Page 36 of Power Play

Skirting my car, I catch Ava’s gaze. She smiles mischievously as she heads toward Layla with Meghan in her arms. She loved playing matchmaker; I have no doubt. I wink at her, open the door, and climb into my car.

When my window is down, I set my elbow on the trim. “See you later, Mama,” I tell Layla, watching her intently. She snickers, shaking her head, but doesn’t say anything. One point in my favor.

Driving away, I can’t help but smile. My plan is working, and before she knows it, she will be mine.

Forever this time.

Chapter 13

We Are Friends

CLAY

Now, September

Me:

Hey, how are you? How about Angie’s tomorrow? Training camp starts in three days, and I’ll be busy

Layla:

Hey, Clay! Not sure. My schedule is a little cray cray

I tossmy phone and my Xbox controller onto the couch and close my eyes. The sounds of my game fill the space of my living room. It’s so fucking lonely here and so quiet. Playing games is the only thing that puts my mind at ease these days. I hate it.

Why is she like this? It’s been a week, and I have tried everything to get her to go to Angie’s dessert shop with me. Unsuccessfully. I don’t want to force her, and the more excuses she makes, the more I feel like I’m doing something wrong.

Screw being nice.

I open my eyes, and the first thing they land on is my phone. I grab it from the couch, unlock it, and quickly type a text to her.

Me:

I’ll be at your place at 5 p.m. sharp. Be ready

Sent.

I reach for the controller again but stop myself. I won’t be able to focus on the game, I know that much, and I don’t like losing simply because my mind is elsewhere. All I need to do is wait. The rhythm of my heartbeat is persistent, like a crowd marching with a drummer setting their pace.Thud. Thud. Thud.

My phone dings, and I’m about ready to fucking scream. The moment I realize it’s another text from Thompson, I feel like a deflated balloon. My shoulders sag, and I lean back against the couch, wishing I’d melt into its material.

Colton:

Roman is back from Cancun.

Me:

Leave him alone. He’ll figure out what to do on his own

Colton:

I’m worried about him. What’s so wrong about that?

Me:

Nothing, Dad

Colton:

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