Page 95 of How to Break My Heart
Me
Nice try, buddy.
Aston
I’m with Roland at the country club in Cherry Tree Creek. He’s just introduced me to his friend’s daughter, who has joined us. Have I told you I despise golf?
Me
Wait! Is this a setup?
Aston
I’ve red-flagged her. She has a Hello Kitty golf club.
Me
Um, how old is she?
Aston
Ten
Laughter escapes me as I reread his texts. Aston is super competitive and always has been. In high school, he used to get into fights with other teams all the time. I’m surprised he never got expelled.
Aston
She’s kicking my ass, it’s rather embarrassing.
Me
Watch out, she’ll post it all over socials and your reputation will be ruined.
Poor baby. I’ll try to be nice to you then.
Aston
Luckily, I don’t believe in socials so my reputation may be salvaged. If you want to be nice to me, I can think of many ways, starting with you naked on all fours.
Me
We made a deal, remember?
A few seconds after I hit send, my phone rings with Aston’s number flashing on the screen.
“No,” I answer with a grin. “Be a good boy and stick to the agreement.”
“Firstly, this kid really is kicking my ass, so I think you should feel extra sorry for me,” Aston responds in his velvety voice, which does nothing to curb my desire. “And secondly, you know the wedding is three days away—that’s a whole seventy-two hours.”
“I think you can survive,” I tease, leaning against the green lamppost. “Besides, not to gross you out, but since you’ve grown up with Maddy, I think you’re accustomed to the girl talk. I’m possibly out of action for the next few days.”
“You think that will stop me?”
“Um, yes!” I scowl, but my body reacts immediately with a flurry in my stomach. “You do know what I’m referring to?”
“Yes, Everleigh. I’m well aware of how the female reproductive system works. However, there are other places I’ve yet to explore.” His voice stiffens, and like me, I assume he is struggling with this stupid rule I put into place—let’s pause until the wedding is done. It’s Maddy’s special day, and we must focus on her.“Okay, maybe it’s best we end this conversation. Golf pants are tight and leave nothing to the imagination.”
Unable to hold back my laughter, I follow with, “Bye, Tiger Woods.”
