Chapter 11: the season starts

Zach wakes up early Sunday morning without Rebecca next to him. He's confused and decides to go looking for her. After getting dressed he makes his way to the stairs and runs into Marcus.

Game day! Are you ready to win today?

Hell yeah! Have you seen Nika?

No, I haven't seen Rebecca either.

Once they arrive in the kitchen, they find their girlfriends making breakfast together.

Good morning boys, Nika had the great idea of making breakfast for you both.

You guys are a bit early though, you're going to have to be patient for a bit longer.

Thanks! Are we lucky guys or what?

We sure are.

Go take a seat in the dining room, we'll bring it when it's done.

A couple minutes later Nika and Rebecca come walking into the dining room with a stack of pancakes and a bowl of fruit salad.

Wow girls, you really outdid yourselves!

Today is a big day, we have to make sure that our men start of their season the right way.

Zach gets up after finishing his breakfast and gives Rebecca a kiss.

Will I see you at the game?

Of course, I have front row seats.

Great, I'll you then. I guess I'll see you at the game as well Nika.

You won't be able to miss us, we have a big new cheer routine during half time after all. Which reminds me, I have to go wake up Lisa, Elle is probably up already.

Good luck, Lisa is a heavy sleeper.

As Zach and Marcus are walking towards the stadium one student after another cheers them on.

I haven't been here for very long yet, but I've never seen the campus so alive.

Marcus takes it all in with a big smile on his face.

Neither have I and this is my fourth year here, you really changed things.

It's only been one exhibition game so far though, today it's for real.

True, but playing for an excited crowd is better than an empty stadium.

Then let's go give them something to cheer for.

About an hour later Adam and Matt are ready to start their coverage of the game in the commentary box.

Hello and welcome to this Sundays matchup between ECU and LAU, I'm Adam Collins and next to me as always is Matt Mcaddy.

I most certainly am Adam, you all know I would never miss one of my main man Zachary Gray's games.

Despite Zachary Gray's and ECU's great performance in their preseason game, they're still considered the underdog today.

I don't know who comes up with these odds, but what I do know is that Zachary Gray has changed ECU. Because of this job I'm not allowed to place bets... but if I could I would go all in on ECU!

I'm pretty sure going "all in" is more of a poker term, but the enthusiasm in the stadium is undeniable. Looks like they're ready for kickoff.

After the first quarter the score is ten to seven in favor of LAU. Adam gets the commentary for the second quarter going.

ECU has the ball to start the second quarter. Zachary Gray gets under center... he drops back and finds Marcus Jackson down the sideline for a gain of twenty-five yards.

Matt brings his usual enthusiasm.

That's how it's done!

Next play. Gray is in the shotgun, he hands the ball to Daquan Myles on a reverse... it's a fake! Myles throws it across the field back to Gray who isn't covered at all, touchdown ECU!

Straight up dominance!

I'm pretty sure that we're supposed to be impartial Matt.

Screw that, my guy is winning!

Only a couple more minutes to go before it's halftime.

The ECU defense manages to hold LAU to a field goal making the score 13 to 14 in favor of ECU going into halftime.

They game stays close in the second half. Zach manages to score two more touchdowns, one to Daquan and the other to his runningback Damien, resulting in taking a 1-point lead.

LAU tries the field goal... its good! That makes the score 30 to 28 in favor of LAU. Once again Zachary Gray has to lead him team down the field last minute to win the game.

Judging from the last game, he has the same clutchness in his genes that his father had. Clock management is going to be key yet again, he has to get his team in field goal range.

Quick pass to the sideline... Jackson steps out of bounds to stop the clock.

They got that down to a science, just a couple more like that!

Gray drops back again... he's looking downfield, nobody is open. He dumps it off to his runningback who makes a man miss but doesn't get very far. Coach Lauren Turner calls a time out to stop the clock.

Zach and the others huddle up briefly to call the play and get into position. Moments later Zach's voice can be heard throughout the stadium.

Blue razor! Blue razor!

Back in the commentary box Matt is losing his mind.

He's calling an audible, he's changing the play! Who does he think he is? Peyton Manning?! I love it!

Calm down Matt, the game isn't over yet. He pump fakes a pass to Marcus Jackson... it's a double move, he's behind the defense! The LAU safety manages to force Jackson to the ground, that was a 30 yard pass!

