Page 59 of Monstrous Serpent

Doyle rolls his sleeves to the elbow, checking his phone at the same time. “Doesn’t bother me who you like.”

“That’s it?”

“Is there supposed to be more?”

“I don't know.” I drag my fingers through my hair. “I've got like a thousand questions and no one to ask. And everything else is already a mess.”

“You've got teammates who are into guys. Two of them are literally married.”

“You want me to talk to Walsh? I'm not looking to die.”

“Then talk to Henneman.”

I throw my hands up. “Seriously? I just said I’m not looking to die.”

He picks up his wallet and puts it into his back pocket. “Why don't you ask—Actually, no. Don't ask Knight.”

“Wasn't planning on it.”

“Novotny?”

“Absolutely not.” I shake my head. “I'm trying to figure my shit out, not announce it to the whole locker room because you know that's exactly what that motherfucker would do. There'd be dick balloons everywhere, and he'd probably bring a cake.”

Doyle shrugs into his jacket. “Do you think I'm attractive?”

“No.”

“Well, fuck you then.”

“Why? Are you into guys?”

He shakes his head. “Nah.”

“Then why are you complaining?”

“You said 'no' too fast.” He points to his face. “Like, what, am I ugly or some shit?”

I bark out a laugh. “You’re a jackass.”

“And you’re the asshole who could’ve at least hesitated.” He walks over and daps me up. “I’m here for you, bro. Anything you need, I’ve got your back.”

My throat tightens. “Thanks.”

I flop back the second the door clicks shut, then throw an arm over my eyes.

Can’t believe I told Doyle. It just slipped out. On the plus side, my chest feels less tight than it has all day. Maybe all week.

Still got a thousand questions. But at least I'm not carrying it alone anymore.

My phone chimes, and I grab it.

Kincaid.

Now he texts? After two weeks?

My finger stabs at the screen. A sharp breath punches from me when the attachment opens, and the phone almost slips out of my hand. “Jesus fucking Christ.”

Heat floods my face, neck, and groin as I stare at an image of Kincaid from the back.