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A second later, the door swung open, and John Carrick and his son stepped out. John shook Coach’s hand, the two of them wearing grim expressions. Carrick’s glare cut to me, narrowing with contempt.

“Looks like that went well,” Aaron whispered.

Coach saw them both out and made his way over. “Ezra, I’m glad you’re here.”

“What was all that about?”

“You don’t need to worry about Nathan or his father anymore.”

“What did you do?” My brow arched.

“Everyone has secrets they would rather keep buried, son. You just have to know where to look. I gave Nathan the choice as to whether or not he remains a Raider. But if he does, he understands that this is my team and you’re a part of that.” He gave me a small nod. “Get changed and I’ll see you both out on the field.”

“Hey, Coach,” I called after him.

“Yeah?”

“Why’d you do it? Why go to all this trouble for me?”

“Because you’re family, Ezra. And I protect my family—always.”

Jase walked back to his office.

“Now do you believe me?” Aaron said with a