Page 79 of Shot Taker

“You don’t have the best track record for judgment.”

“You liked Brad too.” I turn one of the bottles before setting it down again.

“So, you’re sleeping with him.”

I square my shoulders. “I’m in love with him.”

She inhales sharply. “Nova… don’t say that.”

“You think I don’t know my own heart?” There’s an edge to my voice.

“I think when it comes to your heart or your head, your heart wins every time.”

“You fell for Harlan and got married six months later,” I counter.

“But I know him inside and out. It was a thought-out decision.”

Another text comes in.

Grumpy Baller: Harlan and I had a talk. He promised to keep it quiet as long as you need.

Mari’s eyes narrow. “Harlan knows?”

Dammit.

Her expression goes pale with shock or rage—I’m not sure which.

“We don’t keep secrets, Nova. We didn’t before you.”

It feels like she’s slapped me.

“I know you’re upset, Mar, but this isn’t my fault.”

I wanted to bond with my sister, and now I’ve made things more difficult by being here.

When I think it can’t get any worse, the door to the garage sounds.

“Hello?”

Harlan.

Mari stomps past me to her husband in the foyer. His suit hangs impeccably, but he looks tired—until he sees her and his eyes crinkle.

“It’s good to see you.”

“How long did you know about Clay and Nova?”

He looks between us, his expression tightening.

“Maybe I should go,” I murmur.

Harlan speaks first. “Maybe you should.”

19

CLAY

The week passes in a blur of airplanes and workouts and other teams’ stadiums. Two road games later, we’re back on the plane heading to Denver.

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