Page 147 of Tangled with the Tight End

“A woman turning down Declan O’Connell for book club.”

“What did he say?” Emberleigh asks.

“He pouted.” I picture his face—dejected, asking me how he’s going to last twenty-four hours without me.

“Oh. My. Gosh!” Sydney exclaims. “He pouted. That’s so sweet.”

“Honey,” Carli says. “That man is gone for you.”

“Can we talk about the book?” I ask, feeling like my time in the spotlight has gone on long enough.

Thankfully, my friends agree and we dig into discussing our read for the month. But my heart is only half here. The other half keeps drifting to Declan.

He’s not the only one who’s gone for someone.

Chapter 23

Declan

You don't love someone because they're perfect.

You love them in spite of the fact that they're not.

~ Jodi Picoult

“Are you sure I should come?” Winona asks me over breakfast.

It’s Saturday and I cajoled her into coming over early so we could have some extended time together—especially because today is my niece, Boston’s, fifth birthday. She’s having a princess tea party.

“I’m sure I want you to come,” I tell her.

“I’m sure you want me to come too,” she smiles shyly at me, but also, there’s a new note of flirtation in her voice. “You seem to always want me around.”

I pretend to make a microphone out of my yogurt spoon. Winona brings out this side of me—silly and ridiculous. I’m not like this with anyone else but her.

In an announcer voice, I say, “Ladies and gentlemen, she’s finally seeing the light.”

She laughs, reaching over and pushing at me.

Over the past week Winona seems to be growing increasingly comfortable in our relationship. She’s always been comfortable in her own skin. But little by little, she’s accepting the way I feel about her—letting me in. And the way that feels? It’s better than winning the Super Bowl. Not that I’d admit that out loud. Not to my team, at least.

“It’s a family event, Declan,” Winona says.

“Maeve specifically invited you. And Daisy will be there.”

“Daisy is family.”

“Daisy is my brother’s girlfriend. Patrick’s bringing his girlfriend. I can bring mine.”

“They’re married.”

“Still his girlfriend.”

She laughs at me. “You really want me to come?”

“I really want you to come.”

She sighs. “I need to work on my ability to say no to you.”