Page 16 of What are the Risks
As all of the awkwardness faded away and Ryker and I found our normal again, I relaxed for the first time in days. I told him more about work, and he caught me up on his last few games. It felt like we were both bursting to fill each other in on our lives – after talking every day, a few days apart had built up a serious backlog.
I briefly registered the doorbell ringing in the distance, but I ignored it, hoping one of the girls would get it instead.
Ryker and I chatted for goodness knows how long – long enough for my phone battery to switch to low power mode, and for my cereal to turn soggy. But truthfully, I could have stayed like this all night.
“I won’t hold you up any longer,” he eventually said. “But text me once you’re home later.”
“You’ll be asleep, Wheels.”
Ryker was a Grandpa during football season. Him staying up beyond midnight was unbelievable.
“Text me anyway. Have fun, Rubz.”
“Night, Wheels.”
The doorbell chimed again.
“Can you get that Ruby?” someone yelled from upstairs.
With a groan, I tossed aside my now soggy cereal and headed to the door. I could see a pizza delivery man eagerly waiting through the glass, and the second I opened the door, he thrust a steaming box into my hands.
“Order for Ruby Wilson.”
“I didn’t order a–”
Glancing down, I spotted the name of the pizzeria.
Maria’s Pizzas.
The brand logo was a busty red-headed cartoon, with pizza slices for eyes. Of course Ryker had found a pizza place with a hot girl for the logo.
A smile spread across my face. “Right. That’s mine. Thank you.”
Taking the pizza, I walked it into the kitchen and hurriedly reached for my phone.
Ruby: You’re the best. I love you.
As I flipped open the pizza box, footsteps thundered down the stairs. It’s like the scent of food had motivated all the girls to finally finish getting ready.
“Great idea, Ruby,” Bri said, taking a slice. “I’m starving.”
I picked my phone up off the counter when it lit up.
Noah: Love you too, babe.
Confused, I gaped at my phone for a moment before realising I’d sent the thank you text to Noah. It was an easy mistake. His and Ryker’s contact names were saved similarly in my phone – anNand a heart for Noah, and anRand a heart for Ryker.
“Did I hear you talking to someone?” Jaz checked.
She looked stunning in a sequin pink minidress that she’d paired with white cowboy boots. It was only fitting that the birthday girl was best dressed.
“Just Ryker.”
If eyes could moan with desire, that’s what hers did.
“I wish I had someone as hot asjust Rykercalling me on a Saturday night.”
As she lifted a slice of pizza to her glossy lips, I reached for my phone.
