Page 84 of By His Rule

“Oh my god, Wilder,” I cry the second the line connects. “You were incredible.”

Kicking the door closed behind me, I dump my things in the entryway and walk toward the kitchen as he talks me through the entire game as if I weren’t watching it. Every word he says makes my heart sing. I love hearing his excitement, his pride.

I barely get a word in as he explains about meeting the scouts at the end of the game and discussing what his future plans might be.

College football has always been a pipe dream—one that I’ve encouraged as much as I can, but Wilder isn’t stupid. He knows that the chances of actually making it from where we come from are slim. He knows how much college costs, and he knows that even with a scholarship, it’s going to be hard—especially with Hendrix wanting to go as well.

I don’t think they understand, though. I’d sell my soul to the devil if I had to, to get them there.

“Shit, Lor, I need to go. We’re having a party on the beach and then heading to Jackson’s house. His parents are away and…you probably don’t need to know that.”

“No.” I laugh. “Just please?—”

“Be good. I know, Lor. I know.”

“Good. I love you, Wild Child. Send your brother my love if you happen to see him.”

“At a football party? Not really his scene.”

I can’t help but laugh. “I’m sure he’ll want to congratulate you,” I say, knowing full well that Rix usually shows his face just to support Wilder. Despite their differences, they are tight as hell. It makes me jealous as fuck. I was so alone when I was their age. I would have given anything to have a bond with someone even close to what they have.

“Love you, sis. Speak soon, yeah?”

“Have a good night.”

Placing my cell on the kitchen counter, I grab a bottle of water from the refrigerator and take off toward my bathroom to wash the day away.

My jacket has already been abandoned in the kitchen, and I unbutton my blouse as I walk, letting it fall to the floor to pick up later.

I step over the threshold with my hands on the zipper of my skirt when someone knocks on the front door.

I pause and tip my head back, asking anyone who will listen to give me strength.

Watch me into the building. I’ll message you once I’m safe inside my apartment. How’s that?

"Fuuuuck,” I groan as I spin around and try to summon the strength to face him again.

“This is so un-fucking-necessary,” I mutter as I unlock the door and pull it open.

But the man I find staring back at me isn’t my infuriating boss.

It’s worse.

“What do you want?” I snap, my fingers gripping the door so tight with my need to close it on him that they start to cramp.

“I miss you, baby,” Matt says, his voice raspy with emotion, his eyes full of regret and pain.

But it’s not enough.

“I’m not interested. Goodby?—”

He presses his palm against the door as I attempt to slam it in his face.

“I’m sorry, Lori. I fucked up. I should have told you. But it’s over. I swear to God, it’s over with her. It was, I just…we had obligations we couldn’t?—”

“I’m not listening to this. You’re a liar. I don’t believe a word that comes out of your mouth.”

“I swear to you, it’s over. You’re the one I want.”

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