This Christmas was already shaping up to be his best since his mother passed away, and getting to play was icing on the cake.

  Two hours later, he pulled into the stadium parking lot. He’d told Shelby and Benji’s mother where to go, but he hoped he would get to see them before the game started. Tucker saw his favorite guard Dennis on duty; and he made his way over to him.

  “Merry Christmas, Dennis. How’s the family?”

  “A little irritated that I’m here on Christmas Day,” Dennis said, “but they’re good.”

  Tucker had never considered all the people who also had to give up Christmas with their families to be here. “I’m sorry you have to be away from your family on Christmas. I’ll tell you what, next year I’ll save Christmas Day tickets for you. That way your family can watch from the luxury box. They still won’t get to spend the day with you directly, but at least you’ll be in the same place.”

  Dennis’s eyes widened. “You would do that?”

  “Of course I would. I’d give you some for today, but I already gave them out which reminds me of why I came over here. If a boy in a wheelchair and a beautiful blonde come through here with my luxury box tickets, will you tell them I’ll come see them before the game starts if I can?”

  “You bet, Mr. Jackson. I’ll keep my eyes open for them.”

  “Thanks, Dennis. Again, Merry Christmas.”

  “Merry Christmas to you, Mr. Jackson, and good luck today.”

  Tucker flashed another warm smile before he continued into the dressing room. Somehow, he didn’t think they would need good luck today. Everything about it just felt right.

  * * *

  “Oh my goodness,” Kenzi said as she entered the luxury box behind Shelby. “This is amazing.”

  “This is insane!” Shelby said as she took in the luxurious gold and blue interior. “Who needs this much?”

  Kenzi shook her head and rolled her eyes. “Nobody needs it. That’s why it’s called a luxury, but isn’t it fantastic?” She held her arms wide and fell onto a plush leather couch.

  Shelby didn’t know if fantastic was the word she would use. She felt like an imposter in the exorbitant room, and she couldn’t help thinking about all the kids she could help if she had this kind of money.

  “I know what you’re thinking, Shelby, but can’t you just relax for one day? Can’t you just take a step back and enjoy this for what it is? A treat. An inside look into how the other half lives.”

  “You’re right,” Shelby said with a sigh. “It’s Christmas, and I should enjoy this. I’ll probably never do this again.”

  Kenzi snorted and sat up. “Who are you kidding? I saw the way Tucker was looking at you last night. I have a feeling you’ll be attending a lot of these in the future.”

  Heat flamed up Shelby’s face. Kenzi didn’t even know about the kiss. Shelby normally told her everything, but she hadn’t told her about the kiss with Tucker. It had just been too mind blowing.

  “Whoa, look at this place!” Benji’s voice gave Shelby a reprieve from answering Kenzi, one she was very grateful for.

  “Hey Benji. Pretty cool, right?” Shelby had been thrilled when Tucker had told her he had given a ticket to Benji and his mother, but seeing the awed expression on the kid’s face was even more heartwarming. Maybe if she did continue dating Tucker, they could bring a different kid each week. That might be the only way she wouldn’t feel so bad about watching the game from this box.

  “Oh good, you all made it.”

  Shelby turned at the sound of Tucker’s voice. She’d never seen him up close in his football gear, and it took her breath away. He’d always been just Tucker to her, but in his tight pants and jersey, he looked like the football player that he was. “Thank you for inviting us.”

  “Thank you for coming.”

  Tucker didn’t cross the room and take her in his arms as she’d hoped he would, but his gaze said it all. It was as if time slowed around them, and every sound was muted. She could read the desire in his gaze, and the heat returned when she realized everyone else probably could too.

  “Mr. Tucker, this is so cool.” Once again, Benji came to her aid even though he had no idea he was doing it.

  “I’m glad you’re enjoying it,” Tucker said with a chuckle. “I have to get down to the field for the warmup, but I wanted to say hi before I did.” His eyes shifted back to Shelby. “Will you wait for me after?”

  “Of course.” There was no way Shelby would leave without seeing him. It was Christmas Day and though she didn’t get to spend the day close to him, she had hopes they would spend at least a little of the evening together. She watched him wave and exit the room before going to sit on the couch next to Kenzi.

  “See, I told you,” Kenzi whispered as Shelby sat down.

