"I can get pretty into it hence needing a distraction," I warned.
"I think I can distract you plenty."
Sabrina sighed again, but this time it was a happy, wistful sound. I was right there with her. As Tolliver pushed a strand of my hair behind my ear, I melted.
"When the season starts," he said, "I would love to hear you cheering for me."
"Well, I'd be cheering for the team," I said, which made him laugh. "But I'll see what I can do."
"Yeah?"
I nodded.
"Oh my gosh, you're so cute," Sabrina said. "Freya, you have to come to my birthday. I won't take no for an answer."
My gaze met hers.
"You can bring your boyfriend," she added.
Before I could put her off again, come up with some excuse, Tolliver stepped in, curling his hand around my waist.
"We'll be there," he said.
Tolliver's fingers flexed, and I lost all my words. He'd rendered me speechless with that one hand tick. Lovely.
"Thanks for the invite."
"Of course," Sabrina said.
"When's the party?"
"Next Saturday at my house. Freya knows the way."
"See you then."
As they left, Sabrina was smiling; George was gazing down at her adoringly; and Wayne was grumbling to his sister. Once theywere out of earshot, I took a step back, turned to Tolliver with a frown.
"You didn't have to do that," I said.
"Do what?" he asked.
"Any of it. Agree to the party, play my boyfriend, kiss me like that."
I swallowed, my voice having gone whisper-quiet at the end, but Tolliver simply stared at me.
"Why did you?" I asked.
"Your ex was being a jerk. Looked like you needed the assist."
"Hey, I was holding my own."
"Yeah, you were."
Tolliver's smile softened.
"Wayne was completely outclassed. He never stood a chance against you."
"He's an ass," I said.
