Текст книги "When We Met"

Автор книги: Christina Lee

Соавторы: Molly McAdams,A. L. Jackson,Tiffany King
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Текущая страница: 14 (всего у книги 22 страниц)

chapter six

Dalton

It was a complete stroke of genius to crash Collin’s date with Amanda. At first I’d been disappointed Courtney didn’t come back to our table, until I realized Amanda was a friend of hers. I seized the opportunity to pump her for information. When Collin and Amanda started making plans to go out, I shamelessly jumped onboard, suggesting we should double-date. This time it was Collin’s turn to kick me under the table, but I ignored him. He owed me.

The next night I swung by to pick up Collin on the way to get the girls at Amanda’s dorm. “I still can’t believe you latched on to my date. Why didn’t you just ask this chick out yourself?”

I shrugged. “Desperate times call for desperate measures. Besides, I volunteered to drive, didn’t I?”

“How the hell does that make up for cock-blocking me? What is it about this girl that’s making you act like such a pussy?” He adjusted the vents in the car so the heat was directed at him.

“It’s nothing. We were friends once and now she’s acting a little weird. I figured this way she wouldn’t be able to run off without talking to me.”

“You obviously can’t hear yourself. ‘Oh, I hope she talks to me.’” He batted his eyes, making his best attempt to sound like a girl.

I couldn’t help laughing even though he was making fun of me. That still didn’t mean he didn’t get sucker punched in the arm as we pulled into the parking lot of Amanda’s dorm.

“Hey, dick. Just be a man and admit you want to tap that. Own it.” He rubbed his arm, complaining.

“Don’t worry about what I want,” I warned as we trekked through the snow toward the building.

“Take a pill, Nancy. You should be kissing my ass anyway for letting you tag along.”

I would have answered, but I spotted Courtney and Amanda walking toward us from the common area inside the building. Amanda flashed a brilliant smile at Collin. Courtney, on the other hand, glared at me. One way or another I planned on getting to the bottom of her animosity tonight. “Hey,” I greeted her.

“Hey,” she answered without looking up at me. I think the only reason she acknowledged me was because Amanda nudged her with her elbow. Things quickly became awkward as we stood facing each other with no one saying a word.

“So, everybody knows each other, right? Collin, Dalton—Amanda, Courtney,” Amanda said, pointing back and forth. “This ought to be fun, don’t you think?”

“You’re crazy, girl.” Collin laughed, throwing his arm around her shoulder. We fell into typical two-by-two double date formation with Courtney and me trailing behind as we all walked to the car. I had a ton of shit I wanted to say, but I felt tongue-tied. Collin was right. I was acting like a wuss. I never got tripped up around the ladies. Of course, I’d never had one treat me like such a dirtbag.

Amanda and Collin climbed into the backseat, leaving Courtney to ride shotgun. I could tell by her hesitation that she wasn’t happy about the arrangement, but she never spoke up.

Amanda kept the car ride from becoming uncomfortable by maintaining a running commentary, mostly about basketball. I had to hand it to her. She knew her shit. Courtney didn’t say much despite my efforts to coax her to open up. By the time I pulled into the parking lot of the bowling alley, I was about over it. It was cool seeing her after all these years, and even though I was curious about what her problem was, I wasn’t going to put up with the attitude all night.

I waited until Collin and Amanda entered the bowling alley ahead of us before snagging Courtney’s hand to pull her to a stop.

She jerked her hand free, looking like she could have taken a swing at me. “What the hell?”

“Shouldn’t those be my words? What’s your deal?” I shoved my hands into my pockets in frustration. “Are you completely forgetting that we were friends once?”

“Me? You’re the one who forgot that.” She turned toward the building until I reached out and snagged her hand again.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Are you really that dense? I didn’t think basketball was a contact sport, but you must have taken some shots to the head.”

“What are you talking about? I mean yeah, we stopped hanging out, but we were kids. I don’t understand why we have to be enemies now.”

“Yo, are you guys coming?” Collin yelled from the front door.

“In a minute, bro,” I called back.

Courtney snorted with disbelief before shaking her head, muttering, “Stopped hanging out? Let me clue you in, sport-o. We didn’t stop hanging out. You did. One minute we’re friends and the next you’re gone. All you cared about was basketball. I know that was important, but you just dropped me.”

