Page 29 of Breaking Rules

He breaks into a smug smile. “You’re not wrong there.”

I stand and head for the door. I’ve just stepped over the threshold when he calls my name. Turning, I lift a brow in question.

“Are you sure Walker is planning to meet up with you? He left with Meghan last night.”

Though my stomach rolls painfully, I keep my expression neutral. “He picked the time. If something changed, I’m sure he would’ve texted.” Besides, Meg spent all night throwing glances at Marco—not that Jake noticed.

“Unless he’s too busy fucking your best friend.”

With a shake of my head, I go down the stairs and proceed to the front door. I’ve wasted too much time with him.

* * *

Just as Ipark in Xander’s driveway, my phone rings, my best friend’s name flashing on the display on the dash. “Hey, Meg.”

“Hey, babe. Doing okay?”

“I’m good. Heading into Xander’s place to discuss the design ideas I sent him.”

“I didn’t expect him to be such a nice guy after what you told me.” She giggles. “He gave me a ride home after dinner, wished me good night, and made sure I was inside before he drove off.”

“Weren’t you drooling over him a week ago?” I tease, climbing out of my car.

“The guy is hot, yeah, but I figured he’d be a dick. Either way, I’m not interested in him.”

“Is that so?” I arch an eyebrow. “What about Marco?”

“Fuck off, Izzy. I don’t get involved with taken men.”

“Kennedy isn’t really his girlfriend. At least, not exclusively.”

“Do you wanna talk about it?” she says, her tone going soft. “About last night? Please say yes. Then I can ask about what happened between you and Xander in the guest bathroom.” Now she’s teasing me.

I freeze, the air around me evaporating. “Meg, I’m?—”

“Relax. I’m not judging you.”

“He’s Jake’s friend, and I’m helping him with his second bathroom. That’s all.”

“Okay,” she says flippantly, clearly not believing me. Before I can double down, though, she changes the subject. “Do you have plans on Tuesday evening?”

“I don’t think so,” I say, somewhat absently. I’m too caught up in studying the peaceful, quiet home in front of me.

“How about we go shopping then? And dinner.”

We make plans, and once I’ve ended the call, I head to the front door. I knock, then take a step back and smooth out the invisible wrinkles on my skirt.

I’m met with persistent barking, and I smile—Milo. When the door slowly opens, Xander appears, wearing nothing but briefs, his hair a mess and his face creased with sleep lines.

Warmth pools in my belly.

“Good morning,” I mumble, keeping my attention fixed on his face.

“Morning. Come on in.” He steps aside to let me in. “I’m sorry…I overslept.”

“It’s okay.” I bend down to pet Milo’s soft fur, and I swear the dog smiles as he leans into my palm. With my focus fixed on Milo, it’s easier to avoid gawking at all the bare skin Xander has on display.

“You can wait for me in the living room or in the kitchen. I need a minute to wash my face,” he says softly.

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