Page 17 of Falling Stars

Rhett blinks. “Did you just invite me to an NFL game in New York City?”

I chuckle. “Yeah. I can get you some December tickets for an early Christmas gift. Fair warning, it’ll be cold, but the team has a VIP box for family.” I only pray we don’t suck that day.

The excitement in his eyes is unmistakable, but then he shakes his head. “I don’t know if I can leave Paige while Ella’s so young. And you know the boys are a lot to handle. I don’t think I can take a big trip right now.”

“Do you really think I’d invite you and not Paige?” Next to Baylee, Paige is one of my oldest friends. “I meant all five of you. Plus Beau and Jace, if Beau can get time off from the fire station and Jace doesn’t have a gig.”

He looks toward the kitchen. “Wildflower, wanna go to an NFL game in New York?”

“Heck yes!” she squeals off camera.

“Mav says we can bring the kids.”

“Maverick, have I told you that you’re my favorite brother-in-law?” Paige yells back.

I laugh. “Love you too, sister.”

Rhett’s all smiles. “Text me the date so I can get everyone coordinated.” But then he pauses. “You sure this won’t be too expensive?”

“I’ve been a hermit all season. All I do is train and play football. I’ve been fiscally responsible.” Except for a few designer handbags Kira wanted and a shitload of takeout. “The flight might be a little pricey, but I’m getting a deal on an Airbnb since one of the guys has a huge place he loans out to fellow players. If it makes you feel better, consider this a Christmas present from me, since I can’t go home in December. I was kinda thinking we could do a holiday dinner even though it’ll be early.”

Rhett looks a little choked up, which is a rare thing. “I think everyone would love that, brother.”

“Listen, um…” I scratch the back of my head. “Do you think Baylee could get away from the salon for a few days? I’d love to get her a ticket.” It’s been too long since she and I have hung out. We’re due for a weekend of old eighties movies and junk food.

Rhett freezes. “Baylee might not be able to make it. Have you talked to her lately?”

It pains me to admit we’re not close anymore. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed she couldn’t make my going-away party last summer. “We text sometimes, but it’s been sporadic.” It’s mostly been me sending her stupid memes for the last year. Ever since she started dating that douchebag Sean.

My brother blows out a breath. “This isn’t my secret to tell, but since we’re hosting her shower in a few weeks…”

Fuck. Baylee’s getting married, isn’t she? And she didn’t tell me.

My heart falls. She’s been distant, but I hoped she’d just been busy.

I swallow past the giant boulder in my throat. “When… when’s the date?” I should be happy for her.

Then why do I feel like someone just dropkicked me?

This is what Baylee’s always wanted. She’ll get the house and husband and kids she can love up on. Sean’s a lucky motherfucker. Baylee’s the most incredible woman I know.

Rhett gives me a sympathetic smile. “This winter sometime. One sec.” He looks toward the kitchen again. “Paige, when’s Baylee’s baby due?”

My eyes widen. “She’s pregnant?”

4

BAYLEE

The older womangrins at herself in the mirror. “I feel like a new woman.”

“Then I’ve done my job. You look beautiful, Miss Thelma.”

“I love these bangs.” Turning to me, she tries to hand me a ten-dollar bill, and I shake my head.

“You know the rules.”

Her eyes get glassy. “Rosie said you were special. I don’t know how to thank you.”

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