I was never good with money. Never good at, well, making good decisions in general. I was always the kid who was a little too goofy for his own good. Always running around the beach in the winter with no shoes, on the verge of getting frostbite.
I wasn’t what you called the smartest kid.
I still don’t think I am.
But for whatever reason, the series of events that panned out decided to grace me with a shit ton of money. Money I haven’t even started spending.
And now I have accepted this deal for the reality show. Whatthat’sgoing to bring, I’m not sure. But definitely nothonor to my family, or, well, mysister. Definitely not even a single shred of dignity for me.
I can only assume that the show is going to go about as bad as that time A—shit…shedared me to eat five large Kohr Bros cones. Creamsicle.
I still can’t look at a twist the same without feeling something deep in my gut stirring.
My phone beeps in my pocket, and I pull it out, watching as Warner’s name flashes along with a photo of his ass.
“Yeah?” I ask, the phone on speaker.
“You coming out?”
I look at the time. “You guys went early?”
“Yeah. It’s half-priced beer,” he says.
There’s a voice in the distance who yells, “Plus, Briar kicked his ass out of the house!”
Leo groans, and I chuckle. “Only because she and Isla are having some kind of weird movie night. I don’t know. I’m pretty sure they’re watching the same movie over and over. I don’t ask questions anymore. I just take orders.”
Funny how all my friends get girlfriends and all of a sudden they become terrified of asking questions, but whatever. These are the same guys who will yell profanities that would make your grandma cry at other players on the football field.
“I’ll be right down. You and Crosby getting there now?”
“We’re leaving the building now. See you soon.” He hangs up, and I look around one more time before grabbing my bag, changing into something a little more comfortable, and heading out.
Lulu’s is always the best place to go during the week. Weekends? Not so much. But during the week, they have the best specials, the best music, and of course, the best bartenders.
“You doing anything tonight?” I ask Bethany, one of the women who has been here the longest.
“If you really want someone to peg you, just say that.” The middle-aged vixen winks.
I grin wickedly, something stirring inside of me at the thought. I don’t think I wouldaskfor it, but if it were to ever happen, I’m not sure I’d hate it.
“So, I’m guessing that’s a no,” I lean against my hand as I watch her pour my beer.
Bethany rolls her eyes, sliding the drink toward me. I take it with a nod, sipping on the top so it doesn’t overflow.
Returning to the guys, we watch the crowded room fill with people. The weeknights are generally pretty sleepy here, but summertime means the Vipers have games nearly half the month, and people are always looking for a place to grab a beer and celebrate after their wins.
And besides, sometimes people just want to get out.
“So I got a place today,” I tell the guys as I set my drink down on the table.
Leo eyes me suspiciously. “Please don’t tell me it’s the place you mentioned the other day.”
A sly smile spreads across my lips as the color drains from his face. “Yep.”
Owen’s eyes bounce from Leo to me and back again, his brows creeping up higher and higher on his face with each pass. “What are you talking about? Where did you get a place?”
“Well, Iboughta place. For three million dollars.”
