Page 53 of Score on You

“Do you trust me?”

My nod is automatic. “More than anyone else.”

“I refuse to have our first real kiss be broadcasted for public approval, sweetness. But we’ve gotta give ‘em something.” Then he shifts until his lips press to my overheated cheek.

Our captivated audience roars. A quake vibrates the floor beneath my shoes. The announcer attempts to speak over the chaos. I ignore everything except the soft pressure from Ridge’s kiss.

He smiles against my skin. “I was wrong earlier. This was the best idea.”

My face turns into his. I’m certain he can feel the corners of my mouth curve upward into his stubbled jaw. This is a moment I’ll cherish forever. “I couldn’t agree more, boyfriend.”

Callie:Hi, Ridge. Did I tell you that I had a really great time tonight? If I forgot, now you know. It was extraordinary. There’s just one thing that could’ve gone better.

My fingers fly across the screen in my rush to solve this grievance.

Me:tell me what went wrong

Callie:Oh, gosh. Don’t worry. It’s not that serious. I just thought you might do this one thing at the end of our date, but you didn’t. You’re always saying I’m not ready. Maybe that’s why you’re waiting. I think I could be readyfor this. In fact, the idea of it gets me rather… excited.

The phone almost cracks in my grip.

Me:are you gonna tell me what’re you ready for, sweetness?

Callie:I’m not sure if I can be so bold.

Me:would it help if I said please

Callie:Maybe.

Me:please tell me, love. I’ll put extra sugar on top

Callie:Love? Now I’m really trying not to panic.

Me:you said it wasn’t that serious

Callie:It isn’t. Or wasn’t. Especially not for you. But you called me love and that makes me even more eager.

Me:I’m going to need you to tell me before I assume the worst

Callie:Okay, here it goes.

My heart thunders as I wait for her next message. I’ve never needed her words more than this moment. But the silence mocks me.

Me:did I lose you?

Callie:No. Never. I’d been working up the nerve to admit that I was hoping you would’ve kissed me at the end of our date.

I blink at the screen. It takes far too long for her request to process. Once the shock computes into sense, I’m swiping at my screen for her number.

Her breathy exhale is the first to greet me. “Ridge?”

“Sweetness,” I rumble in return.

“Um, hi. I wasn’t expecting you to call me.”

“And I wasn’t expecting you to tell me that I should’ve kissed you.”

Her gulp is audible. “Is that bad?”

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