🤍🌹US🌹🤍

Two souls found each other in a place neither expected. What began with one gentle conversation became a little world filled with laughter, comfort, and four symbols that meant everything. Always. Forever. Us.

But before any of that could happen, they first had to find each other. And neither of them had any idea how much one ordinary moment was about to change their lives.

In Gunnison, Colorado, a small college town tucked into the mountains, two people walking entirely different paths were about to cross. Dr. Venessa Parker had been a steady presence at Western Colorado University for fourteen years. An English professor who believed deeply in learning and in preparing her students for the world beyond campus. Fair but kind, warm but firm. A widow with a grown daughter now living in Florida. Sports had never really interested her. So she had no idea who was about to walk into her life. Santos Muñoz III was entering a very different chapter of his own. A former professional baseball player, he’d spent sixteen years in the majors. Now, in his late forties, Santos wanted to give something back to the game. So he became the head baseball coach at Western Colorado University. Divorced, with one son chasing his own baseball dreams. He wasn’t expecting his world to shift either.

Just before the fall semester began, Dr. Parker finished a meeting with the dean and as she stepped into the hallway, she noticed a man standing there with his back turned. Broad shoulders. Someone she didn’t recognize. She kept walking. Then he turned. And both stopped. For a second, there was only silence. Something unspoken hanging in the air. The dean finally broke it with a small smile. “Dr. Parker, perfect timing.” “This is Santos Muñoz, our new head baseball coach.” Venessa shifted her papers, offered a hand. “Nice to meet you.” Santos took it. “You too, Dr. Parker.” And just like that, something lingered. As if neither wanted to let go too quickly. Venessa fumbled her stack of papers. They scattered. “Oh.” She bent quickly, and Santos crouched too. “I got it.” “No, I’m—I’m fine.” They both reached for the same page. Their hands nearly touched again. Venessa looked up. Santos was smiling. She smiled back. The dean watched, amused, but neither noticed. For now, they were only Dr. Venessa Parker and Coach Santos Muñoz. Two strangers standing in a hallway, where something had just begun.

As Dean Roberson introduced them, Santos and Venessa both stood there smiling at each other.

They knew almost nothing about one another, yet there was already something there—something neither one could quite explain.

“Dr. Parker, this is Santos Muñoz, our new head baseball coach,” the dean said.

Then he turned toward Santos.

“And Coach, this is Dr. Venessa Parker, one of our English professors.”

The dean continued, explaining that Santos had spent sixteen years in Major League Baseball before eventually moving into coaching. He told Venessa that Santos had stepped away from professional baseball because he wanted to give something back to the game and help develop young players at the college level.

Venessa listened, but every so often her eyes drifted back toward Santos.

And every time they did, she caught him looking at her too.

The dean kept talking, seemingly unaware—or perhaps completely aware—of the quiet connection forming right in front of him.

When the introductions finally ended, Santos and Venessa both stumbled slightly over their goodbyes.

“Nice meeting you again,” Santos said.

Venessa laughed softly.

“You too, Coach.”

There was nothing particularly dramatic about it.

Just two people smiling a little longer than necessary before eventually walking away.

A couple of days later, Venessa sat with the local newspaper and noticed an article about the university’s new baseball coach.

She stopped when she saw Santos’s picture.

For a moment, she simply stared at it, remembering their strange little meeting outside the dean’s office.

Then she began reading.

The article talked about his years in professional baseball and the different coaching opportunities he had taken after his playing career ended. What caught her attention most, though, was why he had chosen Western Colorado University.

He wanted to teach.

He wanted to give back to the game.

He wanted to help young players grow, both on and off the field.

Venessa found herself smiling.

That part she understood.

She might have taught English while he taught baseball, but the purpose behind it sounded familiar.

For both of them, the success of the students came first.

Later that day, as Venessa made her way across campus, she passed the baseball field.

She almost kept walking.

Then she heard a voice carrying across the field.

She looked over.

There he was.

Coach Muñoz stood in the middle of the field while his players knelt around him, listening as he introduced himself and spoke to the team.

Venessa slowed her pace.

Santos looked up.

Across the distance, their eyes met.

Neither one waved.

Neither one needed to.

Venessa gave him a small smile.

Santos returned it.

Then she continued walking.

Santos watched her for another second before turning his attention back to his players.

Little by little, without either one realizing it, their paths kept finding each other.

As the new school year approached, the university held its annual faculty dinner and awards ceremony.

Faculty members filled the dining hall, greeting old friends and welcoming new faces.

For Santos, nearly every face was new.

He moved around the room introducing himself, shaking hands, learning names, and doing his best to remember who belonged to which department.

But every few minutes, his eyes wandered across the room.

Looking.

Waiting.

He wasn’t entirely sure who he was looking for until he finally saw her.

Dr. Parker sat at a table by herself.

Venessa noticed Santos scanning the room and smiled to herself.

For a man who had spent sixteen years playing in packed stadiums, he suddenly looked a little like he had no idea where he was supposed to sit.

She caught his eye and motioned toward the empty chair beside her.

Santos smiled immediately.

He made his way across the room.

“Looking a little lost there, Coach,” she teased.

“Was it that obvious?”

“Just a little.”

They both laughed.

“Would you like to sit here?” she asked.

“I’d appreciate that.”

Santos pulled out the chair and sat beside her.

As the ceremony began, Venessa sat slightly ahead of him, angled just enough that Santos could still see her profile.

The dean began his opening speech.

Santos tried to listen.

He really did.

But every so often, his attention drifted toward Venessa.

After a while, she felt it.

She turned toward him.

Caught.

Santos immediately smiled.

Venessa smiled back.

A few minutes later, she leaned toward him.

“Are you excited about meeting the students next week?”

Santos continued looking at her for a second too long.

Venessa raised an eyebrow.

“Coach?”

He blinked.

“Sorry.”

She laughed.

“Were you listening to me?”

“I was.”

“That pause says otherwise.”

Santos hesitated, suddenly looking almost embarrassed.

“I got distracted.”

“By what?”

He looked at her.

For a second, he considered giving her an easy answer.

Instead, he told the truth.

“Your eyes.”

Venessa stared at him.

Then her cheeks warmed.

Santos gave her an apologetic smile.

“Sorry. That probably came out wrong.”

“No,” she said, still smiling. “It was fine.”

A small silence settled between them.

Not awkward.

Just new.

Venessa glanced down at his clothes.

“I like your tie, by the way.”

Santos looked down at it.

“Thank you.”

What she didn’t say was that the tie wasn’t the only thing she had noticed.

He was a well-kept man. Clean, confident, broad through the shoulders, with the kind of presence that naturally filled a room without demanding attention.

As the evening continued, their conversation began to come easier.

Venessa turned toward him.

“I heard you played professional baseball.”

Santos nodded.

“Sixteen years.”

Her eyebrows rose.

“Sixteen?”

“Yeah.”

“What college did you play for?”

Santos gave a small smile.

“I didn’t.”

She looked confused.

“I had scholarship offers. A couple of schools in Texas and California.”

“So what happened?”

“I got drafted right out of high school.”

Venessa leaned in slightly, interested.

Santos continued.

“My mom was raising us and doing everything she could just to keep food on the table and clothes on our backs. College was something I wanted, but when I got drafted, professional baseball gave me a chance to help my family sooner.”

Venessa listened quietly.

“So you chose baseball because of your family.”

“Pretty much.”

Santos looked down for a moment.

“I would’ve loved to play college ball. There was a school in Texas I really wanted to go to. But at the time, I felt like my family needed me more than I needed the college experience.”

Venessa studied him.

There was no bragging in the way he told the story.

No attempt to make himself sound heroic.

He simply spoke about taking care of the people he loved as though there had never been another option.

Something about that stayed with her.

She had already thought Santos was attractive.

Now she was beginning to see the kind of man behind the baseball career.

And she liked what she saw.

Santos noticed the expression on her face.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“That doesn’t look like nothing.”

Venessa smiled.

“I just think that says a lot about you.”

He shrugged gently.

“It was family.”

As though that explained everything.

Maybe to him, it did.

Santos leaned back in his chair and smiled.

“Anyway, enough about me.”

He turned toward her.

“So, Dr. Parker…”

Venessa raised an eyebrow.

“What?”

Santos smiled.

“What’s your story?”

Chapter 2

“Well,” she started, telling him about her husband. They had been married for twenty years before he passed away eight years ago. As she spoke, Sandy could see the true love she still had for him.

She continued, talking about her daughter, who lived in Florida and was a high school English teacher herself. She also had a grandson named Matthew, named after her husband. Venessa told Sandy that Matthew meant the world to her and that she missed him dearly.

As she kept talking, Venessa noticed something about Sandy. He and her late husband seemed to have that same fire—the kind of men who would take care of their families before themselves.

She explained that she had been single since her husband passed and had gotten lost in her career, teaching and helping prepare the future generation.

After hearing about her past, Sandy felt the depth of her heart, and Venessa felt the same connection with him. They were like two lost souls who were destined to cross paths.

As the function was about to end, Sandy looked at her.

“I would love to continue this conversation sometime, whenever you’re able,” he said. “No rush. Just to get to know each other a little bit at a time.”

Venessa smiled. “I would love to.”

Venessa felt the same way. She wanted to know more about him, too.

They exchanged numbers, and as the function came to an end, Sandy did what any gentleman would do and walked her to her car to make sure she got there safely.

As they walked, they laughed and talked, both enjoying the easy way the ice was beginning to break.

When they arrived at her car, Sandy stopped.

Venessa drove a Jeep Wrangler—the exact same color as his Gladiator.

He stared at it in disbelief.

“What? Are you kidding me?” he said, laughing. “I have a Gladiator the same color as that.”

They both stood there for a moment, almost lost for words.

Eventually, they said their goodbyes, both walking away with the same impression of each other. Big smiles remained on their faces as their feelings slowly began to show.

About a week or so passed since they had last spoken.

Throughout that time, both kept glancing at their phones, hoping to see a text or missed call from the other.

Nothing.

Were they both shy? Nervous?

Neither one knew who was going to break the ice first.

One Saturday morning, Sandy sat on his porch drinking his morning coffee and enjoying a cigar. His thoughts drifted toward Venessa—her beautiful looks, how kind she had been toward him, and how excited he felt just thinking about her.

They barely knew each other, but there was something about her that stirred a pure sense of excitement in him.

Finally, Sandy said to himself, “Well, I think it’s time. If she’s busy, I’ll understand. I took too long. It’s only fair.”

What he didn’t know was that Venessa had been thinking the same way.

Neither one wanted to come on too strong.

During that week, Venessa had done a little digging of her own and looked Sandy up online. As she read through his biography, she discovered that he had a heart of gold. He gave to charities, helped with special-needs organizations, participated in fundraisers, and did it all out of the kindness of his heart.

She began to realize what kind of man he was.

He had walked away from millions and the major league spotlight to coach at her university. To Venessa, that choice showed he was no longer chasing fame; he wanted to give something back.

She liked how humble he was.

Sandy finally picked up his phone and bravely made the call.

Venessa looked at her phone.

Coach Muñoz.

She hesitated for a moment, making him wait through a couple of rings before finally answering.

The excitement was clear in both of their voices. It was almost as if they were thinking the same thing.

Okay. The wait is over. Time to exhale.

“Hey, how are you doing?” Sandy asked.

“I’m doing good, Coach,” she replied.

Sandy felt a sigh of relief when he heard her voice. It was nice and calm.

“How are you?” she asked.

“Good. I was just getting my day started. Enjoying this cool Saturday morning weather.”

Venessa smiled. “Yes, mornings here are the best, especially this time of year.”

Sandy agreed. “I’ve been in Texas for the past few years. It would already be pretty warm over there right about now.”

She giggled.

“Well, get used to it. It might start getting a whole lot cooler with the weather changing.”

“I can’t wait.”

