Page 19 of Personal Foul

“You think I should take the chance?”

“Yes, because you can’t let fear of the unknown stagnate your life.”

Romilly was pretty sure Kaiden was a player, and who could blame him? He was a fancy football star who was sinfully handsome. Her hesitancy had nothing to do with his status and everything to do with his reputation. But she knew Elanie was right. She couldn’t miss out on what might be a great love story, and if he eventually got tired of her and turned his back, at least she took the chance.

“Thank you,” she said to Elanie. Then leaned over and kissed the older woman’s wrinkled cheek.

“Anytime, my dear. Anytime.”

****

When she got back home, she returned Toby to his apartment and then went into her own. She sat on the couch and pulled out her phone, already having mentally prepared what she was going to text.

Romilly:Would you like to come over for dinnerwhen you’re free?

She figured he was at practice and wouldn’t reply until much later. To her surprise, she got an immediate response.

Kaiden:I’m so glad you texted, and yes. I would love to come over for dinner. Friday night?

Romilly smiled and typed back that Friday was fine.

Three little dots kept blinking, letting her know he was typing something else. They disappeared and then reappeared, showing he was also unsure of what to say. Finally, it came through.

Kaiden:You’ve been in my dreams. I’ve been wondering how I was going to convince you that I’m not a bad guy.

Romilly:I know you’re not a bad guy. How’s practice going?

Kaiden:It’s kicking my ass, but I love it. I’m working well with the quarterback so I have cautious hope.

Romilly:I knew you were going to be great. I’m excited for you.

Kaiden:Thank you. What have you been doing?

Romilly:Painting, mostly. I had to package up the items I sold and I got them into the mail. Took Toby to the park again.

Kaiden:You’re very talented. Maybe I should buy one to hang in my house, whenever I get around to buying one. If I make the team, maybe you can house hunt with me. What should I bring for dinner on Friday?

House hunt? That shocked her. She quickly typed a response.Just yourself.

Kaiden:Okay. I have to go. My break is over and we’re running offensive plays.

Romilly:Go kick some butt. See you Friday.

He sent back a smiling emoji next to a football.

She leaned her head back and stared up at the ceiling, unable to wipe the smile off her face. A flutter of excitement swarmed low in her belly as she thought about Kaiden coming to her home for dinner. Didn’t that mean he wanted to be with her?

She really hoped so.

Chapter Ten

Romilly:How was your day?

Three little dots, then…Not bad. We were in the weight room this morning. Then I was with the offensive coordinator going through plays with Crew.

Romilly:Who is Crew?

Kaiden:Quarterback.

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