Chapter 15

I was still undecided about whether or not to play or not. I met Friday after lunch with Coach Wilkins, the Defensive Coordinator, and the Head Coach. They wanted me to commit to football including staying in the athletic dorm and receiving a scholarship. I again advised them that I had sufficient scholarships but would play though not stay in the athletic dorm. I reminded them that I also had a merit scholarship and was planning to study physics or math. I said that I expected to maintain a membership on the Dean’s List. They also wanted me to gain some weight. I objected saying that it would harm my other athletic endeavors and may not be good for me physically.

Finally, I said, “Gentlemen, I appreciate what you are saying but I don’t plan on a professional career in any sport. I do enjoy playing. That’s the reason I’m here for the try-outs. My commitment is that of a student athlete who plays others sports but who is first and foremost a student. I would hope to play and contribute this year. Hopefully, you will be able to recruit linebackers for next year and my presence will not be very important. I really don’t need the scholarship giving you the opportunity to offer assistance to someone who needs it.”

They talked to me some more but finally, at least officially, were finally understanding of my position.

I said, “We have a week off and then return to college. I’m signed up for my dorm room and classes. I will come by that Monday to look at a schedule for practice and for games. I have been consistent in what I’ve been telling you and my mind will not change. Within those parameters, I will contribute as best as I can.”

Coach Wilkins said, “Okay, Jerry. We’ll work with you. You have some real talent for the game. We’ve seen you hit and move. You’ll do well. We might even have you calling defensive adjustments on the field. I hope that gives you some idea of the value you can be to this team. Have a good week.” They all stood and smiled. I knew that they didn’t really get what they wanted but I figured they could live with it. I shook hands all round.

I went back to my room and Bob was there. He had made the team and would get a full ride scholarship. He was happy. I was happy for him. He asked, “Did you get a scholarship?”

“No, Bob. However, I don’t need one. I did make the team. Next year, they’ll recruit more linebackers and I won’t be as needed. We’ll see. I’m going to finish packing. I want to get out of here and see Alice.”

“Okay, Jerry. Good luck.” We shook hands.

I texted Alice that I was on the way as I wheeled my case down to my car. I loaded it, got in, and left heading for the farm after putting the top down. It was a normal drive. When I pulled up in front of the farm, Alice came flying out the door and into my arms.

We kissed and hugged each other tightly. After a few, long minutes, we came up for air. Her mother was watching us with a smile. I said, “Hi, Missus Meadows. It’s good to see you, too.”

“Tell Alice to loosen up and you two come on inside.” She grinned.

She did. I opened the trunk and retrieved my case. Holding my hand, Alice led me inside as I pulled my smaller case. She led me straight to the same bedroom that I had had before. She gave me another kiss with an accompanying full body hug.

Smiling, we walked into the living room with our arms around each other’s waist. Missus Meadows grinned, “I’m glad you survived placing your case with Alice’s help. We’ve had a few reports through Alice that the try-outs went well. We’re glad to see you. Alice will be much easier to live with now that you’re here.” She grinned even more.

Alice grimaced but kept quiet. I grinned, “Watch out for Monday. I do have to go home for a few days. I’ll pick her up on my way back to college and get her out of your hair. We’ll target Saturday for moving into the dorms.”

Missus Meadows asked, “Are you going to be in the athletic dorm?”

“No, Ma’am. There was a concerted push for me to make that change. However, living in the athletic dorm just doesn’t work for multiple reasons. Unless something changes, I will room with Joe and Alice will room with Marilyn. Both live fairly close to me. We don’t share their life styles but, other than that, it should be okay.”

Alice said, “I’m looking forward to college with Jerome. Jerry’s right about Joe and Marilyn. They came over to his place to swim and she was wearing a Wicked Weasel suit. They were also very demonstrative. We were both uncomfortable.”

Missus Meadows said, “You will need to use the sock on the doorknob signal. The idea is to put a sock on the doorknob to warn a roommate away. It prevents someone coming into the room and seeing more than they wanted or expected.”

Alice put on an innocent look. “Would that work here?”

I ducked while grinning. I said, “I have no extra socks.”

Missus Meadows put on a mock angry look. “Don’t push things, young lady.”

Alice grinned. “We aren’t going to push but you offered the sock solution. We won’t need it though our roommates might.”

I put my hands together in a praying manner and bowed my head. Alice asked, “What are you praying about?”

“I’m praying for an extra sock.” I grinned. Both Alice and her mother grinned back at me.

It lightened the slight bit of tension that had developed. That was good since that had been my objective. Shortly thereafter, Missus Meadows headed for the kitchen requesting Alice help. I followed to help them to whatever extent that I could. I was put to setting the table.

Mister Meadows and Mitchell came in. By the time they had washed up, supper was ready. We all sat down. After prayer, we ate. Mister Meadows said, “It would seem that my daughter hasn’t scared you off yet. That’s good. I like having a fresh face around here. Besides, Alice is happier when you’re around.” He grinned.

I grinned back. I also decided that the old saying was good. “Silence is golden.” I ate. We even had a dessert. Mitchell said, “Mom must like you. We don’t usually have dessert.”

“Even though the food in the athletic dorm was better than what we had in the student cafeteria, it still doesn’t compare with this meal. I’m glad to be here though the food isn’t the primary attraction.”

Alice smirked. “You’re here to see Mitchell.”

“No-o. Mitchell’s a nice guy but I don’t have a man crush on him.”

“What other reason could there possibly be?”

“It’s you. You know this.” She put an arm around my neck and lightly kissed my lips. I was a little surprised since it, the kiss, was in front of her parents and brother! Everyone smiled so I guess it was okay. I reached around and gave her body a gentle squeeze.