Beautiful Storm (San Francisco End Game #1)

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

Luke

I n the month following our ceremony, Amelia and I settle into a new normal—living separate but married lives—and while Amelia still thinks we’re crazy, it seems to be working. We’re not the best friends we once were, but the animosity is gone and God, it makes things easier.

As soon as we were married, I added Amelia to my insurance as planned, but due to the time it took for us to actually tie the knot—waiting for her divorce—we’d passed the twenty-week scan before it was all finalized.

Still, the second we got the all clear, I booked one of the best OB-GYNs in San Francisco, and I’m already feeling better about the pregnancy. So is Amelia. She just refuses to admit it, preferring to pretend I’m being over-the-top because she loves to sass me.

Some things never change.

I’m feeling good the day after our appointment with Dr. Kelly, and as I get changed in the locker room, I’m revved up for another killer practice session, ready to show off more of my skills to the cameras.

Amelia smiles as she walks past but like always, she tries to hide it and the urge to call her out on it is strong. But at the same time, I kind of like having this little secret. Especially considering it’s going to blow everyone’s minds when they find out.

Luke Bennett a fucking dad. A fact no one saw coming.

I’m dragging my hoodie over my head when Keeley enters our locker room, her signature smile locked in place. And for the first time, a corny pickup line doesn’t pop into my head. Maybe I’m maturing now that I’m going to be a dad.

I smile to myself as I get back to undressing, only to be interrupted again.

“Attention!” Keeley calls out from her usual spot on the bench seat, a folder in her hands. While her shouting draws my gaze, most of the guys carry on with their conversations until Wyatt whistles through his fingers, bringing the room to silence.

“Thanks, Wyatt.” Keeley smiles. “I won’t take up too much of your time but I have a quick request. We’re now over halfway through filming, and I want to thank you all for your participation. I’m not sure I’m supposed to tell you this, but Amelia gave me a sneak peek at some of the edited clips this week, and it’s stunning. Your heads are about to explode from how big they’re going to grow. Especially you, Luke.”

I bark out a laugh while some of the guys cheer, and when we get too loud, it’s Thomas that gets our attention this time. “Anyway, with Thanksgiving coming up in a couple of weeks, the production company thought it would be good to get some footage in a more relaxed setting, and Coach Pierce has kindly offered to host an early Thanksgiving/Christmas BBQ after practice next Wednesday.”

“He’s what?” one of the guys calls out and Keeley rolls her eyes.

“You heard me. And it’s a requirement that you all attend or I’m told you’ll be on his shit list. His words, not mine.”

“More like ‘if I have to do this, you have to be there,’” I whisper to Dylan, making him smile.

“Got that right. There is no way he volunteered his home.”

Keeley shushes us again before continuing on. “You’re all welcome to bring your families. In fact, we encourage it. And we ask that you come with your smiles on and be ready to have fun. The filming will take place during the first few hours, for obvious reasons, and then you’re free to relax.”

She runs through some general house rules again, things we’ve heard a million times, but I tune her out, my attention locked on Amelia and Zane on the other side of the room. More specifically, the way he’s whispering in her ear and making her hide her smile behind her hand. My eyes narrow as I try to read his lips, but it’s useless from where I’m standing. I move to step closer when someone grabs my tee, holding me in place.

“Not a good idea if you don’t want to draw attention,” Dylan says, his voice low as his eyes remain on Keeley, confusing the hell out of me.

“The fuck, Dyl. What are you talking about?”

He stays silent until Keeley thanks us all for our time and steps down from the bench, and then he waits for everyone to start talking again before turning my way.

“You seem to forget I’ve known you for years. Longer than most, and the look you gave Amelia was not your usual ‘I want to tap that’ look.”

“I don’t have a look like that.”

“You’re right, you have many looks that suggest the same thing, but never usually a ‘he better stay the fuck away from her or I’m going to go crazy’ look.”

“I don’t have that look either.”

“Okay, then I’ll let you go.”

He lets me go, but I don’t move because he’s right. I do want to go over there and tell Zane to leave her alone. But dammit . What is going on with me?

Dylan laughs from behind me, still watching. “Don’t worry. We’ve all been there.”

“Been where? I’m nowhere. You have it all wrong.” I’m protesting a lot considering I don't know what he means.

“It means that you’re jealous.”

“Fuck off. What’s to be jealous about? That he’s over there signing a deal to give him more on-air time?”

“Yeah.” Dylan rolls his eyes. “That’s it.” He finishes getting dressed before throwing his stuff in his locker and patting me on the shoulder as he walks past. “I’ll see you out there. But Luke, he doesn’t stand a chance, so don’t waste too many brain cells worrying about that one.”

As Dylan leaves, my gaze drifts back to Zane to find him alone and rushing to get changed, making me snap out of it because I should be doing the same thing.

I huff out a laugh and grab my gear.

I’m not jealous. I don’t want Amelia getting fucked over by a guy like that. Right?

I’m looking out for her. That's all.

