Page 159 of Don't Fall for the Goalie
The realization hits hard enough to make my chest ache.
This was never supposed to become real.
Peyton staying here is temporary. The fake relationship is temporary.
But with her curled against me like she belongs here?
It suddenly feels terrifyingly permanent.
And the worst part?
I don’t think I want it to end anymore.
40
PEYTON
I blink against the morning sunlight streaming through the large, glass windows. I raise my hand, shielding my eyes, wondering why I’m on the couch.
Then it hits me.
Last night, I was curled up against Daltyn and must’ve fallen asleep.
He was so warm and comfortable. I felt safer than I have in a very long time.
I stretch my arms over my head, then search for my phone. My fingertips graze it on the small table beside the couch.
I curl my fingers around it and squint at the screen, trying to see what time it is. There's a text from Daltyn waiting for me, and warmth spreads through my chest when I read it.
Daltyn: Good morning. You fell asleep on the couch. I was too afraid of waking you so I stayed there. Hope you’re not sore.
Daltyn: Also, the coffee is ready. Just hit the button and it’ll brew
I blow out a breath, butterflies swarming in my stomach.
He’s so thoughtful. And super sweet.
He stayed cramped on the couch all night instead of carrying me to my room because he didn’t want to wake me. The man, built like a six-foot-two brick wall, sacrificed his spine for me without hesitation.
My chest aches at the thought.
With a smile, I respond.
Me: Thank you for staying with me. I hope you’re not sore from sleeping on the couch. Have a great day at training camp. Thanks for getting the coffee ready.
I hit send, and a notification pops up.
But it’s not from Daltyn.
It’s not a text, either.
It’s an Instagram reel.
Holding my breath, I click on it. My eyes widen as I watch the clip of what happened in the coffee shop, beginning with Tony leaning over me, then Daltyn bursting inside and stomping toward the table Allie and I were sitting at, his jaw clenched, fists balled at his sides. He was a man on a mission as he stormed in, then stopped behind Tony.
He looked like an impenetrable wall as he glowered at the back of Tony’s head, then growled,“Get the fuck away from my girlfriend.”
My stomach flips as I watch him.
