Page 68 of Your Rule to Break

I lean back in the booth. “Just say what you want to say.”

“I think you could love her. You’ve been happier than any time you were with any of the jersey chasers I remember you’d entertain on a nightly basis. I mean, you flat out got a new phone number because youknew it’d make her more comfortable. Shut down the warehouse to shop with her. There’s no way I'm telling you something you don’t already know.” Riley flips her hair off her shoulder.

I take a deep breath, looking at my smirking sister.

I don’t say anything.

Because I think she’s right.

The Upstate Cosmos arefirst in our division as we stole a game we should’ve lost—according to Vegas—on the road. We won today, 33-31, and nothing feels better going into a bye week. Tripp was out of his mind, snagging passes that were over or underthrown by our quarterback—the Cosmos version of superman.

I'm on the team plane, about to take off when Emilie sends a photo. It’s a picture of her luggage, ready to go for when we leave in a few days.

Me

damn, already packed, huh?

seems like you’re excited for the wedding

EJ

I'm excited for the trip

particularly my travel buddy

it’s going to be fun.

are you coming over when you get home?

My cheeks hurt because I'm smiling like an unhinged idiot in my seat, both from her wanting to travel with me, and asking if I'm coming over. Our interrupted night after shopping and tattoos is haunting me, but I’m also so tired after the game.

as much as I’d love to

i'm fucking beat and you deserve better than that ;)

well if you want to sleep in my bed, invitation is there

seriously?

yes but you need to decide so I can put your name on the afterhours list with a code to get in the building

I'm in

And I am. I'm so in. For all of it.

Chapter 36

Emilie

“How did you knowsour gummy worms are my favorite?” I ask as Zack pulls out all the snacks he grabbed for the flight, including my go-to candy choice. To be honest, any sour candy will do but I do have an affinity to gummy worms.

“I have my ways,” he smirks.

I open my backpack. “That reminds me, I have something for you.” I pull out a three pack of Pop Rocks. “I saw these the other day and thought of you.”

His mouth hangs open in excitement. “You’re the best.” He kisses me quickly on the lips.

My phone buzzes.