Page 169 of Stolen Bases

Yes?

I’m only confused for a second before I remember the question I asked first.

Cam wants to be with me.

I could do a freaking dance right now. I’m so happy. Instead, I settle for hugging the first man in my life who showed me love and loyalty. The man who took care of me and wants me to be happy more than anything on the planet, even if that means me being with a guy he doesn’t like.

I throw my arms around my big brother, so thankful that I have him in my life. He might be an overprotective ass, but he really has my best interests at heart.

“I love you, big bro.”

“Love you too, sis.” He kisses my head and stands up. “Now, I need to get home because I’m fucking tired and I have a big game tomorrow.” He slips on his shoes and walks over to the door before turning back to face me. “This should go without saying, but never—and I mean never—bring this up to anyone. Especially not to Miller. Do you understand?”

With a grin, I make a cross over my heart. “I promise.”

Not! I’m so going to tell everyone how wonderful my brother is, whether or not he likes it. Starting with Mamma.

Nico exits my room with a nod.

I pull out Nico’s gift and put it on over my pajamas. As I lie back and close my eyes, all I can think about is the look on Cam’s face when he sees what I’m wearing.

forty-one

Talia

“Well, well, well. Lookwhat the cat dragged in.”

My cheeks burn as Mark Miller grins up at me.

How on earth did Nico get me a seat right next to Cam’s parents?

The nervous butterflies in my stomach flutter. I didn’t consider seeing Cam’s parents tonight, let alone wonder how they would feel about me showing up. They probably hate me for ruining Cam’s game.

“It’s about time you showed up.” Mark’s eyes sweep over my outfit, and he winks at me in approval. “Jersey looks good on you.”

“Knock it off, you old coot. You’re embarrassing her.” Mrs. Miller smacks him on the shoulder and turns to me. “Talia, we are just so happy to see you, dear. Cam is going to be thrilled.”

My unease dissipates at their warm welcome.

“Thank you.” I let out a deep breath, and my shoulders relax. I lean over and give each of them a hug. “It’s so good to see you both. I hope you and the rest of the Millers are well?”

“We are now.” Mark wiggles his eyebrows, giving me déjà vu.

I can’t help but chuckle. He and Cameron are so much alike it’s scary.

“Ignore him. Everyone is doing lovely. Mason and Emery are expecting.” Karen beams. You can feel the joyful energy radiating around her. It’s warm and fuzzy, and totally infectious.

“That’s amazing. Congratulations. Grandbaby number four. How exciting for you two. Cam mentioned that you might move north to be near them?”

Mark waves his hand. “Nonsense. As long as my boy plays for the Evaders, this is our home.”

Karen smiles. “Do you know how much it rains in Oregon? Too much. We need the sun. We were thinking half the time there and half the time here.”

That makes me think of Mason and Emery’s old house and how Cam thought about buying it for himself. I should bring up giving it to his parents instead.

Cool your jets. He still needs to accept your apology.

“That’s a really wonderful idea. Your grandkids will love that. And don’t tell him I told you, but Cam will appreciate it too.”

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