“Yeah, I mean, a lot of athletes don’t even make it that far. And this career works,” he said quickly. “I make my own hours, which is great for raising Marissa. I’m the volunteer dad at school.” He laughed as though he’d never have believed it if he weren’t living it.

“I’m sure the volunteer moms love that,” Sarah said before she could stop herself. “I…just mean, having a dad in the class.”

I will not flirt with him.

Marissa may have been trying to set up the two of them, but they’d both resisted…which had to mean something, right?

But when he grinned, the gorgeous dimples in his cheeks made her vow that much harder to keep. Why did he have to be so good-looking? Teenage crushes should at least have the decency to age poorly. What she wouldn’t give for the ability to say, Phew, dodged a bullet there. Instead, she’d launch herself in front of this particular sexy bullet given the opportunity.

“So, is there anyone special you’ve left behind in L.A.?” he asked, his tone casual, but she detected a definite curiosity.

“Nope. Not even a friend with benefits,” she said honestly. Maybe a little too honestly, but truth was, her sex life was practically nonexistent. She worked far too much for a real relationship, and hookups might be the cool thing these days with dating apps on everyone’s phones, but she wasn’t interested in swiping right unless it had the potential to be more than a one-night stand. As much as she put her faith in technology for all other aspects of her life, she wasn’t sure it was the way she wanted to find someone. Whenever she did decide to make time for it.

“Hell, if I’d known you were sexually frustrated, I’d have let you take the sledgehammer to that kitchen wall last week.”

She swiped at him with her paint roller, narrowly missing his arm. Then cautiously she asked, “Do you think you will ever be ready…for another relationship?”

Asking for a friend.

“Somedays I think so. Other days, I’m not sure. Marissa and I have a good life together. We’ve figured out how to make things work just the two of us. I’m not sure I’m still actively grieving Kelly, but a part of me definitely died with her, and unless I can give someone else the full love she deserves…” He shrugged.

Sarah had let the roller drop to her side as she’d listened to his rare moment of open vulnerability, and now seafoam paint covered her thigh.

What was she supposed to say to that?

“Sorry, that got deep. Fast,” Wes said with a laugh.