She stomped off toward the entrance and I let her go this time as I processed her words. Her reasoning felt crazy. We were just kids. What happened to our friendship had been mutual. Well, my dad had a lot to do with it, but she was forgetting all the times I tried reaching out to her. She was the one who acted like she had other shit going on that didn’t concern me. She was the one who became distant. I hadn’t thought about anything from back then for a long time, but it was all suddenly coming back to me now. My dad was all over my ass. Every day it was practice, practice, practice for hours. I remember needing someone to talk to, but the few times I tried with Courtney she pretty much dissed me. I always assumed us drifting apart was a mutual thing. It floored me that she felt I was responsible.

I jogged after her, shaking my head with disbelief. I caught up to her as she was trying to pay for her shoe rental.

“Hey, what are you doing?” I asked.

“Uh—getting my shoes. What do you mean?”

“Like it or not, this is a date. There’s no way in hell I’m letting my girl pay.”

“I’m not your girl,” she said as the pimply-faced teenager behind the counter grinned at us, obviously enjoying the free show.

“Hey, aren’t you Dalton Thompson?” he asked enthusiastically.

“Oh brother,” Courtney said, snatching her shoes off the counter.

“Yeah, what’s up? I need size fifteen and I’ll cover both.” I handed over a ten-dollar bill.

“You think I could get your autograph?” He held up a pen and notepad after placing my change and a pair of bowling shoes on the counter.

I signed the notepad and caught up with Courtney, who was seated at a table changing into her bowling shoes. “Look, Court,” I said, falling back on the nickname I’d used when we were younger. “I didn’t realize you thought I had ditched you. I mean, you remember how my dad was. I guess I always assumed the way basketball sort of took over my life that we both just got busy and stopped making time for each other.”

“It’s no big deal.” The way she tightened up her laces made me think otherwise.

“It is a big deal. Look, I’m sorry if I was the asshole in this situation. I know the past is the past, but it doesn’t mean we can’t be friends now, right? Come on. Friends?” I asked, holding out my hand.

She studied my outstretched hand for a moment before reluctantly placing hers on top. “Fine, friends.”

What I didn’t admit was that I wanted to be more than friends. Everything about Courtney appealed to me. I wanted to discover everything I’d missed over the last eight years.

“Are we playing or what?”Amanda hollered from a nearby lane, interrupting our private chat.

Courtney at least loosened up after that and became marginally warmer as the evening progressed. She surprised me by being a kick-ass bowler and wickedly competitive, like me. I used it to my advantage by goading her into a wager.

“You’re not going to welsh when I seal the deal on this last ball, are you?” I asked, waiting for my ball to return from my first attempt. I should have felt a little remorseful for hustling her phone number out of her, but she didn’t have to take the bet.

“Just roll the ball.” She sat with her arms folded across her chest, knowing she had been defeated. Amanda seemed to find my persistence hilarious while Collin eyed me like aliens had taken over my body. He’d never seen me go to this much trouble chasing a chick. I’d have to corner him before he ran his mouth off to all the guys.

I had to hand it to Courtney. She paid up fair and square. I felt the date had gone well, which only left one thing. I’d given a great deal of thought to the good-night kiss. I had a whole plan worked out, but Courtney dashed it before I had a chance to put it into effect. She practically leaped from my car as soon as we got back to Amanda’s dorm. One minute she was next to me; the next she was gone, like the Flash. She must have tipped off her friend ahead of time, because Amanda didn’t even comment. Collin looked back at me, grinning as he walked Amanda to her dorm. No doubt he’d get a kiss. I was tempted to leave his ass.

I told Collin before dropping him off he’d pay if he harassed me about Courtney in front of the guys, but truthfully I was kidding. I knew he wouldn’t do that. When I got home I pulled out my phone and scrolled to Courtney’s number. Hitting her up this soon would look desperate, and yet I couldn’t put the phone down.

Hey, I texted, feeling like a fool.

Hey yourself. The reply was almost instantaneous, like she was holding her phone.

What R U doing?

Getting ready for bed. U?

And didn’t that conjure wonderful images?

Vegging on my couch.

Fun. Did U need something?

Ouch. She didn’t mess around. Nah, I just wanted to tell U I had fun tonight. U jetted out so quick I didn’t get a chance to mention it. I’d like to see you again. Soon.

Oh, I had fun, too.

But??? I knew a brush-off when I saw one.

No but. I’m just really busy and don’t have much time for the whole dating thing.

