She nods.
“Game on,” I whisper, giving her a wink as a female officer walks through the door.
“Hey, gotta minute?”
“Oh my God, are you Lucas Links?”
I still got it, I think as I look back to see if Tessa notices. She rolls her eyes, so I know she does.
I give the officer my best smile. “I am. Do I know you?”
I hear Tessa grumble and decide it’s best I tone it down.
“No, but my dad still watches the game you played against the Giants when they messed you up.”
Shit.
I hear Tessa snort and turn around and roll my eyes at her.
“That was Karma. I deserved it. Those two girls back there, they don’t deserve this shit.”
“You know, I agree. I was just coming out here to call one of the detectives to straighten it out. Ava Links?”
“Mine.” I turn and motion for Tessa to join. “Harper Abraham is hers.”
“She’s good. I’ll keep checking on her and make sure she’s okay.” She looks down at her phone. “Won’t be long.”
“Dirty cops?”
She doesn’t confirm, which is confirmation enough. Instead, she starts talking ball.
“You walked off the field that day. I have no clue why or how but you did. I have admired that for years now. Here’s my card, Links. If you need anything, anything at all, let me know.” She then looks at Tessa. “Ma’am, I am going to check on your daughter again.” Then she walks away.
I don’t even have to see Tessa’s face right now.
She nudges me. “How do I get ma’am and you getanything?”
I look at her, straight-faced. “I’ll do anything I can for the girls.”
“The girls?” She laughs.
“No, notthe girls;ourgirls.” I smile, and she does, too. “They’re both good. You good?”
“I’m good.” She looks down, and those blonde waves fall in her face.
I push her hair back and tuck it behind her ear. Tears are filling those baby blues.
“Don’t cry, baby. You’ll miss the British invasion.” My hand has been on her face too long. Even knowing this, I have to will it back.
“What are you talking about?”
“The British, Tessa.” I nod toward Maddox and Brody. “I heard they’re hot heads. I think we should go tell themthe girls”—I wink—“meaning Ava and Harper, will be fine. Have them hold back on the press.”
“Yeah, maybe we should.” She sighs. “Thanks, Lucas.”
?
When we finally get back to the hotel, Logan is not a happy camper.