So what, her dad is my coach?
So what, she coaches my daughter?
Does any of that really matter if there’s something real between us?
Is it real, though?
All I do know is that what I feel when I’m with Casey, I’ve never experienced before.
But is that because it’s forbidden?
The thrill of the chase. Sneaking around in the shadows.
Is that what I really want, though?
She deserves so much more than to be someone’s dirty secret.
The man she’s with should be proudly walking around with her, showing her off, publicly claiming her as his—not sneaking around and hiding how they feel from the rest of the world.
As I watch the water swirl down the drain, I realize that I’m not getting any closer to the answers I need.
The only real thing I know is that I’m terrified.
Terrified to admit how I really feel about Casey, but at the same time petrified of doing anything about it.
There is so much at stake. So much at risk. Things that neither of us can afford to mess around with.
Reaching for the dial, I turn the shower off. With a towel wrapped around my waist, I pad to my bedroom, pull on a clean pair of boxers, and practically fall onto my bed.
Two ice bags sit on my nightstand, and I reach for them, placing them over my knees.
I can only assume the adrenaline ran out faster tonight, knowing that I don’t have Casey to come home to. But fuck, everything hurts. At least the pain in my chest has taken a back seat.
I’ve just gotten comfortable when my cell dings.
My heart jumps into my throat, but I quickly talk myself down.
It won’t be her.
I left her last message on read. That sent a very clear message.
But what if it is?
With my heart in my throat, I reach for it.
“Motherfucker,” I mutter when I see who the message is from.
Storm: Message her.
Kodie: Fuck you.
Storm: Not interested. But Casey is here, and she is looking F.I.N.E.
A growl rips up my throat. The thought of Linc, or anyone, touching her makes me feral.
My hand trembles as I angrily tap out a reply.
Kodie: Stay the fuck away from her.