I studied her message for a minute before replying. I’d been expecting this. Even though we had made progress tonight, I could tell she had been holding back. I’m not asking you to marry me. We can keep it casual.

Her return text was slow to come in. I groaned when it did. I had walked right into that one. I’m sure casual is the only word you know. No, thanks.

Come on, I didn’t mean it like that. When did you become so elusive?

By elusive you mean why don’t I fall over on my back with my legs spread?

Ouch. Harsh, babe. I wouldn’t let U fall.

Nice try.

You’re tough. What does a guy have to do to get a break?

Maybe not hit on every girl he meets.

Who says I do that?

Please. I’ve seen you in action.

The truth comes out, you’ve been stalking me.

U wish. You’ve been a player since high school.

High school? Give me some credit. I’m more mature now. Scout’s honor.

Ha, you were never a Boy Scout.

Doesn’t mean I’m not a good guy.

So you say.

R U always so distrustful?

Only with basketball players that try to play games off the court, too.

I’m not that guy.

Right, and I’m not rolling my eyes.

I’m going to prove I’m different.

I don’t see how.

I hope you like surprises, because I believe in go big or go home.

We shall see. Lots of guys overestimate their appeal.

I’m wounded. My thumbs flew across the screen. Despite her harsh judgment, I was enjoying myself immensely. She was quick witted and funny in a sarcastic way.

I’m sure. I better go. I have stuff I need to catch up on in the morning.

Okay, I’ll text you tomorrow.

Don’t you have a game or something?

I do but there will be some downtime.

I’ll probably be busy all day.

That’s fine. U can text when U have time. Night, Court.

She didn’t respond again, but I didn’t let it affect me. Chasing Courtney had become more fun than anything I’d done in a while. It was like playing in a big game. I enjoyed the challenge. I thrived on it. I was sure the guys on the team wouldn’t understand, but I didn’t care. Let them chase their own chicks their own way.

chapter seven

Courtney

The chime of an incoming text message woke me. Reaching over to my nightstand, I fumbled around for my cell phone with my eyes still closed. My hand closed around the phone, and I tried to pry my heavy eyelids open to peer at the screen, but they refused to cooperate.

I let my arm fall to the mattress, still clutching my phone in my hand. I needed to get up. There were a million errands to fit in before my shift at Gruby’s tonight. Of course, needing to get up and wanting to get up were two different things. Ignoring the voice of responsibility in my head, I burrowed deeper into my blanket. It was freaking freezing outside, and my bed felt too good. The sound of my phone chiming again made my eyelids spring open. Who could possibly be texting me so early?

Peering at the screen, I saw another text from Dalton. I couldn’t believe how persistent he was. It was hard to let go of all the hurt I’d allowed to fester into anger over the years, but he’d made a good point during our date last night. When Dalton had gotten too busy for me, I could have put up a fight. Instead I wallowed in self-pity. The few times he tried to call I’d always acted like I was too busy. After listening to his side of the story, I probably owed him the same apology he’d given me. That being said, clearing the air the way we had didn’t make it any easier to start dating him.

Morning, Sunshine. I snorted reading the message as a sensation of warmth filled my stomach.

Who is this?

U wound me.

I bet.

Seriously. Your words are like a knife to my tender heart.

Oh Lord. It’s getting deep in here. Where R U?

At the airport.

Fun.

 Honestly, traveling is the worst part of the season.

 You mean you don’t have fans everywhere you go?

 Sure, sometimes. It’s still not like being home. Plus some of the guys are more responsible than others.

 What about U?

 I listen to Coach. Whatever he says goes.

 What about when it comes to girls? How would your coach feel if he knew you were texting me, trying to get in my pants?

 Hey! Whoa! Who said I was trying to get in your pants?

 Do I have idiot stamped on my forehead?

 Not sure. I’m not there.

Let’s assume I don’t. We both know what’s going on here. My words were blunt, but that was my intention.

 We do?

 Dalton, don’t be coy. It doesn’t suit you.

Fine. I like you, Court, and I want to go out with you even though you’re just trying to get in my pants. A startled laugh left me after reading his text. He was seriously incorrigible.

 You’re a mess.

 By mess you mean adorable, right?

 Were you dropped on your head a lot as a baby?

Go out with me again. He switched gears, no longer dancing around what he wanted.

 That would be a little hard since you’re out of town.