The ice was finally breaking between them. Both were beginning to feel more confident, though there was still a little nervousness about where all of this might lead.

Venessa asked, “So, what are your plans for later?”

“I heard the campus has a great golf course nestled in the pine trees.”

Her voice immediately filled with excitement.

“Yes, they do!”

Sandy picked up on it right away.

“Do you play?”

“When I get a chance,” she replied. “I enjoy the calmness of the course and the wildlife that wanders around. It adds a beautiful touch of nature.”

Sandy was stunned that she enjoyed playing.

He thought to himself that this might be the perfect opportunity to see her again—and hopefully soon.

So he took his shot.

“Are you busy later, around one or so?”

“I’m free,” she replied, excitement in her voice.

Sandy caught it.

“Sounds good. I’ll meet you at the clubhouse around one.”

“That would be fine. I’ll meet you there.”

As the conversation wound down, they agreed to meet for a friendly round of golf.

After saying goodbye and hanging up, neither one wasted any time getting ready.

As the time for their round got closer, they both found themselves fumbling around, looking for something nice to wear.

Sandy decided on a white polo with black golf slacks. Venessa chose a red golf polo with matching white golf slacks.

Both wanted to look their best, hoping to make a good impression on each other.

They even had the same idea of showing up early so the other wouldn’t have to wait.

As Venessa pulled into the parking lot, she noticed Sandy’s Jeep.

He was already there.

Sandy had paid for the cart and their tee time. As he drove the cart over to get his clubs, he noticed Venessa taking hers out of her Jeep.

He quickly headed over and grabbed her bag, placing it in the cart for her.

“Thank you. That was kind of you,” she said. “Have you been here long?”

“Nah, probably about thirty minutes. I already paid for the cart and tee time.”

“We’ll go halves,” she offered.

Sandy shook his head.

“Thank you, but I invited you. You’re good. No worries.”

Venessa smiled and nodded.

“I got it next time.”

Sandy thought to himself, Okay, this is sounding amazing.

She asked when they were up next.

“We’ve got about an hour.”

They decided to head into the clubhouse and grab a drink.

As they rode together in the cart, they enjoyed the breeze and the fresh scent of the cool mountain pines.

When they reached the clubhouse, Sandy got the door for her, of course, and they found a table.

“What would you like to drink?” he asked.

“I’ll take an iced coffee.”

Sandy went and got her iced coffee and one for himself.

As he walked back toward the table, everything seemed to slow down.

He found himself lost in her beauty—her flawless complexion, her hair pulled into a bun with a few loose strands falling around her face.

Something about the mood had changed.

Venessa smiled at him like no other, and the same feeling was running through her.

His broad shoulders, solid build, clean-shaven head, and salt-and-pepper goatee had her thinking the same thing.

Wow.

Sandy handed her the drink and sat across from her.

“So, I guess we wait now.”

Venessa nodded. “Yes, I believe so.”

Now the smaller, more personal conversations began.

“How long have you been teaching here?” Sandy asked.

“I’ve been here for fourteen years. After my husband passed, I wanted to find a nice, quiet place to settle down, and this was the perfect place.”

“Where were you before?” Sandy asked.

“New York,” Venessa replied.

Sandy smiled. “That’s a big change.”

“It is,” Venessa said. “But this place is peaceful.”

“I agree,” Sandy said. “I’ve only been here a couple of weeks, and I can already relate. Coming from Major League Baseball and all those big cities, things can get busy. It’s good for the soul to find a place like this, slow life down, and finally be able to breathe.”

Venessa smiled, understanding exactly what he meant.

Their conversation continued to unfold naturally as they learned more about each other’s pasts, taking everything one day at a time.

Venessa grew curious about his personal life.

“What about you?”

“Well, I’ve been divorced for twelve years,” Sandy said. “We left on good terms. She wanted to chase her career, and somewhere along the way, our love faded. Before we could hurt one another, we decided it was better to say goodbye.”

Venessa respected that.

Sandy continued.

“I didn’t want either one of us to end up heartbroken. If the spark wasn’t there anymore, I didn’t want to chase something and end up hurting even more down the road.”

There was a quiet pause between them.

Then Sandy gently asked, “How did your husband pass away?”

Venessa took a moment before answering.

“He had a heart attack in his sleep,” Venessa said softly. “Out of the blue.”

Her voice softened.

“One moment we were enjoying life, and the next, I was mourning his passing,” she continued.

Sandy listened closely.

“Now I take nothing for granted,” she continued. “I embrace each day as it comes because we never know about the next.”

Then, perhaps without even realizing what she was saying, her eyes met his.

“Like this moment,” Venessa said softly.

Chapter 3

As time passed, they realized their tee time had come and gone.

They both laughed, realizing the golf game was going to have to take a rain check.

“Maybe next time,” Sandy said.

Venessa smiled and agreed.

As they got ready to leave, Sandy looked at her.

“How about dinner?”

She smiled. “Yes, I would like that.”

Still new to town, Sandy asked for a suggestion. Venessa recommended a small restaurant known for good service and great food.

“Sounds good. Around seven?” Sandy asked.

“That would be perfect,” Venessa replied.

“Pick you up at seven?”

“Yes, that would be nice.”

As seven o’clock approached, Sandy texted Venessa for her address. She sent it to him, and he replied:

I’ll see you soon 😉

She smiled and wrote back:

Okay, I’ll be here 😌

When Sandy arrived, he called and told her he was outside.

When Venessa walked out, Sandy noticed her casual look.

“You look nice,” he said.

She smiled. “Thank you. You don’t look bad yourself.”

Sandy opened the Jeep door for her and held out his hand to help her climb in, since his Jeep sat a little taller than most.

Venessa took his hand, and the touch between them was gentle and soft as he helped her up.

They both smiled.

“Thank you,” she said.

“You’re very welcome.”

As Venessa gave him directions, she asked, “Where are you staying?”

“Do you know where Red Bluff Road is?”

She nodded. “Isn’t that out by the mountains?”

“Yeah. I got a place out there. My nearest neighbor is about a mile away.”

“Nice.”

“I love it. The peace and quiet is exactly what I was looking for.”

When they arrived at the restaurant, they took their seats, and the waitress came over to get their drink orders.

Their waitress happened to be Venessa’s student aide.

Venessa and her aide spoke for a moment and shared a few laughs before Venessa made the introduction.

“This is Coach Muñoz, the new baseball coach.”

Sandy smiled. “Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too, Coach.”

After taking their drink orders, the waitress walked away. Before disappearing, she turned back toward Venessa, gave her two thumbs up, and winked.

Venessa shook her head and smiled.

Her student aide had known her for the past three years and knew this was different. Venessa was finally stepping outside her normal routine.

After dinner, Sandy leaned back in his chair.

“That was really good.”

“I told you,” Venessa said with a smile. “I like coming here on the weekends. Sometimes I just sit outside with a glass of wine and enjoy the scenery of the town. It has a beautiful atmosphere.”

They ordered a couple of glasses of wine and went outside to sit on the patio overlooking the town below.

Sandy looked out at the view.

“This is amazing.”

The two sat quietly for a while, simply enjoying each other’s company.

After a moment, Sandy looked over at her.

“Venessa, this has been one of the most wonderful days I’ve experienced in quite some time.”

She looked at him.

“Thank you for your kindness and for making today feel special,” he continued. “I really didn’t know how things were going to go for me once school started. I never imagined it would end up like this.”

Venessa smiled.

“You’re welcome. I had an amazing day too. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a day like this. I enjoyed your company.”

Eventually, it was time for the drive home.

When they arrived at her house, Sandy walked her to the door.

They stood there for a moment, both smiling.

Sandy extended his hand, and Venessa accepted it with a soft handshake.

The look they shared seemed to say more than either one was ready to admit, almost as if their future were beginning to unfold right in front of them.

They said their goodbyes, and Sandy started walking back toward his Jeep.

“Coach?”

He turned around.

“What are you doing tomorrow for dinner?” Venessa asked.

“Probably not much. You want to come over? I’ll make us something.”

She smiled. “Why, sure. That would be great.”

They said goodnight again.

“See you tomorrow.”

As Sandy drove home, he could feel something stirring between them. His happiness was impossible to hide.

Venessa closed and locked the door behind her, feeling that same sense of peace wash over her.

For now, she simply enjoyed the moment.

The next day, both found themselves thinking about the Saturday evening they had shared—how peaceful it had been and how many interests and feelings they seemed to have in common.

A door was opening between them, and the opportunity was there.

Sandy wanted to take it slow.

No rush.

He didn’t want to come on too strong and ruin something that already felt special.

There was something different about Venessa, something Sandy couldn’t ignore.

He hadn’t felt chemistry like this in a long time.

As Venessa got ready for dinner, Sandy texted her his address.

On her way there, the butterflies had already started. She tried to steady her feelings and remind herself to take everything nice and slow.

When Venessa arrived, Sandy was waiting for her.

“You look nice,” he said as he greeted her.

Venessa smiled. “Thank you.”

They went inside.

“Don’t mind the mess,” Sandy said. “I still have boxes I haven’t unpacked.”

Venessa looked around and noticed a trophy case filled with memorabilia from Sandy’s playing days.

She was impressed.

Pretending she hadn’t learned much about him already, she smiled.

“I take it you were a pretty good player.”

Sandy gave her a smirk.

“Not really. I just played with great players who made my job easier.”

During dinner, Venessa grew curious about Sandy’s baseball years.

“What got you into playing?”

Sandy kept his answer simple, not wanting to go on too long.

“Well, my love for the game came from watching my favorite player.”

Venessa looked curious.

“My dad,” he said. “He played softball. He was an all-around player. While most kids were running around and playing, I was in the dugout being the bat boy.”

He smiled.

“I didn’t realize it at the time, but my love for the game was being built right there. I was watching, learning situations, and paying attention to how the game was played.”

Venessa listened closely, clearly interested.

“When I started playing myself, I would sometimes hear coaches talking to my dad, telling him I was going to be special at this game. That’s really how everything started.”

Venessa smiled.

“Wow. That’s really nice.”

Their conversation gradually moved on.

As dinner was winding down, a herd of elk began grazing in his backyard.

Venessa looked outside.

“This is such a peaceful moment. Just watching nature.”

Sandy nodded.

“Yeah. I love moments like this.”

They sat back as the fire pit burned softly nearby, occasionally glancing at each other and smiling.

They laughed, shared quiet moments, and let themselves enjoy being together.

Whatever was growing between them was beginning to feel real.

Both of them knew something was happening, even though they had known each other for only a short time.

Neither one wanted to be the first to admit those feelings, so they kept everything calm and continued enjoying the evening.

As the evening came to an end, Venessa said it was time for her to go.

Sandy walked her out to her Jeep.

As they approached it, Sandy wondered whether he should hug her or simply shake her hand and give her a big smile.

He decided on the soft handshake.

Venessa had wondered the same thing, but she respected the way Sandy handled the moment.

She smiled warmly at him.

“Well, have fun tomorrow with your players,” she said. “They’re in good hands. You’re a good man, and I believe you’re going to be a great coach and mentor.”

Her words caught Sandy off guard.

“Thank you. I really appreciate that.”

“From what I’ve gotten to know about you these past couple of days, you’ll be fine.”

“Thank you,” he said again.

“Maybe sometime during the week, we can grab lunch or something,” Sandy said.

“I would love that,” Venessa replied.

They said their goodbyes and goodnights before Venessa drove away.

The next couple of days were packed with work for both of them, but they were already looking forward to having lunch together.

Venessa texted Sandy asking how his day was going.

When Sandy received the message, he smiled.

It’s been a little crazy getting to know the ballplayers, but other than that, I’m looking forward to the schedule I have planned out.

Then he added:

And I made room for lunch whenever you’re ready.

Venessa replied:

How about tomorrow? 🤍🌹

Venessa stared at the message after sending it.

She hadn’t really thought about the symbols before hitting send.

