Page 90 of Beautiful Storm

“Hayley Jackman. Actress. Not related to Hugh but still hoping she magically inherited his star power. The best friend.”

Hayley’s smile widens and if I’m not mistaken she’s a little impressed. “Turns out Amelia was wrong—youarefunny.”

“Amelia knows I’m funny. If she says otherwise, it’s because she’s jealous.”

“Okay, Mr. Comedian. It’s time to get serious. What are your intentions with my girl?”

I shrug. “Same as you, I’d guess.”I want to be there for her.

“You want to save up and move to LA?” She laughs. “Amazing. We could all move in together. You can pay for our rent.”

“Amelia’s moving?” My head snaps in the direction I last saw her as a pit forms in my stomach. LA may not be far but my life is here and… I’ll barely see them.

“Not anymore, she’s not,” Hayley confirms, easing my mind. “She’s setting up roots here. She’s starting the nursery tonight. But thanks for answering my next question.”

“What question?” My brows furrow.Did I miss something?

“I was going to ask how much you care about her. But I don’t have to.”

“I don’t want to miss out on seeing my kid.” I shrug as if that justifies my freak-out, but the truth is, I’ve kind of gotten used to having Amelia around.

“Of course.” Hayley bites back a knowing grin and I roll my eyes. “Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, don’t fuck with her and we’ll be great friends.”

“What if I don’t want to be friends?”

“You have no choice. I need you to introduce me to your teammates.”

I bark out a laugh when she bounces her eyebrows, nodding her head in the direction of some of the players. I like her. I bet she’s good for Amelia, not letting her take life too seriously despite her current situation warranting it. “Anyone in particular or should I choose?”

“You choose, but make sure they’re single. I’m no home wrecker.”

“You got it.” I don’t move right away, instead I stand still and tap my foot until she waves her hand in front of my face.

“Oh, you mean now?” I laugh.

“Obviously.”

“Well, good timing. Here’s Reed. Reed!” I wave to get his attention. “Get your ass over here.” He’s technically single.

Hayley laughs as Reed walks over. “Do all football players love each other’s asses?”

“What?” I almost choke on my drink as Reed’s eyes widen.

“What the hell did I walk into?”

“Never mind.” Hayley giggles. “Maybe it’s an Aussie Rules thing. They always celebrate by slapping each other’s butts.”

“Oh no. We do that too,” Reed says with grin. “I’m Reed. We haven’t met.”

“I’m Hayley. Amelia’s friend.” At the mention of her name, I seek her out again, finding her with Coach Pierce and her director of photography.

“Nice. Amelia’s great. Is this one asking for advice on how to impress her?”

“What? No.” I rejoin the conversation. “I don’t need to impress Amelia.”

“You don’t?”

“Nope. I do it by breathing.”

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