“With me,” Tyler says before I can get a word out. “She already has a bedroom at my house and has some stuff there anyway, so it’s just logical.”
My dad glances at me, and it’s full of meaning I can’t quite decipher. I’m mildly concerned he’s about to protest me staying at a guy’s house despite the fact that the guy is Tyler and also that I’m twenty-six years old, not twelve, but then his expression changes and he just nods. “Sounds great. Thanks for being here, Tyler. You’re a good friend.”
Tyler gives me a long look, his lips curving up into his signature smile that makes my stomach swoop. “I would do anything for Soph. Literally anything.”
My heart shimmers at his words, and despite the fact that my house is in shambles and I’m probably going to have to go to work in the pajamas I’m wearing since everything I own is waterlogged, this day suddenly doesn’t seem so bad after all.
CHAPTER NINE
TYLER
ChaosQueen
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Wiping my hand on a dishtowel, I smile down at my phone when I see the new message from my chaos girl. I love this little game. These questions. The way they give me a tiny peek into the mind of this woman I don’t actually know but kind of feel like I do.
I’ve never really understood the idea of connecting with someone online. It always seemed weird to me that you could get to know someone without sitting across a table from them or hearing their voice on the other end of the phone. But I’ve also never really fallen for anyone, so what do I know? Because I like this—this slow, easy way we’re getting to know each other—more than I ever thought I would.
With that thought rattling around in my mind, I pick up my phone and start typing.
RenegadeRush
Wait, two questions in one day? I think this is the best day of my entire life.
ChaosQueen
Well it’s the most irritating day of mine.
RenegadeRush
Do tell, Chaos.
ChaosQueen
Maybe later. Right now, I need a distraction of the highest order, so I’m asking you another question. It’s either that or bitch about how the universe is an asshole, and I think that’s mean to the universe who is, generally, pretty kind to me.
So, answer my question, football guy. Where’s your dream place to live?
Picking up the spoon I have laying on the counter, I give my pot of meatballs and sauce a stir and then take a quick taste, grinning down at my masterpiece. “Damn I’m good.” Replacing the lid on the pot to let the sauce simmer for a little longer, I flop onto a stool at my island, phone in hand, knowing there is only one right answer for me.
RenegadeRush
Is it a cop-out to say I would live right here?
ChaosQueen
Right here in Pittsburgh?
RenegadeRush
Right here in Pittsburgh.
ChaosQueen
It’s only a cop-out if you don’t have a good reason. Why right here?
RenegadeRush
