Page 69 of Curveball

“I’ve always lovedTop Gun.”

“You like the scene where he sings to her, don’t you?”

“How did you know?”

“You’re a romantic, like me. My husband used to sing to me all the time. He had the best voice.”

“Will you tell me about him?”

“I’d be happy to.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

RIPLEY

I’m glad I stayed away from my apartment the other night. I walked in that morning to Arizona and Layton sound asleep,verysatisfied,verynaked,verytangled in each other in her bed. For the past few days, they’ve been going at it every free second they can find. Both teams have had busy game schedules, but they capture stolen moments when they’re able to. I’ve never seen Arizona happier, and I’m truly happy for her. She deserves this.

We’re leaving for a short road trip tomorrow, which is followed by a long one for the Cougars. I imagine Arizona and Layton will be fucking their brains out all night. I need to get out of dodge. I’m about to call Kam and Bailey to see if they want to hang out when Arizona walks into my room.

She sits on my bed and rubs my arm. “Do you want to talk about where you were the other night?”

I shake my head. “It’s nothing.”

“Rip, you don’t sleep around. If you stayed with someone, he means something to you. Why won’t you share it?”

I hate lying to her, but there’s no part of this story I can share with my best friend. It’s better for her to think that I’m having casual sex.

“We haven’t lived together for six years. I’ve changed. I can separate the physical and the emotional like Kam does. Trust me, there’s nothing and no one to report.”

“I don’t believe you, and I wish you’d share it with me. Something is going on with you. Maybe I haven’t lived with you for a long time, but you’re my best friend in the whole world. I know you better than anyone. Whenever you’re ready, I’m here for you. No judgment. No matter what, I love you, and I support you.”

At least one Abbott outwardly loves me. I smile at her warmth and support. “I love you too. I’m fine though.”

She sighs. “Okay. The Daultons asked Layton and me to show face at the pro basketball game tonight.”

I shrug. “I figured you would be with him. No biggie. I’ll hang with Kam and Bailey.”

“They gave us a bunch of tickets. I want you to join us. The seats are courtside. It could be fun.”

That perks me up. “Ooh. I’d love that. Thanks.”

“Cool. Quincy is coming too.”

Shit. I feign a smile and grit out, “Sounds good.”

A little while later, I’m getting ready for the game when my text tone pings.

Quincy: I’m sorry about the other night. Interrupting your date was wrong. I can’t go back to us not talking. I promise to be a good boy from now on. Please. I miss my friend.

Me: Actions speak louder than words. See you in a bit. Behave.

Quincy: I love when you’re bossy.

I gaspwhen we get to our seats. “Holy shit. These are amazing.” We’re right on the floor at center court. We’re technically closer to the action than the players on the bench.

Arizona nods. “Yep. The Daultons are the best.”

We take our seats where we receive the full VIP treatment. Waitresses actually bring us food and drinks right to our seats. It’s amazing.

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