Page 97 of Changing Rules

I’ve never strippedout of my gear and showered as quickly as I did now.

The atmosphere in the locker room is light. All around, the guys laugh and joke. Today’s win has us all riding high, though my excitement is dampened a bit by the anxiety that grows with each passing second as I button up my shirt.

I need to see her. I’m not sure if she’ll be in the waiting area with Meg, but I desperately hope she is. If I could just see her, say hello…

“Xander?”

Marco sits on the bench, bare chested, his shirt in his hands. “Meg is throwing a party to welcome Izzy home next Friday. I think you should come.”

My stomach flips over. “A party?”

He nods.

“Will, uh…” I clear my throat. I hate to ask it, but I need to be prepared. “Will she be alone? Or with her boyfriend?”

Marco blinks. “Boyfriend?” He frowns, a deep wrinkle crossing his forehead. “Who are you talking about?”

“I don’t know his name…” The back of my neck flames, and I look away.Fuck. There’s no way I’ll admit I stalk her socials. “Isaw a picture of her with a guy that night we were at the club. I guess I assumed they were dating.” I force air into my lungs, willing the tightness in my chest to abate. “It was the night Miller grabbed Meg’s phone?—”

“Oh, you mean Kaden.” Marco shakes his head. “They’re just friends. Izzy isn’t dating anyone.”

I practically stumble back.Fuck my life.I’ve spent months thinking she moved on, and all along, Marco has known? Why the fuck didn’t I ask him earlier? I would’ve saved myself so much heartache.

“Does Meg know you’re inviting me to her party?”

“No.” Marco’s expression sobers. “But don’t sweat it.”

A thrill zips through me. “I owe you. Big time.”

“Nah. You’re my friend. I’ll always have your back.” With a grin, he stands and strides away, pulling on his shirt as he goes. “See you on Tuesday.”

I throw on my jacket and hurry out of the locker room. The moment I enter the waiting area, I stop dead in my tracks.

Meg is alone. Fuck.

Looks like I’ve gotta wait for my shot at being near Bella again.

I shake off my disappointment. I’ve got five days to prepare.

CHAPTER 27

MINGLING AND MEDDLING

BELLA

August

“Need any help?”I ask again.

Meg quirks an eyebrow at me, shaking her head.

With a sigh, I admit defeat and prop my hip against the kitchen counter.

She’s so excited to celebrate my return, and though I’m grateful, I’ve never liked being the center of attention. And now, on top of it all, I feel useless.

She sets a tray on the island, then pulls me in for a hug. I put my head on her shoulder, exhaling a long breath. She means well, and that’s all that matters.

“Why are you so impatient?”

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