A Scheduled Time Out For Bella

Disclosure: for all chapters

I do not own the rights to 'Twilight or Friday Night Lights", the plots or actors in them. I also don't own any of the authors or music that may be mentioned in this story. No infringement intended. Just showing some of my likes. I may drool over them a bit. This will be rated M. because face it Tim Riggins will be in it and he sex walking. Also, some of the players do cuss.

A 'Twilight and 'Friday Night Lights' crossover.

Bella needed a change. The Cullens' left after the whole James' incident, the summer before her senior year. She didn't go all zombie on her dad. But, she needed to get away from Forks. She calls her aunt Tami Taylor asking if she can live with them for the year.

The Taylors' are in Dillon once again, this time Eric is head coach for the high school football team the Panthers. They are in a new larger house.

In this story Bella is a bit different. She will love football and be good at scouting. She will also be good at making and explaining plays. She will still be shy but coming out of it. She will still be our famous klutz. Tami is Renee's sister. (the actresses do look a bit alike)

Most of the story will be in Bella's POV. Though I do have a tendency to change that.

Here we go.

Chapter 1

BPOV

Enough of this moping already. I wonder how dad would feel if I asked to live with aunt Tami and uncle Eric. It's been a while since I've seen them. They move more then Renee and I did. They are in Dillon TX now. Uncle Eric is a high school football coach.

I guess there is only one way to find out. Here goes nothing.

I walk downstairs and dad is watching baseball of course.

"Um dad can I talk to you about something please?"

"Sure honey what's up?"

"Well you know how I'm still not quite myself yet. I think I need a change. How would you feel about me moving to Texas and living with aunt Tami and uncle Eric?"

"You know I love them. They are good people. Why don't you call and see if they would be willing to have you there? Would you want to stay for your whole senior year?"

"Yes I would. Are you sure you wouldn't mind dad? I haven't been here a year and already leaving. I feel so bad. But I know everything just reminds me of the Cullens'. I can't stand it."

He gets up and hugs me. Something we don't do a lot.

"I will miss your cooking. But I know how unhappy you are here. If being away from the memories, will help you, then I think it's a good idea. They love you and I know Eric is now head coach. I'm sure he would love someone at home that loves football as much as he does. Just try not to be pushy about it." He laughs.

I may not be able to walk a straight line on a flat surface without tripping. But I can throw a football as well as any guy.

"I'll try, but you know it will be hard for me. Maybe he will ask for my help. Who knows? Maybe I will go to college to become the first female professional football coach."

Dad laughs again. I get a mad face.

"Hay it could happen." Then I smile.

"I know baby. If anyone could do it, it would be you. I think you love the game more than Eric. You know how much he loves football."

"Yep, it's his life. Can I call them now?"

"Of course baby. Tell them I say hi, and if they want to talk to me I'll be here."

I hug dad again and kiss his cheek.

I go over to the phone on the desk next to our address book and look up their phone number. They called us after they moved a couple of months ago, to give it to us.

I nervously dial the number to their Texas home. Hoping I get Tami. She will be the easy sell.

Tami, Bella, Eric. Charlie

Hello

Hi aunt Tami, it's Bella.

She laughs. Of course it's you Bella. You're the only niece we have silly. What can I do for you hon?

I have a big, huge favor to ask. If I'm imposing, you just tell me and I'll figure something else out.

Honey just tell me what you need to ask? The worse I will say is no.

I know, I'm just scared I guess. Ok here it is. I'm just going to tell you the truth because you know I can't lie to save my life. Anyway. I was dating this guy and I became close to his whole family. Some things happened and he broke up with me. It still hurts. Anyway, they all moved away. I need a change and dad said if you and uncle Eric don't mind too much...

Bells honey just ask.

Ok ok, darn you're pushy. Tami laughs. I would like to live with y'all for my senior year. I do plan on going to college. I just don't know where yet. Before the break up we were planning our lives together and I was basing my decisions on what he wanted. Now it's just me. Also, you know I can cook and do laundry and help out around the house. I can also get a job if I needed too. I have one now. Just part time, but I also worked during the school year and was able to keep up my grades. I'm in all college prep classes. So that won't change. So what do you think uncle Eric will say.

