Page 88 of Perfectly Grumpy

She nods once, tucking her phone away. “Maybe that’s what makes you different from the others.”

“Maybe,” I say with a shrug.

“You’re really going to ignore all this publicity?”

“Yeah,” I say flatly. “I am.”

She watches me for a moment, then just nods. “Okay. I will too.”

“Really?” I ask. “Now I’m the one who’s impressed.”

“Why?” she laughs.

“Because I know it’s harder for you to ignore an opportunity than it is for me to take one.”

“I might agree with that,” she says, her smile widening. After a moment, she glances back toward the volleyball court. “So, speaking of opportunities you might want to avoid…” She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear. “There’s this thing tonight. We call it the Williamson prom. There will be ugly prom dresses. And bad dancing. You’ll hate every minute of it.”

I stare at her. “Is that an actual reunion event?”

“Oh, it’s real.”

“You’re probably right. I would totally hate that,” I admit. “But that’s not the right question. The question is…do you want me there?”

She pauses. “It wouldn’t be the same without you.”

I glance over her shoulder and see Bart watching us again.

I take her hand. “Then it looks like I have no choice, Sunny. You want bad dancing? I’ll give you bad dancing. Though fair warning—this might end up being your best prom ever.”

I’m settled on the sofa bed with Annie curled up next to me, deep into edits on my book, when the Crushers text thread lights up my phone. I haven’t seen the guys for almost a week, an eternity after spending nearly every waking hour together during the season.

Brax

Jaz saw the shirtless beach pic, Tate. She almost went into labor.

Leo

Same. Victoria nearly spit out her drink. When she asked if it was really you, I told her there’s no way Sheriff would pose like this without citing at least three team policies against it.

Rourke

You guys, who gave Sheriff permission to pose shirtless with a puppy? I thought that was my job.

Me

I don’t want your peanut gallery comments about my beach pics.

Leo

Too late. You’re an internet boyfriend now. I heard the shelter named a puppy after you.

Rourke

“Adopt Sheriff the guard dog. He’s loyal, protective, and hates attention.”

Me

I’m muting this chat. ASAP.

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