Fumble Series by Elle Madearis

Bryce Prescott. There was only one thing on my mind this football season. Revenge. Last season, my number one wide receiver had patted me on the back, then walked away with my fiancée. I’d become the laughingstock of the entire sports world, with my face being splashed across gossip sites. As I watched my ex, Shaunie, walk down the aisle to Vick, I vowed everybody was going to pay. The only person laughing this season would be me. Kindness Jordan. Peace and happiness were my motto... moreBryce Prescott. There was only one thing on my mind this football season. Revenge. Last season, my number one wide receiver had patted me on the back, then walked away with my fiancée. I’d become the laughingstock of the entire sports world, with my face being splashed across gossip sites. As I watched my ex, Shaunie, walk down the aisle to Vick, I vowed everybody was going to pay. The only person laughing this season would be me. Kindness Jordan. Peace and happiness were my motto. After four traumatic college years, I took some time to find myself. Backpacking through Europe had given me the tools I needed to return to Houston. For a while, things moved at a comfortable pace, so I thought. The outside world refused to allow me to stay on the sideline when my parents come knocking. They were demanding I take on a more active role in the family business. My integration back into the corporate world brought me front and center with the star quarterback. less

Marcus Allen. I’ve worn hardship longer than I’ve worn football pads. Life hasn’t given me much to celebrate—except my daughter and superior athleticism. Being a single father and the sole caregiver for my grandmother meant sacrifice. Football was my way to provide and keep my promises. I buried my needs beneath my responsibilities—until I met her. Mia has guarded eyes but a beautiful soul. She made me believe there might be more than grind and grief... moreMarcus Allen. I’ve worn hardship longer than I’ve worn football pads. Life hasn’t given me much to celebrate—except my daughter and superior athleticism. Being a single father and the sole caregiver for my grandmother meant sacrifice. Football was my way to provide and keep my promises. I buried my needs beneath my responsibilities—until I met her. Mia has guarded eyes but a beautiful soul. She made me believe there might be more than grind and grief. But life has taught every blessing comes with a lesson. Mia Robinson. Healing was my mission. After surviving a relationship with a serial cheater, I let go of the dream of picture-perfect love story. My heart was shattered, and I chose solitude, therapy, and a microphone—building my podcast from pain and purpose. Love dropped to the bottom of my list. Then he walked in. Marcus Allen—smooth chocolate skin, and eyes that displayed his determination. His presence makes me melt… and panic. He’s everything I want—and everything, I fear. I can handle this…Right? less