Another time out is called by coach Turner. That just leaves a 35 yard field goal for the win.

A lot of pressure rests on the ECU kickers shoulders now. He gets in position, the kick is up... it's good! ECU wins their season opener for the first time in a decade!

The team runs onto the field and lifts the kicker up high like the hero he is.

On his way back to the locker room Zach walks over to Rebecca and gives her a kiss.

I forgot to come get my good luck kiss before the game, you owed me one.

Looks like the pancakes did the trick, you were great.

Suddenly Zach notices that the baker who helped him with their first date is sitting directly behind Rebecca.

If it isn't my number one fan!

The date was a success I see.

It sure was. Thanks to your help, I really owe you one. I have an idea, do you have a marker with you?

I do, here you go.

Zach takes his shoulder pads off, signs his jersey and hands it to the baker.

There, I did promise you a signed jersey.

And the one from your very first college game no less, this could be worth a lot of money one day.

Whether you enjoy looking at it on the wall or maybe use it to fund a well-deserved retirement in the future is up to you. I would still have to make something of myself in the NFL first of course, but let's look at things in a positive way.

This is a lot...

You helped me find the love of my life, we're even.

He gives Rebecca another kiss.

I'm going to head to the locker room and get myself cleaned up, see you after.

After his shower and getting dressed they all stick around in the locker room for a bit and enjoy their victory together. A bit later Lauren knocks on the door.

I hope you're all dressed because I'm coming in.

What's up coach?

I need two players to join me for a small press conference.

Fred nudges Zach forward.

Mister superstar is the one they all want to see the most probably.

Lauren nods.

I can't deny that. I was also hoping that Marcus would join us, you're going into your fourth year as a captain after all.

I'm willing if the team is ok with it.

Daquan gets behind him, places two hands on his shoulders and playfully walks him over to Lauren.

There's a reason we voted you as one of the captains, you earned your moment in the spotlight.

Thanks guys, I promise to represent you all with pride.

Zach puts his arm around Marcus.

No need to be so formal, let's go Shakespeare.

Lauren takes her seat in the conference room flanked by Marcus and Zach. The journalists waste no time and immediately start firing questions.

Coach Turner, what are your thoughts on the game?

It was closer than I would have liked, but its still early in the season so it's normal that we still have room left for improvement. Luckily my kicker came in clutch and my quarterback kept us in the game.

Speaking of the quarterback. Zach, tell us about the final play that got you in position for the field goal that won you the game.

Sure. As I got under center I was looking at the defense and noticed that Marcus was in single coverage. He was winning his matchup all game long, I placed my bet on Marcus to win the one on one. I changed the play to a double move, the corner made a mistake and took the bait. That allowed Marcus to burn him for a big gain.

Looks like you give Zach a lot of freedom coach.

I do, I trust him. We work very closely together in practice, so when he sees something, I know that he finds a way to exploit it.

Anything to add to that Zach?

Coach Turner is right. By working so closely together it allows us to build up an arsenal of plays that make it so we have something ready for every situation imaginable. This time I saw an opportunity for the right play at the right time and Marcus did the rest.

Marcus, how does it feel to have a QB like Zach throwing you the ball?

Feels great, this is my fourth year at ECU and he's given us hope.

Including the preseason game you already have accumulated over 200 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. Do you think that the chemistry that you two share together will lead to you getting drafted to the NFL?

I'm hopeful of course, now its up to me to keep working hard and compete every game.

Zach reaches over and playfully nudges Marcus.

He's being modest, he's the hardest worker on the team and a true leader. I'm not eligible for the NFL draft until next year, so this year my focus is on winning as many games as possible. And most of all, getting Marcus drafted is my number one priority.

Lauren gets up and motions Zach and Marcus to follow her.

As you can see, we share a close bond with each other. But that's enough for one day. If you have any other questions, you'll have to come back next week.

A persistent reporter pursues them all the way to the door.

One last question please, this is my first assignment and it would mean a lot to me.

Fine, but only one. My players are tired, so make it count.

Will the recent controversy at ECU that led to the dean being fired have an impact on your season?

Lauren is caught off guard by the question and doesn't know what to say. Marcus quickly motions Zach that he should say something.

