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“Sounds like she’s really helping you out.” Adam scored on Derek’s net. “She must be highly motivated.”
“Yeah, she’s got to do a good job so her brother will give her a job back in the city.”
Adam elbowed his ribs. “Are you sure that’s her only reason?”
“No way, man.” He swatted at this friend. “She’s clearly not motivated by me.”
“Why not? You’re a hottie.”
“I’m a…hottie?” Derek gave Adam the side-eye.
“If I were into guys, I’d totally make out with you.” He popped a chip into his mouth.
“Yeah, but would I make out with you?”
Adam put a hand to his chest. “You wound me, sir!”
“Anyway, why would I care if Kylie were motivated by me?” Although he did care, damnit. Why did he care?
“I didn’t say you did.” Adam smirked, but Derek tried to keep his attention on the game. “Maybe she just wants to help her town.”
“Yeah, but it’s hardly her town anymore, is it?”
“I don’t know.” Adam shrugged. “She said being home is only temporary, but she got a job here, and now she’s planning a big town event. It doesn’t sound so temporary to me.”
“You think so?”
“Why, Derek. Are you saying you want Kylie to stick around?”
“No.” He scored on Adam’s net.
“Yeah, I don’t believe you.” He crunched on another chip.
Derek sighed. “Kylie doesn’t really seem like she belongs here anymore, does she?”
“Because she doesn’t wear flannel every day and sing country music? Are you really so shallow, friend?” Adam scored on Derek’s net again.
“I…well…When is it my turn to tease you about Tricia?” he asked, wanting to change the subject.
“Ah Tricia,” Adam said wistfully. “If only she were anywhere near my league.”
“What are you talking about? You’re a handsome guy with a nice job.”
“I’m a gym teacher who lives in a one-bedroom apartment above a police station,” Adam pointed out.
“I guess we’re destined to be two bachelors, playing video games for the rest of our lives.” Derek nudged him.
“Well, if you won’t even make out with me, what hope is left?”
When Cate got home from work, Derek decided to go out for some fresh air. He had a lot on his mind and knew he wouldn’t go to sleep anytime soon if he didn’t clear his head.
Zipping up his jacket against the chilly night air, he strode down the street. If he walked long enough, maybe the weight in his chest would ease up. His life had been simple and happy, but now Kylie was back, and he was suddenly unsure of himself all over again.
Without intending to, he’d taken himself right to her house. He froze as the front door opened and out came Kylie and her parents’ pug.
“Hey.” She seemed surprised to see him right at her doorstep.
“Hey,” he said back.
