Page 35 of Property of Player

“Show you Dad’s new place. It’s right on the sand.”

“Wow. That must be nice.”

“Midlife crisis is what I call it,” Beck adds.

She glances at the time. “I’ve got to get to work.”

I stand and walk her to her car.

Beck, thankfully, stays at the table.

She pauses at her door and turns to face me, then glances down the street at the condos. “So, you’re right here now?”

“Yeah.” I put my hands on her hips and pull her flush against me. “Does that tell you how serious I am about this?”

“I hope you’re not playing me.”

“I don’t play games, Taylor. And certainly, never with you.” I cup her face and kiss her, then she climbs into her car. I watch her drive off, then return to Beck.

He’s dipping his head and lighting a cigarette, then blows the smoke to the sky. “Well, that was as sweet as molasses.”

“Like you’d know what molasses tastes like.”

“Seriously, I hope it works out this time. You plannin’ to take it slow?”

“Fuck no.”

“Well, all I can say is I better be your best man this time around.”

“Debbie and I eloped. I didn’t have a best man.”

“Exactly. Don’t cheat me out of makin’ that toast at the reception a second time. I’ve got a lot of one-liners saved up.”

I roll my eyes. “Just remember, payback’s a bitch.”

“Me? Get hitched? No way. I plan to stay single forever.”

“Yeah, let’s see how that works out for you.”

Chapter ten

Player

After a long ass day of moving furniture, I head to the condo to clean up before Taylor gets off work.

Stripping my clothes off, I climb under the hot spray and let it sluice over my aching muscles. The only thing keeping me on my feet is knowing I’m going to see Taylor.

The sheets on the bed are clean because they’re brand new out of the package. I put them on this morning when I came over with Beck.

I’m not counting on anything happening with Taylor, but I’m sure I’ll bring her by to at least see the place. Whether I can get her to stay the night is another question.

I’d count myself a damn lucky man if she does, but I’m not about to pressure her into anything she’s not ready for. I don’t want to take the chance of fucking everything up between us and blowing my shot with her.

Stepping out of the shower, I towel dry, and get dressed.

When I pull up at The Rusty Pelican, she’s waiting outside.

She’s dressed in jeans and a tank top with my hoodie in her hand.