Page 59 of The Off-Limits Play

I clear my throat, flicking my hair over my shoulder and glancing back across the street. Carson’s motorcycle is still there. Maybe if I can get rid of my parents, I can perch my butt on that seat and wait for him to return.

Although, if my parents are strolling this sidewalk, they might spot me, and I really don’t want to get the guy in trouble.

Stupid no-dating-my-daughter rule.Dad, that was such a dick move.

I glance at him, trying to hide my angst. When I first found out he said that to the team, I hit the roof. I was so pissed off that he would demand that of his players… and that was before I’d even met Carson.

I still think it’s dumb, but I’m not about to get into it on a public street.

Focus, Nylah. Find out what they’re doing, and you can plan your next move.

“So, you guys on a date or something?” I hope my voice is innocent enough.

Dad grins at Mom, resting his arm around her waist and drawing her close.

Mom giggles when he kisses her cheek. “Yeah, Eli’s watching Amina for us. We’re paying him, so he’s happy.”

“Nice.” I nod.

“Actually, speaking of babysitting.”

I internally roll my eyes.Nice segue, Dad.

If they’re planning on going away next weekend, I’ll just have to say no. I have that party, and I wouldn’t put it past them to dump this on me just so I won’t be able to go.

“One of my team members is desperate to take his girlfriend out on a date. I wouldn’t usually mention your name, but these are special circumstances. They have a daughter and no family in the area.”

“Are you talking about Zander?”

“Yes.” He nods and smiles. “He’s been wanting to take Sienna out for a special dinner, and I mentioned that you’ve got plenty of babysitting experience. His daughter is named Zoey, and apparently she’s a real cutie.”

“Doesn’t he live with four other guys?” My insides zing as I realize that one of those guys is Carson.

Yes! This is my chance to see him again!

But I still have to be a little reluctant first, right? Play it cool so they don’t suspect a thing.

“Well, yeah, but I don’t think any of them have looked after a toddler before. Zander will use them if he has to, but the one guy who would probably be the best choice is out the night he wants to go, and their usual babysitter is busy. He was feeling a little stressed over it, so I mentioned that I’d ask you.”

“What night is it?”

“This Tuesday.”

I pretend to think about it for a second, but it’s not like I’ll already have plans. I’m not the socialite I used to be, and everybody knows it.

After a beat, I start nodding and throw in a shrug for good measure. “Okay. I can do that.”

“You’re an angel.” Mom touches my cheek.

Dad grins. “Zander will be very happy when I tell him.”

“Why don’t you text him now?” Mom points to his pocket, but he’s already pulling out his phone.

“I’ll send you all the details as soon as I’ve heard back from him,” Dad tells me.

“Do you want to join us for ice cream or something?” Mom asks.

I shake my head. “Don’t want to interrupt your date. What are your plans?”

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