Bella honey, Tami had you on speaker the whole time. I'm sorry sweetie but you're just too cute. Of course you can move down here. We actually can use the help now. We have some news. Tami is about 4 months pregnant and once she has the baby she could use some help. I know Julie would love to show you around. You two being so much alike, it's scary some times. I would love to have you here with us. We have plenty of room. Also if you agree to do some chores around the house we will give you an allowance. You won't need to get a job unless you want one. Also, you know I can always use your help with the team. Can you still throw?

Silly of course. Dad was worried about me being pushy about helping you out. You're sure you want me. It would mean the world to me. I miss you guys so much.

Yes I'm sure. Is your dad around so we can talk a bit?

Yes he is right here just in case.

Hi Eric. Are you sure about having Bella for a year? I know she is a good girl, but when it comes to football she is totally different. If you have her helping you she may turn into a monster. An all knowing, stat quoting, play calling, monster.

You're funny Charlie. Of course I'm sure. I know Julie will love having her cousin here. She misses her cooking. So do I but don't tell Tami. (he laughs)

Hay y'all.

See what I mean. Besides, Tami is pregnant and I would love to have Bella around to help out. It would take a lot off of my mind. How are her grades? Still straight A's?

Yep. She was planning on taking all college prep classes. She was in the top 10 students in the school. The Cullens' were the rest. That family and that boy leaving has really been tough on her. She needs to get her mind on something else. You know how she is with football. I just don't want her to be a pest to you. You can send her home whenever you want.

Charlie, you know we love her. We may never let her leave. Well maybe to go to college. You send her on down as soon as you want. I could use her help right away. Football tryouts and practice starts in a week. Do you think you can get her here before then?

I think so. We just need to pack her stuff. Oh no that means her books.

I hit dad on the arm.

Ouch Bella.

What's wrong there Charlie? Bella didn't like the book comment? I take it she still loves to read.

Yes more then ever. She always has a book in her hands. Well I think Bells and I need to go shopping. I have a few surprises for her. I know she'll hate. I will have her drive down, that way she will have her own car. Also, I will pay for her car insurance.

Ok Charlie. Sounds good. We look forward to having her here. Have her bring whatever she wants. We can't wait to see her. I'll make sure she calls you all the time.

Ok coach sounds good. I better let you go before Bella shoots lasers out to me. He laughs.

Ok chief. Make sure Bella knows we love her and to be careful driving down.

Will do. Bye Eric and thank you. Also, congrads on the new baby.

He hangs up the phone.

"Ok dad so I can tell from the way y'all were talking that I can go. But what are your surprises?"

"Well I came, I mean we came into a great deal of money. Something about an investment I made. Well it paid off and I have started some accounts for you. I have a college fund for you. If I do say so myself it's pretty big. You will be able to go to any college you want. Also, it seems we entered some kind of lottery or sweepstakes and won. Bella honey it's several million dollars. I don't know how or when it happened. But we now have enough money to do whatever we want."

Damn Cullens I think to myself.

"Well that's great dad. Can I assume that you had it all checked out? Making sure it's all on the up and up?"

"Yes honey I did. It all seems real and legal. First thing we are going to do is buy you a new truck or a car, whichever you want. Then we will get you a laptop and a cell phone. I want to be able to talk to you and e-mail you while you're gone. I want to hear about school and the kids you meet."

"Ok dad that sounds good. I should get some clothes also. It's a lot warmer there then here. Can we go now?"

"Sure Bells but, you being excited to go shopping and spending money. That is new."

"Well spending time with Alice and the Cullens' got me used to it a bit. Let's go dad."

He grabs his keys. I get my stuff. We leave and get over to the bank first. We go in and see the president of the bank. Of course he is a friend of dad's.

He shows me the statements on my college fund and my bank accounts. Yes plural, accounts. The Cullens really set us up. If I know them, they will be checking them and adding to them as we spend the money. But after everything I've been through and them just leaving. Why not. For the first time in my life I will accept what is given to me.

