Page 64 of Knot His Reality

I nod slowly. “Yeah, I think that’s a good idea. I kind of want to see what he has to say, but I also kind of don’t want to. It can’t really be pertinent, seeing as he’s no longer a suitor.”

“And that’s why we’ve left the decision up to you,” Bree tells me. “Regardless of what he wants to speak with you about, he won’t be reconsidered as a suitor. The network won’t allow it, and it didn’t really seem as if the two of you had a ton of chemistry right off the bat.”

“We didn’t,” I agree. “It’s unlikely he would’ve become a part of my pack. As for speaking with him, I’ll think about it.”

I push to my feet as Bree and Tessa stand.

Tessa offers a soft smile. “I hope this doesn’t cause you too much duress, Remy. We couldn’t, in good conscience, keep this from you. It has to be your choice of whether you want to hear him out or not.”

“Which I appreciate. Thank you both, but I’m definitely ready for my date.” I scoop up my coffee cup and down it, as we make our way back to the dining room, where the others are waiting.

“Is everything okay?” Ian asks, moving toward me as soon as we step into the room.

I nod. “It is. I was just getting an update on Lorenzo—he’s the suitor who was rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, he’s awake. I think that’s a good way to start the day, so why don’t we head out for our date?”

Taylor, Riley, and Carter join us, Taylor watching me carefully. “You’re sure you’re okay?”

“I am. I promise. I’m really looking forward to today’s date,” I tell her with a smile, and it’s all true. I am okay, and I am looking forward to the date.

But I’m also worried about why Lorenzo feels the need to speak with me. The worst part is I have no idea when he’ll even be released from the hospital so he can talk to me. Or if I even want to listen.

Running a hand through my hair, I grin at the four of them. “Who’s ready for some fun?”

There’s a small hesitation from the four of them, but they seem to let it go and follow me out the door. We greet Mike and Ethan as we climb into the SUV and then we’re off to Rancho Mirage.

A little over thirty minutes later, we pull up outside of the Alley Cat, and I can’t help grinning as excitement rushes through me again.

I haven’t been bowling in years. We used to go all the time growing up, but for some reason, as an adult, I stopped going. Luckily,Heatedhas allowed me to remedy that problem.

“Bowling?” Carter asks with a snicker, glancing at Riley. “This should be fun.”

“Oh?” I turn in my seat to face the two of them sitting in the back row with Ian.

“I’m heading inside to make sure everything is clear. You know the drill, Remy.” Mike’s stern voice has me glancing over my shoulder and nodding. “Good. I’ll see you soon.”

“Now, why is this going to be interesting?”

Carter elbows his alpha. “Why don’t you tell them, Riley?”

Riley’s face flushes as he pushes Carter away the best he can with the limited space.

“I’veneverbeenbowling,” he blurts, and I just blink at him.

What the hell did he say?

“You want to try it again with some spaces between your words so Remy can understand you?” Carter is grinning and fighting back laughter, and I’m so confused.

Riley sighs, leaning his head against the back of the seat. “I’ve never been bowling. It wasn’t something my parents deemed appropriate growing up. Carter has tried to get me to go a few times since we met, but I keep refusing.”

“Interesting,” I say, watching him closely. “But why?”

“Because I hate doing things I’m not good at, and what if I suck?”

It’s my turn to snort now. “Most people suck at bowling, Riley. You’ll be right at home with all of them.”

His eyes narrow as he watches me. “I don’t like the way you said that. Does that mean you don’t suck?”

“Maybe?” I shrug with a laugh. “I used to be good when I was a kid, but I haven’t been in years. I’m probably going to suck, too.”

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