A week later, I’m in Coach’s backyard with a beer in my hand and a smile plastered on my face—as per Keeley’s prerequisite for entry.

Lainey and Thomas are talking to Dylan about something his son did while my eyes scan the crowd of players and their families, noting Amelia’s absence despite the filming being well underway.

I arrived today thinking this was going to be an easy afternoon, but I didn’t factor in her not being here when it’s her job. How am I expected to keep a relaxed smile on my face if she’s missing in action? I don’t do well with stress. It’s why I stay positive all the time.

The conversation moves onto pets—or more specifically, Lainey’s desire to get her own dog when she’s finished with her master’s—and I’m finally distracted.

“Thomas, please buy her a damn puppy so she’ll stop stealing mine.”

“It’s not stealing when she voluntarily comes to me. She loves me more.”

“Oh, I’m willing to bet otherwise. Let’s see who she runs…” The back gate opens and I lose my train of thought, watching as Amelia finally steps through the threshold, a blonde in tow. A blonde I’m going to guess is Hayley based on the description Amelia gave me.

Amelia laughs at something she says and it makes me smile. She’s been struggling to hide her bump over the last week, and I know that made her nervous to come today. She’s still not ready for everyone to know. But here she is, relaxed, like she should be.

I’m lost in thought until a presence settles beside me and Thomas’s voice enters my mind. “Wifey’s here,” he announces with too much enthusiasm, and I have to holdback from punching him.

“Shut the fuck up,” I snap, my gaze darting around to make sure no one heard him. “I’m allowed to say that, but you’re not.”

“Come on, you had to know I was going to joke about your nuptials. It’s too good to pass up.”

“I’m good with you joking about it. Just do it in private.”

“Eh. You’re no fun.”

My eyes find Amelia again, and when I catch her gaze, my smile instantly returns. Although, because it’s us, it’s more like a smirk. She rolls her eyes just as Lainey steps into my line of sight, blocking my view. “I hope that smile’s reserved for the mother of your child,” she says, her voice a lot quieter than Thomas’s was. “Not the gorgeous blonde standing next to her.”

I shoot her an expression that says, “you’re kidding me, right” and she laughs.

“What? I’m just reminding you to keep it in your pants.”

“Thanks,” I deadpan. “Whatever would I do without your guidance?”

“I often wonder the same. But you’re smiling at Amelia, right?” she asks again, just to clarify, and I take the opportunity to piss her off.

“Nope,” I lie, popping the p . “It’s definitely the blonde.”

I walk away and leave my words hanging in the air, picturing Lainey’s shock, but when Thomas chuckles, I know he told her I was lying.

And of course I was lying.

I haven’t so much as looked at another woman since I agreed not to. I haven’t even had the urge. Fuck, I really am changing.

As I move around the many conversations, I catch Amelia introducing Hayley to her crew members before disappearing inside, and I can’t help but follow her. I keep to myself as a few of my teammates grab drinks but as soon as we’re alone, I approach her, watching as a sassy smile lights up her features.

“What can I do for you, Luke?” she asks as she searches through her bag, her smile peeking out through the hair that’s falling in front of her face, making me want to lift her chin to look at me.

“The list is endless, Amelia. But for now, I’m checking up on you.”

Her eyes flash to mine and her sass instantly fades. “Thank you. I’m good. Tired but good.”

“Have—”

“Yes, I’ve been trying to get enough sleep. It just evades me.”

“How did you know I was going to ask that?”

“Call it intuition.” She bites back her smile. “But I appreciate that you asked.”

“It’s strange, you know?”

“What is?”

“Knowing—”I glance around the room to make sure we’re alone. “Knowing that you’re growing our baby and not being able to do a damn thing to help. Once Bean comes along things will be different, but right now, I can’t do anything.” My brows furrow and I blink a few times before huffing out a laugh. “Sorry, that’s not your problem. I don’t know why I said that. I didn’t mean to make this about me.”

Amelia’s gaze softens before her face lights up with a warmth I haven’t seen in a while. “I can’t imagine how that feels, but you have every right to be feeling that way. And let me tell you, you’re helping plenty. I—”

“Amelia,” her first AD calls through the open doorway. “Sorry to interrupt, but can we borrow you for a minute?”

“Of course. I’ll be out in a second.” Her AD disappears and she turns my way. “I better go… but thank you.”

“Anytime. And when you want me on camera, I’m ready for my moment,” I joke, needing the energy between us to return to normal.

“Don’t hold your breath.” Amelia shakes her head with a laugh as she walks away, and I chuckle, grabbing another drink and making my way back outside.

Though, my thoughts don't leave her. It’s not just the baby situation that’s strange—it’s everything. My life is completely different now than it was six months ago. But it’s my life and I’m going to have to get used to it.

Time passes as I chat with the guys, and while the filming is obviously staged, they get what they need much faster than I would have thought, and before long the music is turned up and everyone starts to relax. If it was me, I’d be accidentally on purpose leaving the cameras running for the rest of the afternoon. I can guarantee the footage from this point on will be much more interesting. But I’m not a filmmaker. I just married one.