They had simply felt natural to her.

There was something about them that felt right, like they belonged there.

She didn’t regret sending them one bit.

They were sent with purpose.

Sandy glanced at the message and did a double take.

🤍🌹

He smiled.

To Sandy, it felt like confirmation that she might be feeling the same thing he was.

He replied:

Deal. 🤍🌹

And there it was.

Their feelings for each other were beginning to show.

That afternoon, Sandy texted again.

How’s your day going?

Venessa replied:

Better now since you texted me. I was actually going to ask how your day of planning practice for the team was going.

It’s going great, Sandy answered. We’re having a scrimmage later today, and I’ll be evaluating the team.

Venessa could feel his excitement even through the text.

Sandy was clearly looking forward to the scrimmage.

A moment later, another message came through.

If you’re free, I can save you a spot if you’d like to come.

Venessa replied almost immediately.

Count me in. 🤍🌹

Sandy smiled at the screen.

Sounds like a plan. 🤍🌹

Later that afternoon, Venessa took a seat on the shady side of the bleachers, a couple of rows above the third-base dugout.

Sandy looked up from the field and saw her.

A smile crossed his face.

He called one of his players over and handed him something.

“Take this up to Dr. Parker.”

The player ran up the bleachers and handed Venessa a team baseball cap.

Inside was a small note.

I saw you didn’t have a hat, so I had one ready for you.

Coach Sandy 😊

Venessa smiled and put the cap on.

When Sandy looked back toward the stands, there she was in the team cap, looking like a regular fan as she waited patiently for the scrimmage to begin.

Chapter 4

As the scrimmage played out, Venessa found herself watching Sandy closely.

She saw the way he taught the game—motivating his players, guiding them through different situations, and coaching them after every play. His passion showed in everything he did, and the players seemed to take in every word.

When the scrimmage came to an end, the players headed toward the locker room.

Sandy looked up and saw Venessa still sitting in the bleachers.

He walked up and joined her, sitting one row below—not too close, but close enough.

He turned toward her.

“What do you think? Think we’ve got a team?”

Venessa smiled.

“I think they have a good coach,” Venessa said. “And I’m not just saying that because I know you. I’m saying it because of what I saw out there. What you were doing with those kids was amazing. They’re lucky to have you.”

Sandy looked surprised by her words.

“It’s the love of the game that comes out of me,” Sandy said. “I get lost in the moment.”

“I can see that,” Venessa replied.

They sat there quietly together, enjoying each other’s company as a cool afternoon breeze moved through the stadium.

After a moment, Sandy turned toward her.

“I’ve really enjoyed spending time with you,” Sandy said.

Venessa smiled.

“Same here,” Venessa replied. “I’m really enjoying getting to know you nice and slow.”

“I feel the same way,” Sandy said.

As time wound down, Venessa looked over at him.

“So, lunch tomorrow?”

Sandy nodded. “You got it. When?”

“How about here, under the shade near your office?”

“That would be nice,” Sandy said.

Venessa smiled. “Do you like sandwiches?”

“Love them.”

“I’ll bring us some,” Venessa said.

Sandy smiled. “Deal.”

Venessa got up, and Sandy offered to walk her to her Jeep.

Neither one seemed to be in a hurry to get there. They took small steps, talking and laughing as they walked—just two grown adults enjoying the ease of each other’s company.

When they reached her Jeep, Sandy opened the door for her.

He reached out and gently shook her hand.

This time, he placed his free hand softly over hers.

The gesture caught Venessa by surprise.

They smiled at each other and said their goodbyes.

As Venessa drove away, she looked back and saw Sandy standing there, waving.

She waved back.

When Venessa got home and changed, Sandy was still on her mind.

She found herself thinking back to the first time they had met and everything that had happened between then and now. She wondered where this relationship was heading.

Deep down, Venessa had an idea.

She had a strong feeling about where it might eventually lead, but what she felt for Sandy mattered more than trying to rush anything.

She wanted Sandy.

But she also wanted to take things slow.

Neither one was going anywhere, and Venessa wanted these moments to last.

As she lay there, the note from the baseball cap slipped out.

She picked it up and read it again.

Coach Sandy 😊

Curious, she picked up her phone and sent him a text.

Sandy?

He didn’t reply right away.

Sandy had been in the shower, and a few minutes passed before he saw the message while getting ready for bed.

He looked at his phone and smiled.

Sandy, right? he replied.

Yes. Where did that come from? Venessa texted back.

Sandy paused before answering.

Sandy was my nickname. Only special people in my circle knew me by that. My grandmother gave me that name when I was growing up. Not many people knew me by it.

Venessa stared at the message.

Only special people know you by that?

Yes, Sandy replied.

She smiled.

So, I take it I’m special?

Sandy replied:

Yes. You helped me get to know this place and the school, and you became my first friend here. So yes, you’re special to me.

Venessa sat there for a moment, letting his words sink in.

Finally, she replied:

You’re welcome. That warms my heart that you think of me like that.

Sandy wrote back:

You are a special person to me at this moment in my life. Thank you for your kindness, your warmth, and the attention you give me. Thank you. 🤍🌹

Venessa stared at the message, stunned by everything she was beginning to feel.

Her heart wanted to put everything out there, but she held back, resisting the emotions rushing through her.

Instead, she answered:

You’re welcome. That means a lot.

As the night wound down, they said goodnight, both looking forward to their lunch together the following afternoon.

Their final messages ended the same way.

🤍🌹

By now, they both had a pretty good idea where their friendship might be heading.

The next morning, Venessa packed a picnic-style lunch, already knowing Sandy would enjoy it.

After her first two classes ended, she gathered everything and headed toward the stadium to meet him.

She couldn’t help feeling a little special knowing the meaning behind the name Sandy.

Meanwhile, Sandy was getting ready for lunch and started walking toward the shaded area of the stadium.

Before he reached it, Dean Roberson called out to him.

Sandy turned around, surprised.

“Oh, hey. How are you doing?”

“Doing good,” the dean replied. “How about you?”

“Good. Just waiting for a friend.”

The dean seemed pleased that Sandy was settling in and began discussing some upcoming events he wanted the coach to attend. He had wanted to speak with Sandy directly about them.

As they talked, Venessa entered the stadium and began making her way toward them.

She noticed the dean sitting beside Sandy.

Oh well, she thought.

Dean Roberson turned and saw her approaching.

Then he looked at Sandy and smiled.

“I kind of figured this would eventually happen,” he said. “Not this quickly, but I had an idea.”

Sandy shrugged his shoulders with a small smile.

“She’s my friend.”

When Venessa reached them, she greeted the dean.

“Hello.”

“Hello, Dr. Parker. How are you doing?”

“I’m doing good.”

The dean looked between the two of them and smiled.

“Well, I think it’s time I leave you two alone to enjoy each other’s company. And lunch, from the looks of it.”

There was a smirk on his face as he started walking away.

Then he turned back.

“I’m happy for you two. You both look happy.”

Once he was gone, Sandy and Venessa tried to play off the comment, even though the emotions between them had suddenly grown stronger.

Neither one wanted to be the first to bring up what the dean had just said.

Instead, they carried on with lunch.

They sat together, talking and continuing to learn more about each other. Their bond seemed to be building momentum.

This time, they sat a little closer.

As lunch came to an end, they started gathering everything up.

Both reached for the trash at the same time.

That was when it happened.

Sandy gently took her hand.

His touch was soft.

“I don’t want to ruin what’s going on between us,” he said quietly. “But if the dean can see what’s happening, and with the way I’m feeling about you… I don’t know exactly what feelings you have for me, but I kind of have an idea.”

Venessa looked at him.

“Yes,” she said softly. “I have the same idea.”

She paused.

“If we do move forward with this, I want to go slow.”

Sandy immediately agreed.

“This feels special. I feel it.”

“I feel the same way,” she replied. “I like your company. You give me good vibes, and I feel safe around you.”

They stood there together, their hands still gently holding.

Sandy slowly lifted her hand and placed a soft kiss on it.

“We’ll take this slow,” he said. “Like I said before, I don’t want to ruin this.”

Venessa smiled.

“Me too. I’m enjoying this.”

They said their goodbyes and began walking away.

After a few steps, Sandy called her name.

“Venessa.”

She turned around.

Sandy smiled.

“Always ❤️.”

Venessa’s smile grew.

“Always ❤️.”

And in that moment, they had found a word that seemed to describe what they were beginning to feel for each other.

They went on with their day.

Sandy was feeling so good that he let his players have a little fun on the field.

Venessa returned to her office, where her student aide was helping her grade papers.

But Venessa was lost in thought.

Her aide noticed.

“Are you okay?”

Venessa looked up and smiled.

“Just happy.”

The aide remembered seeing her with the coach.

“Is it about Coach Muñoz?”

Venessa didn’t need to answer.

Her face said it all.

By the end of the day, both Sandy and Venessa were home thinking about everything that had unfolded.

They lay in their beds, each trying not to think too hard about what had been said between them.

But their emotions took over.

Venessa was lying there wondering what all of this could become when her phone rang.

It was Sandy.

She answered, trying not to sound too happy, but she couldn’t help herself.

“Hi!”

Sandy heard the excitement in her voice.

“Well, hello there.”

They both laughed.

“How’s your evening going?” Sandy asked.

“Good. Just grading papers. I didn’t finish them earlier today,” Venessa replied.

“You bring work home too?” Sandy asked.

“Sometimes.”

“Me too,” Sandy said.

Venessa laughed.

“I’m curious. What does a coach bring home to grade?”

“Videos,” Sandy replied. “I watch players’ tendencies and how they react to certain situations on the field. I also watch game film from last year. I’m trying to get a handle on what I have coming my way and how I can coach the players to become better ballplayers and better young adults.”

Venessa smiled.

“So, you study each player?”

“Exactly.”

“That sounds a lot like what I do in my classroom.”

Sandy laughed.

“I guess we have something in common.”

“Teaching.”

“Yes. You teach English, and I teach baseball.”

They both laughed.

The conversation continued, and before either one realized it, time had slipped away.

Venessa looked at the clock.

“Oh, dang. Time flies.”

“When you’re having fun,” Sandy replied.

She smiled.

“That’s true.”

Eventually, they said their goodnights and hung up.

A few moments later, Venessa’s phone lit up with one last message.

Talk to you tomorrow. 🤍🌹

She smiled and replied:

Goodnight, Sandy. 🤍🌹

Chapter 5

As Sandy lay there looking at his phone and saw Goodnight, Sandy 🤍🌹, he felt it in his heart and fell asleep with a smile.

As the night passed and morning came, he started his day with coffee and a cigar outside in the cool mountain breeze. He sat there thinking about his day and what he had planned ahead.

As he walked back inside, he heard his phone ringing in the distance.

He went to his room and thought maybe he had missed a call from Venessa.

To his surprise, it was his son, Sandy Jr.

He called him back.

“Hey, Dad,” his son said. “I’m on my way to visit for a couple of days before I head down south to play fall ball in Latin America for the winter.”

Sandy immediately smiled.

He was excited to see his son.

When he hung up the phone, there it was—a text from Venessa.

Good morning, Sandy 🤍🌹

His morning couldn’t have gotten much better.

A call from his son and a text from Venessa.

He quickly replied:

Morning, Venessa. Hope you had a good night and an amazing morning so far. 🤍🌹

As the day went on, they kept in touch and decided to meet for lunch in the student cafeteria, where they were serving Venessa’s favorite meal—catfish.

As lunch approached, Sandy met her in her office so they could have a nice, quiet walk to the cafeteria together.

As they walked, Sandy asked, “How’s the food in the cafeteria? I’ve heard it’s pretty good.”

Venessa nodded.

“Yes, they do an amazing job. The chefs are from the culinary department.”

Sandy smiled.

“Mmm. That sounds good.”

As they continued walking, their hands brushed against each other.

They both looked down.

