Page 84 of Double Play

He narrows his eyes at me. “You’re such a bitch.”

I smile. “You’re an easy target, Abbott.”

He leaves and I make my way to our seats and join my friends. Kam looks me up and down. “You have something white and creamy dripping out of the corner of your mouth.”

I quickly go to wipe it and she starts laughing hysterically. “Oh my god, I was totally kidding, but now you’re busted, you ho.”

I can’t help the smile that creeps onto my lips. Now all three of them are laughing.

Just before the game starts, an adorable younger man with curly hair and a Lancaster jersey sits in the seat next to me. At this point, I think I know most people in the friends and family section, but I’ve never seen him before.

He turns to me. “You’re Arizona, right?”

“I am. And you are?”

“Henry. I’m Layton’s…”

I immediately throw my arms around him. “Oh my god, you’re his little brother.”

As I pull away, I notice him smile goofily. “That’s what he called me?”

I nod. “Yes! He adores you. He talks about you all the time. I’m so excited to finally meet you.”

“He talks about you too. I’ve seen a lot of pictures but you’re even more beautiful in person.”

Kam narrows her eyes at him. “Is Layton teaching you how to sweet talk women?”

He smiles. “He’s the master. Just look at his girlfriend.”

Kam nods. “Yep. She’s a total hottie.”

I roll my eyes at them. “How come you don’t come to more games?”

He shrugs. “I guess I assume Layton is embarrassed by me. I’m kind of a fuck up. I don’t want to cramp his style.”

“He doesn’t see you that way at all. He’s proud to have you around. You should come more often. Have you ever gone with him to Linda’s House?”

I see him stiffen a bit. “No, it’s not my thing.” He looks visibly uncomfortable. “My time with Layton’s grandmother was the best part of my childhood. It went kind of downhill from there. I think walking into that place would dredge up some bad memories for me.”

I nod. “I understand. If you ever change your mind, I can promise you that it’s a wonderful place. I think it brings Layton a sense of peace just by hanging out with those amazing kids. Maybe it could do the same for you.”

He pinches his lips together before giving me a small nod. “Maybe one day.”

I loop my arm through his. “In the meantime, I want to know everything about you. Anything I can use against Layton is also welcome.”

He laughs as we have a fun evening getting to know each other.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

ARIZONA

“You need to finesse my wood a little more gently, sunshine. He needs tender loving care to come to fruition.”

I bite my lip. “It’s just so big and hard. Besides, I like it a little rough.”

“Be patient. Rub him evenly. Give him what he needs.”

“It’s taking so long.”

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