It won't impact us, the person responsible was arrested along with the dean for trying to cover it up. ECU is better off now that they're gone, the controversy is behind us.

But what about the victim, how is she doing?

A bit better every day, she has every form of support available and is surrounded by friends.

Are there things being put in place to make sure that something like that never happens again?

Yes, new leadership at ECU has been put in place. Dean Meyers is a good person and puts the right people in the right positions to keep an eye on things. And that was three questions so if you have any more, you'll have to be patient until next week.

After escaping the clutches of the media, they say bye to Lauren and head home.

As they walk up to the front door Marcus places his hand on Zach's shoulder.

Before we go inside, can I ask you something?

Sure, is something wrong?

Were you serious about getting me drafted?

Of course. You're a great guy, work hard and are dedicated to the game, you deserve to be drafted. And as far as I'm concerned, friends support each other to the best of their abilities.

Thanks man, that means a lot.

They're surprised by the girls as soon as they step inside, who have made an array of different foods and organized a small celebration in order of their victory.

Congratulations!

Thanks girls, the food looks great! When did you have time to make all this?

Rebecca practically jumps into Zach's arms.

There's four of us, it wasn't that much work. We even managed to get Lisa involved.

Really...? Do you still have all ten of your fingers?

Lisa punches Zach on his arm.

Very funny, let's eat.

After enjoying dinner, they do the dishes together and crash on the couch to finally rest up after a busy day. Later in the evening Marcus and Nika get up.

I think we're going to call it a night, see you tomorrow.

Elle yawns and does the same shortly after.

I'm going to head up as well, goodnight.

Rebecca gets up a couple minutes later and turns to Zach with a somewhat nervous demeanor about her.

I'm heading upstairs, could you give me fifteen minutes or so before you join me?

Sure... se you in a bit.

As soon as Rebecca disappears around the corner up the stairs, Lisa playfully nudges Zach with her elbow.

Looks like you're getting lucky tonight.

You're not going to stand outside our room and listen, are you?

I may have been single for a long time, but I'm not that desperate.

Then you should find yourself a girlfriend.

That's easier said than done, I can't just start hitting on girls hoping that they're into girls too...

I get that. But do me a favor and talk about it with Elle, she's bisexual so she might be able to help you with that.

Is she really?! I might just do that.

I'm happy to hear it. Before I go upstairs, you were great during the halftime routine, you nailed that backflip.

You were watching? I thought you would have been too busy.

Zach gets up and kisses Lisa on top the of her head.

I would never miss my best friend's big moment.

Lisa is clearly touched.

Thanks, you're a great friend. I know that I mess around a lot, but I really care about you... a lot, even if I don't say it very often.

I know you do. If you don't mind, I'm going upstairs to go claim my prize.

Don't go to crazy. If you pull a muscle, you're going to have an awkward time explaining it to your coach.

Be careful now, or I'll wake you up early every morning to go jogging with me.

Alright, you win... I know when I'm beat.

See you tomorrow.

Zach makes his way upstairs and knocks on the bedroom door.

Can I come in?

Yes, I'm ready!

He slowly opens the door and finds Rebecca laying on the bed doing her absolute best to look as sexy as possible in a beautiful red lingerie set. Zach just stands there for several seconds to take in the view, prompting her to break the silence.

Do you like what you see?

You look incredible. The lingerie, that pose... do you want me to draw you like a French girl?

Rebecca chuckles.

Draw me? No, I'm in the mood for something else... why don't you come over here and join me.

Zach sits down next to her and she immediately starts taking his shirt off.

You're overdressed, let me help you with that.

Rebecca pulls his shirt over his head, tosses it to the side and wastes no time tracing her fingers over Zach's abs.

Having fun?

She starts blushing and giggles.

Yes... sorry, I got a bit distracted.

I noticed, it reminds me of the medical examination when we first met.

If I remember correctly... you weren't wearing pants during that exam.

That's a very "subtle" way of telling me to strip. What happened to my shy, innocent girlfriend?

She's temporarily unavailable. Seriously, if you make me wait any longer I'm going to lose it.

Zach can't help but laugh at her sudden change in demeanor and starts taking off his pants as slowly as possible while Rebecca's eyes are glued to his "package" the entire time.

You're really taking in the sights...