Sandy couldn’t resist.

He softly took her hand and whispered near her ear as they walked, “I still got it. I stole that hand like I used to steal bases.”

Venessa giggled.

“Oh yeah? I think I let you steal that one.”

Sandy smiled.

“I’ll take it.”

As they arrived at the cafeteria, their hands slowly drifted apart.

They looked at each other without saying a word, but the look said it all.

We’re not done with this moment.

As they grabbed their trays, Sandy placed Venessa’s wrapped silverware on hers.

“Thank you,” she said.

He smiled.

As they walked through the line, Sandy looked over the food.

“Looks like we’re in for a tasty treat.”

Then he noticed the catfish.

“Catfish? My favorite.”

Venessa turned toward him.

“You like catfish?”

“Oh yeah. That’s my favorite fish.”

She smiled.

“Mine too.”

They grabbed their plates and headed toward a table.

When they reached it, Sandy pulled out her chair.

“After you.”

Venessa politely sat down, and Sandy gently pushed her chair in before taking his own seat.

“So, catfish, huh?” Sandy asked.

Venessa smiled.

“Yes. It brings me back to when I was young. My father used to take me fishing near the small town where I grew up, outside Austin, Texas. We would have fish fries that same evening.”

She paused.

“This reminds me of my father.”

Sandy smiled.

“That’s a sweet memory. I can see how much your father meant to you.”

“He was the best,” she said. “I was an only child, and when I was growing up, I was his little helper. I helped him with yard work and fixing things. He loved me to the moon and back.”

She smiled softly.

“He called me his little princess.”

Sandy sat there enjoying every minute of the conversation.

There was so much warmth in the way she spoke about her father.

As they were finishing lunch, Sandy suddenly remembered something important.

“I almost forgot to tell you something.”

Venessa looked at him.

“My son is coming in today. He was supposed to be here around noon, but one of his flights got canceled. He’ll be here for a couple of days and practice with the team before he heads to Latin America to play winter ball.”

Venessa smiled.

“Wow. That sounds nice. How long has it been since you’ve seen him?”

“About three months, but we talk a lot on the phone.”

Sandy looked at her for a moment.

“I told him I met someone who is an amazing person with a good, caring heart.”

Venessa blushed.

“Stop it,” she said jokingly.

“I’m serious. I hope you don’t mind.”

She smiled.

“I’ve mentioned you to my daughter too. She said she would love to meet you sometime.”

They both sat there quietly for a moment, calmly looking at each other.

As lunch came to an end, Sandy was excited about picking up his son from the airport later that day.

Venessa asked, “What are you two planning for tonight?”

“I was thinking about taking him to that little restaurant we went to. Let him enjoy the scenery.”

He looked at her.

“Would you like to join us?”

“Maybe next time. I need to get caught up on some work.”

“That’s fine.”

Venessa smiled.

“Maybe I can come by practice tomorrow and introduce myself, if you’d like.”

“I’d like that,” Sandy said. “That way I can brag about you tonight while you’re not there.”

Venessa laughed.

“I bet you are.”

As they walked away from the cafeteria, they said their goodbyes and gave each other a small hug before heading in opposite directions.

After taking a few steps, Venessa turned around.

“Coach.”

Sandy turned.

“Always ❤️.”

He smiled.

“Always ❤️.”

Later that day, Sandy drove to the airport, happy to see his son.

As he pulled up, he spotted Sandy Jr., but there was something else standing beside him.

A puppy.

Sandy pulled over and got out.

After hugging his son, he looked down.

“Where did that puppy come from? You find him in the parking lot?”

Sandy Jr. laughed.

“No, he’s mine. He’s a full-blooded German shepherd. His name is Sam.”

Sandy bent down and started petting him.

“Nice-looking pup.”

He looked up at his son.

“Well, it’s good to see you have a companion.”

“Yeah. It gets lonely out there sometimes.”

Sandy nodded.

“I know that feeling.”

They both laughed.

Sandy Jr. smiled at him.

“I don’t know about that anymore, not with your professor friend.”

Sandy smiled.

“Yeah, son. She’s special.”

His son immediately noticed the change in his father’s tone.

“Well, I’m happy for you. You deserve to be happy.”

Sandy looked at him.

“I am happy, son. Just wait until you meet her.”

“How about tonight at dinner?”

“Not tonight. She’s busy with paperwork. But since you’ll be practicing with the team tomorrow, she’ll probably be around. You can meet her then.”

As they drove away from the airport, Sandy looked down and found Sam curled up on his lap, sound asleep.

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“Aw. Looks like you found a friend.”

When they arrived at Sandy’s place, he looked at his son.

“You want to go out for dinner or cook here?”

“We can make dinner here.”

Sandy started looking through the refrigerator.

He spotted two ribeye steaks.

“How about we put these on the grill and throw some potatoes in the fire for baked potatoes?”

Sandy Jr. nodded.

“Perfect.”

They spent the evening catching up while Sam ran around outside, enjoying himself.

As they talked, Sandy looked at his son.

“You taking the dog with you down south?”

Sandy Jr. hesitated.

“Well… would you be able to keep him?”

Sandy raised an eyebrow.

“He’s really well trained,” his son continued. “I put him through K9 training.”

Sandy looked down.

Sam was already lying across his feet like he knew exactly where his new home was going to be.

Sandy smiled.

“Well, I guess I can.”

Chapter 6

As they headed off to their rooms, Sandy climbed into bed and got comfortable.

As he reached down to pull the covers up, there was Sam.

Sandy smiled, reached down, and gently petted him.

“You’re safe here, pup.”

After a long day, Sandy picked up his phone and sent Venessa a text.

Goodnight 🤍🌹. Always ❤️.

A few moments later, her reply came through.

Goodnight 🤍🌹. Always ❤️. I hope you were able to catch up with your son. I hope I get to meet him tomorrow.

Sandy smiled.

Yeah, he was asking about you too. We have practice after lunch if you’d like to come down. He’ll be there practicing with the team.

That would be nice. See you tomorrow. 🤍🌹❤️

The next morning, Sandy, his son, and Sam headed to the stadium to begin practice.

Sandy introduced his son and Sam to the field, and before long, practice was underway.

As Sandy sat in the dugout, Sam lay on the bench beside him.

About an hour passed before Sandy noticed Venessa standing near the first-base fence.

He started walking toward her with Sam happily following by his side.

The moment Sam saw her, he ran toward her, wagging his tail as if he already knew exactly who she was.

Venessa leaned over and began petting him.

She looked up at Sandy.

“I didn’t know you had a dog. He’s a cute pup too.”

Sandy laughed.

“I didn’t know either. I just found out last night. I’m going to be dog-sitting for a couple of months.”

Venessa smiled.

“Oh, that’s nice. Maybe we can take him out for walks on one of the local trails.”

“I’d like that.”

She looked toward the field.

“Let me guess. The tall catcher is your son.”

Sandy looked surprised.

“Wow. How did you figure that out so quickly?”

Venessa gave him a look.

“He’s the only one not wearing the school practice uniform.”

Sandy laughed.

“Yeah, you’re right. That wasn’t too hard.”

Sandy Jr. noticed his father talking with Venessa.

Before he could make his way over, one of the players called Sandy with a question.

Sandy excused himself and hurried over to coach the player.

Sam stayed behind with Venessa instead of following him.

Seeing his dad occupied, Sandy Jr. decided it was the perfect time to introduce himself.

As he walked toward Venessa, she noticed him coming and smiled, giving him a small wave.

“Hi, I’m Sandy,” he said.

“I’m Venessa. It’s very nice to finally meet you.”

“I’ve heard a lot of good things about you.”

Venessa smiled.

“Oh, really?”

“Yeah. The past couple of weeks when my dad and I have talked, he’s mentioned that he’s been talking to an English professor.”

She smiled wider.

“He told me he was nervous about coming here. He thought it might take him a while before he felt comfortable.”

Sandy Jr. looked toward his father.

“He said that changed once he met you.”

Venessa looked surprised.

“Oh, really?”

She glanced toward Sandy.

“Well, it’s been a real pleasure getting to know him. He’s a very nice person. And from what I’ve seen, he’s a good baseball coach. I think this team is going to do well this upcoming season.”

Sandy Jr. nodded.

“Yeah, he knows baseball. In a couple of years, he might even get inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.”

Venessa looked surprised.

“He didn’t tell me that.”

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“Oh yeah. He doesn’t think so, but there’s a good chance. He always pushes it off and says his teammates are the reason for his success.”

Venessa smiled.

“That sounds like him. He’s a very humble person.”

She looked back toward Sandy Jr.

“What about you? I heard you’re going to Latin America to play down there.”

His face lit up.

“Yeah. I’ll be leaving in two days. I think it’s going to be fun.”

“I think you’ll enjoy it. Looks like baseball is in your blood.”

He smiled.

“Yeah. I’m trying to be as good as that man over there.”

Venessa looked toward Sandy.

“You’ll get there. Just stay true to yourself and stay true to the game. The sky will be the limit for you.”

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“It was nice getting to know you.”

As he started walking away, he noticed Sam sitting by Venessa’s feet.

He laughed.

“Sam, are you home already?”

Venessa smiled.

Sandy Jr. looked at the dog.

“You’re in good hands, pup.”

“I think by the time you get back, he’s going to be a very spoiled pup,” Venessa said.

“I think so too.”

He smiled at her.

“It was very nice meeting you, Professor.”

“Call me Venessa.”

He nodded.

“Okay. Venessa.”

“It was nice meeting you too. Maybe we can have dinner together one night before you leave.”

“I’d like that.”

He smiled.

“Take care for now. I have to go chase my dreams.”

Venessa smiled back.

As Sandy started making his way toward her again, Sam noticed him and took off running, his tail wagging.

Venessa looked at Sandy.

“Well, I met Jr.”

Sandy smiled.

“Oh yeah?”

“He’s very nice. I can see where he gets it. Father like son.”

Sandy gave a small smile.

“Yeah. I tried my best.”

“It shows. He’s a very respectful young man. And I can see how much he loves this game.”

Venessa looked toward the field.

“He told me he wants to be like his father.”

Sandy smiled.

“I just want him to do better than me.”

“Well, from what I just heard, he might.”

Sandy looked at her.

“I guess you two talked a little.”

Venessa grinned.

“Oh yeah. We talked.”

Sandy gave her a suspicious look.

“Mmm. Okay.”

Venessa laughed.

“Yes, we talked. And I had some idea that you were a very good baseball player yourself.”

Sandy shrugged.

“I had good teammates. They made my job easier.”

“That always makes things easier.”

Sam came running back, looking for attention.

Sandy picked up a ball and tossed it.

Sam took off after it.

Venessa laughed.

“Looks like you have a new friend.”

“Yeah. He’s going to keep me on my toes.”

Sam returned with the ball and dropped it in front of Venessa.

Sandy smiled.

“Looks like you have a friend too.”

As Venessa got ready to leave, she looked at Sandy.

“Well, Coach, I’ll let you get back to your team. Text me later, and we’ll get together this evening for a nice dinner with you and your son before he leaves.”

She smiled.

“That way I can find out what else has been said about me.”

Sandy laughed.

“Oh yeah? So he told you?”

“Yes. Not too much, but he did mention us.”

Sandy had a grin on his face.

He gently reached for her hand.

“Okay. I’ll text you.”

As they slowly let go of each other, they said at the same time:

“Always ❤️.”

Later that afternoon, practice was finishing up.

Sandy stood talking to the team while Sandy Jr. sat nearby in the dugout, listening to his father.

He noticed how calm and peaceful Sandy looked and how much he seemed to be enjoying the moment.

Sandy Jr. walked over.

“Dad, can I say something to the team before they head out?”

Sandy nodded.

“Sure.”

Neither of them knew Venessa had returned and was sitting quietly near the back of the bleachers, waiting for practice to end.

Sandy Jr. turned toward the team.

