Page 15 of Running Back

His mouth lifted in one corner, making him look wicked as hell and letting Eric know that drink had been purposeful. “Like I said, you’re stalking my friend.”

Now that Eric recognized him, Eric knew exactly who he meant. “Rocky Zeal? The agent? Why would I bother stalking him?”

The first hint of discomfort lit the man’s features. “Well, I mean, you don’t live here in New York and he’s dating your ex. You don’t think it’s a little strange for you to turn up where he does?”

“He’s dating Jakk?”

The guy’s gaze slid away. There was no missing the pain in Eric’s question.

Eric fucking hated this continuous looking like a needy fool. He took a breath and squared his shoulders. “As it happens, I do live here. I’m sure most people don’t realize that—since I gave up every goddamn thing to be with Jakk—I lost everything when he kicked me to the curb. Since I have absolutely nothing now, I had to come here to live with my aunt. She’s the only family I have left with room for me. This place is the closest sports bar where I can watch Jakk’s games without being pitied or judged. Well, it was before today, anyhow.”

The more Eric spoke, the more the man across from him softened. That was good. Eric was so fucking exhausted by everyone’s anger and hatred. He was just tired, period. To his surprise, the guy held out his hand. “I’m Oakley.”

Despite his desire to be alone, Eric shook. “Eric.”

Oakley nodded and then motioned toward a nearby server, asking for two more drinks. Eric bit back an inner sigh. It seemed he wouldn’t get to peacefully wallow today. That was a fucking shame.

The excitement was high and the chatter nonstop as everyone showered. They had won the division. Rocky was too impatient to see Jakk. He was thrilled and proud as hell. No one could say Rocky had been thinking with his dick when he signed Jakk. Jakk was fucking amazing on the field. He was just as fantastic off the field too, but that was another story. Today had completely been Jakk’s day. He had won this game. Everyone knew it, especially Rocky. He couldn’t get to his man quickly enough.

Rocky saw Jakk near his locker. He didn’t make it two steps in his direction before someone stepped in his path.

“Hey, Rock. How have you been?”

His face greeted Jayme before his mouth. It was too late, but Rocky still tried to call his hate-filled expression under control. “I’m great. Excuse me.” He tried to keep moving. Rocky didn’t want to chat. He didn’t want to know how Jayme’s life was going.

Jayme didn’t let him pass. “I was hoping we could talk sometime.”

As Jayme made the claim, Rocky locked eyes with Jakk. The words sank in, and Rocky’s gaze snapped back to Jayme. He couldn’t stop the disgust from pulling at his features. “No.” He stepped around Jayme and headed for Rocky. The way Jakk’s eyebrows rose made Rocky realize how enraged he must look. He tried rearranging his features. When he reached Jakk’s side, he didn’t have to fake it. He was happy as hell.

“Hey, baby. You did it!”

Jakk smiled. He stole a quick kiss. “What was all that with Jayme?”

Rocky shrugged it off. “He wanted to talk shop, and all I wanted was to get to you. I honestly didn’t mean to look so irritated.”

For a moment, Jakk simply stared at him without responding. In the silence, Rocky knew Jakk saw everything. Jayme had been one of the clients to use him. Rocky had dropped him once he had realized.

A sad smile tugged at Rocky’s lips. “Please let it go.”

Jakk’s hardened features softened. His gaze moved over Rocky’s face. “If that’s what you want. Everyone is headed to Emerson’s nightclub again to celebrate. Are you game, or would you rather go home?”

He would rather go home. Rocky couldn’t say that. This was Jakk’s moment. “This is your night. Your team probably wants to make sure you know they’re not oblivious. This game was all you.”

Jakk shrugged and pulled on a shirt. “Not really. I can’t do shit without a good quarterback and protection. Nothing is ever just one person in sports.”

He was so humble. Rocky was so in love. There would never be anyone more perfect for him. No one could make him happier. “I’d like to accept your offer.”

Jakk froze in the middle of grabbing his bag. His gaze moved to hold Rocky’s stare. He didn’t play dumb, but he also didn’t assume anything. “Is that a yes to my marriage proposal?”

Rocky slowly nodded. “That’s a yes.”

“Woot!”

Rocky startled at the sudden shout.

Heads turned their way as Jakk grabbed Rocky and hauled him in for another kiss. He wore a huge grin as he pulled away and pointed at Rocky. “He’s marrying me!”

To his shock, Rocky’s face heated. People congratulated them. He had no idea why he blushed. It was a bit like getting the birthday song sung to him in the middle of a crowded restaurant. He didn’t know where to look or what to say. Thankfully, Jakk had his hand and led him out before he melted to the floor.

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