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“But, the bad news is, I’m soaking wet.”
“What?”
“I just want to get home and change.”
“Change? What happened?”
“Don't ask. Really. Don't.” I blow out a breath. “I want it on record that I tried. I truly tried. And I did it for you. Which I don’t regret. I’d do anything for you, Win. Even this.”
She’s quiet. Probably as stunned as I was when Marcus saved me from falling and held me to himself like some Greek god of football.
“And your wedding will be amazing,” I promise Winona. “Marcus and I will blend into the background like beige wallpaper. You have my word.” I blow out another long breath. Then I say, “But I will never, and I repeat never, enjoy the company of Marcus Delaney.”
Thunder Bros
Jaxon: Heyyyy, Delaney! Looks like you and O’Connell might be brothers one day.
Me: One: it wasn’t an actual date. Two: a date is not proof of future marriage.
Declan: Did it go well?
Me: We’ll talk. Not here in this text thread. I gave it my best shot. I love Winona. But her sister is a whole other story.
Jaxon: She’s awesome. The way that woman rattled my stats off when we first met. Impressive.
Treyvon: Same. Remember her at Thanksgiving? Impressive is an understatement. What’s your problem, QB?
Me: No problem. Some people just don’t click. She’s … a strong shot of espresso. I prefer a latte.
Linc: Oh, she’s a strong shot of espresso? Is that the espresso maker calling the espresso black? Or something …
Jaxon Pierce: Good one, Linc.
Me: Are you saying I’m a strong shot of espresso?
Treyvon: If the cappuccino fits …
Me: Bottom line, if we were the last two people on earth and the survival of our species depended on us … that would be a sad day for the human race.
Linc: Harsh.
Me: I’m just saying, we’re not, nor will we ever be, compatible.
Declan: Sorry for setting you up. Winona thought giving you a chance to sit alone together would help each of you see the good.
Me: I appreciate the intention.
Declan: It won’t happen again.
Me: We’ll be civil for the wedding. Don’t worry.
Linc: Hate is not neutral, Delaney.
Me: What’s that supposed to mean?
Jaxon: It means the same fire that burns you is the one that gives off sparks.
Treyvon: Pierce is a poet! And, yeah. I see it. The chemistry is crackling between you two. The photos don’t lie. Especially not that viral one of you holding her around the waist while you look in her eyes like you’ve seen your future and it’s wearing brown boots.
