Page 69 of Bleacher Report
Before I can argue, the commercial break ends, and everyone heads back to the couch. Penelope unmutes the TV and then everyone’s eyes are back on the game. The Hawkeyes score, and the room erupts in cheers.
The conversation shifts, but the weight of their knowing looks lingers. Because if I’m honest with myself—really honest—every little thing Hunter’s been doing lately doesn’t feel like just PR.
And I’m not sure what to do with that.
After the game, we’re all lingering in Penelope’s kitchen, finishing off dessert and the last of the wine. The energy is lighter now—the Hawkeyes won, and the girls are relaxed, chatting easily like they’ve known each other forever.
I lean against the counter next to Cammy while she scrolls through her phone, grinning at something.
She catches me looking and nudges me with her elbow. “By the way, JP and I are officially dating.”
I blink at her, surprised. “Really?”
She nods, cheeks flushing a little. “Yeah. We’ve been seeing each other quietly for a while, but we decided to stop hiding it.”
“That’s amazing, Cam. I’m really happy for you.”
“Thanks.” She shoots me a look. “And not that I’m meddling, but…you and Hunter. Don’t rule it out.”
“We’re too different. I don’t do casual, and he doesn’t want a serious relationship. Even if both of us were interested. We don’t want the same things.”
Cammy gives me a knowing smile. “Sometimes the best things start out that way.”
Before I can reply, my phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out to find a new text from Hunter.
Hunter: Miss me yet?
My heart does an entirely stupid flip in my chest.
Peyton: You’re ridiculous.
Hunter: You didn’t answer the question.
I type back quickly before anyone can notice my smile.
Peyton: Maybe.
By the time I finally slip away from Penelope’s house, it’s almost midnight. I slide into the driver’s seat of my SUV, the quiet of the night wrapping around me like a blanket after the lively chaos of the watch party.
My phone buzzes again just as I’m pulling out of Penelope’s driveway.
Hunter: We’re headed for the airport now. My flight won’t get in until late. I’ll try not to wake you up when I get in.
I roll my eyes but bite back a smile.
Peyton: Okay, sounds good. I’m about to leave Penelope’s house soon. I’ll keep the porch light on.
Hunter:You’re at Penelope’s? How did that go?
I wonder if I should tell him what title they gave me, but if it weirds him out, I suppose I should know now before it goes too far.
Peyton: Good. They told me that I’m an official WAG, but I’m sure they’re just trying to make me feel included. It was nice to watch with everyone.
Hunter: I’m glad you have them to hang out with when I’m out on away games.
Peyton: Me too. It was fun. Have a safe flight. The new bed is waiting for you.
Hunter: Good. Because I’m counting down until I’m back in your bed.
