Nix
“Okay, nobody needs to see that first thing in the morning,” Kye covered his eyes, fake retching as we passed Hench and Cherri practically dry fucking up against the gym wall.
“Get a fucking room,” Zane called out to them, and Hench flipped him off behind her back, not bothering to break the kiss. If you could call it that; it looked like he was eating her whole. Gross.
“Any regrets?” Zane mocked while punching my shoulder.
“Only that I ever touched her in the first place.”
They both chuckled as we made our way down the hall toward the locker room. “So did B like the place?” Kye asked.
“Yeah, maybe a little too much.”
“What do you mean?”
“She seemed… relieved. Like now we have somewhere to be together, we don’t need to deal with all the shit circling us.”
“Ah.” Pity shone in his eyes. “Well, it can’t be easy for her. She lives there, and her old man is the only family she has—”
“She has me.” I snapped.
“Yeah, and you’re one argument from being thrown out on your ass. You have no job. No scholarship—”
“Yet. He has no scholarship yet.” Zane’s brow lifted.
“I need some cash.” They both looked at me and I rolled my eyes. “Legitimate cash.”
“Time to think about your gleaming résumé. Star quarterback. Son of The Row’s local dealer and acquirer of the darker things in life.” Kye smirked. “Bryson Shaw’s undefeated champ. What else?” He stroked his chin in contemplation.
“Asshole,” I mumbled, shouldering the door to the locker room.
Their laughter followed me as I headed for my usual spot on the benches. Kye was right. I needed to get my house in order if I was going to be able to support B if things went to shit with her father.
I needed a job—some cash of my own. But between school and the team and stealing what little time I had with Harleigh, it didn’t leave much in the way of spare time.
I hadn’t wanted to tangle myself up with Bryson any more than necessary, but maybe it was the only option. I didn’t want to fight for him, but I could offer my services elsewhere. Keeping the gym clean and tidy, offering some sessions with the younger kids. It was worth a shot. So long as it didn’t come with any conditions.
My cell phone bleeped and I frowned at the number.
“What is it?”
“Harleigh’s asking about plans for the game tomorrow night.”
“Why the long face? That’s a good thing, isn’t it?”
“I don’t know. She wants to know if there’s a party at the res after.”
“Little Birdie grew up, Nix.” Kye chuckled. “You can’t keep her caged up forever. Z’s right, this is a good thing. Maybe you got it wrong last night, maybe she’s more ready to go public than you think.”
I very much doubted that. Which meant something had happened.
I texted her back.
Me: Is everything okay?
B: I thought you’d be happy I wanted to be there…
Me: I am but why the sudden change of heart?