“You said it wasn’t insider information!”
“You seem to be doing just fine without my info,” Nicole said.
Ariana tilted her head. “Just imagine how much better I’ll be with it. You told Chloe I was the best player in the league. We both know that isn’t true. But with your help…”
“Did you ever think that maybe what I said was true?”
Ariana looked down and felt the heat rushing to her cheeks.
“Are you blushing?” Nicole reached over and pulled Ariana’s chin up with her finger.
When her eyes met Nicole’s she felt the rush of heat in other places. Those beautiful brown eyes were just as soft, but now she saw a hint of something else. Wonder, fascination, admiration?
“I thought you liked it when I say nice things about you,” Nicole said.
All Ariana could do was smile. She took a deep breath. “We need to play one-on-one sometime.”
“Huh? Why would I sign up for that!” Nicole exclaimed.
“You dribbled around me and went in for a layup earlier today,” Ariana stated.
“Were you even trying?”
“I’m always trying,” Ariana said.
“Be sure and google me when you get home and pay attention to my age,” Nicole said.
“What does that have to do with anything?” Ariana said, furrowing her brow. “You set a good screen on me today.”
“You know that was a foul.”
Ariana smiled. “I didn’t mind and Chloe scored.”
Nicole raised her brows and smiled. “I’ll give you a suggestion for your Tuesday game, but I want something in return.”
“I’m listening.” Ariana leaned in a little closer.
“Watch Kia,” Nicole said. “She hates to go to her left. Force her that way and you’ll shut her down. She loves to dribble to the right and take the shot. If she can't, that should save you a few baskets.”
“Okay.” Ariana grinned. “Thanks.”
“If you find that information useful…”
“What do I have to give you?”
“Spot me points in one-on-one,” Nicole replied.
Ariana gasped and her eyes brightened. “Does that mean you’ll play with me sometime?”
“I have a feeling you’re going to keep asking until I play you at least once.”
Ariana sat back and grinned at Nicole. It was one thing to play basketball with her, but Ariana realized this meant they were going to see each other again. Something about that made her heart do a little flip in her chest.
“When’s practice?”
“Practice?” Ariana asked with a confused look.
“Your team. You have practice today.”