I watched their last game with Dad, and he couldn’t stop talking about Devon—his speed, his talent, how quick he was off the mark. So, I know it’s just a matter of time before he comes out of his shell. He’s got beautiful dark skin, warm brown eyes, and those kinds of striking features that’ll get noticed. Once he settles in, I think the women will appreciate him just as much as the coaches do.
“So, you hitting up the party?”
“Yeah, I’ll be there,” Randy answers him, shoving the last of his second wrap in his mouth and dusting off his hands over his plate. “Just lining up a date for it now.” He looks to me, his words lingering in the air.
I look at them in stunned silence, my eyes darting between all three of them…nothing like being put on the spot.
“Ah, shit, man, my bad,” he stands, “I’ll let you get back to your lunch.” He looks to me. “Hope to see you there, Rachel.”
“Umm, yeah, maybe,” is all I can think to say as they stand and leave.
Randy looks to me. “So, what do you think, can you do me the pleasure of coming with me? Because I sure do wanna come with you again.”
I roll my eyes at his double meaning. “Where?” I ask. I haven’t heard of this party that apparently everyone else knows about. No real surprise.
“Frat row, Friday night.”
“I’m not sure. I would need to check with my parents and see if they are okay to watch Sam.”
“That’s fine, I understand. You have my number, so just let me know about that… and other things.” He smirks, leaving both invitations hanging in the air.
Butterflies flutter in my chest because I’ve just been asked out by Mr. QB himself, with the very real possibility of more mind-blowing sex. This man who’s so hot, so stupidly sexy, it should be illegal.
And that thought makes me want to do some very naughty things to him.
7
Rachel
The past few days have passed in a blur of happiness. Randy and I haven’t seen each other every day, but we’ve been texting constantly and squeezing in quick lunch dates whenever we can.
He’s been incredibly busy with football training and upcoming games. College football is no joke. It’s so intense, and I’ve been genuinely amazed by how much work the guys put in. It’s not just time on the field. There are in-class football sessions, gym workouts, physio treatments, and brutal ice baths that Randy particularly hates. I’d never realized just how demanding it all is. The early mornings, nonstop conditioning, and juggling everything alongside regular classes must be physically and mentally exhausting. But he continues to make time for me, and I have to say it’s been amazing how well we get along. We always have something to talk about, always playing and laughing, and he genuinely seems interested in Sam and meeting him one day. The fact that he has a body like a Greek god and face like a Calvin Klein model doesn’t hurt either.
I check my reflection in the car’s passenger-seat mirror for what seems like the hundredth time. Randy insisted on picking me up, but when I explained that I wanted to tuck Sam in, he understood and agreed to meet me there. Sam and I arehalfway through readingThe Wizard of Oz,and I promised him another chapter before bed.
The Raptors won their away game this afternoon, so if they win their next game, they get to play in he Rose Bowl, whatever that means, then into the finals,I think.
I was able to watch another game on TV with Dad, who was trying in vain to explain things to me. He was questioning my sudden interest in college football, and I briefly mentioned Randy. He quirked a brow but didn’t ask anything else. My dad’s a big NFL fan and follows college football just as closely. He knows of Randy and every other player on the team. Being our local team, he supports them and was already watching them when I not so subtly joined him and started asking questions.
“You look fine,” my mom says from beside me as she pulls the car to a stop in front of the large white house. I slide my hands over my straightened brown hair and push the mirror back up. To say I’m nervous would be an understatement, “I haven’t been to a party like this in forever,” I sigh.
“I know,” my mom, says rubbing my arm. “You’re a great mom, Rachel; go enjoy someyoutime. Sam is fast asleep, and we both know he won’t wake. He’s looking forward to going to the zoo with us tomorrow, so enjoy the time off and I’ll be sure to send you photos.”
“Thanks, Mom,” I nod, appreciative of everything my parents do for me. “I might get an Uber home, but if I stay with a friend, I will let you know.”
Mom smiles at me; there’s a look behind it, but no need to preach the birds and bees to me, be careful,blah blah blah. That ship has sailed, and she knows if anyone is careful when it comes to safe sex, it’s me…now.
I take a deep breath as I walk through the doorway and let the warm air touch my skin. The door is wide open, and the place is packed with students.
“What am I doing here?” I mumble, tugging at the hem of my fake leather skirt. It’s not even that short but walking alone into a room full of drunk guys, I feel like a lone impala separated from the herd, open and exposed to whatever predator is lurking.
I make my way past the dance floor and down a wide hallway. This place is seriously massive; how many people live here? Randy referred to it as ‘Jason’s place’ but with how big it is, there’s no way it’s just him. There must be at least several guys sharing the place.
A ping pong ball rolls across the floor behind a group of people who pass by and into my path.
“Over here,” a tall, black-haired woman smiles at me, holding out her hand.
I bend down, picking up the ball and gently tossing it back to her.
