Page 82 of The Purest Fake

“I’ve wanted to do that since I woke up this morning.”

“Me too,” I admit, suddenly feeling shy.

Cooper’s hand slides up my back and under my hair, cupping the nape of my neck. “Scarlett, I…” He trails off, licking his lips. I wait as my heart feels ready to pound right out of my chest.

“I… I want you to know I really love spending time with you.” He draws in a breath. “And I’m not just saying this because we just kissed. I mean in general. I enjoy your company no matter what we do.”

“I feel the same about you.”

His blue eyes search mine, and for a moment, I think he might say more. Instead, he leans in and brushes a kiss over my lips. When he draws back, he hits me with the full force of his smile. “As much as I don’t want to leave the beach or your company, I should probably get home and get in touch with Coach. I’m not sure if he expects me to be at the stadium in the morning. Just because I can’t practice doesn’t mean I can’t review film with the team.”

I rise, collecting our trash and travel mugs, placing them all in my small bag. Cooper stands, and we move off the blanket so I can shake the sand out and fold it into a neat square. He takes the bag from me, slinging it over his good shoulder, and we head from the beach.

“What time do I need to be at the studio on Wednesday?” he asks when we’re almost to my house.

“One in the afternoon. I’ll text you the address.”

“Do I need to bring anything?”

“Only yourself.”

“I have an appointment with Dr. Smith that morning, so with any luck I might be sling-free for the podcast.”

“I’ll send you good vibes.”

“Thanks. I’ll take them.” He stops beside his car. “Thank you for everything.”

I wave my hand. “Don’t thank me.”

He grins. “Too late.”

“Take it easy, and don’t forget to ice your shoulder when you get home.”

“I will.” He leans in, pressing a brief kiss to my lips. “I’ll talk with you soon.”

“Sounds good.” I walk up the driveway and pause on my front stoop to wave as he backs out and drives away. As I step inside, I close the door and lean back against it. Every minute with Cooper makes me fall for him more, but spending less time with him is no longer an option. I’m becoming addicted to his company, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.

CHAPTER 23

COOPER

“How are you feeling?” Cassie asks.

“I’m okay.”

“Have you spoken to Mom and Dad?”

“Yeah, just a little while ago.”

“I’m surprised Mom didn’t call you before now.”

“She did, but I let it go to voicemail. I wasn’t ready to speak with anyone last night.”

“Except for Scarlett,” she points out with a knowing smirk. “Why do you think that is?”

“I don’t know.” I’m really not up for having this conversation with my sister this morning. I’m already trying to deal with the enormity of my feelings for Scarlett and don’t need Cassie trying to dissect them.

“You don’t know?” she says skeptically. “You’re a smart guy, Cooper, I’m sure you can figure it out if you try.”

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