We walk out of the bank with a new debit card each and a box of generic checks.

Dad then drives us to Port Angeles. We find a car dealership and look around. I find an SUV an Expedition Limited ELgray. It had the options I wanted. A salesman came up to us. Dad started talking deals. We went into a sales office. Next thing I know I have keys and papers for the SYNC system and the Sirius Satellite radio. Dad called our insurance guy and had the dealer print out temp proof of insurance cards for me. Dad even got the salesman to pay all the taxes on the SUV. Then he even took about an hour showing me all the features. I have to say it was funny trying to get into it at first. Then they showed me the running boards and how to use them to get in and out. Now I can.

We ended up driving to the small mall they have here. We find a cell phone store and look around and get the same make and model of phone and a family plan so we can call each other as much as we want. They are the new iPhone. We were able to set it up so the area code is the same as my aunt and uncle's. Then we go to a computer store and find a top of the line HP laptop with all the bells and whistles. Dad's excuse was I can use it for school as well as to e-mail him. Then we go shopping for clothes. He even bought some for himself. I got lots of jeans, shorts, and shirts. The funny part was going into Victoria Secret with him. I picked out dozens of sets of bras and panty. I wanted a change so I went as far as getting thongs. Something I told myself I would never wear. But, I thought why not. This is the new Bella. I may even wear some clothes that show a little skin.

I know, I know shocking. I can't believe how much I spent in there. I would make Alice proud. We went to a few more stores. I got more shoes, even heals. I found a stationery store and got a diary. Of course dad groaned when I found a book store. But instead of my classics. I went over to the best seller section and read the back of several books. There were 3 different books by the same author, a Sherrilyn Kenyon. Her books sounded interesting. Of course she is new to me and has about 30 books out now. So, of course, I had to get them all. Then once I got in that genre. I found more. I could use some out of this world fantasy. Since the vampires and shape shifters of my life are no longer interested in spending time with me. Why not read about others. Anyway the books looked good.

Dad helped carry everything to my new SUV. We stopped for dinner then found a U-Hall store that sold boxes and packing supplies. We bought a ton of boxes. While shopping, we even bought a whole set of luggage for each of our selves.

Then we went home. It took forever to carry everything up. I started to pack my clothes and new books right away. We loaded my truck as I went along. I made a run to the grocery store to get shampoo and stuff for my shower. I bought some things at VS but needed more. I got home and showered then started to read the manuals for my new phone and laptop, as well as for the car. I went to sleep after reading them all.

I wake up at 6 am, even before my alarm went off. I get up and wash my face, brush my teeth and hair. I put my hair up in a long braid. I put on some shorts and a t-shirt that shows some tummy. I go downstairs and fix breakfast for Charlie and I.

"Hi honey so you all set to take off this morning?"

"Yep. I e-mailed my friends that I want to keep in contact with, to let them know about me leaving. I downloaded the directions from MapQuest to Dillon. I just need to input it into the navigation system of the truck. I need to grab the little things left. Like my phone, laptop, iPod. All that stuff. I will get some drinks when I get gas outside of town. Don't worry dad I'll be ok. I will stop and sleep sometime and call when I get a room. Then I will call when I get to aunt Tami's place. Plus I'm sure you gave me several cans of pepper spray right?"

"You know me too well Bells. Yes I picked more up at the station for you. Make sure you use it if you need it."

"I will dad. You know I'm going to miss you old man."

"Oh baby I'll miss you too. I know we never spent a lot of time together, but, it meant a lot to me to have you here."

I go up to him and hug him tight.

"I know dad, I know. Well I better get my things together. I'm too nervous to eat now. I just want to take off as soon as possible."

"Ok Bella, go ahead. I plan on going fishing with Billy after you leave."

"Ok dad" I go upstairs and get everything. I put it in the truck. I go up to dad and hug him tight and kiss him on the cheek.

"I will call you when I stop. Give my love to Billy."

"I will. You just keep safe. I love you baby girl." I get into my truck and drive away.

