My father once told me that a true measure of a man is how he responds to adversity. Tonight, I failed that test big time. The opposing team was well prepared and their defense stopped us at every turn. We couldn’t run the ball to save our lives. I was intercepted twice, and their defense sacked me three times. It was the most miserable four quarters of football I’ve ever played and it’s my own fault. I’m so angry that I can’t see straight and I didn’t handle it like I should have.
So tonight I am.
I can’t go on like this any longer if I want my team to have any chance of getting into our conference championship. Hell, I admit it. I’m falling hard for Willow, but it’s crystal clear she doesn’t feel the same. She hasn’t called or even sent me an angry text because I’ve missed our sessions. Any other girl would have. If I’m going to get this monkey off my back, I need to stop avoiding her and give myself some closure.
Me: I’m downstairs.
Teach: Why?
Me: For my session.
Teach: You missed this week’s session.
Me: I get two a week.
Teach: You are guaranteed one with an optional second. Come back next Wednesday during your regular scheduled time.
Me: I’m coming up, Teach.
Teach: You better not!
What the hell is she so mad about? I’m the one who can’t think straight after she stayed at the party with Aaron. Yeah, I know it was my fault. I’m the one who told her to stay, but only because I knew it’s what she wanted.
But why?
I’m Jackson Freak Jennings. Doesn’t she get it? I’m the biggest catch on this campus and she couldn’t care less.
Fine.
Her loss.
I just need to put an end to this so I can start winning again. No girl is worth throwing away my future.
Even Willow.
“You going up, Freak?” The plain faced girl at the front desk asks.
“Yeah, I’m going to meet with my tutor.”
“You mean Willow?”
I forgot how news spreads like wildfire on this campus.
“Yep.”
“Aren’t you two dating?”
“Can I get my visitor’s pass?” I ignore her question.
“It’s too bad about the game last week,” she says as she searches a drawer for one.
“Yeah,” I mutter.
“You’ve got Atlanta Tech next week. I’m sure you guys will win that one.”
“What?” I say because I’ve tuned out everything she said after she uttered the words too bad.”
“I was just saying good luck.”