“You guys look good, especially this early in the season.”

The players listened.

“You have a good coach right here. I’m not saying that just because he’s my dad. I’m saying it because his love for the game shows out here.”

Sandy listened quietly.

“I see him teaching. I see how he reacts to you guys and how he tries to help you. Take advantage of this opportunity. Learn from him. Soak it all in.”

He looked toward his father.

“You guys are very lucky to have a coach like him.”

As everyone started making their way toward the dugout, Sandy Jr. looked up into the stands.

He smiled.

“Dad, you have a fan up there waiting for you.”

Sandy looked up.

There she was.

Venessa.

Smiling at him.

Chapter 7

As practice ended, Sandy made his way over to Venessa with a smile.

She looked at him.

“That was very nice, what your son said about you. I can see the love he has for you.”

Sandy nodded.

“I tried my best.”

“You can tell.”

Venessa looked at him.

“What are you doing for dinner?”

“We have no idea.”

She smiled.

“I make a great lasagna.”

Sandy’s face lit up.

“That sounds great. That’s one of my favorite dishes.”

Venessa seemed pleased.

“Well, it’s still early, and my work is done for the day. That gives me time to run to the store and get what I need.”

“That sounds like a plan. Do you need me to get anything?”

“I don’t think so. I should be done around six and head over to your house.”

Sandy smiled.

“We’ll see you around six.”

“Sounds good.”

They both smiled and said their goodbyes.

Before she left, Sandy leaned in for a small hug.

Venessa gladly accepted it.

Nice and soft.

Back at the house, Sandy and his son started picking everything up before Venessa arrived.

As they cleaned, Sandy Jr. looked at his father.

“So, are you two an item?”

Sandy turned toward him.

“I’m not quite sure. But whatever is happening between us, it’s special. I can tell you that much.”

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“I can see you’re happy when she’s around. You act a little different.”

Sandy gave him a look.

“A good different,” Jr. added.

“I don’t think so.”

Sandy Jr. laughed.

“Dad, you don’t have to pretend. I see it.”

Sandy tried to brush it off, but his son continued.

“And you know what? I’m happy for you. From what I got to know about her, I think you two are a match made in heaven.”

Sandy was left smiling from ear to ear.

“Yeah, she’s different. And yeah, I like her a lot. But we’re taking it slow.”

After they finished cleaning and setting the table, the doorbell rang.

Sandy walked to the door and opened it.

There she was.

They greeted each other warmly.

“Welcome. Come on in.”

Venessa was carrying a tray.

“Oh, let me take that.”

Sandy reached out and took it from her.

The aroma immediately hit him.

“Boy, that smells like a winner right there.”

Venessa grinned.

“I hope you guys like it.”

Sandy Jr. looked over.

“It’s pretty rare for baseball players to get a home-cooked meal.”

Sandy agreed.

Venessa smiled.

“Well, it’s about time the two of you sat down and had a good home-cooked meal.”

As they got ready to eat, Venessa began serving the lasagna.

Sandy looked at her.

“We can get it. You don’t need to serve us.”

“You two go sit down. I don’t mind at all. You’ve been outside all day.”

Sandy still insisted on helping.

Venessa finally gave in.

“Okay. I really don’t know your kitchen that well anyway, so you can help.”

They both laughed.

As they finished getting everything ready, Venessa asked, “Where’s Sam?”

“He’s outside running around in the backyard.”

She smiled.

“He must love it.”

“Oh yeah. He went from living in an apartment in the city to pine trees and a backyard.”

Venessa laughed softly.

“You can’t beat a good backyard.”

Once they sat down for dinner, Sandy Jr. looked toward Venessa.

“I heard you have a daughter and a grandson.”

“Yes,” she said. “They live in Orlando, Florida.”

She smiled.

“As a matter of fact, my daughter Kate and my grandson Matthew will be coming down in a couple of weeks. It’s Matthew’s birthday, and he wants to come visit Grandma for a few days.”

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“That sounds great.”

Sandy joined in.

“That’s nice. I bet you’re excited.”

“I am. Very.”

As dinner came to an end, Venessa stood up.

“I’ll take care of the dishes.”

Sandy Jr. quickly stopped her.

“No. You’ve done enough. And dinner was absolutely delicious. I’ll do the dishes.”

He looked between Sandy and Venessa.

“You two go enjoy the evening.”

Sandy smiled at his son.

Then he turned toward Venessa.

“Would you like to join me outside for a glass of wine?”

She looked pleased.

“That sounds nice.”

Venessa excused herself to the restroom while Sandy went outside, threw a few logs into the fire pit, poured her a glass of wine, and poured himself a whiskey over ice.

He lit a cigar.

Sam was happy to see him.

A few moments later, Venessa walked outside.

Sam immediately took off toward her.

Sandy smiled.

“Looks like he missed you.”

Venessa laughed.

“Yeah, it does.”

Sandy handed her the wine, and they sat together enjoying the evening.

Off in the distance, lightning flashed across the sky.

The temperature was beginning to cool.

Venessa moved her chair a little closer, but not too close.

She looked toward Sandy.

“I had a really good evening getting to know your son. I can see the love between you two.”

Sandy looked over at her.

“Yeah. I love when he pops in from time to time. And having you here tonight was the icing on the cake.”

He smiled.

“Thank you so much for the wonderful dinner.”

“You’re welcome. It was my pleasure.”

They both sat quietly, enjoying each other’s company.

Venessa looked down.

“Aww, look at that pup.”

Sandy looked.

Sam was lying between them at their feet.

Venessa smiled.

“You’re going to be a dad to him.”

Sandy laughed.

“I think I am.”

He looked toward her.

“But only if you help me out too.”

Venessa smiled.

“Of course. We’ll take good care of him.”

At that moment, Sandy reached over and gently took her hand.

They sat there calm, relaxed, and enjoying each other’s company.

As the evening began winding down, Venessa looked over at him.

“I had a really great time getting to know you and your son tonight.”

Sandy smiled.

“My daughter will be here in two weeks for my grandson’s birthday. Would you like to come with us for dinner when she gets here?”

Sandy looked at her.

“If you want me to.”

“Of course I do.”

Sandy was still holding her hand.

He lifted it and kissed the back of it.

“Well then, yes. I would really like that.”

Venessa smiled.

“Let me say goodbye to Jr. and wish him well on his baseball journey.”

They went back inside, with Sam leading the way.

He immediately found his bed in the living room and lay down.

Sandy Jr. came out of his room to say goodbye.

Venessa shook his hand.

“Safe travels. It was a pleasure getting to know you. And never give up on your dreams. Chase them.”

Sandy Jr. smiled.

“It was a pleasure finally meeting you too. My dad speaks very highly of you.”

Venessa looked toward Sandy with a grin.

“Oh, really?”

She gave him a playful wink.

As she started walking toward the door, Sam jumped out of his bed, wagging his tail with a look that seemed to say, Me too. Me too.

Venessa laughed and knelt down, giving him some love.

“You be a good boy. I’ll be taking you for some morning walks soon, okay, pup?”

Sandy opened the door and walked her outside.

Venessa looked back and waved goodbye to Sandy Jr. and Sam.

When they reached her Jeep, Sandy gently took both of her hands.

“Thank you for this wonderful evening. And thank you for accepting my small family. That means a lot.”

Venessa smiled.

“Why, of course. It was my pleasure.”

She paused.

“How about we take Sam for a walk tomorrow afternoon? The weather is supposed to be great.”

Sandy didn’t hesitate.

“Yes. Just text me when you’re ready, and Sam and I will pick you up.”

They smiled.

Then they hugged.

This time, the hug lasted a little longer.

Neither one rushed to let go.

Finally, they said their goodnights.

Chapter 8

As the night came to an end, Sandy was still riding an emotional high.

When he walked back inside, Sandy Jr. was standing there with his bags packed, ready to catch his flight and head south for winter ball.

Jr. noticed the glow on his father’s face.

“You like her, don’t you?”

Sandy looked at his son.

“Son, it’s more than like. I think I’m falling for her.”

Jr. nodded.

“I think she’s falling for you too.”

Sandy looked up.

“I hope so.”

“Maybe a little,” Jr. said with a grin.

They both laughed.

“I’m happy for you, Dad. Really happy. I think you found someone who matches you perfectly.”

As they stood there, Jr. told his father that he had just gotten a phone call. His flight had changed, and he only had about an hour before the new one took off.

“I already called an Uber,” Jr. said. “That way you don’t have to rush.”

Sandy nodded.

It felt like the perfect time to say what was on his heart.

“Go chase your dreams, son. You’re starting a new chapter in your life, and I’m so proud of the young man you’ve become.”

Jr. smiled.

“And tell your coach I said hello. He was one of my teammates when I first got into the league. He taught me a lot, so you’re in good hands.”

They hugged each other.

A moment later, headlights shined through the window.

They both walked outside.

“I love you, son.”

“I love you too, Dad. Thanks for everything.”

Jr. started toward the car, then turned back.

“And good luck with Venessa. She’s special.”

The next morning, Sandy and Sam were outside enjoying the cool mountain air.

Sandy sat with his black coffee and cigar while Sam rested nearby.

He picked up his phone and sent Venessa a text.

Good morning. Hope I didn’t wake you. I just wanted to say thank you for last night. My son and I really enjoyed your company, and I know Sam did too. Talk soon. 🤍🌹

Venessa read the message and smiled.

I really enjoyed all of your company and the conversation last night. What are you up to so early this morning?

Sandy replied:

Just outside with Sam enjoying my coffee and a cigar.

Nice weather this morning. It’s cool outside.

Sandy smiled.

After spending so much time in the Texas heat, this is really enjoyable. I’m just glad it’s not ninety degrees when I wake up. lol

Venessa replied:

Really? lol

Then another message came through.

How about lunch around twelve? After that, we can take Sam for a nice walk. There’s a trail I think you and Sam would really enjoy.

Sandy didn’t hesitate.

Sounds good.

Okay. Pick me up at 11:30.

See you soon.

As 11:30 approached, Sandy loaded Sam into his Gladiator and headed toward Venessa’s house.

Venessa sent him a text.

Ready when you are ❤️

Sandy didn’t respond because he was already pulling into her driveway.

He got out and knocked on her door.

Venessa opened it.

“That was quick.”

Sandy smiled.

“Yeah. I had to stop for gas, and I made one other quick stop.”

He pulled his arm from behind his back.

“I got you this.”

In his hand was a single red rose. 🌹

Venessa looked surprised.

“My, that was so nice of you.”

“I was thinking I needed to surprise you with a little something after last night.”

She smiled.

“Thank you. You didn’t have to.”

As they headed out for lunch, Venessa suggested a small, little-known restaurant that had some of the best deli meats in town.

Sandy headed that way.

He had taken the top off his Jeep so they could enjoy the cool mountain air.

Venessa had her hair pulled up into a bun, with a few loose strands whipping around in the breeze.

Sandy caught a glimpse of her.

Venessa noticed.

She smiled.

When they arrived at the restaurant, they ordered their food and headed back toward the Jeep, where Sam was waiting.

Venessa looked at him.

“Sam is a really well-trained dog.”

“Yeah. He went through K9 training, but he didn’t make the cut.”

Venessa looked surprised.

“Why not?”

Sandy laughed.

“Because he was too happy-go-lucky.”

Venessa smiled at Sam.

“Yeah, he’s special. You can see it in his demeanor.”

“He is special.”

“Yes, he is.”

They both stood there admiring him.

After lunch, they headed toward the trail.

When they arrived, Sandy opened the door for Sam.

As Sandy walked around the Jeep, Sam decided it was time to relieve himself.

Venessa laughed.

“I guess he couldn’t wait.”

Sandy laughed too.

“Nope. Guess he had to go.”

He reached into his backpack, pulled out a doggie bag, cleaned up after Sam, found a trash can, and then washed his hands.

