Page 140 of Of Pucking Course


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“So are you. Maybe that’s why we’re friends.”

I chuckle at how simply he puts it. “Yeah, maybe.” I tug a hand through my hair. “I’m still sorry for how you found out about Dakota and me. And for going behind your back.”

“I’m the one who should be sorry for being a jerk.”

“It’s all good. Really.” I clear my throat. “I just want you to know that I care about your sister. More than I’ve ever cared about anyone. She’s the most amazing person I’ve ever met. She deserves the world. And I’ll do everything I can to give it to her. I’ll do everything I can to make her feel safe and protect her.”

“I know you will.” The look in his eyes is focused. He’s quiet for a moment. “You’re in love with her, aren’t you?”

I lean back, surprised at how quickly he figured that out.

“Yeah. I am.” I let out an embarrassed laugh. “How did you know?”

“Your face lights up when you talk about her. I’ve never seen you do that before.” My grumpy best friend starts to smile. “It’s pretty cool to see.”

My nerves kick up again. Del and I are close, but we don’t go deep about our relationships. And there’s an added layer of weirdness since we’re talking about my feelings for his sister…but it also feels good. It feels good to know that my best friend is happy that I’m in love with his sister.

“I, uh, haven’t told Dakota that I’m in love with her. I know it’s kind of soon.”

He nods like he understands. “You don’t want to freak her out.”

“Exactly.”

He pats my shoulder. “I get it.” He stands up and heads toward the front door. I follow him and open the door for him.

“Thanks for bringing my luggage. And for not kicking my ass.”

The corner of his mouth quirks up. “Sure thing. See you tomorrow at practice.”

He walks off, and I close the door behind him.

When I turn around, Dakota is standing in the kitchen, looking at me.

“How did it go?” she asks as I walk over to her.

I slide my arms around her waist and pull her against me. “Exactly how you said it would. We’re good now.”

She beams and holds my face as she kisses me.

“We’re not a secret anymore,” she says softly. “That means I can tell everyone you’re my boyfriend.” Her smile is so giddy and so beautiful.

Warmth puddles in my chest at hearing how eager Dakota sounds to make our relationship known.

“You’re ready for that? For people to know about us?” I ask.

“More than ready.”

I kiss her.

“How should we make the big announcement? Instagram post? TikTok dance?” I joke.

Dakota chuckles. “I have a better idea.”

Chapter 49

Dakota

“You and Sam are a thing?”