Page 52 of The Final Draft

Lawson looks between the two of us, processing what he said. “You like him?”

That’s a loaded question. My gaze falls on Julian, and the familiar warmth of affection blooms into an uncontrollable smile. I look at Lawson and give him a playful half shrug. “He’s alright.” Both men laugh at my horrible attempt at lying.

“Well, good luck,” he says to Julian. “She is amazing.” He looks at me and says, “And you know what to do.” I’m a littleshocked and slightly disappointed there’s no macho bullshit threat ofyou hurt my sister, I’ll kill you. I know what to do. Do I? Is that thecall me, and I’ll kill himmessage? Is it the follow your head, not your heart advice? Is he telling me to be careful? What do I know to do? I want to ask him what that means when he’s called into the dressing room.

“I gotta run.” He leans down and gives me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. “I love you, Harps. I’ll call you tomorrow.” My first question tomorrow will be clarity on what the hellI know what to domeans.

I hold on a little longer, ignoring the sweat and smell. “Love you too.”

He holds his hand out to Julian. “Good seeing you, Decker. Treat her well.”

Julian shakes his hand. “I intend to. Stay safe.” Lawson nods and goes into the locker room, where he’s greeted with a hero’s welcome.

I turn to Julian and slap him on the chest. “What the hell was that?!?!” I’m not sure if I’m angry, confused, or scared, but whatever I’m feeling, it’s all Julian.

He takes my hand and holds it against his heart. “What? Am I a dirty little secret you wanted to keep hidden? Are you ashamed of me? Was I supposed to ask permission to date you? What was I supposed to do?” His teasing makes me question what I wanted him to say or do. I get lost looking into his mischievous blue eyes.

I give up. “Come on, I’m gonna let you take me home.” I go to walk back the way we came, and he stays in place. “What?”

“I meant everything I said. I want to be your friend. I mean, we’re already friends, but I want more than that, but it’s your call. You set the pace here. But I’m ready to move our story along. I’m not much of a slow-burn guy.” Obviously.

Open communication and maturity from a guy isn’t something I’m used to. Most of the guys I’ve dated leave me dissecting every sentence, weeding out the subtle gaslighting, and psychoanalyzing their intent. Then I agonize over what I could have done differently, leaving me emotionally drained. This straight shooting is refreshing. And off putting. I’m unsteady as I navigate these unfamiliar waters, but I’m excited about where this is heading.

CHAPTER

THIRTY-FOUR

HARPER

It’s hot in here, and I kick at the comforter and only to find myself twisted in the sheets, Noodle snuggled into my side. My foggy morning brain processes last night. I must have tossed and turned more than usual to be in this tangled mess.

Julian told Lawson we’re friends. And last night proved that. On the way home, we talked about everything from dream vacations to the best television series endings. I said it wasThe Good Place,and I stand by it. Julian insisted it wasBreaking Bad. Our lively debate ended in a compromise. We’ll both watch the shows and revisit our decisions at a later date. But I know he’ll come around to my side.

I enjoyed last night because it was real. A regular date, of sorts. Or at least I’m calling it a date. Life isn’t always fancy restaurants and chauffeured cars. At least mine isn’t. Sometimes it’s hotdogs and hockey games.

I complete my morning routine, my mind racing with anticipation for the weekend. We agreed to work on our booktoday, but didn’t make any firm plans. Dressing in yoga pants and an oversized sweatshirt, I look up a yoga class to clear my head. I need to have my wits about me if I’m spending time with Julian today. One look into his baby blues and I’m a goner. For us to work on our project, I need to stay focused and resist his charms.

Julian said he’s ready to move the story along. I wasn’t sure if he was talking about us or the book, but after some very vivid dreams, I’m ready to give Julian more of me. Maybe all of me.

When I leave my bedroom, I’m surprised to find Zac and Julian in the kitchen. I check my watch because there’s no way they are both here looking likeGQmodels before nine o’clock.

“Look who I found waiting in the lobby,” Zac says in way of a greeting. Lobby? Is he just getting home?

“Good morning to you too,” I say.

Noodle trails behind me, smells both guys, and makes his way back to me.

“I can’t believe you stole my dog,” he mumbles.

“Do you blame him?” Julian says.

“Fuck no,” Zac replies.

“What are you doing here?” I ask Julian.

“I came to kidnap you and Noodle today,” he says casually. Whether it was the word kidnap or Noodle, Zac scowls at him.

I’m not sure how to reply when Zac pipes in. “I’m leaving for a three-game road trip this afternoon.” He lowers his voice when he asks, “Are you going to be okay?” He’s left me alone before, so I’m not sure why he’s asking. Except that was before Julian showed up to kidnap me.

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