The backpack had a couple bottles of water packed inside, but Sandy suddenly realized he had forgotten one thing.

Sam’s leash.

He had been so excited about the day that it had slipped his mind.

Venessa smiled.

“I bet he won’t wander too far.”

They started down the trail with Sam leading the way and Sandy and Venessa walking side by side.

“This is a beautiful trail,” Sandy said.

“I love it here,” Venessa replied. “It brings me close to nature, and the clean mountain air is refreshing.”

Sandy looked around.

“Yeah. The smell, the mountains, and especially the view. It’s all beautiful.”

Venessa looked up at him and smiled.

She knew exactly what he meant by the view.

They continued walking.

“So tell me,” she said, “do you miss playing baseball?”

“Sometimes.”

Sandy looked ahead.

“But it was time to walk away. My previous life was completely focused on baseball. Eventually, I realized I wasn’t happy anymore. I wanted to find the happiness that was missing from my life.”

Venessa turned toward him.

“Have you found that happiness?”

Sandy looked at her.

“I believe I have.”

They continued walking until they found a nice place to take a break.

They sat on a bench overlooking the mountains and a beautiful canyon.

Sandy opened his backpack.

“Want some fruit?”

Venessa took an apple.

Sandy grabbed one for himself and then pulled out a small water bowl for Sam.

Venessa checked the time.

“It’s almost time for my FaceTime call with little Matthew.”

Sandy stood up to give Sam a couple of treats and looked out over the scenery with the dog by his side.

Venessa pulled her tablet from her backpack.

Almost as soon as she turned it on, the call came through.

“Hi, Grandma!”

At first, the camera was pointed toward Sandy and Sam overlooking the mountains.

Matthew’s voice came through.

“Who’s that? And whose dog is that?”

Venessa laughed and turned the camera toward herself.

“That’s my friend, and that’s his dog, Sam.”

As soon as Sam heard his name, he walked over toward Venessa, wagging his tail.

She turned the camera toward him.

“Matthew, this is Sam.”

Matthew’s face lit up.

“You’re a good puppy!”

Sam’s tail seemed to wag a hundred miles an hour.

Matthew called his mom over.

“Mom! Come see Sam!”

Kate appeared on the screen.

“Nice dog.”

Venessa smiled.

“It’s Sandy’s dog. We came out for a walk today.”

Kate looked at her mother.

“Mom…”

Before Kate could say anything that might make the moment awkward, Venessa spoke up.

“I’d like you both to meet my friend.”

Sandy stood there, realizing he was about to meet Venessa’s daughter for the first time.

He walked over and sat beside her.

“Hello. My name is Sandy Muñoz.”

Kate smiled.

“So, you’re Sandy.”

He smiled back.

“Yes.”

“My husband is one of your biggest fans.”

Sandy looked surprised.

“Oh, is he a baseball fan?”

“Yes, but you’re his all-time favorite player.”

Sandy suddenly became a little shy.

Before he could respond, Matthew jumped in.

“Hi! My grandma likes you. I heard her tell my mom.”

Kate froze.

Venessa looked stunned.

Sandy played it off with a smile.

“Your grandma told me she loves you a whole lot, and she can’t wait for you to come visit.”

Matthew smiled.

“I can’t wait to go there and play with the dog.”

“I bet Sam would like that.”

Sandy smiled toward Kate and Matthew.

“Well, it was very nice meeting you both.”

They both replied that it was nice meeting him too.

Sandy got up and gave them a little space while Kate, Matthew, and Venessa began talking about their upcoming trip.

A few minutes later, they ended the call.

Sandy looked over at Venessa.

“You have a beautiful family.”

Venessa smiled.

“Thank you.”

Chapter 9

They continued walking along the trail, both looking happy.

It was getting harder for Sandy to hold back his emotions after hearing little Matthew’s confession about his grandma liking him.

Finally, Sandy turned toward Venessa.

“Venessa, I have to be truly honest with you about something.”

She looked at him, and he could see it in her face.

She already knew what was coming.

They both had feelings for each other.

“I know you probably already know this,” Sandy said, “but I can’t let this moment slip away. I have strong feelings for you. From the first day we met, they’ve been building inside me.”

Venessa listened quietly.

“I enjoy every minute we spend together. You are my happiness. I found what I’ve been missing in my life.”

He looked directly at her.

“And I found it here. I found it with you.”

As soon as he said it, Venessa smiled.

“I know. I’ve had this feeling too. I haven’t felt this way in a long time.”

Sandy smiled.

It felt like a breath of fresh air, like a new beginning was slowly taking shape.

“I still want to take it slow,” he said. “I don’t want to rush anything with you.”

“I don’t either,” she replied. “I enjoy spending time with you. It just feels natural.”

Sandy smiled.

“It does, doesn’t it?”

As they continued walking, Venessa reached over and gently took his hand, just as he had done with her before.

Then she placed her other hand around his forearm and held him close.

They looked at each other.

Neither one needed to say anything.

They could feel it in the air.

As they made their way back toward the Jeep, Venessa still held onto Sandy while Sam ran around nearby.

Sandy looked at her.

“We have to do this again.”

“Of course. I really enjoyed it.”

She looked toward Sam.

“And look at him. He enjoyed it too. He didn’t need a leash. Not one time did he try to run off.”

Sandy laughed.

“Yeah. I guess that K9 training did work.”

When they reached the Jeep, Venessa opened the back door, and Sam jumped right in.

Sandy opened the passenger door for her.

Then they headed back.

As they pulled up to Venessa’s house, Sandy looked over at her.

“What are your plans for dinner tonight?”

She smiled.

“What do you have in mind?”

“Maybe something on the grill.”

“Perfect. I have some elk burgers I got from the local butcher.”

Sandy looked interested.

“That sounds great,” Sandy said.

“Have you ever tried elk?” Venessa asked.

“No, but I’ve heard it’s good.”

“It’s really good. I know you’ll love it,” she said.

“Sounds good.”

Sandy thought for a moment.

“I’m running out of my favorite whiskey. I’ve had that same bottle for about a year and a half, so I think it’s finally time for a new one.”

Then he looked at her.

“Do you want anything in particular?”

“A nice white wine will work. I’ll bring the food.”

“Deal. I’ll be home whenever you’re ready. I’ll leave the door unlocked, so there’s no need to knock.”

Venessa smiled, pleased by the comment.

“Okay. Give me about an hour.”

Later, Sandy was outside preparing the grill.

He added some logs to the fire pit and tidied up inside and outside.

As he cleaned the grill, he looked toward the back door.

There she stood.

Sandy did a double take and smiled.

Music was playing in the background—Jackie Wilson’s “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher.”

Sandy was feeling the music, just being himself.

Venessa watched him with a smile.

She loved seeing that side of him, even though she didn’t say it.

Sandy noticed the look on her face and quickly reached for the volume.

Venessa laughed.

“Leave it. Just be you.”

She started toward the kitchen.

“I’m going inside to get the burgers ready. I brought a pitcher of homemade tea. Want a glass?”

“Of course I do.”

As Venessa went inside, Sandy smiled to himself, a little shy that she had caught a glimpse of how he was feeling.

A few moments later, she returned with a glass of iced tea.

“Here you go.”

“Thank you.”

Sandy took a sip.

“Now that is good old Texas tea right there.”

Venessa smiled.

“That’s the only way.”

Sandy nodded.

“I agree.”

He placed the burgers on the grill.

Sam woke up from his nap and came outside looking for some attention.

The moment he saw Venessa, his tail started wagging.

Venessa walked toward Sandy.

“Need some help?”

Sandy smiled.

“I appreciate it, but you go sit down. You’re my guest.”

She gave him a look.

“Go sit down,” he said again with a smile. “Let me take care of you tonight.”

Venessa finally gave in and sat down.

From her chair, she quietly watched Sandy at the grill without him realizing it.

Then her phone rang.

It was Kate.

“Hi, Kate.”

“Hey, Mom. How are you doing this evening?”

“I’m doing good. I’m over at Sandy’s house. He’s making burgers on the grill.”

Kate sounded surprised.

“So, you really like him?”

Venessa kept looking toward Sandy.

He had no idea what was being said.

A smile slowly appeared on her face.

“Yes,” she said. “I really do.”

Kate paused.

“Well, your happiness matters, Mom. And I can tell you’re happy, so that makes me happy too.”

Venessa smiled.

“Thank you.”

“And Matthew has been talking about Sam since this morning. He can’t wait to play with him.”

Venessa laughed softly.

“Oh, I know Sam will love playing with him too.”

“Okay,” Kate said. “I just wanted to tell you that.”

Then she laughed.

“I’ll leave you two lovebirds alone. Enjoy your night.”

Venessa smiled.

“Goodnight, Kate.”

Chapter 10

As Sandy took the burgers and sausages off the grill and carried them to the table, Venessa already had everything ready for dinner.

He set the food down, and Venessa started putting the burgers together.

Sandy finished closing up the grill, then turned around and, to his surprise, found his plate already prepared and waiting for him.

“Thank you.”

They both sat down.

“Kate called while you were cooking,” Venessa said. “She told me little Matthew is eager to come play with Sam. Apparently, that’s all he’s been talking about all day.”

Sandy smiled.

“Aww. I think they’re already best friends, and they haven’t even met yet.”

Venessa agreed.

Sandy looked at her.

“I’m actually excited about meeting your family. I hope I can make a good impression on them.”

Venessa smiled.

“I think you already have, and you haven’t even met them in person yet.”

Sandy looked up at her and smiled.

Nothing else needed to be said.

He simply let the moment and her words settle into his heart.

They continued eating, and when they finished, Venessa leaned back.

“That was the best burger I’ve had in a while.”

Sandy smiled.

“I made it with love.”

Venessa smiled back.

“Yeah, you did.”

Sandy started cleaning everything up while Venessa moved the chairs closer together, side by side.

He added a few logs to the fire pit.

Venessa poured herself a glass of wine and fixed Sandy a whiskey on the rocks.

He looked over at her and smiled.

Then he grabbed his cigar and lit it.

They sat close together.

No words were needed.

The air was filled with emotion.

Just the two of them, with Sam curled up at Venessa’s feet, right where he seemed to belong.

As they sat there enjoying the evening, “The Power of Love” by Celine Dion began playing.

Venessa reached over and gently took Sandy’s arm.

Then she leaned her head against him.

They sat there listening to the song together.

It felt like a special, God-given moment.

As the sun slowly began to disappear and the song came to an end, Sandy looked toward Venessa.

“What do you think Matthew would like for his birthday?”

Venessa smiled.

“I have an idea. He loves Legos. He’s gotten pretty good at putting them together.”

Sandy nodded.

“What do you have planned for his birthday?”

“I was thinking about making him a cake. Maybe we could make some burgers and hot dogs and invite some of our colleagues from school. Make it feel special.”

Venessa looked toward Sandy.

He was smiling with joy.

“That would be perfect,” he said. “We’ll make it his day.”

As the evening began to come to an end, Venessa looked over at him.

“Thank you for spending the day with me. It was special. I really enjoyed your company. It felt warm.”

Sandy smiled.

“It did. I had a wonderful day with you too.”

“I’ll come back and pick up my dishes later.”

“I’ll clean them and have them ready for you.”

“Thank you.”

Sandy stood.

“Let me walk you to your car.”

As they started walking toward Venessa’s Jeep, she reached for his hand.

Sam walked right beside them.

When they reached her Jeep, Sandy looked into her eyes.

“Today was special.”

Venessa smiled.

“Yes, it really was.”

Sandy leaned in and placed a soft, gentle kiss on her forehead.

Venessa immediately began to blush.

Then she leaned into him for a soft hug.

Neither one seemed eager to let the moment slip away.

Eventually, Venessa drove off.

Sandy and Sam headed back inside to clean up and call it a night.

A little later, Sandy picked up his phone and texted her.

Just checking to make sure you made it home safely.

