Page 174 of The Rookie

Griffin snorts. “Dick.”

“Maybe I’ll just stay single forever,” Jackson says, flashing his easy, confident smile. “Who needs all the drama when I’ve got a great career, freedom, and all this?” He gestures to himself.

“Good idea,” Griffin says. “Me and Avery will be winning the competition of having the most kids.”

“Honey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” I say, putting my hand on his knee.

“God-willing,” Griffin winks and adds.

“Jackson Knox. The ultimate bachelor,” Sloane says, grinning from her seat next to Asher. “Bet you’ll end up falling the hardest, though.”

Jackson winks at her. “Not a chance. I’m done with dating. Never gonna happen for me. I’ve come to terms with that.”

I can’t help but notice the way Jackson’s easygoing charm lights up the room. He’s every bit as captivating as Griffin but in a quieter, more thoughtful way. It’s easy to see why he’s so successful—and why he’s the family member everyone turns towhen they need advice. But there’s something under his carefree facade, a depth that’s hard to miss.

I feel lucky to be a part of their family now.

Griffin pulls my attention back by nudging my arm. “You ready for that toast?”

I nod, grabbing one of the beers as everyone gathers around. Jackson leans over to Cassie, grinning. “You know what? Maybe I’ll write a book.How to Be the Perfect Single Guy.”

Cassie rolls her eyes. “Please. You haven’t read a full book in years. Let alone write one.”

As the laughter dies down and the tequila starts pouring, I catch Griffin’s eye, and my stomach flips. This family? They’re wild, chaotic, and utterly perfect.

And as Jackson lifts his glass, smirking at Griffin, I can’t help but wonder what the hell I’ve gotten myself into.

Griffin puts his arm around me, and kisses my cheek.

“I love you, baby.”

“I love you, too.”

I am so fucking happy, it’s ridiculous.

epilogue

. . .

Avery

One YearLater

The conference room is massive—floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek leather chairs, and a table so polished it practically sparkles. It’s the kind of setting where big decisions happen, and today? I’m the one making the pitch.

I stand at the head of the table, a remote in one hand, my slides projected on the massive screen behind me. My voice is steady, confident, as I outline my strategy for the team’s global marketing operations.

“…and with this approach,” I conclude, clicking to the final slide, “we’re not just tapping into an untapped market. We’re creating a loyal, worldwide fanbase that will grow with the team for decades to come.”

The room falls silent for a beat, and then the team owner, a man with silver hair and an intimidating presence, leans back in his chair, nodding slowly. His gaze shifts from me to Griffin, who’s sitting at the far end of the table, his arms crossed and his expression smug as hell.

“Well, Knox,” the owner says, his tone equal parts impressed and teasing. “How the hell did you manage this one? She’s way out of your league. She’s a damn genius.”

Griffin grins, leaning forward slightly. “I know, sir. She’s got the brains of this partnership. That’s for sure.”

The owner chuckles. “And what do you bring to the table?”

Griffin shrugs, his grin widening. “You know, I ask myself that pretty much every day.”

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