Page 31 of Game Changer

“I know it’s not particularly sexy, but I’m completely knackered. Would you mind if I went and stuck some pjs on?” she asked.

“Sure,” he replied, kicking his shoes off and swinging his legs up onto the sofa. When she emerged, she was wearing his oversized Alabama t-shirt that he’d sent her in a care package along with her birthday present earlier that year. She wore it with herTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtlespj shorts and some thick slipper socks.

“My favorite cartoon! And you said it wasn’t sexy,” he said as she spun around for him to take in the ensemble. “There’s not a lot sexier than seeing you in my shirt... I’d say we could probably lose the furry socks, but I know you’re prone to cold extremities.”

She sat on the other side of the sofa.

Why are you so far away? Do you think I’m going to bite? I won’t, I mean, unless that’s what you’re into, I guess.He inched closer to her. Setting her mug on the floor, she rested her head on his shoulder, and he slipped his arm around her.

Breathe. She didn’t push you away.

Relax.

Breathe again.

No one spilled your secret about Britt and she’s cuddled up in your arms – so you’re obviously not a disappointment to her.

Since when are you so friggin’ anxious? You weren’t ever like this with Ange. Or, with any other girl you’ve ever been with.

You need to calm the hell down and figure out how to tell her you’re married.

Yeah. No idea why I’m anxious at all,he rolled his eyes at himself.

They didn’t plan on falling asleep, but when he woke, she was lying on his chest.

I could get used to waking up with an amazing woman in my arms.

He inhaled deeply, wrapped his arms around her and kissed her forehead, enjoying the quiet for a few moments. She slid her fingers down the inside of his arm and laced her fingers with his.

“How long have you been watching me sleep?” she asked.

“Long enough,” he replied, smiling. “Good morning.”

Returning his smile, she answered, “Good morning. And long enough for what, exactly? Did I snore? Did I DROOL?” she asked, raising her eyebrows in horror.

Tell her she drooled!

Laughing softly, he shook his head. She stretched up, kissed him and he tightened his arms around her waist.

“You hungry?” he asked.

I certainly am... and I don’t mean for food.

Please don’t be offended by my morning wood. Please don’t be offended–

“Nah,” she replied. “Not yet. Did the girls come back? I figured they were giving us some space together, but I assumed they’d arrive later and then I guess I fell asleep on you. I’m clearly a very concerned friend.”

“I could tell that from the snoring. And the drool. Ana texted to say she and Chelsea had ‘made other plans’ for the night. Ana stayed at my house and I think Chelsea crashed with Stephanie? Either way, they were both fine last I checked.” He paused. “Lis, honestly, you didn’t drool. I’m kidding!”

Clearly, she believes you, she’s wiping at her mouth anyways.

“Babe, I…” he began.

“Have practice,” she finished for him. “Yeah, I know. Were you asking me if I wanted breakfast out of politeness? You really should go, though… you’re already going to be late!”

“Well, I couldn’t reallygoanywhere with you stretched out on me now, could I?” he joked. “Not to mention, I’d have happily gone to practice even later if you’d wanted to grab breakfast.”

Or, even better, if I coulda had you for breakfast…

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