  “Yes, you’re very smart. Now hush so I can focus on the game.” Shelby knew nothing about the game of football, but it gave her a good excuse to avoid Kenzi’s prying gaze. If she continued dating Tucker though, she’d have to get him to teach her the rules.

  As she watched him run out on the field, she realized she was practically his date. Her. Shelby Doll. The woman who had always blended into the background was here as Tucker Jackson’s guest, and hopefully, they’d be going on their first official date soon.

  “What are you smirking about?” Kenzi asked, dispelling Shelby’s daydream.

  “Nothing. Just enjoying the game.” And she did enjoy it. At least as much as she understood it. She might not have known what each play w
as or exactly how the points were scored, but she knew to cheer every time the Tornadoes put points on the board. When the final whistle blew, they had secured a win by a mere three points. But a win was a win, right?

  Epilogue

  Seven Months Later

  Tucker touched the box in his pocket to make sure it was still there. He’d spent a week shopping for the perfect ring, but had found nothing he liked. Thankfully, when he’d mentioned it to his father, whom he was now talking to on a regular basis, he’d suggested Tucker’s mother’s ring. The ring was simple and elegant — just like Shelby, and he couldn’t wait to see the look on her face when he slid it on her finger. What better time than the re-opening of the center?

  “You ready?” his father whispered in his ear.

  Tucker still couldn’t get over the change in his father. After the heart attack, his father had cut back on his case load. He’d begun spending more time with Whitley, and he’d even started attending church again where he’d met a wonderful woman, Meredith.

  “Yeah, thanks again, Dad.” Tucker smiled at his father, glad for their mended relationship.

  “Good luck, big brother,” Whitley said as she tossed him a wink before continuing into the center with his father and Meredith.

  “What was that about?” Shelby asked as she rejoined him. She’d been conversing with her own family who was now following his family into the center.

  “Nothing, just wishing us luck.” He searched her face for any clue she might have guessed his intentions for tonight.

  “Are you okay?” Her brow furrowed as she touched his arm.

  “What?” He realized he was staring and shook his head. “Yes, I’m fine. Just excited to see what Kenzi’s done with the place.” After the Christmas party, Kenzi had realized she had a knack for decorating and had returned to college to work on her interior design degree. The Texas Tornadoes team, after seeing the center at the Christmas party, had agreed to donate a sizable amount of money to help renovate the center and hired Kenzi to head it. It had been a rush renovation because they couldn’t close the center too long, but a local church had offered to let them use its building until the work was completed. Tonight would be the first time Shelby and Tucker would get to see the results.

  “I’m sure she did an amazing job, but don’t you think we’re a little overdressed?” Her hand slid down the side of her dark blue evening gown as if she could smooth out the nerves she was feeling. Kenzi had planned a formal reveal. She’d gotten several wealthy families and business owners to attend by connecting the reveal to a donation dinner.

  Tucker turned to her and took her hands. “We’re not overdressed, Shelby. This is a huge deal, and there are going to be a lot of eyes on you. You just need to remind yourself how amazing you are.”

  A soft pink glow raced across her cheeks, making her even more beautiful. “Thank you, Tucker. I just… I feel very out of my element.”

  “Hah, well now you know how I felt working at the center when I first started.” Tucker had been completely out of his element, but he wouldn’t change it for the world now. Not only had he met Shelby and the amazing kids, but he had learned to value the important things in life. Things like family and love. His hand touched his pocket again. He couldn’t wait to propose to her.

  Her shoulders rose and fell with her deep breath. Then she tossed him a smile and lifted her chin. “Okay, I’m ready.”

  * * *

  Shelby could never have imagined the center looking as it did now. The floor had been waxed and the walls redone. Instead of the sad faded cream walls, they were now filled with kids’ artwork and exploded with color. The carpet in the office and hallways had been replaced as had the computer in the reception area. It almost looked like a brand-new building.

  Tables covered in white tablecloths filled the gym area, and decorative candles and flower arrangements added pops of color. As Shelby and Tucker entered, those already seated stood and began clapping. Shelby couldn’t believe how many people Kenzi had persuaded to come. Of course, she shouldn’t have been surprised. Kenzi had a charming and persuasive personality.

  “Here she is, the lady of the hour,” Kenzi said from the front of the gym where a makeshift microphone had been set up. “Shelby, get up here and tell us about the new plans for the center.”

