Page 87 of Off Pitch

“Coming from the king of hookups.”

Lane groans. “Yeah, yeah. We all know I used to fuck my way around every city we traveled to. But you also know that’s not me anymore.” He lets out a breath. “I don’t regret Sage a bit, but she did come from one of those nights. I know what can happen, and I’d rather just focus on my daughter now.”

I lean back against the sofa to join Lane and turn to face him. “Because you’re a damn good dad, man.”

“It’s nice to have the reminder sometimes, so thank you. Anyway, my point is that while you’ve had hookups, those were all just one night. And you and Harlow are going to see each other every day until at least the end of the season. I care about both of you and don’t want to see someone get hurt over this.”

I take a deep breath. “I think we’ve got this. I’m not really worried,” I admit.

“Knox,” Lane says feebly. “It’s not you that I’m really worried about. I think no matter what happens, you’re going to be fine. Harlow I’m not so sure of. She’s good and kind… and I’ve seenher hurt before. I just don’t want to see that happen to her again.”

“I get it,” I say, scrubbing a hand over my face. “But I don’t have any intention of hurting her. I really enjoy being around her. When this is all over, we’re still going to be friends, I have no doubts about that.”

“You enjoy having her around?” Lane shoots me an inquisitive look.

“Don’t get any ideas, Brooks,” I say. “She’s fun to be around. And we sure as hell have fun together. But that’s all it is.”

“Mhmm.”

I roll my eyes as a text from Harlow pops up on my phone.

Harlow

Hurry your ass up, Spencer

We’ve got a standing appointment with your bed

Or couch

Or kitchen counter

I’m not that picky

Knox

Dear God, you’re going to fucking break me, woman

Harlow

And you’ll enjoy every second of it, won’t you?

Knox

Every fucking second

Almost done in here

Just think about last night and get yourself ready for me

Harlow

Been doing that all day, baby

I’m beyond ready for you

Knox

Well, fuck me

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