Page 23 of Game Plan

“Knowing what I want isn’t the problem.”

“You just think you know what you want.” My smile slips. “Thank you again. Truly.”

“Yeah, you’re welcome. Hey, are you going to Layla’s tomorrow night for Branch’s birthday dinner?”

“Yes. I’m assuming that I’ll see you there.”

“You will indeed. See you then.”

“See ya.”

He sighs. “Bye, Pop.”

I end the call and fall back in my chair.

“Knowing what I want isn’t the problem.”

It’s such a compliment that he thinks he wants me, and it’s one I probably don’t deserve. Unfortunately for him, he doesn’t realize that if he got what he wants, it would fail dismally.

Lucky for him, I know what he needs.

And that I can deliver.

CHAPTER

SEVEN

Poppy

“Hey!” I say, coming into Layla’s kitchen. Balloons cover the ceiling in blues and golds, and a spread of food lines the island like this is a Last Supper situation. “Where are you guys?”

“We’re in the living room,” Layla calls from across the house.

My pulse quickens as I place my purse and Branch’s gift on the small table by the door. Finn’s SUV was already in the driveway when I arrived, and although I was expecting it, it still caused my heart to race.

It feels like I haven’t seen him in months, yet it’s only been a few days. It’s not like we usually see each other every day anyway, but after not seeing him for a full week and then just for the ride home the other night, I miss him. And knowing that I can’t yank him into the bathroom and have my way with him is really irritating.

Because someone has to prove a damn point.

Ugh.

“But at least I came with weapons,” I say, smirking as I take in my carefully curated outfit.

I had just enough time after work to swing by the house and change into the clothes that I laid out last night. I really wanted to wear a sexy black dress that’s a time-tested orgasm inducer, but this is a family event. So, I opted for a pair of jeans that make my ass look great, and a white crop top that hugs my curves perfectly.

Finn has a storied history with me and crop tops. He has a very hard time keeping his hands to himself.

“Happy birthday,” I say, sweeping the living room for Finn to no avail. Where is he? I pull Branch into a quick, distracted hug. “Have you had a good day so far, birthday boy?”

“How could any day be a bad day with my life?”

Layla beams on the couch as I reach for Sunny.

“Come see your auntie Poppy,” I say, lifting her off Layla’s lap.

“Pop!!” Her fingers go straight into my hair. “Pop!”

“Easy on the hair, my girlie.” I pluck my strands from her fist a second before it winds up in her mouth. “Can I borrow a hair tie, Lay? I was a little distracted when I left the house—ouch! Easy, Sunny.”