Page 56 of Make the Play

We did it just like he said. We came together. Knox kisses me lazily as if we have all the time in the world, and oh, how I wish that were true. We might not have unlimited time, but we do have tonight—something I’ve not mentioned yet.

“I don’t want to leave. I know that when we do, you’ll have to go home, and all I want is to lie with you snuggled in my arms.”

“Then we’ll do that.”

He lifts his head. “Really?” There is excitement in his tone.

“Yeah, I told Landry I might stay at Sloane’s tonight. That if I did, I would be home early to get ready for work.”

“You’re staying with me? All night?”

“If that’s what you want.”

“Hell yes, that’s what I want. We can park your car in the underground garage. I have two spaces but only ever use one.”

“Is that okay?”

“Yeah, we probably should have been doing it all along. Luckily, Jeep Grand Cherokees are common, and I don’t think anyone we know has noticed yours in the parking lot.” He kisses me hard. “Come on, baby. Let’s get home and get to bed.” He smiles like he just won a billion-dollar lottery as we clean up as best as we can, pack up, and head back to his place.

ChapterFifteen

Knox

Today has sucked. Corie spent the day lounging around the house with Landry, and tonight, she and Sloane have declared that it’s girls’ night. That means I don’t get time with her today, and I’m not a fan. Ten out of ten do not recommend it.

I’m aware that I’ve spent my day pouting like a toddler who lost his toys, but it’s more than not getting time with her. I miss her. Not justHey, it’s been a while. I miss you.It’s more like a piece of me is missing, sort of missing her.

My phone rings, and I rush to answer it, hoping it’s her, but I sigh when I see Landry’s name pop up. “Hey,” I greet him, trying not to show my disappointment.

“What’s up?” he asks.

“Just sitting around the house. What are you doing today?” Other than taking all my girl's time.

“It’s been sibling day around here. Corie and I watched a couple of Mom's favorite movies and just vegged out all day. It’s been nice. She’s been gone a lot, and I’ve missed having her around.”

Guilt.

It sits heavy on my chest. I know I’ve been taking all of her time, but if we could tell him about us, we could all hang out together. I know she’s not there yet, but damn, am I looking forward to when that day comes. It's going to take some time, and I’m sure he’s going to be pissed, but I’m really into his sister. More so than any woman before her. There is something about Corie Reynolds that calls to me.

“That sounds cool, man.”

“Yeah,” he agrees. “Anyway, she’s going out with Sloane. She’s on her way over, and they’re getting ready together. Girls are weird,” he mumbles. “You want to come watch some tape or something?”

“Yep.” I’m standing and walking toward my room to change as I answer. Sure, I want to hang out with my best friend, but I also want five minutes with his sister—just a kiss and to hold her for just a few minutes. I just need my Corie fix, and I’ll be fine.

“Yeah, bring food. Wait, I’ll call the guys. Maybe we can play some poker.”

“Sure, whatever sounds good. What kind of food?”

“Skip the food; we’ll just order pizza once I know who is in.”

Even better, that gets me to his place faster. “Got it. I’ll see you in a few.” We say goodbye, and I quickly change clothes and slip into my shoes. I realize I’m going to look desperate to Landry if I rush right over. So, instead of leaving, I slowly walk twenty laps around my kitchen. That’s enough time to make it look like I didn’t race out the door. I lock up and amble to my truck after ensuring I have my keys, wallet, and phone.

Sloane pulls into Landry’s driveway right behind me, and suddenly, my day is starting to look up. That means Corie is still here, and they still have to get ready. My chances of that five minutes I’m jonesing for could be a very real possibility.

“Hey, QB,” Sloane greets me.

“Need some help?” I ask her.

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