“I look forward to seeing you and your lovely family around,” John says, sitting back down.
Michael nods, and the trio follows the hostess.
The sway of Cocoa’s hips and the bounce of her ass are hypnotizing.
Yeah, I want that.
“Unbelievable.” John’s upper lip curls in disgust. “How dare he bring a nigger-fucking bitch and her half-breed daughter to Montgomery. If trash keeps moving to town, it won’t be livable anymore.”
“Actually, the neighborhood could use some diversity, John,” I respond, just to piss him off.
“I’ve told you repeatedly to refer to me as Dad or Father in public.”
“I’ll call you whatever the fuck I choose, John.”
“Listen, you snot-nosed punk, you better start respecting me.”
“Or what?” I challenge, and a staring contest ensues.
After a few minutes, John averts his gaze.
That’s what I thought, fucking pussy.
“You can’t control me anymore, John.”
From my seat, I furtively steal glances at Maverick. Jeez, are all the hotties in Montgomery assholes? His kiss-my-ass vibe is practically tangible and adds to his bad-boy image perfectly. There’s no doubt he’s fucking arrogant. A prominent nose, dark amber eyes, strong jawline, and full lips make up his classically handsome face. His chestnut-colored mane is styled in a trendy crew cut. The boy definitely eats his Wheaties. His arms are the size of tree trunks, and the fitted black T-shirt he’s sporting showcases a muscular chest. Though he stayed in his seat, it’s not hard to discern he’s tall. Even in heels he would tower over my five-foot-four frame. The jerk is a beefcake.
“Maverick is on the football team,” Michael says, slathering butter on his bread.
Figures
“What position does he play?” I ask.
“Quarterback.”
I bet he’s the most popular boy at Montgomery Academy, the king... the entitled prick. Ugh, I hate his type.
“And he’s cute too.” Mom leans in close, whispering conspiratorially.
“Hadn’t noticed.” I shrug nonchalantly.
“Mm-hmm.” She grins. “I see you sneaking peeks at him.”
“Mommmmmm,” I draw out the word, affronted.
Michael snickers behind his napkin.
“Fine.” She holds up her hands. “My lips are zipped.”
It’s in my best interest to go to Maverick’s pool party. I’m the new girl, after all, and need to make a good first impression.
The party started nearly an hour ago. I’m waiting in anticipation for Cocoa to arrive. Where the hell is she?
“You cool, Mav?” Nix asks, sprawled in the chaise lounge to my left. A cute brunette sits comfortably on his lap.
“Peachy.”
Dee lies on the other side of him, nursing a beer. His female companion’s hand is under his swim shorts. He has himself a wild one. No blood relation, but we’re brothers, nonetheless. They’ve been my homeboys since seventh grade and know the fucked-up details of my childhood.
