Offside (Rules of the Game, #1)

by Avery Keelan

She peered back up at me innocently, her lips in a small pout. Somehow, she was still super hot.

“You’re very pretty,” I said, fighting a smile. “And I didn’t say never. I said not tonight.

well-worn red Falcons tee and handed it to her. Sure, I had other shirts. But giving her this felt like a taste of retribution against that dick Morrison. “Here,” I said. “You can change in the bathroom. Washcloths are under the sink if you need one. And mouthwash.”

He flashed me a drop-dead gorgeous cocky smile and winked before skating off to the other end.

“Rescuing you, apparently.” “I don’t need to be rescued.” He chuckled, low and deep. “You sure about that?”

Bailey: Speaking of the front door, can you do me a favor? Chase: What kind of favor? Bailey: Not that kind. Chase: Dammit. Bailey: When you get here, can you come to the front door? Chase: And say hi to my BFF Morrison? It would be my pleasure.

The look on Morrison’s face tonight? Awesome. Getting to spend time with James? Even better. Kissing her? Fuck me, I’m in over my head.

“No offense to you, but I don’t get the Morrison thing,” I said. “You’re cool. And that dude’s got about as much personality as a carton of white milk.” “Oh my god.” She stopped mid-sip and huffed out a little breath of air. “Somehow that fits perfectly.” I drained the last of my hot chocolate. “Seriously, what did you see in him? Asking for a friend.” I paused. “Okay, that friend is me. I’m a nosy fuck.”

COULD I have completed that essay a little faster? Probably. Was I motivated to speed up the process when James was in my bedroom, looking adorable as fuck on my bed? Not really.

“I don’t want anyone else, James.” “You don’t?” “Not even a little,” I said, kissing the top of her head. “Think you’ll be able to sleep now?” “Yeah,” she said. “Think so.”