Page 118 of How to Score Off Field

Don’t do it.

Not now.

That shit can come later.

Things have been tense since I got here and her brother sucker punched me in the freaking face.

I won’t tell Drake—at least, not yet—but my twin already knows something went down.

Drake: Are you alright?

Drew: Yeah, why?

Drake: Don’t know, I feel weird.

Drew: Maybe coz you ARE weird?

We can’t fake the connection between us or the spidey senses we have when something is wrong or not right.

He had to have felt it in his face when I got hit in mine.

That’s just how this shit works.

Crazy, right?

After I shower and get ready for bed, I lie in it, staring up at the ceiling, the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the curtains. It's bedtime, but sleep feels like a distant companion tonight—there’s no way I’m falling asleep any time soon.

My mind is restless, consumed by thoughts of Tess, as it’s been for the past two weeks.

Earlier, as we chatted in the living room, I stole glances at her. I watched her talk—apologizing repeatedly for how her brother has behaved, none of which is her fault. I get that. I know that. I mean, try telling that to my family, but I know in my heart that Grady’s issues are his issues and have nothing to do with Tess.

He seems to have lost his damn mind, but that’s a him problem.

Tess looks different; she’s glowing. I don’t necessarily think it’s because she’s overcome with joy, but maybe it’s just the hormones?

How can she possibly be happy with all this drama?

It can’t be healthy, yeah?

Dammit.

What a mess.

I visualize her small pregnant belly. It’s barely noticeable under her shirt, but it couldn’t have been more evident.

I close my eyes for a moment. Her image burned into my mind.

It's not that Tess wasn't attractive to me before. She's always had a magnetic charm that drew me in. But now, this bond between us will never be broken, making her all the more beautiful to me.

It’s weird.

She and I barely know each other—we still don’t—but somehow, we do?

Or don’t.

Only time will tell, but she’s stuck with me.

The way she laughed at my jokes and gently touched her belly absentmindedly made me ache with a desire I hadn't expected. It's not just about physical attraction, though that's definitely part of it. It's the way I want to be there for her, support her through this journey, and share in the anticipation and joy.

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