fuck?
“I advised him to take Rupi on a weekend getaway or a summer trip,” Hunter retorts. “Not to elope and run off to India!”
“Nepal,” Hollis corrects. “Jeez, pay attention, dude.”
“Well.” Summer clears her throat. “We’re all thrilled for you. I can’t believe you’re married.”
I can’t either, but Rupi and Hollis seem over the moon about it, and who am I to judge?
“Okay, you guys, it’s like eight in the morning here and we have a big day planned,” Rupi announces in her shrill, bossy voice.
“We’ll call back in a few days,” Hollis assures us. “Or a month. Whatever. Love you guys! Be back in a year!”
The call disconnects.
And we all exchange mystified looks.
“She dropped out of college,” Brenna says, sounding impressed
“They got married,” Fitz says, sounding horrified.
“She’s only nineteen,” I realize.
“Yeah, but in Rupi’s defense, she knew she was going to marry Michael Hollis the second she met him,” Summer points out.
“True,” Brenna agrees.
“They’ll either be divorced in a week, or they’ll be together forever,” Hunter predicts with a sigh. “There’s no in between with those two.”
Summer tucks her golden hair behind her ears. “I’m happy for them, I really am. But holy shit, that came out of left field.”
Hunter shakes his head a few times, as if trying to come out of a daze. “Okay, then. That was…fascinating.” He picks up the remote control. “Should we keep watching? We were about to find out if the dismembered head winds up in the magic guy’s hat.”
“I’m going upstairs to play Fortnite,” Fitz grumbles.
“I’m going to sleep,” Summer says.
Brenna stands up. “I’m going to see if Jake’s still awake so I can tell him about this latest development.”
“Party poopers,” I accuse.
As Hunter’s roommates scatter and disappear, he tugs me closer to his warm, muscular body. “What do you say, babe? Shall we?”
I slant my head and grin up at him. “Yup yup.”
The End
Don’t miss the extended bonus epilogue at:
geni.us/TPBonus
Did you enjoy The Play?
Please leave a review.
Have you read the first book in the Briar U series? The Chase is available at all retailers!
Reach Out
If you or anyone you know are having suicidal thoughts or considering self-harm, please reach out to a loved one or contact the support services below. Someone is always there to listen. You matter.
USA
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1.800.273.8255
Canada
Canada Suicide Prevention Service
1.833.456.4566
Global
International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)
iasp.info/
Author’s Note
This book was a joy to write! Hunter and Demi’s friendship, banter, and sparks kept me on my toes during the entire writing process, and I couldn’t be happier with how their story played out. With that said, please note that I took some liberties with the college semester/hockey season schedule, extending them for plot purposes.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, but this book (and life in general) would be a real bummer without the love and support of some amazing people:
My editor Lindsey Faber—reunited and it feels so good! And my agent Kimberly Brower for making sure I stay on top of things, and serving as my occasional relationship therapist.
The beta reading skills of Nikki Sloane (“suck his $#&! why don’t ya!”), K.A. Tucker (winery champ and all-around hottie), Robin Covington (THANK YOU!) and Sarah J. Maas (Garrett Graham’s #1 fan, and—finally!—someone as dorky as I am!).
Sarina Bowen, just because I love her. She’s so sa-weet!
Vi Keeland, my frenemy, who lives vicariously through my love life. You’re welcome.
Monica James, my Australian soulmate. You are so genuine and wonderful, and I know your dad was so very proud of the woman you are. I’m lucky to know you.
Nina, my publicist and wifey, who loves me so much she wouldn’t even divorce me after finding out I’ve never read Harry Potter.
Aquila Editing, for proofing this book (Sorry for all the typos!)
Nicole, lifesaver extraordinaire.
Heyyyyy, Natasha. Set it free!
Damonza, for bringing Demi to life with this stunning cover!
All my author friends who shared this release and offered their love and support—it’s truly remarkable how supportive this community can be. So many big hearts and talented writers!
And as always, the bloggers, reviewers and readers who continue to spread the word about my books. I am so thankful for your love and kindness. You’re the reason I keep writing these crazy stories!
Love,
Elle
The Chase: Preview
The first standalone book in the Briar U series is now available! Enjoy this excerpt from The Chase…
Fitz
“Dance with me?”
I want to say no.
But I also want to say yes.
I call this the Summer Dilemma—the frustrating, polar reactions this green-eyed, golden-haired goddess sparks in me.
Fuck yes and hell no.
Get naked with her.