Beg, Borrow, or Steal (When in Rome, #3)

by Sarah Adams

I’m just relieved to have my sparring partner back. Because, like it or not, Jackson is my equal match in every way. He’s the one person in this entire world who doesn’t shrink from the sharpest words I could throw. He catches them between his fingers and lobs them right back.

The months following the breakup were rough too. I was lonelier than ever. And I’ve been blaming that loneliness for my constant thoughts of Emily. I haven’t been able to get her out of my head. Which is essentially why I’m back in Rome.

Things between us have definitely changed. I like Emily. I’m attracted to Emily. And I…no, God, why am I lying even to myself? I more than like Emily. I’m quickly becoming obsessed with her. Part of me is wondering if I’ve been fighting with her all these years, resisting her, because some part of me knew…I knew she could do some real damage to my heart if I let her. But the more I get to know Emily, the more I’m inclined to think she’d do everything she could to protect my heart before destroying it.

“My writing has always been everything to me, Emily. The most precious thing in my life. But lately…” My voice shakes. “That title is shifting to another area of my life. I want something—whatever you’ll give me—with you. But I didn’t want to ask for it on false pretenses. I want you to know me, all of me. And I want a shot at us. But if this changes things for you, I understand. And you have to know…I would never let this become a competition between us. I will continue to support your writing. To pull for you. To root for you and do everything I can to help make your dreams come true.”

“I trust you more than anyone in this world. I don’t want an NDA. Just you. I want to take you home. To your bed.”

I am so in love with Emily Walker.

“Emily…when I told you I care for you, I mean it. It’s not that I care for some aspects of you, not that I care for you when you’re in a good mood…I care for you always. I want you, always. The good, the bad, and the in-between. I. Want. You. Sharp edges, hot tempered, fiercely protective, gooey heart…all of it. All of you. But I’m not going to rush you again or push you into anything you’re not ready for either. In the end, if all you want is friendship, I’ll take it.”