Page 19 of The Roommate Remodel

Brax’s eyes widen. “I’m so sorry. Is she okay?”

“She still gets tired and has massive headaches that force her to stay in bed. Until she gets over those, she can’t go back to her job coaching at the university. I’d just bought my grandmother’s home. It was bad timing.”

He shakes his head before dragging a hand through his hair. “I feel terrible that I didn’t know.”

“It’s not your fault. I told your sister not to tell anyone. Sloan didn’t really want me sharing it. She hates feeling like a charity case.”

“I won’t,” he promises. “Is there something I can do? Do you need anything?” The lines between his brows deepen.

He’s concerned aboutus? Earlier today, he only seemed interested in having a flirtatious face-off. It’s easier to think of Brax as a heartless dirtbag. But seeing him as a guy who has anactualheart? I feel like someone just swept my feet out from under me.

I can’t have these soft feelings for Brax while we’re roommates. And I can’t accept his help if it comes with strings attached. He’s already got too many strings to my heart.

“It’s nice of you to offer, but you’re paying us rent, remember? Along with my new job, we’ll be okay.”

Maybe.

He looks at me. “I almost forgot to ask. Where are you working?”

I hesitate, suddenly wishing I didn’t have to drop this bomb now. As much as I want to hide it, he’s going to find out tomorrow. Maybe telling him now will help me get some sleep.

“I’m the community relations manager for this great team called the Carolina Crushers. Maybe you’ve heard of them?” I say, trying to lighten the mood.

He stares at me for a few agonizing beats. “You’re working for the Crushers?”

I nod. “We’re going to be seeing a lot of each other, Mac.”

Brax scratches his head. “Wow. Wasn’t prepared for that. Think you can handle it?”

“The job... or you?” I’ve been asking myself the same question ever since he arrived.

“Pick your poison.”

I cross my arms. “If we don’t kill each other first.”

FIVE

Brax

Isneak down to the kitchen early in the morning, hoping I don’t get caught by Jaz again. Her bedroom door is still closed, which gives me time to ice my shoulder.Since I wiped out the supply last night, I opt for a bag of peas instead.

Vale looks over the frozen vegetable I’m using as an ice pack. “Again?”

“I don’t want Alex to think I’m not ready.” From everything I’ve heard, Alexandra runs a tight ship. If she catches even the slightest hint of weakness, she’ll make sure I find a new team.

“It doesn’t matter what Alex thinks. If your shoulder doesn’t heal, it’s going to affect how you play.”

I know he’s right, but I’m too stubborn to admit it. For now, frozen peas will have to work.

“If Lucian is bringing over the other two roomies, I call dibs on the bathroom first.” Vale grabs his muffin and heads toward the steps.

“How long are you going to be?” I call after him.

“This kind of beauty takes time.” Vale sweeps his hair back like he’s Rapunzel, and I roll my eyes.

“Just hurry, okay?” I grumble. The man loves his hair.

“There’s another bathroom,” he adds. “If you get desperate.”

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