Page 58 of Hot Shot

“Sorry I kissed you this morning,” I say after a beat.

“No, you’re not.”

“You’re right, I’m not.” I loosen my grip enough to slide it down her hand. My thumb finds her wedding ring and shifts it. “Next time, think you’ll listen when I tell you to eat breakfast?”

“Doubtful. Ireallydon’t like being told what to do.”

“I thought we established I’m the exception to that rule.”

Cass laughs, rolling her eyes, but color rises in her cheeks. The sight gives me more confidence no one man should possess. “See you after school,” she says, retrieving her hand.

“All right. Text me and let me know how it’s going.”

“I will.” She looks shy, glancing at the ground as she backs away. When she turns, I miss the connection instantly. I watch her for a little longer as she gets back to her lesson, her eyes catching mine with a final smile.

I think about it for the rest of the day.

CHAPTER 22

GROUND RULES

THAT NIGHT

Cass: I think we should set up some ground rules for tomorrow.

Wilder: About you eating breakfast?

Cass: About you stealing kisses.

Wilder: Fair. Just so you know, you can steal them too.

Cass: So, tomorrow is the first time we’ll be together-together in public, our formal announcement, if you will. It’s important we sell it.

Wilder: I think I like where this is going.

Cass: Touching is obviously necessary.

Wilder: I definitely like where this is going.

Cass: No bathing suit parts.

Wilder: Killjoy.

Cass:

Wilder: I’m kissing.

Cass:

Wilder: Kidding lol. Auto.

Cass: Speaking of kissing—I’ll allow it. CONDITIONALLY.

Wilder: I’m listening.

Cass: First, I think we should plan it. I was thinking maybe when you come off the field.

Wilder: Just like the old days. I’m in.

---