Venessa was getting ready for bed when her phone lit up.

It was Sandy.

She read the message and smiled.

I was just about to text you goodnight. Yes, I’m home and getting ready for bed.

Sandy replied:

Glad you made it home safely. Well, goodnight to you too.

A moment later, another message came through.

Breakfast at my house. 9 a.m.

Sandy answered almost immediately.

I’ll be there.

Then he added:

Goodnight. See you tomorrow.

Venessa smiled before replying:

Goodnight. Always ❤️. Us 🤍🌹.

Sandy stared at the message.

He could hardly believe this was happening.

He smiled and answered with only:

Always ❤️. Us 🤍🌹.

Chapter 11

As morning came, Sandy settled into his usual routine, sitting outside with a cup of black coffee and finishing the cigar from the night before.

Sam ran around the yard, barking at a few nearby mule deer grazing in the field behind the house.

When Sandy finished his coffee, he went inside and started getting ready.

His phone rang.

It was Venessa.

“Well, good morning,” he answered.

“Good morning to you too. I figured you were already awake.”

“You know me. I love the mornings.”

She giggled.

“How was your coffee and cigar?”

Sandy laughed.

“Yep. You know my morning routine.”

“Just a little.”

Sandy smiled.

“Well, I’m getting ready to head over.”

“Perfect. Can you stop at the local store and pick up some milk? That’s the only thing I don’t have.”

“Sure. Anything else?”

“I’ve got everything. I just started cooking, so take your time.”

“Will do.”

Right before they hung up, Venessa added, “Sandy?”

“Yeah?”

“Bring Sam.”

Sandy smiled as if she could see him.

“Will do.”

After leaving the store with the milk, Sandy headed toward Venessa’s house.

As he pulled into her driveway, a text came through.

I forgot to tell you, the door is open. Come in. I’m in the kitchen.

Sandy smiled.

He had the milk, along with the plates from the night before.

He and Sam made their way inside.

Sandy tried to find the kitchen by following the aroma coming through the house.

When he found her, Venessa was standing in front of the stove.

For a moment, he didn’t say anything.

He just watched her being herself.

Then Sam came in with a playful little sound, walking straight toward Venessa with his tail wagging.

She turned around.

“You found me.”

Sandy smiled.

“No. I just followed him. I knew he would lead me to you.”

Venessa laughed.

“Where do you want me to put the milk?”

“In the refrigerator, please. And you can set the plates on the counter.”

Sandy put everything away, then looked toward the stove.

“Man, that looks like a mountain-of-a-man feast.”

Venessa smiled.

“I hope you brought your appetite.”

Sandy laughed.

“Oh, I did. Breakfast is my favorite meal.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yes. I’m a big breakfast eater. Back in my playing days, we had a professional chef at the stadium, and he used to make me a big breakfast.”

As he spoke, Sandy walked over toward her.

“Anything I can help you with?”

“As a matter of fact, yes. Can you set the table?”

“Absolutely.”

Venessa pointed out where everything was.

Sandy set the table so they would sit across from each other, making sure they wouldn’t miss a beat of one another.

As Venessa finished cooking, she asked him to bring some of the food over.

Sandy didn’t hesitate.

When everything was ready, Venessa served him three over-easy eggs, sausage patties, hash browns, and a big slice of French toast.

Sandy stared at the plate, his eyes widening.

“Wow. This looks amazing.”

Then he noticed the French toast.

“And my favorite? French toast? I couldn’t ask for anything else.”

Venessa smiled.

“Oh, really? There’s something missing.”

Sandy looked surprised.

“What else could possibly be missing?”

She placed a large glass of milk in front of him.

Sandy laughed.

“Oh yeah. We’re going to need something to wash all this down with.”

They both sat down and started enjoying the mountain-man breakfast.

With almost every bite, Sandy let out a quiet little hum.

Venessa looked over at him.

“You like it?”

“Everything is amazing.”

She smiled.

“I made it with love for you.”

As they finished breakfast, Sandy leaned back.

“I think I could get used to this kind of breakfast. That was amazing.”

Venessa smiled.

“Well, thank you.”

Sandy got up and started helping her clean.

“You don’t have to do that,” Venessa said. “Go take a break.”

“I want to help.”

She gave him a look and realized he wasn’t going to take no for an answer.

“Okay.”

They stood side by side at the sink.

Venessa washed the dishes while Sandy dried them with a towel and placed them in the dish rack.

No words were needed.

They simply enjoyed the calm, peaceful morning together.

Then Sandy’s phone rang.

It was Jr.

Sandy answered and put the call on speaker.

“Good morning, Dad. Just calling to check in and let you know we had our first practice.”

“How’d it go?”

“Good. Coach Manny said to tell you hello. And you were right. He’s been on me since the first practice. He’s already riding my tail.”

Sandy laughed.

“He did the same thing to me, son. Soak it in and listen to him. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance.”

“I will, Dad.”

Then Jr. paused.

“Oh, how are things going with you and Professor Venessa?”

Venessa smiled.

“Oh, we’re doing good.”

There was a pause on the other end.

“Umm… okay.”

Sandy laughed.

“We just had breakfast, son, and it was amazing.”

Venessa looked at Sandy and smiled.

“Man, that sounds good. And I know how much you like breakfast, Dad, so I bet it was good.”

“Yes, it was.”

Venessa spoke up.

“Next time you’re around, I’ll make you a good breakfast too.”

“That would be nice.”

Then Jr. laughed.

“Well, it’s almost time for me to get back on the field. I think Coach Manny is already yelling at me.”

They all laughed.

“Okay, son. Take care. Love you.”

“Love you too, Dad.”

Venessa added, “Take care, and keep chasing your dreams. We’ll be rooting for you.”

There was a slight pause.

Sandy looked over at her, grinning from ear to ear.

After the call and the cleaning were finished, Venessa looked at him.

“Want to take a break?”

“Do you mind if I turn on the TV? There’s a championship golf tournament on, and I want to catch a little of it.”

“Of course. Make yourself at home.”

Sandy went into the living room, found the channel, and relaxed on the couch.

Venessa looked over from the kitchen.

“I’m going to do a load of laundry.”

“I’ll be right here.”

Then Sandy settled deeper into the couch.

“By the way, this sofa is so comfortable.”

Venessa smiled to herself.

She already knew what was coming.

By the time she finished putting the laundry into the washer and returned to the living room, Sandy was sound asleep.

Venessa smiled.

She decided to take Sam for a walk around the neighborhood.

So off they went, just Venessa and Sam.

As they returned from their walk, the next-door neighbor, Steve, was outside picking up leaves.

He noticed Venessa walking with Sam.

“Good afternoon, Professor. When did you get a dog?”

Venessa smiled.

“Oh, he’s not mine. He belongs to a friend.”

Steve looked toward the house.

“I don’t mean to intrude, but is that friend the new baseball coach?”

Venessa became a little shy at first.

Then she answered confidently.

“Yes. That’s the new coach.”

Steve immediately lit up.

“I’m a big fan. I can’t wait for the season to start.”

Venessa smiled.

“Me neither.”

They waved goodbye.

As Venessa walked back toward the house, Sandy was standing in the doorway.

She smiled.

“Steve, my neighbor, is a big fan of yours.”

“Oh, really?”

Sandy looked toward Steve.

“Hi.”

Steve took that as an invitation and came over.

He went straight for a handshake.

“Coach, it’s an honor and a privilege to meet you. Not every day I get to meet a future Hall of Famer.”

Sandy stood there quietly as Steve continued talking about the upcoming season.

“I’m glad you’re here helping the team out.”

Sandy smiled.

“I’ll do my best.”

Steve nodded.

“Well, it was really nice meeting you. I’ll let you two get back to your day. Sorry to interrupt.”

“No worries,” Sandy replied. “I always have time for fans.”

They said their goodbyes.

When Steve walked away, Sandy and Venessa went back inside.

Sandy looked at her.

“Sorry I fell asleep.”

Venessa laughed.

“I figured once you said you liked the sofa, it was a done deal.”

They both laughed.

Then Venessa looked at him.

“So… a future Hall of Famer?”

Sandy looked down, a little shy himself.

“Yeah. People talk about it, but it’s whatever.”

Venessa gave him a look.

“It’s whatever? I think that’s a pretty big deal.”

Sandy shrugged slightly.

“Yeah, to some people. But to me, what matters most is what you give back to the game.”

Venessa just looked at him.

And there it was again.

Her heart melted.

Chapter 12

As they sat on the front steps, Venessa sat on the top step and Sandy one step below.

They both quietly watched Sam run around, sniffing everything in sight.

Venessa placed one hand on Sandy’s shoulder, almost like she was embracing him.

Sandy reached up and placed his hand gently over hers.

“I’m sure glad I made the decision to come here,” Sandy said. “I almost took the head coaching job in L.A., but something deep down inside led me here. To this town. To this college.”

He paused.

“And most importantly, it brought me to you.”

Venessa’s hand tightened slightly on his shoulder.

Sandy looked back at her and saw a tear running down her cheek.

He leaned his head gently against her hand, leaving her speechless.

They sat there together in the cool Colorado mountain breeze.

The air felt fresh.

No words were needed.

Their feelings for each other were warm, and they both felt it.

A moment later, Sam came over and sat beside Venessa.

There they were.

Us.

Sandy looked up.

“This is beautiful.”

Venessa smiled.

“Yes, it is. And when Sam came over, I was thinking the exact same thing.”

Eventually, the moment came to an end.

They both stood and took each other’s hands.

“I have to get going,” Sandy said. “The coaches and a few recruiters are coming over tonight. We’re looking at a couple of players, and I might have to be gone for a few days to visit them.”

Venessa looked at him.

“Your first recruiting opportunity?”

Sandy smiled.

“Yeah. Kind of exciting. I think I’m going to see a pitcher in Arizona.”

“You’ll do good. You have good character and charm, not to mention the chance to play for a coach of your stature.”

Sandy smiled.

“Thank you. That was nice of you.”

“It’s true.”

Sandy looked at her.

“You want to go with us?”

Venessa smiled but shook her head.

“I’d love to, but I’m so backed up on paperwork. It’s going to be a long week.”

“Me too.”

Then Sandy gave her a playful look.

“Oh, okay. I figured with me gone, you were going to be lonely and missing me.”

Venessa smiled.

“Yeah, but we can still text and call each other. Maybe even FaceTime, if you’re lucky.”

Sandy laughed.

“That sounds good.”

Then Venessa looked toward Sam.

“What about him?”

“I was thinking about boarding him.”

Venessa immediately shook her head.

“Nope. I won’t allow that. He’s coming over with me. I’ll watch him.”

Sandy looked surprised.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. He’s housebroken, and he’s no bother at all. I’ll even come home at lunch to check on him.”

She smiled.

“Plus, I’ll still have a little piece of you around with him being here.”

Sandy looked at her.

They were still standing there holding hands with the Colorado breeze around them.

They hugged goodbye for now, neither one wanting to let go.

When they finally separated, Sandy leaned in and placed a small, gentle kiss on her cheek.

Venessa smiled.

“Go take care of your coaches’ meeting. I don’t want the other coaches saying I made you late.”

Sandy laughed.

“Yeah, I better get going, because I’ll get lost standing here staring into your eyes.”

They said their goodbyes.

As Sandy loaded Sam into the Jeep, Venessa called out to him.

“Don’t be late. You don’t want to keep them waiting.”

Sandy laughed.

“Ah, they can wait a minute or two.”

They both smiled and waved.

Sandy headed home.

When he and Sam arrived, Sandy quickly went inside to shower and gather his scouting reports on the players he was preparing to evaluate.

Before leaving, Sandy looked over at Sam.

“You’ll be staying with Venessa for a couple of days. You need to be a good boy and take care of her while I’m gone.”

Sam looked up at him.

Sandy smiled.

Later, Sandy arrived at his office at the stadium.

To his surprise, he was the first one there.