I won't go through everything during my drive. I did as promised and called when I stopped at a motel. I did stop several times for gas and food. It took 2 days to get to Dillon. As I get into town I found my aunt and uncles' house right away. I pull up to the front and get out. I knock on the door.

Tami answers it.

"Hi can I help you hon?"

"I hope so auntie Tami. I'm Bella. I thought you were expectin me."

"Oh my land get your pretty butt in here. Eric, Bella is here. Boy has she grown up."

Eric walks out and looks around.

"Where is she? I thought you said Bella was here."

"Uncle Eric very funny." I go up and hug him.

"I'm not sure who you think you are, young lady..." Then it occurred to him.

"Ok if you're my niece then. Who was the first draft pick in Dallas Cowboys history?"

"Are you serious? That's the best you can do. It was Bob Lilly from the tiny town Throckmorton, Texas. He was a powerful defensive tackle for the Cowboys. He is also a Hall of Famer."

"Oh gosh Bella I'm sorry honey. You just look so different. Oh gosh I'm gonna have to beat my players with a stick to stay away from you. Promise me you won't break too many hearts while you're here."

I laugh at him.

"You're funny uncle Eric. Me. Break hearts. I don't think so. More likely it will be the other way around. Remember I'm still the shy, klutzy, keep to herself girl, that you have always known. I just caught the eye of my one and only boyfriend. He was controlling, and possessive. I don't think I can do that again. Don't worry I'm not going to become a slut or anything. I'm still a virgin and I plan on it staying that way until I fall in love. Really fall in love. Not just lust over a sweaty muscly football player. No matter how hot he is."

"That is good to hear because unfortunately I have several players that are man whores. They'll be the first to admit it. But you never know."

"The last guy I dated was great in some ways but bad in others. Let me just say he broke my heart and now I'm holding on tight to it. Now if you don't mind I have a ton of stuff in my truck that I need to unload, and I would love to see my little cousin. Where is Julie? I've missed her so much. Please tell me she's not all girly."

"No, she isn't she still is kind of like you. Loves to read, good student, not into sports but football due to osmosis. She is over at a local restaurant hanging out with some friends. It's a place the players hang out. Let me help get your stuff."

"Ok thanks uncle Eric. Auntie Tami it may be a good idea if you don't help. I have 10 boxes of books. I don't want you lifting them ok. If you don't mind can we go grocery shopping later. I want to make dinner for y'all. A treat for letting me stay."

"Oh honey you know you don't need to do that right? We would want you to stay no matter how much we love your cooking." Said aunt Tami

I go up and hug her.

"Oh by the way congratulations on the baby. I can't wait. I want to help you in any way I can ok. Also, I don't need to get a job. Dad and I came into some money. Some sweepstakes and investments. Something like that anyway. I still plan on pulling my weight around here though, don't you worry."

"Oh baby girl I know what you had to do growing up with my scatter-brained sister. You were more a mom then she was. I know you're used to taking care of everyone. But here I want you to be a teenager for a while. Date several boys, you go and do the heart breaken' instead of the other way around. Have fun. Not being stuck in your room all the time ok?" Tami said.

"I will try. I want to change and open up more. Not be so shy with people. But, it's all I know."

"Well being involved with the team should help. Don't let them intimidate you. Oh you should call your dad and tell him you got here ok." Eric said.

I pull out my phone and call dad. He was giving me the 3rd degree but I cut him off and just said that I got in and was safe. But needed to unload the truck.

"Ok dad I will call you in a couple of days ok?"

"Ok baby. I love you." We hang up. I go out to my truck and grab a box. When I see Eric talking to a very hot looking guy. He looks about 6'2" light brown straight hair to his shoulders. They both look over to me.

"Bella honey can you come over here?"

I go over to him.

"Yes uncle Eric?"

"Honey I want you to meet one of my star players. He's a fullback, and a senior also. This is Tim Riggins."

He reaches out to shake my hand.

"Nice to meet you Bella was it?"

"Yes"

"Coach I didn't know you had a niece?"

"Yes her mother is Tami's sister. Bella's parents are divorced and she lived with her mom in Phoenix most of her life. She moved up to Washington state last year and now will be doing her senior year here. Tim she is off limits to you. Her dad is the chief of police up where she is from and is even more protective of her than I am of Julie. If that's even possible." Eric laughs.

