Page 81 of Pick Six

“I don’t need trouble. I want to see this team win. That only happens if we work as a unit. I’m not going to apologize for defending her, by any means necessary, but I’ll admit I could have tried to keep a cooler head. You apologize to her—sincerely—and you keep your shit straight, I don’t see any reason for us to have animosity.”

“Deal.” He nods.

“Good. Let’s focus on the game this weekend then, all right?”

Another brief nod and he heads down the hall. I don’t have a ton of faith that I’ll ever see the apology note from him, but I’m willing to give him the chance to put this to rest if he is. I wanted to put this whole thing behind me. I had her now and between that and a Super Bowl run, I didn’t have room for any off-field drama so I’m only too happy to put him, Danica, and any other problems behind me.

* * *

Later that weekwe’re on the road and I’m with the guys at a burger place Saturday night before the game getting food.

“I just hate being away the first weekend she’s moved in. Wish I was there to enjoy it.”

“Well if you don’t fuck it up, maybe it’ll be permanent,” Colt offers.

“I’m not gonna fuck it up.” I take a bite of my burger.

“Assuming Danica doesn’t fuck it up for him.” Tobias smirks.

“What? Danica? I didn’t think you were talking to her anymore?” Ben asks.

“I’m not. She just stopped by my place after she saw me at the gala and was wanting what she always wants. It rattled Harper a little bit,” I admit.

“That woman would rattle anyone,” Ben mutters.

“I mean I know she’s no one’s favorite but…”

“The crazy was worth it for the sex?” Tobias offers helpfully.

“At the time. Not in retrospect. Especially if she’s gonna keep haunting the place and setting Harper off.”

“Yeah, well those are the consequences,” Colt adds.

“Thanks, Priest. I’ll keep it in mind.”

“I’m not a fucking priest. Just because I don’t stick my dick in every single warm body that comes my way.” Colt flicks me a look.

“Yeah. He’s not a priest, just a snob. Get it right,” Tobias pipes in and Colt turns his ire on him.

“So are you and Harper together then?” Waylon looks at me carefully.

“I mean we’ve been together. Just now we’re trying a little harder, I guess. She’s skittish after everything Drew put her through.”

“And your reputation.” Tobias smirks.

“Westfield. You’ll be in the hot seat some fucking day, and I’m going to mock you for it relentlessly, you know?”

“I’m just kidding. I’m happy for you, truly. If I had my own version of Harper, I’m sure I’d be acting the same way. I just don’t think that woman exists.”

“Probably not one who would want to put up with your shit,” Ben mutters.

“If East can do it…” Waylon hedges.

“Tobias has been twice as bad for twice as long,” Ben argues.

“Hey. I resent that.” Tobias pretends to be offended.

“Yes, well, we all know she’d have to be a force of nature and most of those women are wise enough to steer clear of guys like us. But you never know. If Harper’s willing to bet on me…” I tilt my head.