Page 79 of Love, Literature, and the Linebacker

Darnell grins, soaking it in. “It’s about patience. Let people underestimate you.”

Dylan snorts. “Patience, or the fact that you split me and Lucy up?” He flicks a look at Darnell.

Darnell lifts his hands. “Can’t let the power couple dominate every round. We needed balance.”

I laugh softly, leaning into Dylan. Laser tag definitely isn’t my thing, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have fun.

“You still tagged me twice,” Dylan murmurs near my ear, half teasing.

“You were distracted and an easy target.”

“I was impressed.”

Across from us, Meredith slides into the booth, smooth as ever. “So, Lucy,” she says lightly, twisting a straw between her fingers, “think you’re going to start keeping up with us now?”

I meet her gaze. “I’m learning,” I say, keeping my tone easy.

Dylan glances at me, but he lets me answer for myself. Before Meredith can respond, the waitress swoops in with menus, and the moment dissolves.

Orders start flying.

“Bacon cheeseburger, double fries,” Darnell says without hesitation.

“Grilled chicken salad,” Dylan adds.

The waitress turns to me. “And for you?”

“Grilled cheese and fries,” I say, sliding my menu forward.

Meredith raises an eyebrow. “Classic.”

“Reliable,” I say. “I appreciate food that knows what it is.”

Dylan stays beside me, looking more relaxed than he has all week. I lean into his shoulder, letting myself enjoy the simple fact that I’m here—loud diner, chaotic table, his arm secure around me—surrounded by his team.

The arrival of the food gives everyone something simpler to focus on. The guys joke and argue and steal fries off each other’s plates, and I start to feel less like a guest and more like… part of the moment.

“So,” Marcus says, pointing a fry at me, “Sharpe says you were mapping the whole arena out.”

“I like knowing where the exits are.”

“Yeah, but you’re the smart one,” Darnell adds. “You’re the book expert. He’s the football guy. It works.”

“I just like books.”

“And I like you,” Dylan says easily, pulling me closer. “Seems fair.”

Laughter ripples around the table, and for the first time all night, I don’t feel like I’m being judged or studied. Just included.

“You should come to more games,” Marcus says. “He plays better when you’re there.”

“I’ll try.”

“See?” Marcus grins. “Confirmed. Lucy’s good luck.”

Dylan shakes his head, amused. “You guys are ridiculous.”

Maybe they are.