Page 36 of The Comeback

“So do I.” Financial stability is my number one consideration. A man takes care of his family. My dad taught me that lesson. By leaving and never coming back, he forced my mom to work two jobs just to make ends meet. Then, he died, leaving her with nothing but a bunch of bills and two kids to raise.

“As long as we understand each other.” He nods and gives me a once-over.

“Is everyone else going to be this welcoming to our dating?” My skin tingles with dread. Maybe dinner isn’t a good idea.

“My mom will love you because she’s an angel. My dad is already in your corner and wants to see you succeed. And my younger brothers won’t care one way or the other.”

“So, it’s just you who will bust my balls?”

He smiles. “Nah, I like you, and I’ve got money on you coming back and kicking ass out on the field.”

“I thought it was only a bet over the dishes.” I cross my arms over my chest, deciding whether to be insulted or flattered that they were wagering over me.

“Nah. That’s a chump change thing.” His eyes twinkle with merriment. “I’ve done the dishes hundreds of times. I have actual money on you in Vegas.”

“There’s a line on whether I stay with the team or not?” Seriously? People will bet on anything.

“Yep.” The ‘P’ pops loudly.

My jaw tightens. “Is it trending to or away from me making a comeback?”

“Away, but I’ve got your back. Those Vegas dudes haven’t seen the progress you’ve made over the last couple of weeks. This morning, you were back at your draft time.”

“No, shit?” Maybe I shouldn’t have been so busy thinking about Charlotte, and I would’ve already known. Nah, I’d rather think about her and that gorgeous body of hers. “I can’t wait to tell her. She’s going to be ecstatic.”

“Dude.” He raises his hands in protest. “Don’t tell me how she rewards you for your improved performance. I draw the line there.” He punches me in the upper arm. “Be good to my little sister. That’s all I ask. And if you think you’re going to break her heart, walk away before it gets to that point.”

“I don’t intend to hurt her. I’m not going to say that I see wedding bells and car seats with babies in them later this year, but I plan to get to know her better and I can’t see a point where I’ll want to date someone else.”

“Good.” He slips his arm over my shoulders. “I’ve always wanted a brother I liked. My two younger ones are total dipshits. They were always getting into my stuff and tearing it up.”

I laugh and shake my head. “I thought we just decided I’m not rushing into getting married.”

“Please.” He rolls his eyes. “Women grab unsuspecting men by their dick and lead them around wherever they want. If my sister decides you’re her golden egg, you aren’t going anywhere. You’re already one step away from being whipped.” He laughs. “You’re already a goner. After one date, you’re going to the future in-laws for dinner.”

I close my eyes. Am I ready to face the possibility of marriage and kids? As much as I want to, I can’t. Not yet. Get the contract. Keep the girl.

Chapter Nineteen

Sunday Dinner

Charlotte

I glance over at Weston as we turn onto the street leading to my parent’s house. “You’ve been quiet since you picked me up. Is everything okay? We don’t have to go.”

What’s the fastest way to get a man to run off? Appear too needy.

What’s the second-fastest way to get a man to run off? Move too fast by inviting him home to mom.

“Listen, I’ll call them and tell them something came up.”

“Charlotte,” he growls, darts his gaze to me, and then back to the road. “It’s fine. I know your dad and your oldest brother already. So, it’s not a big deal. Knox and I had a long talk the other day at the stadium.”

“Oh, shit.” I swipe my hands over my jeans. “I didn’t think he’d get territorial. I’m sorry.” I grab my purse and drag out my cellphone.

“Seriously, Charlotte. Don’t call and cancel. I’m not going to say I’m excited to get interrogated again, but I’m not running away. I said I’d come with you, and I’m going. You’re close to your family, and if we’re dating, that will be a part of it.”

“Are you sure you still want to date me?” His kiss when he picked me up was absentminded at best. “I’ll understand if you’re having second thoughts.”

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