"She is going to be helping me out with the team. She has a photographic memory and absolutely loves football. She also has a pretty good arm, if I do say so myself. She is very good at scouting teams. So I'm gonna have her look at tapes and help me improve the team. We may be moving some players around. She has this knack of seeing things no one else does. Just you wait." Eric stated.

"I look forward to working with you Bella. Nice to meet you Bella. I'm sure I'll be seeing you soon." Tim said.

He walks over to his truck and drives away.

"Bella honey, if you want you can just call me coach"

"Ok coach. You know by telling Tim that I'm off-limits. He's just going to try that much harder. Let me guess he is one of the man whores on the team?"

"Yep. He's a good guy. But he's been around and doesn't really date. He just has sex. I want more then that for you. But who knows maybe you'll be the one to have him change his ways. He only has his older brother around. His parents aren't in the picture. If he shows interest in you. Don't push him away. Just tell him the truth about what happened with your boyfriend. Maybe he'll take things slow with you. Now how about we get your stuff inside. Also, did I over hear something about you cooking for us tonight?" Said Eric.

"Yes sir. But I need someone to take me shopping. I don't feel like driving anymore today if that's ok."

"Of course. One big thing we all remember about your visits, is your cooking. We would let you stay with a promise from you to cook once in a while."

"Oh if it's alright with y'all, I would like to cook more often then that. While living with both Renee and dad I did all the cooking." I said.

"Oh I think we can live with that. Are you still a somewhat vegetarian? Julie decided to become the same. She will only eat organic foods also."

"On the most part yes. But every once in a while I have to have a big greasy burger. Also my vegies and fruit don't have to be organic. I'm not that picky."

Eric and I spend the next hour bringing in my stuff. We put my boxes of books on the floor by the bookcase. Then my suit cases on the bed.

"Ok, Bella that was the last of it. When did you want to go shopping?"

"Well is Julie going to be home for dinner. I would like to make something for her that she may not have had before. But I won't buy the ingredients unless she will be here. I'm going to need your grill. I'm making burgers. Will that be ok with y'all?"

"That will be fine hon. Why don't you call her from my phone?" Eric hands the phone to me and the 3rd number on the contact list is hers. I dial the number and after 3 rings she picks up.

Bella, Julie

Hi dad. You said I can stay out till 5. Did you need me home sooner?

Hay Jules it's not your dad. It's Bella.

Oh god, Bella you're here already?

Yes little cousin. I'm here and all unloaded. Your dad and I are going to the grocery store and I wanted to make something special for you. Will you be home for dinner and hungry?

Yes I will make sure I am. You know I'm a vegetarian now right?

Yes honey I know. I am one to an extent. I eat meat just once in a while. But I eat chicken and turkey a lot. You know they have turkey substitutes for almost everything nowadays. It's just a matter of how it's cooked to make it taste good. Well your dad and I will take off for the store. Is there anything you need. I'm told your kind of picky on things. I'm not so much. If I can find organic stuff I buy it. But it's not always available.

How about I give your way a go. I mean you're still skinny right?

Yes. But I eat whatever I want. I happen to like salad. But I also like a good greasy burger sometimes too. I just choose to eat in a more healthy way. So can you be home in time. I want to make a surprise for you. I think you'll love it. I'm making enough for you and me. While dinner is going we can chat and you can help me unpack. Would you mind lil cos?

Not at all Bella. I'll see you later.

We hang up. I hand the phone to Eric.

"Ok we are all set. Aunt Tami do you need anything. Getting any strange cravings yet?"

"No honey. Thank you though. I'll set up grill the for you while you're gone."

"That would be great. I do need to marinade some stuff for me and Julie's burgers though. I would normally make all the side dishes from scratch but this time, I'm going to buy some already made, potato salad and coleslaw. Let's go coach. I've got food shopping to do."

Eric and Tami laugh at me.

