Three dots appear. Then disappear. Then appear again.
Addison:It’s my job. Don’t flatter yourself. It was a solid goal.
Me:Solid? It was the goal of the week, actually.
Itwasthe goal of the week, but it wasn’t even mine. I just played a small part in setting up Sebastian to take the strike. But knowing she’s watching this right now and thinking of me, that goal might as well be mine.
There’s no response for a second. I can’t help but picture her curled up on her sofa, maybe giggling at our conversation. Maybe she’s even finally let her hair down in the safety of her own flat. And what’s weird is I’d like to see her like that. Unguarded. Comfortable.
Addison:Don’t get cocky now, Bradshaw.
I grin. I can’t even help it. Ilikethis.
I like her.
Me:I wouldn’t dream of it. Don’t need to make any extra messes for you.
Addison:It’s kind of wild how many teams there are just in London. How do you all fit?
I let out a laugh because I know she’s dead serious. The conversation could have ended with a compliment on the replay of the goal, but she’s continuing on. She’s initiating this, reaching for more.
Me:You know London is massive, right?
Addison:Yes and no. I go from my apartment to the training grounds, to Ashdown and back, and that’s it.
Addison:And sometimes the pub.
I shake my head, smiling. She’s not even trying to be funny, and somehow she still is. I stare at her text for a moment, trying to figure out what to say until an idea strikes me. I shift onto my side, get more comfortable, and text her back.
Me:Be ready at 8 a.m. tomorrow.
Addison:Am I being kidnapped?
Me:In a way, yes.
Addison:You’re not going to tell me what this is?
Me:Nope. Gonna have to trust me.
There’s a pause. I swear I can feel her smile through the phone.
Addison:Alright. I’m in.
I set my phone down on the table beside me and lean back, grinning like a complete idiot.
Addison:Goodnight, Captain.
I stare at the screen a beat longer than I need to. Captain. I know she’s being cheeky, but it still sends heat down the back of my neck.
Me:Sleep well, Addison.
And I do actually sleep well. Eventually.
But only after reading that conversation a few too many times.
11
london derby
