Page 60 of Wild Love
He tips his chin up and looks down at me. “Where are you going?”
“I’m not telling you that.”
“Share your location with me.”
“What?”
“I promise I won’t use it unless you don’t come home or answer later.”
I’m quiet as I consider it.
“What would Reagan say? Should I text her and see?”
“Ugh. Fine. But I swear if you show up—”
He holds up his hands. “I won’t.”
I look to Jack.
“No promises here,” he says.
Johnny leans against the bar. “Is this what you’re wearing?”
“Yeah. Why?” Maverick has me second-guessing the navy skirt and white tank top I’m wearing. “I want him to know I tried, but not too hard.”
“You look perfect.”
I can tell he’s holding something back. “What is it? Just tell me. I still have time to change if needed.”
“Nothing, honest. You look gorgeous. I’m just glad it isn’t the black dress is all.”
“What black dress?”
“The one you wore to the Frozen Four party. Short, straps cross in the back.” The idea that he knows my wardrobe shoots a zap of excitement through me.
“I don’t even want to know how you remember that.”
“Babe, that dress.” He places his hands together, fingertips touching his lips. “That fucking dress.” He groans.
“I’m not sleeping with him.”
“Good.” He barks out a laugh. “Then maybe you should wear it. The poor guy will be miserable sitting across from you all night.” He pushes off and stands tall.
I get a glass of wine, and in the time it takes me to drink it, several more of Maverick’s teammates show up. And as more of them arrive, girls make their way around us.
I check my phone—still nothing from Marco.
“Are you sure you can’t blow off this guy and hang?” Johnny asks. “We’re going to dinner and then… who knows.”
“I really can’t.”
“Why not? I’m a way better date.”
Behind Maverick, I spot Anika, my neighbor from the second floor, among the girls that have corralled around the players. I raise my hand to wave to her, and Maverick turns, tipping his head. “Hey, neighbor.”
“Johnny Maverick,” she says and smiles. “I didn’t recognize you.”
“Same. You look great,” he tells her. One thing I love about Johnny, he never shies away from giving people compliments. And he means them, always.
