Page 63 of Hot Receiver

But my emotions quickly snuff out the rational thought.

A fake relationship means he doesn’t love her, but it also doesn’t mean he wantsme.

Her shiny pink lips lift into a bright smile. But it’s not the typical million-dollar movie star smile I’m used to seeing on the faces of Hollywood elite. It’s warm, genuine, and welcoming.

It instantly puts me at ease, and I can’t help but return the smile.

Jesus, in a few seconds it’s clear to see how she’s quickly become America’s sweetheart. I know from that first night at Lucas and Jase’s fundraiser that she’s got a good heart. I can see now that it radiates from inside.

Last time I was too preoccupied with my own rage to notice.

“Anna,” I say. “It’s great to see you. I’m a little surprised. I didn’t realize this was a red carpet event.”

She sets her bag and drink down on the table and folds her hands in front of her. “You should talk. After yesterday’s game, people are definitely talking more about you than me.”

“Well, it wasn’t me who played it. Or won it, for that matter. I’m only the bankroll.”

Anna chuckles and sips her drink. “Well, someone needs to pay the bills so we can have more games like that.”

“It was a great one.” I pause. “Matt was incredible.”

She nods, her gaze curious. “He was. But he didn’t want to celebrate afterward. I couldn’t get a hold of him at all last night. I had to text him the details for the event tonight.”

My heart stills.

Wait…he’shere?

He didn’t mention anything about this event. Neither did I, come to think of it.

There were more pressing things on my mind… ones that were cuddled next to me on my couch.

I swallow hard under her unwavering stare. She didn’t askif I knew where he was, but something tells me it’s because she already does. And he clearly didn’t mention anything about Rusty to her, either.

“I’m sure he was in a lot of pain. He did take a big hit at the end when he landed in the end zone. He’s not used to that kind of impact, you know?”

The words rush from my lips like they’re all racing to convince her that I had no knowledge of his whereabouts.

Heat rises in my chest, and I have to force my eyes to focus on her, not search the room for Matt.

“I guess.” She drops her eyes to her glass but doesn’t press.

“Did you, ah, ask him?”

She gives a half shrug. “It’s not like we’re boyfriend-girlfriend or anything. He doesn’t owe me any explanations. He’s just been… I guess, weirdly distant over the past few weeks.” She turns her blue eyes up at me. “Ever since you showed up in the picture.”

That hits me like a hammer to the gut.

But her tone isn’t accusatory. It’s more…hurt. Disappointed, even.

They may not be dating but it sure sounds like she wishes they were.

I need to change the subject. Fast. Anything to deflect her attention.

“I’m sure he’s got a reason. I remember hearing in college that he’s a pretty heavy sleeper. Maybe he went home, passed out, and missed your calls.”

“A bomb could go off next to his head, and he’d never wake up.” A small smile lifts her lips.

I force a laugh. “So, how’d you get involved with this organization?”

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