Page 15 of Make Your Play

It seems pretty simple, like it's the easiest option I have, and it's starting to feel like I don't have any other real viable ones at this point.

The only thing is, if we do this, no one can ever know. There's a part of me that feels ashamed for considering marrying him for his insurance even if it is a mutual decision. Nash won’t be blindsided by any of this and he's the one who proposed it in the first place. But even still, there's a weird feeling that comes along with it.

My phone rings on my nightstand and I roll over in bed, grabbing it as I find a small piece of paper. I answer the call as my eyes scan the note.

"Hey."

I didn’t want to wake you when I left, but text me after you’re up so I know you’re okay.

Nash

"What are you doing?" Nova asks me with no sense of worry or concern in her tone. "How are you feeling?"

"Better," I tell her with a smile on my lips as I walk to my closet to pick out an outfit for the day. I planned on it being a slower day, opening the flower shop closer to late morning to give myself some time. "Nash took me to get dinner, which seemed to help, and then I slept for at least ten hours last night."

"I heard Nash stayed over last night."

My stomach instantly drops. "Did you talk to him?" I don't know what the hell he would have said to her and I can't help but hope he didn't say anything about the marriage.

"He called me, like, five minutes ago."

Maybe he didn't bring up the arrangement.

“Yeah, he said he didn’t think I should be alone.” I let out a nervous laugh. “Honestly, the company was nice.”

“I agree with him, Ry. Yesterday was scary and the thought of you being home alone makes me nervous.”

My phone vibrates and I pull it away from my ear, putting the call on speakerphone as I check my messages.

Nash

Are you awake yet?

Nash

I hope you’re feeling better this morning.

A smile pulls on my lips at his lack of patience and double texts.

Riley

Definitely better today. Thanks for staying last night.

Nash

Whatever you need, I’m here.

Riley

Actually, I was wondering if we could maybe talk again, if you’re free anytime soon.

Nash

Does 6 or 7 tonight work for you?

Riley

Sure, that's fine. Are you planning on eating dinner before coming or should I make something?

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