I roll my eyes as I start to turn away, but when he steps back, the hint of familiarity stops me and I jolt, my pulse instantly picking up speed.
Nope. No. No way.
An irrational anger takes over me but I laugh it off.
It can’t be Blair.
There is no way she’s over there sucking face with that—Motherfucker. She lifts her gaze and there’s no denying it. I’d recognize those lips from a mile away. It’s her. But she’s not happy about the public display of affection. The smile she’s projecting is the one she brings out when she’s trying to avoid attention.
Too bad it didn’t work, because she sure caught mine.
How is this even possible?
Blair’s boyfriend is Nathan?
She moved to California for him?
After pushing me away.
Fuck.
Turns out, the joke is on me. Because win or lose, that fucker gets the last laugh.
Iwas wrong to say I didn’t need any extra motivation for this game. Because I haveneverplayed as hard as I’m playing right now.
Luke slaps me on the back as we line up for what could be our final play, and while his smile is wide, all I can do is quirk my lips in response.
“You are on fire, my man,” he praises, his eyes full of respect. “Whatever you’re doing, don’t stop.”
I widen my grin while inside I’m fuming. I can’t even say who’s summoned the most wrath. I refuse to think of that right now. But I’m pissed at them both.
The whistle blows, and our center snaps the ball back to Thomas. Thomas twists left as though he’s going to throw my way, but in an epic move that he’s mastered over the years, hepivots and throws right, sending the ball spiraling toward Easton who catches it easily.
Luke’s there to block their defense as Easton flies toward the end zone, diving over the line in a touchdown that ends the game.
And the crowd roars. We won.
It may not be our home stadium, but it’s not far to travel, and we have loyal fans that always make the trek.
We’re loved. And it shows.
I’m as pumped as the rest of the team, celebrating on the field, but the second I’m off, I jog toward our locker room, ignoring my coach as I rush to shower. I’m dressed and ready in record time, but before I get the chance to leave, Thomas is there, intruding on my personal space.
“How are you feeling?” He cups my shoulder, his eyes full of concern.
“I’m good, Cap.” I brush him off. “Better than ever, and I have to go.”
“Go?”
“Yep. Can’t explain now, but I’m leaving. I’ll see you at the bar.” I turn to grab my bag but Thomas ignores me.
“You’ve got media—”
“Yep.” I nod, spinning to face him again. “Tell them I’m busy.”
“Zane. I—”
“Let him go, Kelly,” Luke joins the conversation out of nowhere. “I know that look. We’ve all been there.”
