Page 103 of Endgame

I get that. Dedicating all your time and energy to a relationship with no future or reciprocated respect.

“I know, Navs. I know. Change is hard, but please promise me when I say this—it gets better. You can stay with me and the guys if you need to. We’ve got you.”

God, I’d give anything to see her happy. She’s got so much to give. But she’s also a grown woman who can make her own decisions. I need her to know I’m here, and that I care.

“Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind. So, how’s it going with you and my best friend? I don’t know if I’ve ever seen her so hung up on anyone. I’m here for it. It took me a minute, but I am.”

Hilarious.I’m laughing because I couldn't agree more. It has nothing to do with me, but Dakota is nothing like the cold and shut-off woman I met months ago. She’s spectacular in every sense of the word now, yet I’m pretty sure I was as crazy about her then too.

“We’re figuring things out. I’m crazy about her, Navs. So fucking gone for her. I never got a chance to thank you. I’m sure that was hard for you, and I promise to take care of her. We’re gonna make it, Navs. I’m sure of it.”

She sends me a reassuring smile, slurping down the last bit of her milkshake.

“She needs people. You’re the best kind of people I know. I trust you’ll be what she needs. And I get to see my two favorite people happy. It’s a win-win.”

I start to clean up my space on the counter and lift Navy to stand, bringing her in for a hug.

“You know I’m always here for you, right?”

She nods into my chest. “I do.”

I’m thankful for my sister. Her selflessness is one of her best qualities, but it’s also the one that can be her biggest downfall.

She needs an advocate.

My offer will stand as long as she needs it. I hope she takes it.

A small part of me thinks there’s a possibility she has abetteroffer. Although, if it’s who I’m thinking, we share a home, so that will be interesting to say the least.

And it better not look like our team catcher and my best friend.

“Love you, little sister.”

“Love you too, big brother.”

42

DAKOTA

Callaway:Wanna get food?

Dakota:I could eat.

Callaway:…at my parents’ house tonight.

Dakota:Like tonight tonight?

Callaway:Funny. Yes, angel. Tonight. Dinner with my parents and my girlfriend. Because that’s what you are. Get used to it.

Dakota:Okay.

Callaway:Don’t freak out on me now. They already love you.

Dakota:What can I bring? What do I wear? Jesus, Callaway. I need at least a month’s notice for something this serious.

Callaway:Just yourself, that’s it. I’ll handle the rest. Pick you up at five.

My mood is rare.

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