“Yeah.” I forced my voice to stay neutral. “Kid was really into it.”
She jabbed me playfully in the ribs with her elbow. “What’s your deal? You seem… tense.”
“Nah.” I shook my head, willing my shoulders to relax. “I’m fine.”
She studied me for a second longer, then smiled and turned to the next group of kids approaching.
I let out a long breath, words I was dying to say still lingering on my tongue. For the hundredth time in the last week, I reminded myself of the plan. I was still just her friend. Her partner. And even though I wanted more, that had to be enough for now.
Chapter SIxteen
ADAM
Monday 6:45 p.m.
Zack: Going out after shift. You and Lyla want to come?
Me: Not this time. She’s tired and wants to finish the Magic game we started yesterday.
Jay: *GIF from Revenge of the Nerds*
Zack: Yesterday? You haven’t let her win yet?
Me: Why would I let her win?
Zack: *eyeroll emoji*
Zack: Because she’ll be happy. Bruh, I’m the single guy and even I know that.
Jay: Yeah, that’s dating 101, man.
Jay: Don’t you know that?
Me: No. I can’t say I have ever done that.
Jay: Explains why you’re still single.
Logan: Am I the only one not surprised by this? Of course he wouldn’t let someone win. He’s the most competitive person I know.
Zack: He also gets super pissed when he loses.
Me: Not true.
Zack: So let her win then. She’ll be happy and smile and you’ll be closer to your goal.
Logan: Bet he won’t do it.
Me: Watch me.
Jay: You sure you can?
Me: Shut it.
Zack: Update us when it’s done.
7:15 p.m.
Me: There, it’sdone.