EPOV (Eric)

I think we are going to enjoy having Bella here. I know she will be a big help with the team. I just worry about her and the boys. She is so pretty and has already caught the eye of Tim. He's a good kid deep down. He just needs to settle down with one girl. Who knows maybe Bella will be that girl.

Bella can be so funny some times. I hate the fact she was always the grown up with her mom and dad. Charlie I get along with fine. He's more of a baseball fan. But we can talk football also. He is stable and has an honorable job. He's been in Forks forever.

Renee is a whole different story.. Laughing to myself . She is very scattered brained. Bella has told us some stories that would scare anyone.

"Let's go coach. I've got food shopping to do." Like I said Bella is great to have around.

We go out to my truck. Bella jumps in, and I drive off. We get to the store and she said we should each get a cart. We walk down the isles together. She picks up things for baking and making for dinners. She picks up some spices, then pasta. She practically runs into Buddy and Lyla.

"Oh gosh I'm so sorry. I wasn't looking, are you ok?" She asked.

Lyla says "Yes we're fine. Oh hi coach Taylor how are you?"

"Good. Bella I want you to meet Lyla and her dad Buddy. Buddy, Lyla I would like you to meet my niece Bella Swan. She will be spending her senior year with us and helping me with the team. Lyla you're a senior this year right?" Eric said.

"Yes coach I will be. Bella do you know what kind of classes you'll be taking?"

"Um not really. I was in all college prep classes in my last 2 schools. I hope to do the same here."

"Oh that will be good. I have several AP classes here also. I'm hoping to go to Vanderbilt for college."

"Oh that's a really good school. I'm not sure where I'll go. At one time it was Dartmouth, but now I'm not sure."

Then Buddy said "Well we should let you finish up your shoppn'. I'm sure we'll see you 'round Bella."

"It was nice meeting you Bella. I'm sure I'll see you when school starts, maybe even before."

"Thanks it was nice meeting both of you too."

"Well Bella those two can help you meet most everyone in town. Lyla is a cheerleader and Buddy is a big booster for the football team. How about we finish up the shopping I'm getting hungry for whatever you have planned for dinner."

"Ok coach." It takes another hour or so for me to get everything I wanted and to check out.

We get to the house and unload everything.

"Hi y'all. How did it go? Bella it looks like you bought out the store."

BPOV

"Yes ma'am. I wanted to make sure I had plenty. I normally plan my menus for a week at a time. Including lunches and breakfast for the weekends. I also like to bake. So I have stuff for muffins and brownies, and some other things." I said with a smirk on my face.

Julie walks in, sees me and runs up to me.

"Bella, I'm so happy you're here now. I've missed you so much."

"Oh Julie look at you all grown up. You're so beautiful. Coach was worried about his players getting to me. I think he should worry more about you. Man when did you grow up?" I said.

"Oh now cut that out. You're more pretty then me. I bet you can get any guy you want."

"Oh little cousin. Did you forget about how horribly shy I am, and the fact that I'm a big fat nerd. I would rather stay home and bake or read a good book then to go to some party."

"Well we just have to get you out of your shell a bit. We don't want you being a hermit. We want you to go out some. Meet some kids your own age. Date a little." Said aunt Tami.

"I'm going to start dinner. So if anyone needs anything from the kitchen get it now. Otherwise no one is allowed." I stated.

They all laugh at me. I get started. I get the big mushroom tops out for Julie and I. I mix up a marinade with raspberry vinaigrette along with other things. I stir it up and pour it in a big zip lock bag. I place the mushrooms in it. Placing the closed bag flat in the fridge. I then get the ground chuck out and cut up some onions and green bell peppers. I mix it with the meat with some spices. Then I ball it up to make hamburger patties.

I slice up some onions for the burgers, as well as mix a salad. I mixed some of my own salad dressing and put that in the fridge to chill.

"Who wants to grill the meat?" I asked loudly.

"I'll do it Bella honey." Eric says as he walks up to me. I hand him a plate with the meat patties I just formed.

"Thanks coach. Those are for you and auntie Tami and anyone else that may pop in. I have something else for Jules and I to grill. I will take care of that though ok?"

"No problem honey. Did you want me to cook all of these?"

