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“It’s fine. Coach overreacted.”

I hold out my good arm and she rushes forward, tucking herself into my side. “Did you lose your chance with the selector? Jared said someone from NZ Rugby was here.”

My body shakes with emotion, the warmth of her concern everything I ever needed. “If he didn’t see enough today, I’m sure he’ll come back. There’re still months left in the season.” I bury my face in her hair, cupping her head with my good hand.

“You’re sure you’re okay?”

“Just lightheaded.”

“From blood loss?”

“From touching you. But I guess that counts as blood loss since it’s all heading south.”

Her light giggle makes me feel like I have wings attached to my feet. When we walk towards the car park, Jared waves to us.

“Glad to see you’re okay,” the girl beside him says, hooking her arm through his.

“I’m fine, but do you need your head examined, Hailey? I can’t believe you’re giving this reprobate another go.”

Jared punches my good arm while Hailey introduces herself to Francesca, then tells me, “Bring her to Zeke’s party on Friday so we can get to know her.”

“Yes, ma’am.” It would be good for Francesca to make new friends.Betterfriends. “You wanna go?”

She nods. “It sounds fun.”

“Then we’ll be there.”

Satisfied, Hailey drags Jared away, and we continue to the new car.

“Can I ask a favour?” Francesca tilts her face up to mine, eyes catching the colours of the early sunset, and I pass her the keys. “Could you drive us home?”

CHAPTERTWENTY-EIGHT

FRANCESCA

When I parkoutside the house, I glance over to find Kincaid staring back at me, a soft smile on his face, and a tight knot in my stomach loosens. No matter how I chastise myself over the insanity of our lopsided relationship, I can’t deny how good he sometimes makes me feel.

And the rush of concern today took me by surprise. No matter what I promised myself, our attraction keeps growing. Even the worst moments from today haven’t tempered my reaction.

There’s a new delivery box on the front step, and while I unlock the door, Kincaid picks it up, sporting a wide grin when he reads the label. “What’s that?”

“A surprise for later.”

He orders food while I get changed and tell him about new propellant research while we’re eating. I stop midway through, worried I’m monopolising the conversation or boring him, but he asks questions until I share more, appearing genuinely interested.

When we relax on the sofa afterwards, it feels natural for his large arms to hold me in a tight embrace.

I’m nearly dozing, when he gives me a nudge. “Time for your present.” He pushes the delivery box into my hands and steers me towards the bedroom.

When I slow my step, he laughs, lifting me in a bear hug from behind, and walking me into the room.

With his back against the door, he nods to the gift. “Go on. Open it.”

The glint in his eyes makes me equal parts excited and nervous. My throat is too dry to swallow as I pull out the box inside and laugh in relief.

It’s a dildo. Modelled on his gigantic cock.

“I had hoped it would be ready sooner, but—”