  Tucker squeezed her hand and planted a quick kiss on her lips before motioning her to the front. As she walked through the crowd, butterflies woke and took flight in her stomach. Speaking to large crowds of donors had always been nerve wracking for her.

  Shelby took the mic and cleared her throat. “First, I just want to say thank you to everyone who came out tonight. Didn’t Kenzi do an amazing job on the interior of this place?” Cheers and applause answered her question, giving Shelby the courage to continue.

  “Well, thanks to a wonderful donation from the Texas Tornadoes, not only were we able to redecorate, but we’ve also created a collaborative program. Once a month, a football player will host a day here at the center to teach kids about exercise, teamwork, and of course football. This day will be free for all who are regular attenders at the center, and I’m pleased to announce that this program has brought in over fifty new children.” Another round of clapping ensued.

  “We’ll be hiring a few full-time staff members to help accommodate our new numbers as well as several part-time members, allowing us not only to serve the kids but also to bring jobs to the community. This couldn’t have been possible without our very first volunteer from the Texas Tornadoes, so would you please give a round of applause to Tucker Jackson?”

  Shelby smiled as the cheers grew louder for Tucker as he approached the stage. She handed him the mic and moved to step back, but he caught her hand, holding her in place.

  “Thank you, Shelby. I didn’t know what to expect when I was first told I had to volunteer here, but I quickly learned that these kids had more to teach me than I could ever teach them. As did Shelby here. Many of you know that we’ve been dating for the last seven months. I would have been a fool not to pursue this amazing woman, but tonight you guys get to join in on what I hope will be our next step.” He motioned to Kenzi who Shelby hadn’t even noticed had been waiting off to the side. Then he handed her the mic.

  Shelby’s face clouded with confusion and then surprise as he reached into his pocket. He lowered to one knee and held out the box to her. As unobtrusively as possible, Kenzi held the mic so his words would carry as well. “Shelby, you changed my life the day I met you, and I can’t imagine a day without you in it. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

  He flicked open the box, and Shelby gasped and covered her mouth with her hands. Inside was the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. Tears blurred her eyes, and she was afraid no sound would come out of her mouth so she nodded. Cheers took over the place as he slipped the ring on her finger.

  Though Shelby had prayed for a man, she had never expected God to send her one like Tucker Jackson. She supposed that just confirmed what she’d always known in her heart. God was an amazing, loving Father, and life worked out better when you let Him be in control.

  The End!

  It’s not quite the end!

  * * *

  Thank you so much for reading Run With My Heart. This book was inspired by my love of football and the amazing feedback I received on Her Second Chance Forever Groom.

  I hope you enjoyed the story as I really enjoyed writing it. If you did, would you do me a favor? If you did, please leave a review. It really helps. It doesn’t have to be long — just a few words to help other readers know what they’re getting.

  I’d love to hear from you, not only about this story, but about the characters or stories you’d like read in the future. I’m always looking for new ideas and if I use one of your characters or stories, I’ll send you a free ebook and paperback of the book with a special dedication. Write to me at loranahoopes@gmail.com. And if you’d like to see what’s coming next, be sure to stop by authorlor
anahoopes.com

  I also have a weekly newsletter that contains many wonderful things like pictures of my adorable children, chances to win awesome prizes, new releases and sales I might be holding, great books from other authors, and anything else that strikes my fancy and that I think you would enjoy. I’ll even send you the first chapter of my newest (maybe not even released yet) book if you’d like to sign up.

  Even better, I solemnly swear to only send out one newsletter a week (usually on Tuesday unless life gets in the way which with three kids it usually does). I will not spam you, sell your email address to solicitors or anyone else, or any of those other terrible things.

  God Bless,

  Lorana

  20

  Not ready to say Goodbye yet?

  * * *

  Run With My Heart is the first book in the Texas Tornado series. Continue the journey with Love on the Line — Blaine’s story

  Love on the Line

  He’s the quarterback who seems too good to be true.

  She’s the designer he’s hired to redo his house.

  But when she finds out his darkest secret, will it draw them together or tear them apart?

  Click here to preorder Love on the Line

  21

  A Free Story For You

  * * *

  Enjoyed this story? Not ready to quit reading yet? If you sign up for my newsletter, you will receive The Billionaire’s Impromptu Bet right away as my thank you gift for choosing to hang out with me.

  The Billionaire’s Impromptu Bet