Page 24 of Stealing Home

We reach the steps that lead up to her door when she stops.

“Thanks, Cole, even though you didn’t have to.” She tells me.

“I’m nothing if not a gentleman. Now come on, up the steps. I need to make sure you lock up before I leave.” I state.

She rolls her eyes, but it’s with a smile, and heads up the stairs as I follow her.

She unlocks her door, cracks it open, and then turns to me.

“Have a good night. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I voice.

“You too, Cole.” Adriana says as she moves towards me.

She surprises me by hugging me. It takes me less than a second to snap out of it before moving my arms to hug her back. For some reason, I drop a kiss on the top of her head again, like I’m supposed to do it. She steps back and smiles and heads inside. I hear her lock the door and head back to my house.

Tomorrow should be interesting.

Once back at my place, I lock up and head to my bedroom. Getting comfortable in my new bed, the realization hits me that while I may be alone, my life is now my own and I can finally move forward. I’ve been suffocating for the last three months. Holding my breath waiting for the freedom to live that way I see fit without backlash. Not that I was looking to go on dates or hook up but, continuing with mine and Layla’s facade out of protection for her image really put a damper on me being me.

Sinking deeper into the bed my eyes close and as I breathe in Adriana’s signature spicy vanilla fragrance consumes me. She must have been the one to make my bed because all I smell is her. As if this woman wasn’t already in my head more than she should be.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Cole

Having a day off in between games and traveling hits different, especially when we don’t have practice. It’s like having a snow day as a kid. Only making plans that interest me, I just finished my workout and am heading upstairs to my bedroom when my phone chimes with a text notification. Ignoring it for the time being in favor of undressing from my sweaty gym clothes.

Down to my boxers, walking to the bathroom, I glance at the screen of my phone to see if the message can wait until after my shower.

Oh lord.

It’s a group text with Heather, Ty and Adriana. Answering it sooner rather than later would be better, otherwise Heather might just show up unannounced. That’s a chance I’m not willing to take.

Ty: Happy BBQ at Cole’s Day people!

Heather: Really babe?

Ty: What?

Heather: That’s the best name you could come up with? I’m right next to you and could’ve helped.

Ty: Woman! Leave me alone. Bro, a little help here?

Adriana: Ty, boss lady is right. You should have said something like Happy Cole and I are BBQin’ for my wife and Adriana day!

Heather: See, that’s better! And in case you both didn’t know, that’s exactly what is happening.

Cole: Ty, see what you started now?

Ty: I was just trying to ask what time we should come over.

Cole: Next time lead with that. Lol.

I look at the time on the clock and see it’s 11:30 am. I still need to go to the store after I shower.

Cole: Why don’t you guys come over at 2:30? You lot good with hot dogs, burgers and chicken?

Ty: We’re good with that.

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