I was doing it during the exam too, now I'm just not trying to hide it anymore.

Zach lets his pants drop to the floor and pushes her down onto the mattress.

My turn to examine you.

As his hands softly and gently glide over Rebecca's body he can feel her heart beat faster and faster. He kisses her neck, slowly starts sliding one of her bra straps down her shoulder and makes eye contact.

Are you sure?

She nods and smiles at him warmly.

I am, I know that I want to be with you... I love you.

He softly caresses Rebecca's face and kisses her gently kisses her.

I love you too.

Their kissing quickly grows more passionate as things start escalating even further.

Twenty minutes go by and Rebecca is resting her head on Zach's chest while tracing her fingers back and forth over his abs.

You seem a bit obsessed with that part of me, or is this you hinting that you want to go another round?

No, my body is still recovering from the first time. I'm just enjoying the sights, you seemed obsessed with certain parts of my body as well.

I didn't hear you complain. In fact, I think Lisa might have heard you...

It was so good that I just stopped caring if anybody heard me.

I'm guessing you'll want to do it again, right?

That's a rhetorical question and you know it. I can't believe I told you that I love you like that, I guess it just felt right.

I've known for quite a while that I love you, but I didn't want to rush you.

Today was a big day, sex for the first time and our first I love you.

Don't forget about facetiming my mom tomorrow.

I'm nervous about that, to be honest.

You have no reason to be, I know for a fact that she's going to love you. You're free tomorrow after class, right?

Mhm, I don't have to go to the hospital on Mondays.

Great, we'll call her around four.

Zach hurries home after the class the next day and finds Rebecca in the bathroom frantically doing her hair and makeup

Hello there, you seem... busy.

I want to look my best, I have to make a good first impression.

There's only one way to do that, calm down and be yourself.

I was being serious.

So was I.

He walks up behind Rebecca and puts his arms around her in an attempt to calm her down.

Don't get me wrong, I think you're gorgeous. But there are plenty of beautiful women in the world, what sets you apart from them is all the other things you have to offer on top of that. My mom is going to see that too.

Thank you, I needed that.

They sit down on their bed and call Natasha.

Hey mom!

Hi! Congrats on your win yesterday, you were amazing! How are things at ECU?

Everything is great, everybody is really nice and I've already made some good friends.

I'm happy to hear that you're doing so well.

There's somebody I want you to meet, but she's a bit shy.

He puts his arm around Rebecca and pulls her against him.

This is Rebecca, my girlfriend.

A smile quickly appears on Natasha's face.

What a pleasant surprise, I'm Natasha.

Nice to meet you as well! You raised a great son, he's amazing.

Thank you, you're so sweet. You must be special, he's never introduced a girl to me before.

Rebecca looks at Zach in surprise.

Really?

I've never been in love before, until now.

Some tears well up in Rebecca's face and she takes a couple seconds to go get herself a tissue.

Sorry about that, he caught me off guard with that.

Natasha chuckles a bit at her emotional reaction.

That alright, I'm happy that you care so much about each other. What are you studying Rebecca?

I'm in my third year of studying medicine, I want to be a doctor.

That will come in handy when Zach eventually hurts himself.

Already happened, he bruised some ribs a couple weeks ago.

Was he trying to be a hero again? He has the tendency to not know his limits.

Yup, that pretty much sums up what happened.

Zach interrupts them.

How did this turn into a two on one situation?

Both Natasha and Rebecca burst out laughing.

Because now there's another person who knows how much of a handful you can be!

I can't believe this... here I thought this would be a wholesome moment.

Rebecca playfully hugs him.

We tease because we care, right Natasha?

Exactly. It's getting pretty late here though, talk to you soon?

Of course, bye mom!

It was lovely to meet you Natasha!

You too Rebecca, and dont forget to tell Lisa I said hi.

I will.

Later that evening Zach crawls into bed next to Rebecca.

So, what did you think of my mom?

She was so nice!

I told you that you were worried about nothing.

First times are always a bit stressful for me. Now that we're passed that things will be more "fluent" in the future.

I had a feeling you two would get along.

She's so pretty.

Now you know where I got my dashing good looks from.

Rebecca can't help but laugh a bit.

Ok mister confident, time for bed.

That laugh hurt a bit, not going to lie. Goodnight.