Page 74 of Close Knit

The rain is like a baptism, washing away the silly idea that we could ever be just friends.

He gives me a look he’s given me a dozen times before, but this time I finally understand. It’s like I’m the center of his universe. In his gaze, I sense everything: hope, fear, desire, and something that feels dangerously irresistible.

He’s a victorious lion, relaxed yet brimming with energy.

Cameron isallman.

“God, Daphne.” He sighs against the top of my head. “You—” He chokes on the next words. I wait for him to say it.Come on, Cameron, take the lead.

I want Cameron Hastings. His hands roam along the top of my back, running across his last name, each touch sparking a fire inside me.Say it, Cameron. Say you want me like I want you.

“You’re a really good friend.”

Friend.

He unhooks from me, and suddenly I’m so cold. My heart drops. “Yeah.” I force a smile. “You too, Cameron.”

He reaches into his jeans pocket and pulls out his keys. “Want to drive?”

“Drive?” I blink. He jingles the keys. “Right, the car!” Disappointment is probably apparent in my voice. “Yeah. Heck yeah.”

He tosses me the keys, and they spin in slow motion under the stadium lights. With a quick move, I snag them midair and dash toward the driver’s seat, adrenaline fizzing out of my veins.

Before he gets in, he shakes his head, rubbing the sides of his temples. He looks absolutely tormented.

And I’m certain that I did that.

I think Cameron Hastings definitely loved my chant.

And the sight of me in his jersey.

And our not-so-friendlyhug.

But most of all, I’m now certain he wants me as more than a friend.

Chapter 18

Daphne

November 16

Influencer @wooly.duck Teams up with Lyndhurst Lions to Raise £80K for Groundskeeper’s New Prosthetic on 40th Anniversary

Sven

Auction went fantastisk yesterday!

Tusen takk, daph! <3

c u wed for british bake off!

Daphne

I’m so glad! Can’t wait.

After two monthsof hanging out with Cameron, I decided it was time to come clean. So when she texts me…

Juni