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Noel groans. “Let’s go and get this over with.”
I wag my index finger at her. “Nuh-uh-uh. Lesson number 2. Always compliment what your date is wearing.” I rest my hands on my hips and tap my foot. “Go ahead, I’m waiting.”
Her jaw is clenched so hard, I’m surprised her perfect teeth are still intact. She closes her eyes like she’s trying to calm her temper, then opens them and gives me the fakest smile I’ve ever seen. “Your vest is quite dashing, Colby.” She pauses then mutters, “It’s a snug fit, but—”
“Thank you for noticing. I’ve been working out so much, my pecs are stretching the wool to its max capacity. Time to go vest shopping soon, I think.”
Staring up at the ceiling, she sighs heavily. “Are you ready to go?”
“Yes, especially now that you boosted my confidence.”
She slowly cracks the door and peeks at the door across the hall. “Okay, the coast is clear. Make a run for it until you get to the end of the hallway.”
CHAPTER 14
NOEL
Did Colby have to ruin sweater vests for me? It’s not that it looks bad, that’s the problem. The problem is: no one could possibly look as good in a vest as Colby Knight. It’s annoying. First suits, now vests? Is there any style the man can’t pull off?
As a former gangly, self-conscious individual who was ridiculed by people like Colby, it infuriates me more than it should. I’ve learned how to dress my slight frame, and learned what a difference good posture makes, but deep inside… I’m still that scrawny, awkward college freshman.
We arrive in front of Colby’s glossy, black G-Wagon and he holds the passenger door open for me. I love this car. I want to run my hand along the smooth, polished surface. If I could’ve afforded one, this is what I would’ve purchased instead of mine. Not that I don’t love my classic Bel Aire. But a G-Wagon? So chic.
Once we’re buckled in and on our way to wherever Colby is taking me, likely another buffet, he dives into conversation seamlessly. I realize it’s actually nice to have someone else carry the conversation, to not have to stress about awkward silences.
“I’m really enjoying The Hobbit, I’m not finished yet, though. Once preseason started, free time stopped.” He chuckles. “But I’m excited to finish it and see what happens. I think my favorite part so far was when the dwarves crashed at Bilbo’s house.”
“Oh yes, and how Gandalf didn’t warn him?” I laugh, angling in my seat to get a better look at him. “Do you think you’ll read The Lord of the Rings next?” My voice comes out a little too loud and excited.
He grins at me, not bothered by my nerdiness whatsoever. “Oh, definitely. I’m committed now.”
I wonder briefly if Dexter is a Tolkien fan. I’ve never heard him reference Professor Tolkien’s writing, but my mind usually goes blank with nerves whenever he’s talking to me. Why can’t conversation with Dexter be as easy as it is with Colby? I thought Colby’s chattiness would be aggravating, but it’s not. It’s the opposite. I study him while he drives. The car is momentarily silent, but it’s not awkward. Colby’s profile is strong and angular, as is the rest of him. But there’s also a softness about him. I’m not sure if it’s those blue eyes that seem to know exactly what I’m thinking, or if it’s his easy-going manner. Something tells me he’d be a great cuddler.
Whoa, Noel. Don’t let that chiseled jaw get you thinking about cuddling. This man is dangerous. He’s probably had five-thousand girlfriends. Not had, has. Colby Knight is a total playboy, and it’s this whole façade that gets him all the girls.
It’s the sweater-vest. It’s doing weird things to me. Cuddling with Colby. Psh. I laugh to myself.
“What are you laughing about?” Colby has a relaxed smile on his face as he drives through D.C. traffic.
I clear my throat. “Nothing. When does your regular season begin? I’m sure you’re excited for all the traveling and philandering.”
“Philandering?” He side-eyes me before focusing on the road again.
“Yeah, partying, meeting women. Isn’t that what you live for?” I’m being judgmental, I know. But everyone in D.C. is aware of Colby’s reputation. He hasn’t exactly hidden his escapades.
His jaw ticks. I’m not sure if he’s annoyed, or uncomfortable that I brought it up. “In the past, that is what I lived for. But I’m not interested in that lifestyle anymore.”
“Really? Why the sudden change of heart?” I’m genuinely curious.
Colby huffs a laugh. “Noel, I realize you probably don’t stalk me online, but if you did, you’d know I haven’t dated at all for the last year.”
“A year?” My voice comes out all high-pitched and squeaky.
“You’re one to talk,” he teases.
“Touché.”
Colby opens his mouth to speak, then snaps it shut. His expression turns thoughtful, as if thinking about what he wants to say next. “Growing up, I thought healthy relationships were non-existent. I never wanted to settle down, or risk going through a divorce like my parents.” His hands tighten on the steering wheel. “But I was wrong. I’ve watched my mother fall in love again, and now my teammates too. And they’re all better for it, better because of their partner. That’s what I want too. Not random flings with women I’ll never see again. That life seems pointless to me now.”
