Page 46 of Total Shutdown

Archer

I’ve turned over a new leaf. Playboy days are behind me.

Me

The only thing he’s turning over is your sister.

Jack

Yeah, Jon says we don’t need our captain either.

On a chuckle, I briefly glance up at the entrance to Smooth Running,a good kind of anxiety swirling in my stomach. My right knee bounces beneath my truck’s steering wheel as I wait for Collins.

Archer

*picture of him shirtless and working out*

Jack

I was about to ask if you guys wanted to meet at Rise Up, but I guess you’re busy posting to your OnlyFans page, Archer. What about you, Sawyer?

This afternoon isn’t a secret.Still, I haven’t told anyone I’m taking Collins out. Likely because until I got here and saw her, I wasn’t sure she wouldn’t stand me up.

Me

I’m down for the party on Saturday. I can get a sitter for Ezra. I can’t meet up right now though.

Archer

He’s balls deep in Collins.

Manifesting that shit.

Jack

Wait, are you actually?

Me

No. But I am about to take her out.

Archer

HOLD THE MOTHERFUCKING PHONE.

Jack

Details, Sawyer. Immediately.

Me

You both need to calm the fuck down. I’m taking her to the Botanic Garden. It’s stunning this time of year, and I figured it would be a good place to talk.

Archer

Best place to fuck is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. There’s a large Acer tree by the lake and barely any footfall, even in the daytime.

Jack