Page 61 of Cross Check

“Sasha is ten years older than me, and Stephanie is seven. I wasn’t part of my parents’ plan, and sometimes I wonder if that’s why I try so hard and refuse to give up even if my dreams might be too big. I lived in the shadows of my sisters for years, and I want to make a name for myself. It’s like I wasn’t good enough on my own, so I had to do something outside the box.”

“I don’t like when you talk like that.” Grant frowns. His forehead wrinkles, and his nose does a sad scrunch. “Like you’re not one of the most important people in the world.”

“I don’t think I am.”

“You definitely are. To me, at least.”

“You’re too nice to me,” I whisper. “And I’m not sure if I’m deserving of it.”

“Guess that’s why we ran into each other at that Italian restaurant three years ago.” His grin is sleep-drenched. Heavy eyelids start to shutter closed. “So I could be the one to remind you. If that’s okay with you.”

“Yeah.” There’s more I want to say, but it’s stuck halfway up my throat. “That would be okay.”

“Good.” Grant rolls onto his back, an arm draped over his face. “I’m exhausted.”

“That’s what happens when you party all night. You should get some sleep.”

“Yes, Coach.” Another yawn. He’s ridiculously cute. “I’m going to close my eyes.”

“Sleep well, Grant.”

“You too, Amelia.” His sigh is content, light. “I’ll text you later.”

“Looking forward to it,” I say, and when I hang up, I realize I really am.

By mid-afternoon, I need a break from the game film I’ve been watching. I stand from my desk and stretch my back, scooping up my phone so I can send Grant a text. He’s probably heading to the airport with the team, and I have the urge to check on him.

Me

How are you feeling?

Three dots pop up in our text thread like he’s been waiting for me to reach out. His response is immediate.

GE

Like someone is taking a baseball bat to my head. And my stomach. And my back.

Me

It doesn’t get any better when you’re older. Enjoy your youth.

GE

Thanks for the room service, by the way. That was nice of you.

Me

Figured it was the least my geriatric, sober ass could do. I remember the days when I would drink too much and suffer the next morning. Happy to help in any way I can :)

GE

I bothered the hell out of you last night, didn’t I? I’m so sorry.

I sit back down. My fingers fly across the screen.

Me

I wouldn’t have answered if I didn’t want to talk.