“Says the guy who’s never been in one.”
“Overrated.”
“And so are you, but hey, I’m over here tryin’ to help you get your girl back when you haven’t gotten rid of your old one.”
My stomach knots a bit. “You’re a dick, and that was a low blow.”
“Should’ve tested Sienna out to see if she could handle it.”
“She’s not allowed to date a parent of a student.”
“Principal Simpson would’ve had no evidence.”
“Laura would’ve blasted it, and Sienna would’ve been the talk of the town. Like I said before.”
Zoe inhales and exhales, bowing her head in understanding because she knows.
She knows this town is fed on gossip and the downfall of others. Those stories last longer than good ones. They get brought up years later in reminiscences to compare against others.
Sienna won’t be collateral damage to my past.
Nonetheless, I’m having a hard time allowing her a future without me in it.
“So, what’s the plan and point of tonight?” Zoe asks. “All I got in your text was Tad, Sweetheart Ball, Sienna, need a date.”
No clue.
Nothing changes the reality of my situation.
However, I just can’t stand idly by and give her away to someone else.
Someone else likeTad.
“I’m open to suggestions,” I reply honestly. “We were keeping our relationship a secret, but Laura scared the shit out of me.”
“I think you blew your chance.”
Great.
“You want to tell me that while we’re dressed up and standing outside the town hall like a bunch of assholes?”
Zoe shrugs. “I’d pick you over Tad.”
“Well, there’s that.”
“And when’s your court date with the ex?”
“Next week.”
“Last one?”
“I hope so.”
“So, we’re livin’ on a prayer.”
“Exactly.”
“My favorite kind.” She slaps the back of my shoulder—hard, and slips her arm into mine. “Get me in Tad’s view. That’ll mess his night up.”
