Page 78 of The Riskiest Move

“If you say so.”

She pins me with a look. “I do. And it’s not just because I know you personally. Your jersey is outselling all of your teammates’ except for Rogan. But the quarterback jerseys are often the most popular.”

“Is it really? Where did you hear that?”

“I read an article online that listed all the sales. I thought it was impressive as hell, and I meant to tell you.”

“I had no idea.”

“Now that you know, I don’t want to hear any bullshit about you not being well-known or popular with the fans.”

I smile sheepishly. “I won’t mention it again.”

”Good. Now, I’m going to get up and make us something to eat. What do you think about walking to the beach and having breakfast there?”

“I love that idea.”

She rolls off me and climbs from the bed. I stare at her ass until she disappears inside the bathroom. My phone buzzes, and it takes me a few seconds to realize it’s still in my pantspocket. Sitting up, I shove the covers from my legs and place my feet on the floor. My shoulder is throbbing like a toothache now that Scarlett is no longer in my arms. Reaching down, I grab my pants from the floor and tug my phone from the pocket. There’s a text message from our group chat.

Rogan: Cooper, how are you feeling today?

Me: Like I got run over by a bus.

Thor: Wear your sling and you’ll be better before you know it. I had the same injury a few years ago.

Me: How long were you out for?

Thor: I think a couple of weeks.

Me: That’s the impression I got from Dr. Smith.

Griffin: Don’t forget to ice it. That helps too.

Me: I will.

Rogan: Will we see you this week?

Me: I need to find out from Coach what he wants me to do. I have to follow up with Dr. Smith on Wednesday morning, so I’m sure I’ll see you guys then.

Rogan: You seem to be in much better spirits than last night.

Me: I am. Scarlett talked it all through with me.

Griffin: Aww, our boy’s in love.

Thor: I feel like a proud dad.

Rogan: That’s great. Just be careful and take it easy.

I receive the hidden meaning in his message. He’s telling me to tread carefully with Scarlett and to go slow, but it isn’t going to make a difference. She could be wrapped in caution tape and it wouldn’t be enough to keep me from her.

CHAPTER 22

SCARLETT

Ispread a blanket on the sand and then we both sit down. I hand Cooper a travel mug with coffee and take one for myself. Rummaging through the small bag I packed before we left the house, I pull out a bottle of ibuprofen and take two out for him.

He smiles. “Aww, thank you. I can’t believe you brought me pain meds.”

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