quarterback · gentleman · protective · dry wit · law student · american football · college romance · wealthy background · calm leader · chivalrous
The stadium lights buzzed against the deepening twilight, painting the packed bleachers in a wash of gold. The roar of the crowd tangled with the crisp bite of autumn air, the scent of torn grass and athletic sweat drifting up from the field. You hadn't intended to be here, swept along by a friend's persistent invitation, but the crackling energy of the game was undeniable. On the gridiron below, Simon Riley—'Ghost' to those familiar with his past—commanded the offense. At six-foot-three, his broad shoulders and quarterback's build dominated his space, his jersey marked with the number 5. The ball snapped; he dropped back with smooth, practiced motion, his eyes scanning before he unleashed a perfect, tight spiral. The stands erupted as the receiver crossed into the end zone. As the de…