I smile to myself as Hayley wanders over, her perfectly manicured brows raised and her lips pulled into a wry smile. I don’t know her at all, but I have a sister and I have Amelia, so I know enough to guess she’s about to sass me.

“Luke Bennett. Number forty-two. The man of the hour. The baby daddy. The husband .” What is that accent? Wait? She’s Australian? And an actress. Oh, this is too good.

“Hayley Jackman. Actress. Not related to Hugh but still hoping she magically inherited his star power. The best friend.”

Hayley’s smile widens and if I’m not mistaken she’s a little impressed. “Turns out Amelia was wrong—you are funny.”

“Amelia knows I’m funny. If she says otherwise, it’s because she’s jealous.”

“Okay, Mr. Comedian. It’s time to get serious. What are your intentions with my girl?”

I shrug. “Same as you, I’d guess.” I want to be there for her.

“You want to save up and move to LA?” She laughs. “Amazing. We could all move in together. You can pay for our rent.”

“Amelia’s moving?” My head snaps in the direction I last saw her as a pit forms in my stomach. LA may not be far but my life is here and… I’ll barely see them.

“Not anymore, she’s not,” Hayley confirms, easing my mind. “She’s setting up roots here. She’s starting the nursery tonight. But thanks for answering my next question.”

“What question?” My brows furrow. Did I miss something?

“I was going to ask how much you care about her. But I don’t have to.”

“I don’t want to miss out on seeing my kid.” I shrug as if that justifies my freak-out, but the truth is, I’ve kind of gotten used to having Amelia around.

“Of course.” Hayley bites back a knowing grin and I roll my eyes. “Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, don’t fuck with her and we’ll be great friends.”

“What if I don’t want to be friends?”

“You have no choice. I need you to introduce me to your teammates.”

I bark out a laugh when she bounces her eyebrows, nodding her head in the direction of some of the players. I like her. I bet she’s good for Amelia, not letting her take life too seriously despite her current situation warranting it. “Anyone in particular or should I choose?”

“You choose, but make sure they’re single. I’m no home wrecker.”

“You got it.” I don’t move right away, instead I stand still and tap my foot until she waves her hand in front of my face.

“Oh, you mean now?” I laugh.

“Obviously.”

“Well, good timing. Here’s Reed. Reed!” I wave to get his attention. “Get your ass over here.” He’s technically single.

Hayley laughs as Reed walks over. “Do all football players love each other’s asses?”

“What?” I almost choke on my drink as Reed’s eyes widen.

“What the hell did I walk into?”

“Never mind.” Hayley giggles. “Maybe it’s an Aussie Rules thing. They always celebrate by slapping each other’s butts.”

“Oh no. We do that too,” Reed says with grin. “I’m Reed. We haven’t met.”

“I’m Hayley. Amelia’s friend.” At the mention of her name, I seek her out again, finding her with Coach Pierce and her director of photography.

“Nice. Amelia’s great. Is this one asking for advice on how to impress her?”

“What? No.” I rejoin the conversation. “I don’t need to impress Amelia.”

“You don’t?”

“Nope. I do it by breathing.”

“Has he always been this cocky?” Hayley asks, a smile plastered on her face, and while I can obviously answer that question, I let Reed do it.

“He has. Ever since I’ve known him.”

They start talking about themselves, so I leave them be and search for entertainment elsewhere. After grabbing another beer, I join a conversation about the Super Bowl and how pretty we’re sitting leading into December, and it’s much more my scene.

What an amazing story to tell my kid—"you were born after I won my first Super Bowl.” God, if Amelia’s up to it, Jelly Bean could be there, in her tummy. But if she is there, I’ll have to make sure she’s in a suite and not with the film crew. I’m not opposed to pregnant women working, but by then she should be staying off her feet. At least, that’s what I’ve heard other people say.

I really should introduce her to Summer and officially to Lainey, so she knows some of the spouses of the team. It would be nice to—

“Luke, did you hear me?” Wyatt asks, drawing my attention.

With my mind on Amelia, I snap out of my daze, finding myself staring at her again. No matter where she is, I can’t stop myself from seeking her out. And I can’t put my finger on why that is. She’s spent months around these guys. She may not know them as well as I do, but she knows them and they know her. Yet, I’m constantly checking up on her. Maybe it’s because it’s all I can do? Or I'm making up for lost time… I wasn’t there for her back when she needed me the most, but I’ll be there now. Even if it means I just ignored a question directed my way.

“What?” I ask, letting my eyes meet his at the last second.

“We’re going to play ball. Are you in?”

“Ball? Yes. Of course. Who the fuck am I if not a ball player?” Or a husband or soon-to-be dad. I could absolutely use this distraction.

Wyatt raises a brow as he gives me some side-eye. “Oh-kay.” He hesitates, clearly confused by my sudden enthusiasm. “Let’s go.”