He thought about Venessa telling him not to be late and laughed to himself.

He picked up his phone.

I’m not late. lol. I’m the first one here.

Venessa replied:

Good. Nobody can say I made you late. lol.

Sandy smiled.

As he got ready for the meeting, the coaches and recruiters started arriving one by one.

The first coach to show up was Teddy.

Teddy was Sandy’s bench coach—his go-to guy.

Teddy walked in with a grin.

“I heard a rumor around campus.”

Sandy looked at him.

“What rumor?”

“You and Dr. Parker.”

Sandy smiled.

“Yeah. We’ve been talking and spending some time together.”

Teddy nodded.

“Yeah, I figured. I’m happy for both of you.”

The others started arriving, and Sandy looked around.

“All right, let’s get this going.”

They sat down and started discussing future prospects.

Sandy looked over the scouting reports.

“We need to try hard for this kid in Arizona. He’s got good size, good mechanics, and I like his pitching style. I think we can work with him and maybe bring him in as our ace as a freshman.”

He moved to the next file.

“We also have a catcher in Florida we need to go talk to.”

One of the recruiters who was supposed to make the Florida trip had a family emergency and couldn’t go.

Sandy looked toward Teddy.

“I’ll go to Arizona Monday and Tuesday. Then you and I will leave Tuesday and fly to Florida to talk to the catcher.”

Everyone received their assignments.

Meanwhile, Venessa stayed busy grading papers and planning tests for the week.

But she kept losing focus.

Her thoughts kept drifting back to the weekend.

She wondered if all of this was really happening.

Every time Sandy crossed her mind, she felt warm.

Safe.

Happy.

Back at the stadium, the coaches’ meeting started coming to an end.

Sandy looked toward Teddy.

“Did you read the catcher’s file?”

“Yeah,” Teddy replied. “There’s a possibility he might pass up the offer.”

Sandy nodded.

“But it won’t hurt to try.”

Teddy agreed.

With that, they wrapped up and started getting ready for their trips.

As Sandy drove home, his mind was already on Florida and the prospect they were going to meet.

When he got home, Sam was ready for some attention.

After Sam got his fill, they headed outside.

Sandy sat down with his notebook, a fresh cigar, and his thoughts.

He found himself replaying the weekend with Venessa.

Pure happiness.

The sound of owls echoed in the background.

Then his phone rang.

It was Venessa.

Sandy answered quickly.

“Well, hello there,” Sandy said.

“Hope I’m not bothering you,” Venessa said.

“Not at all.”

“How did the meeting go?”

Sandy leaned back.

“Well, it looks like Arizona isn’t the only place I’m going.”

“Oh, really?”

“One of my coaches can’t make the Florida trip, so I’ll be doing both. Looks like I’ll be gone most of the week trying to recruit two players—a pitcher and a catcher.”

Venessa listened closely.

“And I’m actually glad I’m going to Florida,” Sandy continued. “This kid has an interesting file. I need to follow up on it.”

“Oh, really? Something caught your attention?”

“Yeah. There’s something there.”

Venessa smiled.

“Well, I can tell by the way you’re talking about him.”

Chapter 13

“Yeah, there’s something there,” Sandy said.

As they continued talking, Venessa asked about Sam.

“Yeah, we’re leaving at eleven,” Sandy said. “But I’ll be in my office tomorrow morning to leave the pitching coach his assignments for the players while I’m gone. I was hoping to see you sometime before then so I could give you my house key and you could pick Sam up later that day.”

Venessa tried not to sound too excited, but her tone changed immediately.

“Yes, I would like that.”

Sandy smiled.

“Perfect.”

“I’m free at nine.”

“Okay. I’ll meet you in your office.”

“That sounds good.”

They said their goodnights.

After hanging up, they both realized something was missing.

Almost at the same time, they picked up their phones and sent the same message to each other.

Always ❤️. Us 🤍🌹.

They both sat there alone, looking down at their phones with pure happiness.

The next morning, Venessa was planning out her day and getting ready to meet Sandy.

She arrived at her office with the work she had completed the night before and turned on her computer.

Then she heard a knock at the door.

“Come on in.”

When she looked up, Sandy was standing there holding a single red rose. 🌹

He had picked it up on the way to his office.

“I’m sorry,” Sandy said. “I couldn’t wait. I was going to text you, but I decided I’d rather talk to you in person than over the phone.”

Venessa smiled.

“I was actually going to come see you once I finished up some work from last night.”

They both smiled, realizing they had the same idea of surprising each other.

Venessa stood, and Sandy walked farther into the office.

“I love your office,” he said, looking around. “It’s clean, and the decor screams your name.”

As he looked around, he noticed something on her desk.

The baseball cap he had given her.

Beside it sat the note he had written.

Sandy smiled.

“That’s a nice place for it.”

Venessa looked at the hat.

“Yeah. It keeps us close.”

Sandy walked over and handed her the rose.

Venessa took it softly, her fingers brushing gently against his hand.

She found a small vase, added some water, and placed the rose on her desk.

As Sandy stood there, he noticed a small framed picture of Venessa holding an award.

He picked it up.

“That’s a beautiful picture.”

Venessa smiled and told him the story behind it.

She had received the award for her dedication to the English department.

“That’s a special moment,” Sandy said.

“Yes, it was.”

Sandy looked at the picture again.

“I think I’m taking this with me. You have the hat and the rose to remind you of me, so I need this one.”

He gave her a playful smile.

Venessa smiled back.

“Take it. Put it by your nightstand.”

Sandy looked surprised.

“You’re serious?”

“I am. Take it. I want you to.”

Sandy carefully placed the picture inside his briefcase.

Then he looked at her.

“I almost forgot why I came over.”

For a second, it looked like he was about to say something completely different.

Venessa noticed.

Sandy shook his head slightly and reached into his pocket.

“Here’s the key to my front door.”

He handed it to her.

“Sam’s bed is in the living room, and his food and treats are on the kitchen counter.”

“Okay. I’ll probably go get him around noon and take him home with me. I’ll take good care of him.”

Sandy smiled.

“Yeah. I know you will.”

They said their goodbyes and shared a soft, gentle hug.

As they began to let go, Venessa leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Sandy’s cheek.

“Be safe. Have fun, and good luck on your recruiting trip.”

Sandy looked at her and took her hands.

“I will. And thank you for watching Sam.”

“Don’t mention it.”

She smiled.

“I think he likes me more anyway.”

Sandy laughed.

“I don’t know. I think I might like you more than he does.”

They both smiled.

Venessa pointed toward the door.

“Go on before you miss your flight.”

Sandy laughed and headed out.

Venessa sat back down for a moment, holding onto what had just happened.

For the first time in a long time, she was allowing herself to breathe.

Her heart was beginning to have feelings for someone again.

As Sandy made his way back toward his office, Teddy was waiting for him with a stack of files in his hands.

“You can’t forget these.”

Sandy nodded.

“Yep. That’s why I came back.”

As he placed the files inside his briefcase, Venessa’s picture slipped out.

Teddy looked down at it.

“Okay. So you went to see the professor before we left.”

Sandy looked up.

“I had to give her my house key so she could pick up Sam.”

Teddy nodded.

“Oh yeah. You mentioned last night she was going to watch him.”

“Yeah. He’ll be safe with her.”

Teddy handed him the picture.

“We all see what she means to you.”

He looked at Sandy.

“She’s special, isn’t she?”

Sandy nodded.

“Yeah.”

He paused for a moment.

“I feel something taking over. I feel a change coming.”

Teddy smiled, gave Sandy a light tap, and said, “Come on. Let’s go.”

Sandy understood exactly what that tap meant.

He looked toward Teddy and nodded again.

Later, Sandy sat at the terminal waiting to board his flight.

He picked up his phone and texted Venessa.

Fixing to board the plane. Just wanted to tell you I hope you have an amazing day. And don’t spoil Sam too much. lol. I’ll talk to you soon. ❤️ Always.

Venessa replied:

I’ll try not to, but he’s such a cute pup. And yes, please text me when you get to Arizona. I’ll be looking forward to hearing from you. 🤍🌹 Us.

Sandy smiled.

Around noon, Venessa left work to pick up Sam.

She turned on the radio while driving.

Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” began playing.

With the windows down and the cool Colorado fall air flowing through the Jeep, loose strands of her hair blew in the breeze.

She felt the music.

She felt the emotions.

She felt her heart healing.

When Venessa arrived at Sandy’s house, she unlocked the door and stepped inside.

“Sam?”

A moment later, he came running from around the hallway.

Venessa smiled.

“There you are.”

She let him outside into the backyard so he could take care of his business.

Then she went back to her Jeep and grabbed his things.

When she returned to the kitchen, she noticed Sandy had left his coffee cup and a plate in the sink.

She smiled and decided to tidy up a little.

She thought it would be nice for him to come home to a clean house and be able to rest after his trip.

Afterward, she loaded Sam and his things into her Jeep, made sure Sandy’s door was locked, and headed home.

Sam rode shotgun, enjoying the ride with his head near the open window.

When they arrived, Venessa set up a spot for him.

It didn’t take Sam long to realize he was going to be staying there for a while.

He settled in comfortably.

Venessa knelt down beside him.

“I’ll be back in a couple of hours.”

Sam looked at her as if he understood every word.

As she drove back toward work, her phone rang.

It was Sandy.

She answered.

“Well, hello.”

“Just touched down,” Sandy said. “We’re getting settled in, and later we’re taking the pitcher, Mason, and his family out to eat so we can talk about his future with us.”

Venessa smiled.

“Go get him. Build your team.”

Sandy laughed.

“Fingers crossed. He’d be my first recruit.”

“Just be yourself. You’ll do good. I have faith in you.”

“Thank you. I’ll do my best.”

Before they hung up, Venessa reminded him of something.

“And don’t forget to take my picture out and put it on the nightstand. That way, when we talk tonight, you can see me.”

Sandy smiled.

“Oh yeah. I won’t forget.”

“Talk later.”

“Definitely.”

They said goodbye.

Venessa continued on with her day while Sandy picked up his rental car.

He and Teddy headed toward their hotel, checked in, and went to their rooms.

They had planned to grab a light lunch before their meeting with Mason’s family later that evening.

While Sandy was in his room getting comfortable, he opened his briefcase.

He pulled out Venessa’s picture and placed it on the nightstand.

Then he took a picture of it with his phone.

Knowing she was probably in class, he didn’t want to disturb her with a call.

Instead, he sent the picture in a text.

When Venessa finished teaching, she had about thirty minutes before her next class.

She sat at her desk and noticed Sandy had sent her a message almost forty-five minutes earlier.

She opened it.

There was her picture sitting exactly where she had told him to place it.

She smiled.

❤️ Always.

Back at the hotel, Sandy read her response.

He texted back:

I’ll call you tonight around eight so we can catch up on the day. 🤍🌹 US 🌹🤍

He sat there smiling.

Sandy and Teddy decided to skip lunch and go through Mason’s scouting report instead.

Later that evening, around 6:30, they headed to a steakhouse to meet Mason and his family.

When they arrived, Sandy introduced himself and Teddy.

Mason immediately recognized him.

“It’s an honor to meet you, Coach.”

His parents expressed the same excitement.

They all sat down and began getting to know each other.

Over dinner, they talked about baseball, life, and personal growth.

Sandy spoke about the program and the future he saw for Mason.

By the time dinner ended, Mason could barely hold back his excitement.

“Coach, I’m committed to the program.”

Sandy and Teddy looked at each other, thrilled.

Sandy had just landed a strong prospect for his future pitching rotation.

He smiled toward Mason and his family.

“It was great visiting with you all. We’ll stay in touch.”

They shook hands and said their goodbyes.

As Sandy and Teddy left the restaurant, Sandy looked at the time.

He had plenty of time to get back to the hotel.

Plenty of time to get ready for the phone call he had been looking forward to all day.