It’s not like Jack was abusive, or manipulative, or controlling. He was cautious. Protective of what other guys might do or say to me. He often said he knew what went on in locker rooms and he didn’t want any of that to touch me.
Whatever that meant.
The ref blows the whistle, signaling the end of the first period. The players go back to their locker rooms, leaving the ice empty.
Immediately, my phone buzzes.
A text from a number I don’t have saved. I click on it, and it opens to a preexisting message thread. Just one word sent from my phone:Vi
Ah. Greyson.
Greyson
Saw you wince for Knox. You got feelings for him?
I roll my eyes.
Did you see me smile when you knocked the other player into the glass? Don’t judge.
Didn’t take you for one to be bloodthirsty.
I smile, despite myself.
Some things can’t be helped
I certainly hope not.
My stomach flips, and my phone goes off one last time.
Remember our deal.
Why does he go from somewhat charming to irritating in a split second? I glance at the scoreboard, which still rests at zero-zero.
You haven’t won anything yet.
An hour later, they win. Two to nothing.
10
VIOLET
“Are you sure?” Willow is skeptical.
I don’t blame her. I’m asking her to leave me at the stadium, downstairs on the lower level where the team locker rooms are. She walked down with me and a few other girls, and most of the guys have come out. As she watches me, Knox and Miles leave the locker room and stride toward us.
Since this is our home stadium, there’s no bus waiting to take them home. They’re done and free to go.
“You waiting for us?” Knox asks. His gaze is on Willow.
“Maybe,” she replies. “Anyone left in there?”
He glances over his shoulder. “Just Greyson and Steele.”
“I’m fine,” I repeat.
Knox grins at Willow and offers his arm. “Violet seems good here. Let me buy you a drink? Then maybe we can find somewhere to chat…”
My phone buzzes again.