Just Don't Fall (Sweater Weather, #1; Appies, #1)

by Emma St. Clair

Jerking my chin toward the door, I ask, “Is that normal? Do guys just drop in here to see you constantly?” Parker blinks at me. Then a slow smile steals over her face. “You don’t know?” I frown. “Know what?” “They all came here to see you, Barnes.” “Oh.” That’s unexpected. And now I feel like a jerk for not being more friendly. Still, I’d bet Parker has no idea how they all see her. Because it was obvious to me that most of the men who walked through the door would take any scrap she threw their way. Maybe they were here to meet me. But for many of them, that’s not the only reason. Either way, I’m not here to make friends. Not that I usually do anyway. But especially not here. The goal is to get in, prove my worth so my team wants me back, and get out. The end. “You have no idea how excited the team is to have you. Word of advice before you go?” I guess that’s my cue to be dismissed, so I pick up the player profile and nod. “Sure.” “At least pretend you’re excited to be here too.” I don’t respond because I’m not excited and not pretending to be. I’m resigned for now. Bitter at the turn my career has taken. Eager to get back to Raleigh. Or anywhere else. Just not … here. Only now I feel the slightest tug of regret thinking about leaving in a matter of months. Even this little bit of Parker has lightened my mood, just the way she always did. Pausing in the doorway, I consider offering the apology I owe but wasn’t asked for. The words are trying to form coherent sentences whe...