Page 19 of Dario

"How would you know?"

Rosie laughs. "You wouldn't be so moody if you were, well, you know? Dated?"

Dodge rolls his eyes. "Back to business, Gemma, when I drop you off with the team, please don't go anywhere alone, okay?"

"I promised Dario that a million times." I rub my temples. "I'm going to take a nap." I move off the sofa and catch Rosie's eye.

"Dario left something for you on the bed." She wiggles her eyebrows.

More curious than embarrassed, I go into his bedroom. I grin when I see one of his jerseys spread out on the bed. Reaching for it, I head into the bathroom and quickly change. I'm sure it's for tonight's game, but I can take a nap in it, too.

My fingers hesitate on the phone. I want to send him a message and tell him what I'm wearing. I'm not used to teasing him. We've been in each other's space since yesterday morning, so I guess a little text would be okay. Before I can change my mind, I make myself comfortable in his bed and inhale. It smells like him. I snap a selfie and hit send. My heart pounds at what I've done. Even my cheekbones heat. My phone beeps.

Dario: Are you in my bed? Wearing my jersey?

Me: Yes! I'm surrounded by your scent.

Dario: Are you naked underneath?

I pant. My blush deepens. I'm not going to chicken out now.

Me: I don't sleep in my underwear!

Dario: Damn (flame emoji)

Me: I wish you were here with me. I sleep well in your arms.

Dario: ...

Dario: ...

Dario: Sweetheart, the love pole is so ready that it’s embarrassing.

Me: OMG! Did you just call your (eggplant emoji) a love pole?

I chuckle and sink deeper into the bed.

Dario: Baby, my hot rod is a love pole. If you're a good girl, I'll show you how to use it.

I burst out laughing. He is being ridiculous.

Me: Are we having phone sex?

Dario: If we were having phone sex, you wouldn't have to ask!

Me: I've never had phone sex. I sent you a picture. I think you should send me one.

I look at the bubbles and then a picture pops up. I drop the phone and throw the covers around trying to find it.

Me: Please tell me you are not talking to me about your love pole in the middle of a team meeting?!

The picture is of him in the meeting room with other teammates in the background, including a scowling Coach.

Dario: Okay, I won't tell you. (crying laughing emoji)

Me: And I was just about to send you a picture of my pierced (melon emoji).

I smile, knowing I will get him. I turn off the ringer on my phone and bury my face in his pillow.