It was right before football practice, on a crisp fall day in 1971 at T.C Williams Highschool.

Ronnie had come early to change into his gear, solely for the purpose of being able to hang with you.

He had his arm around your shoulders, and you were leaning on him, talking about your father, Coach Boone, and his plans for practice.

You were the Coach’s kid, and black, at that. A lot of white kids gave him wired looks for one reason or another, but he never noticed.

He just thought they were staring because you were pretty, and you never corrected him- even though you knew better.

Just as he leaned in and pressed his minty lips to yours, he was pulled off by Julius.

The tall, black kid had pulled him off you by the back of his shirt, tugging the blonde to his feet. “Careful there, Sunshine. Don’t want the coach takin’ you off Starting for kissin’ his (daughter/son.)”

Ronnie rolled his eyes, but relented, offering you a lopsided grin that made your heart flutter.

He followed his teammate back to the dressing room.

Throughout the practice, you stood by your father, shouting encouragement to the players, especially your Sunshine.