I came close to fucking some nameless girl, but it wouldn’t have satisfied the gnawing ache in the pit of my stomach. For so long, pain was my only sustenance. Football kept me grounded, but the season came to an end last Friday. We won the championship, but for me the win didn’t matter… it’s the rush I crave. The physical exertion gave me the high I needed, but now I’m running on fumes. I’m desperate for another hit of Cocoa.
“Hey, guys,” Mr. Thompson calls, approaching us. His wife trails at his side.
I scan behind them for Cocoa, but she isn’t here. He introduces Kelly to Dee and Nix, then she excuses herself to use the bathroom.
“Hot wife, Mr. T,” Dee says, staring at Kelly’s retreating form appreciatively.
“Seriously, dude.” Nix smacks him on the arm. “Show some respect.”
“What?” he gripes. “It was a compliment.”
“Thank you, Demetrius.” Mr. Thompson chuckles.
“See.” Dee gives Nix an, I-told-you-so look. “He’s not offended.”
“You guys come here often?”
“No, decided to switch it up tonight,” Nix answers.
“Oh, okay. Change is good.”
“Where’s Cocoa?” I regret asking the moment the words are out of my mouth, but I’m desperate for any information.
And if she’s home alone… my dick jumps at the thought.
“She was supposed to tag along with us but went on a date instead.”
Unadulterated fury thrums through my veins.
“Where’d they go?” Dee asks nonchalantly for my benefit.
“To the cinema down the street, actually,” Mr. Thompson responds, oblivious to the sudden shift in my demeanor. “Seeing that new alien movie.”
Kelly reappears. “Ready to bowl?”
“I sure am. See you boys around.”
They walk off hand in hand.
“What’s the move, Mav?” Dee asks.
I slip the bowling shoes off and don my Jordan’s. “I need y’all to find a way home.”
“We’re coming too,” Dee protests.
“Nah.” I stand. “I’m handling this situation solo.”
“Call if you need us,” Nix says.
I nod and quickly exit the bowling alley. Cocoa is in for a rude awakening.
I’m surprised Jake asked me out. We haven’t talked much since the parking lot incident, but he remembered I mentioned wanting to see this movie. I guess Maverickdidn’tscare him off after all. An involuntary shudder races down my spine.
“You cold?” Jake whispers.
“Oh, no. I’m good.”
“You sure? I can give you my coat.”
