The Rule Book

by Sarah Adams

“Since I remember how much you hate that nickname. But no, I don’t think I will.”

“I like to be involved in group emotions,” he says, like that’s a normal answer.

But I was raised by a single mom…and Derek knows this.

“Baby, if this hopeless, I never want to be hopeful.”

She is sunshine parting the clouds in my miserable day, and it makes me angrier.

“Can I ask you a question?” “Anything. Always.”

“I watched every single game you played with Colorado. I’ve also gone to every home game you’ve played for the Sharks. Not because I loved the Sharks—because I loved you. Every. Single. Day.”

“You’re a gemstone. Rare and unique and vibrant. And anyone who can’t see that doesn’t deserve to have you in their life.”

“I’m yours, Nora. I always have been. Always will be.”