The Summer Playbook (Central State Football #2)

by Jaqueline Snowe

Her joy was my favorite thing about her.

I couldn’t stop myself from seeking him out everywhere we went.

“Cheating is reflection of her, not you.

My mom referred to my underclassmen years as my first and second season of life, where the writers were still brainstorming the show before the main character—me—figured their shit out.

“I hate people.”

funny

Mack and a naughty and wild list…a warm, unfamiliar tension weaved its way in my gut thinking about her and those adjectives together.

rested her head on his shoulder like he was some sort of comfort. A weird, unfamiliar pang formed in my chest, but I blamed it on the damn tequila shot.

“I can be funny when I want to.”

Useless. But amusing to me, so that meant something.

“I didn’t notice your hair earlier. I like it.”

The urge to comfort her had me leaning closer.

fuck, I was a sucker for blue eyes.

“Hit on me,” I said, amused.

I fought a smile—second time in the span of five minutes. I was a new person.

I couldn’t stop the laugh that came out.

My stomach tightened as a bolt of interest pulled me toward her.

“Mack, if you aren’t comfortable, you really don’t have to do this.”

“I’ve played it safe for so long. I’ve only done things that make me comfortable. It’s time I pushed myself off the field.

I’m a sucker for that look.”

I watched her. How could I not? If the guy said anything to make her upset, I’d intervene.

So why had it happened with Mack?

“You were cute though.

there was a comfort with him that was hard to explain. He seemed… focused when he spoke to me, like he was really listening when before I was just a blob of a person who he spoke to when needed.

He is obviously the Grumpy Cat one.

“Sure.”

I’ve missed you. Can we hug?”

“No.”

“Stop it. This will kill me,”

Dean watching distracted me.

“You all are so beautiful. Mack, especially.”

and Dean’s arm came around me as we huddled.

Dean coughed.

“You shouldn’t do anything that you’re not a fan of, Mack.”

“Don’t be chill on my part. Let it all out, I can handle it.” “You’re being nice to me. Why?” “Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I like how honest you are. It’s refreshing.”

“I’m kinda into Shrek. This look suits you.”

“Are you flirting with me?”

My stomach hardened.

“Want help with the mixologist challenge?”

“I can do it with you if you’re anxious.”

that charmed me.

I was selfish because I wanted to be a part of her joy.

And it has nothing to do with the fact Dean couldn’t stop staring at you.

Dean met my gaze, his eyes warming as he smiled at me.

“Anything for Mack Mallinson.”

“Little liar. You’re teasing me.”

“No, I like seeing you like this. In charge, admired.” He smiled for real this time.

“Is one of your list items to sign autographs? Can you write your name on my ass?”

Did he want to get naughty in public with me?

“I had fun with you yesterday and the night at the bar.”