"Yes please. For some reason I think we're gonna' have some company. Also, can you leave some free space on the grill. I don't want your meat juices invading the area I'll be cookn' in."

He laughs "Of course honey."

He takes the plate outside and I hear the sizzle of the meat being put on the grill. I get out the pineapple I bought. I trim it up and slice it. I put that on a plate. I think I'm all set. I grab another metal spatula for my mushrooms and pineapple. I get the 2 packs of buns out and put them on the kitchen counter.

I walk outside with my mushrooms and pineapple.

"How are they doing coach? Almost done?" I asked.

"Yep just a couple more minutes. They smell really good. I won't ask what's in them, because I know you won't tell me."

I laugh "You know me too well. I'm gonna start on mine and Julie's burgers then."

They take a lot shorter time to cook. I place all the slices of pineapple down then the mushroom tops. I grill them for a couple of minutes on each side. I get the buns and grill them also. I take our things in. Eric was right behind me with the plate full of burgers.

We place everything on the counter. I get the green salad out with the dressing I made. Then I got out the potato salad and coleslaw.

"Ok dinner is ready." Julie comes to the counter.

"Do you need me to put things on the table?"

"That would be great. The salads and the dressing I made would be great. I'll bring out our burgers in a few minutes."

I put together the burgers for Julie and I. I put some of my special sauce on one side of the bun, then the mushroom, then a ring of onion and the pineapple. Then sauce on the other side. I cut them in half. I make all 6 just in case. I put one on a plate for Julie and one for me. I put the plates down where we will be sitting.

Everyone is sitting down.

"Would y'all mind if I say grace?" I asked.

Aunt Tami looked surprised and said "Of course."

"Lord thank you for the food you provided us today. May it be enjoyed and give us strength. I also want to thank you lord for getting me safely here and having my family give me such a loving welcome. Please let them know how much I look forward to spendn' time here and help out in any way I can. Lord if you can see your way to it... Can you help out the Panthers and give them an undefeated season. That would be great. ..." I hear laughing.

"In your son's name I pray. Amen." I finished.

"Bella honey you're so silly. You know we love having you here. You came at the perfect time. I can't wait for all the team to meet you. I'm sure some are already talking about you."

"Well, still thank you for letting me come here. Now let's eat. Jules, take a bite and tell me what you think. Be honest. I had these in a fancy restaurant, then saw them being made on Food Network. I have made them a few times, changing things here and there. Even dad will eat these."

Julie takes a bite and takes forever to chew it up. I'm waiting impatiently tapping my foot and strumming my fingers on the table. I know she is going slow to tick me off. I just stare at her.

She swallows and has a face on like she is trying to hide something. Then she smiles

"Bella that is the best thing I've ever eaten. Mom you've got to try it. It is so good."

"Auntie Tami, I did make extras and cut them in half so you and coach would at least take a bite. Pouting Do you mind trying for me?"

At the same time they say "No not the pout and the puppy eyes."

We all laugh. They each take a half and look at it. Then they both take a bite and chew. They both look surprised.

"Wow, Bella honey this is really good. I hate that crap that Julie tries to get us to eat. But this is really good." Coach said.

"Bella honey your uncle is right. This is really good. It almost makes me want to become a vegetarian."

"Now maybe all of you will trust my cooking more. I'll never forget the first time I made some Mexican food for dad. He smelled the chilies and got nervous. Mom as y'all know was a creative cook. How she came up with some of the things she did, is beyond me. But I guess being a cop, he gave it a try and never doubted me again."

We all eat our salads and burgers. Julie ate hers plus another ½ . There were still 4 regular burgers left, and 2 ½ of mine. There was also an empty place setting, waiting for someone to sit at.

"Bella honey who is the empty place set for?" Asked coach.

"I'm not sure. I just know someone is coming over and will finish those burgers."

Just then we heard the doorbell ring.

AN– There is the first chapter of my new story. I won't have a set time frame for updating. Yes I'm still working on my other story. I have ideas for more yet. Please just keep on checking. I hope you like it. Feedback is always good. Even if it's to tell me it's dumb.