Defining the Rules (The Dating Playbook #3)

by Mariah Dietz

“But you’re guacamole, babe. And I don’t want him to treat you like you’re run-of-the-mill salsa.”

I don’t want to work toward being the best or greatest. I just want to be happy.”

“Because having a parent die—having a loved one die—it’s like you’re suddenly part of this club, and everyone looks at you differently, talks to you differently—acts differently. Jokes become filtered, and whenever someone says die, or death, or dead, everyone looks at you, waiting for you to break, so even if you felt okay upon hearing it, it doesn’t last because everyone’s waiting for you to prove you’re fine.

“I know we have to slay our own dragons sometimes, but if you want my help, I’m a pretty big fucking shield.” He cups my face and gently swipes his thumb over my cheeks, drying my tears.

I was unsure because he’s my friend, and I was terrified to risk that. But he’s also made the last several weeks better, fuller, more complete—things I haven’t felt in so long, and I’m desperate for more. I feel alive when I’m with him. I feel happy.

“Liv.” I run my nose along her throat. She trembles as my lips graze a spot beneath her ear. “Be sure because I don’t want to be someone you regret.”

“This must have taken you forever.” He shrugs casually. “You’re worth forever, Liv.”