Page 134 of Off Pitch

“Celebrating your release?” I ask curiously.

Knox removes himself from my hug and starts walking toward the door. “Of course,” he says with a mischievous look as he peers back at me. “We don’t have anything else to celebrate today, do we?”

He walks out of Dr. Coltrain’s office now, leaving me wondering.

Does he know?

I don’t know how he would, but he’s acting a little suspicious right now.

Guess I’ll find out.

forty-nine

Harlow

“Even with a hamstringinjury, I can’t keep up with you and your long ass legs,” I grumble as I try to catch up with Knox on the crowded Manhattan sidewalks.

“Technically, I’m no longer injured,” he smirks as he waits for me to catch up. “My hamstring is good to go again.”

“Good. Now don’t fuck it up again tomorrow, and try to avoid another damn loss.”

“I’ll just blame you if I do.” His smile is teasing. I kinda want to just wipe it off his face.

“Dick,” I say, playfully shoving his shoulder when I finally reach him. “Now, are you finally going to tell me where we’re going?”

“Like I’ve said the past dozen times you’ve asked, you’ll see when we get there.”

“I have not asked a dozen times,” I huff.

Knox laughs. “Are you saying I’m being dramatic, Harlow? I’m offended.”

I want to be annoyed, but I can’t find it in me. Knox is happy, smiling, and having fun. Even if we are traversing half of fucking Manhattan, I’ve never seen him this… joyful.

“Fine,” I say as he comes to a stop in front of me. “Are we almost there then?”

He just smirks. “Considering we’re here now, we are indeed almost there.”

“Oh, thank God. I don’t think my legs can take anymore.”

“You’re out of shape then, Freckles.” Knox starts leading me toward the entrance.

“Not all of us are professional athletes, you know.”

He places his arm low on my back, steering me through the doors. “I know, Lo. I don’t need you to be a professional athlete, though.” He leans closer now. “You’ve always had more than enough energy for me.”

“Knox!” I chastise. “Don’t be dirty!”

“Who says I’m being dirty?” I give him an unbelieving look as he laughs. “Come on, Lo. I need you to turn around.”

“Why?” I ask as I start turning. My question is quickly answered as I see all of my favorite people waiting for us—my parents, Cole, Lucia, Rory, and Ella. “Oh my God!”

His lips brush my ear. “Happy birthday, Harlow.” He stands up straighter now. “I’m glad you could all make it. I’m looking forward to getting to know you, Vivian and James.”

I turn back around, throwing my arms around his shoulders and standing on my tiptoes. “Thank you, Knox,” I say before softly kissing him.

That’s, uh… totally just playing the part.

Nothing more.

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