Page 19 of Fair Play
What am I supposed to say to that?
On one hand, I’d like to spend more time with her.
On the other, what’s the point?
She’s right. I’m probably not going to be here once this season is over and my retirement plan is on the other side of the country. Won’t it just make things harder if we build a relationship and then I leave? Again?
You don’t have to leave.
A little voice in my head comes out of nowhere, mocking me.
Leaving hasalwaysbeen the plan.
I hate L.A.
Traffic and smog and a ridiculous cost of living.
Life in my New York cabin will be simple. Cheap. Quiet.
Lonely.
There’s that fucking voice again, saying shit I don’t want to hear.
“Let’s take things one day at a time,” I say, my mouth jumping way ahead of my brain.
“Absolutely.” She nods solemnly. “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
Her eyes meet mine, and then we burst out laughing.
When was the last time I laughed with either of my sisters?
I can’t fucking remember.
Maybe it’s time to change all that.
Chapter 7
Billie
The Mercedes handles like a dream.I’ve never been a passenger in such a beautiful vehicle, much less driven one. It’s a pale green color with black leather seats, a gorgeous array of instrument clusters on the dashboard, and a sound system that’s perfectly balanced. I feel like a princess in it, and I’ve been wracking my brain to come up with a way to thank Rome.
I could cook him dinner or something, but that’s lame. I’d have to feed Bodi too, and even though I’m happy to help out with cooking and cleaning since I’m living in the townhouse for free, I’d like to do something extra for Rome.
Athena gave me her number and we’ve texted a few times, so I reach out to her.
BILLIE: Hey, I have a question. I’d like to do something nice for Rome for letting me use your dad’s car. Do you have any ideas?
ATHENA: Ooohhh… I have lots of ideas.
BILLIE: Why do I feel like there’s a double entendre in there somewhere?
ATHENA: Come on, admit it—you like him!
Yikes. Is she playing matchmaker? I don’t even know how to respond to that, so I keep things generic.
BILLIE: Sure. He’s great. What’s not to like?
ATHENA: Don’t be dense. You know what I’m saying.
