Page 23 of Love, Literature, and the Linebacker

I’m so lost in my thoughts that I don’t see him until it’s too late.

I turn too quickly and walk straight into a solid chest. The tray strikes between us, tilts sideways, and crashes to the floor as I lose my balance. Strong hands close around my waist before I can follow it down.

“Lucy?”

“Lucy?” another voice echoes. “You mean Library Girl?”

My breath catches as I look up, straight into a pair of brilliant blue eyes.

“Dylan,” I whisper.

Confusion creases his forehead. “What are you doing here?”

“I—I—” The words tangle on my tongue.

“Dude.” A guy appears over Dylan’s shoulder, dark eyes warm and curious. “She’s wearing a catering outfit.”

“You’re catering the banquet?”

“Yeah, I am.”

“Introduce me,” the guy over Dylan’s shoulder whispers.

“This is Darnell,” Dylan says automatically.

Once I’m balanced, his hand slides reluctantly from my waist.

“Dylan’s best friend,” Darnell adds with a grin. Then his eyes light up. “Wait. Library Girl is the mystery woman you’ve been wearing cologne for.”

I become acutely aware of everyone within hearing distance.

“Go away,” Dylan mutters.

“Wh—”

“Now,” Dylan says flatly. A strip of athletic tape peeks above his collar when he turns.

Darnell laughs, backing away. “We’re on in two minutes, man.” He turns to me. “Nice to meet you, Lucy.”

“You too,” I manage.

Dylan’s attention snaps back to me. “You’re working?”

“To be fair,” I say weakly, “I didn’t know this was where I’d be working tonight.”

His brow furrows. “Why not?”

“My aunt owns the catering company,” I explain. “She’s kind of spacey.”

His gaze drifts over my white blouse and black pencil skirt before returning to my face. “You look beautiful.”

“I’m supposed to blend into the background,” I tell him just as the lights flicker and the room quiets.

Blend in and definitely not share personal space with the handsome football player I’m secretly seeing.

Dylan exhales. “Darnell and I are up first.”

“For?” I frown.