Impeccable timing.
“There you are.” She smiled. “I was hoping to catch you.”
“I was just leaving.” I slid my keys into my pocket.
“The other coaches have agreed to do a quick interview about the game and the upcoming season. Dissect a few rivals and intel on your new players.”
“Okay. Just let me know the date.”
“Now.” She hiked her purse up on her shoulder.
“Now?” I questioned. “Everyone left.”
“Not here.” She rolled her eyes playfully, which just grated on my nerves.
“At Laces Out. Most of you go there anyway. It will be short and sweet over some chips and beer.”
My hands clenched. Last thing I wanted to do was to go to Laces Out. I wanted to go to Trinity. Tell her that I couldn’t stay away anymore. We could figure out the rest as we went. But if this was all of the coaches and I bailed, I’d have to give a reason.Fuck.
“Fine.” I reluctantly agreed. “Meet you there.”
On my way to my truck, I fished my phone from my pocket before shooting Trinity a text.
Preston:Sorry, an unexpected meeting came up. I may be a bit later than expected.
I shoved it back in my pocket before climbing in the driver’s seat. I had more important places to be, but it would have to wait.
30
Trinity
I read Preston’s text, then let out a heavy sigh. At least that bought me a little more time. Time to dwell on what he wanted totalkabout. I alreadyknewwhat he wanted to talk about. I just wasn’t sure in what context.
My stomach growled as I dropped my phone on my bed. I hadn’t eaten anything before the game, my nerves wound too tight. It was late now, almost nine, but I was starving for something other than the food I rationed from my last trip to the store. Who knew how long his meeting would be and I was starving. Instead of sifting through the pantry, I picked up my phone and swiped the missed calls from my mother off the screen before I called Laces Out. I caved, ordering myself a greasy cheeseburger. You could never go wrong with the double patty melt. The homemade French fries topped off the unhealthy meal. It was delicious and I’d probably have to run three miles to lose the calories, but it was worth it.
It wasn’t a far drive, and I was grateful for the nights off after a home game. It would be exhausting having to work a shift after tending to a bunch of needy athletes.
The bar was packed, and I had to park almost at the back of the parking lot where the dumpster sat. Snatching up my wallet, I swung open the door, then made my way across the gravel, entering through the side door that was designated for pick-up orders.
Elton smiled through the kitchen window. “Order is almost up, sugar. Wrapping up your burger now.”
Elton was in his late sixties and the fry cook who grilled those burgers to perfection.
“No problem.”
I rested my elbows on the counter, glancing to my left at the open restaurant and bar. I could see the team across the floor, especially J.C., who had Landry draped over his shoulder as he downed a shot.
I chuckled as Ashley, another waitress, grabbed my ticket. “Hey, Trinity.” She typed quickly on the screen. “Be glad you have the night off. It’s a madhouse with the win over Arkansas.”
“I bet it is.” I laughed.
I unzipped my wallet when Landry shrieked from across the room. “Trinity Maxwell. Get your ass over here!”
J.C. placed her on her feet before she crossed the room with a lazy smile.She is feeling those tequila shots.
“Hey, Lan.” I was surprised when she wrapped an arm around my shoulders, tugging me in for a hug.
Affection was not something I was used to. My mother was not accustomed to physical touch. At least not with me.
