The Land of Rabbits (Long Shot Love Duet #1) by Aven Jayce Page A

still spying on us, trying to figure out what we’re discussing. I direct her to watch the road and stop being such a snoop.
    “Where in Albany should I drop you off, we’re about ten minutes out?” she asks, snubbing my request.
    “You passing the Washington Park area?”
    “I can.”
    “You don’t have to go out of your way. I’ll walk once we reach the city limits.”
    “What street?” She repositions her mirror so it’s on him.
    “Where do you live?” he whispers.
    “South Pine Avenue, at Cortland Street,” I say.
    “Just...” He looks up at her. “I’m fine with getting out around the Washington and Lark area. That’s close enough.”
    I write once more on the notepad and set it in his lap.
    I don’t care where you live. I’m not a snob.
    I care. He writes back. Date tomorrow or not?
    “Yes.”
    “Library,” he says softly.
    “That’s unusual.” I place my hand on his leg, gripping his knee. “It’ll be a first. I can’t wait.”
    “The library on Washington. Outside, not in. We’ll go for a walk. That alright?”
    “Sure thing.”
    “Good, I haven’t seen the city in a year.”
    “Did you murder someone?” Jess blurts out.
    “What the fuck? Would you shut up?!” I shout. “Nadine, fix your friend. That was rude and hurtful to Quinn and me.”
    “Jess, she’s right. Don’t be so boorish.”
    “No, I’m right. You’re planning a date and should know more about the guy before meeting him outside the library.”
    “It was the wrong question to ask,” I fume. “Besides, how can you be this judgmental after having your vagina stuffed with a stranger’s dick? Hypocrite.”
    Brian bursts into laughter, agreeing with me, but Nadine waves a finger for us to stop.
    “It’s a reasonable question after Roxanne’s comment,” Jess insists.
    “No,” he answers faintly. “I haven’t killed anyone.”
    We quiet down after hearing the wounded sound of his voice. Jess spends a good five minutes between his reflection in the mirror and the road, back and forth, gradually sensing she was wrong.
    “Sorry,” she says. “I’m bold sometimes... well, all the time. A cheeky woman who should realize when it’s time to stuff a sock in it.” She puts herself down, trying to clear the air.
    “That’s the truth,” Brian agrees, checking his cell. “You like sports, Quinn?”
    “Played baseball and football in high school.”
    “What positions?”
    “Quarterback and pitcher.”
    “No shit? Adlyn, you can go out with this kid anytime. I’ll even loan you my car.” He laughs. “Did you play in college?”
    “Right here. This is good.” Quinn directs Jess to pull over, opening the door before she comes to a complete stop. “Tomorrow at four?” He glances at me as I slide over and take his seat.
    “Tomorrow at four.” I grin.
    The door closes and I wait until he’s far enough away before spinning toward Jess and smacking her arm. “Thanks a lot. You really offended him.”
    “Well, maybe that should tell you something. Roxanne didn’t mention that murder thing without good reason. Obviously, I hit a sore spot with the guy or he would’ve brushed it off.”
    I put my sunglasses on and stare out the window, watching him disappear down a side street. “What’s that neighborhood like?” I ask Brian.
    “I wouldn’t walk down there even in the light of day, if that tells you anything.”
    “Think he’ll be okay?”
    “I’d say so, considering his size and that he seems familiar with the area. As long as he’s not part of any gang.”
    “Doubt it.”
    “Well, tomorrow when you meet up with him, make sure you two walk in the opposite direction, not over that way.”
    “What’s your fascination with him?” Nadine asks, as Jess heads to our neighborhood. “Besides the fact that last night your tongue fell out while admiring his good looks.”
    “ Gorgeous looks,” I correct her. “And no, I’m not superficial, there’s more. He’s been kind and affectionate