Page 63 of The Pucking Wrong Rookie
I nodded, the fake smile still plastered on my face, but every word felt like it was driving a knife deeper.
As soon as she walked away, I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding, my chest tightening as the mask slipped away. I pressed my palms to the table, grounding myself, trying to push down the familiar ache. It never got easier.
I straightened up, glancing over at Rome again. He looked up at me, his eyes brightening for a second, and the ache dulled just a little. This—this was enough. I didn’t need more.
I couldn’t have more.
I didn't deserve it.
CHAPTER15
LOGAN
Iwas sitting in my truck, trying to delay meeting up with my dad when my phone buzzed. I grinned when I saw it was from Ari. I could spare a few more minutes.
Ari: Treachery, betrayal, a knife in the heart.
Lincoln: Someone give Lancaster a cookie.
Ari: Sarcasm? That’s what you give me when I come to you with those words.
Camden: Is this an SOS type of situation. Or a summer ombre sausages kind of thing.
I snorted, shaking my head.
Me: Good one, Grandpappy.
Camden: …
Ari: As I was saying…
Ari: Wait, why hasn’t Disney responded. We need his simpage.
Camden: Well, you’re not Lincoln…so I’m not sure how much simpage there would be.
Lincoln: Excellent point, Hero.
Ari Lancaster removed Camden James from the chat.
This was my time to shine.
Logan York added Camden James to the chat.
Ari: Shame. Shame. Shame.
Walker: You’ve been watching Bridgerton again, haven’t you?
Ari: Oh, now you show up.
Lincoln: We’re all waiting with bated breath for what you have to tell us.
Ari: Oh, yes. THE TREACHERY!
Ari: I posted a thirst trap for Blake Babycakes Lancaster.
Walker: As one does.
Ari: …
