Page 75 of The Rookie

Avery: How did I know that was your favorite?

Me: You’ve got me nailed. It’s infuriating.

I hear her snort softly from her bed, and I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding.

Avery: Sounds like a personal problem.

Me: It is. I’ll be taking you to court for emotional distress.

Avery: Add it to my list of charges. I’m already ruining your life, remember?

Me: Oh, you’re doing a lot more than ruining my life.

The moment I send it, I realize how that sounds. I see her screen light up again as she reads it, and my pulse kicks up a notch.

She replies quickly this time.

Avery: Careful, Griffin. You’re flirting again.

I grin.

Me: Maybe I’m being not careful on purpose.

I hear her exhale softly, and I swear it sounds shaky. I shift slightly on the bed, my phone feeling like it weighs a thousand pounds.

Avery: Dangerous game, Knox.

Me: You afraid?

Avery: Of you? Not a chance.

Me: Then why are you blushing?

There’s no response for a while. I glance over, and she’s got the phone resting on her chest like she’s thinking—or trying to decide whether to reply.

Finally, my phone buzzes again.

Avery: Fine. I’ll play. If you’re so confident, tell me something…

Me: Anything.

Avery: When was the last time you wanted something you knew you shouldn’t?

I stare at the text, my throat suddenly dry. My fingers hesitate over the keyboard, but only for a second.

Me: Right now.

Her phone lights up, and she doesn’t reply right away. I can see her eyes on the screen, though—soft, contemplative, like maybe I just surprised her.

Then she types back.

Avery: You’re such a liar.

Me: No lies, Sinclair. Not tonight. I’m not sure how much more obvious I can be. Unless I were to say I want to fuck you until sunrise.

I hear her inhale sharply, and I wonder if her heart is racing as fast as mine.

Avery: Geezus, Griffin.

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