 I mean when I get back.

 That probably isn’t a good idea.

 Why not?

Because I’ll spend the whole time trying to get in your pants. I could feel the corners of my mouth lifting, knowing he had just read my text.

 That’s a risk I’m willing to take. Is that a yes?

The smile left my face as I studied his words. I felt like I was standing on the edge of a cliff. If I took the plunge, there was a chance it would leave my heart bleeding and broken on the rocks below. The kicker to the situation was that I did want to go out with him. His attention over the past week was a heady experience. More than half the female population on campus would gladly switch places with me. Maybe if I kept the date fun and casual without allowing my heart to become involved like before, I would be more comfortable saying yes.

 Court???? R U still there?

 Yep.

 Will U?

How do I know you’re not toying with me? I hated that I felt the need to ask the question. It made me sound like some insecure little girl.

 You’re going to have to trust me. I’m not going to hurt you again. I promise.

 What are you willing to do?

 U mean like to prove myself?

 Yep.

 Sounds like you already have something in mind.

 Maybe.

 Let me guess, you want me to tie myself to a flagpole and declare my love for you in front of everyone?

Sounds like you’re the one who had something in mind, I teased. It’s a good idea, but I had something else in mind. I couldn’t help giggling as I filled him in on what I expected him to do. If he actually went through with it, there would be no way I could say no to a date with him. I wasn’t even sure I would do what I asked if I were in his shoes. Regardless of the fun I was having, I reluctantly told him I needed to get going.

Our text conversation played through my head the rest of the day as I tried to cram a week’s worth of errands into a few hours. Saturdays were always my catch-up day since work, classes, and homework consumed my time during the week. Sunday was completely devoted to Mom. We’d made a pact years ago that we would always make Sundays our day to get together. We weren’t religious or anything. Mom just strongly felt Sunday should be a family day. It didn’t matter that it was just the two of us. It was because of her that I never missed not having a dad. Mom played both parental roles and she did it flawlessly. We had a special relationship.

Not surprisingly, Gruby’s was packed to the gills. Tonight’s game was nationally televised, which drew a lot of attention. There wasn’t a single empty seat in the place, meaning a great night of tips for me.

The game hadn’t started yet, but the pregame show was blaring from every TV. I was busy handling numerous tables but managed to catch snippets of the announcing crew discussing the team’s chances of being a number-one seed in the upcoming March tournament. My ears especially perked up when I heard them mention Dalton’s name. I stopped for a moment to watch the clips from the previous game showing Dalton shooting one three-pointer after another. The crowd in the restaurant cheered loudly with each swish through the net like it was happening live.

It felt strange to watch everyone react so strongly to everything he did. Like they were all worshipping Saint Dalton. I wondered what it must feel like knowing the hopes and dreams of an entire university rested in your hands. I felt the stirrings of doubt as I began to second-guess my decision to give him a chance. How could someone like him be interested in me? Of course, that was if he actually went through with his end of the bargain. If not, I’d have my out. The chances of him backing out had to be high. My request was admittedly ridiculous. Surely he’d come to his senses and move on to the next girl.

The sound of the announcers laughing on the TV grabbed my attention once again. “What does Dalton Thompson have painted on his face?” I pivoted around, groaning when I saw the glaring evidence of my dare on the giant six-foot screen. “Is that a heart?” one of the announcers asked incredulously.

Everyone in Gruby’s stared at the TV screens, trying to make sense of what they were seeing. I couldn’t believe he went through with it. A laugh bubbled up in my throat. He had risked making himself a bit of a spectacle to his teammates, coaches, and even the media to go out on one date with me. There was no way I could back out now.

Amanda squealed, sliding up next to me. “Holy shit. Why does Dalton have a heart stenciled on his cheek?”

I tried to look innocent, but the goofy grin on my face gave me away.

“Slap my ass and call me a tramp. You’re responsible for this?”

I clamped a hand across her mouth. “Shush, you don’t have to announce it to the whole restaurant.”

“Why is he wearing a heart?” she mumbled through my fingers.

“I sorta told him I’d go out with him again if he painted a bright red heart on his cheek for the game.” I admitted it but felt more than a little embarrassed about my request.

“OMG, that is fucking hilarious.”

I grinned at her. The announcers were still speculating about the heart. One commented maybe it had something to do with Valentine’s Day, even though that was a few weeks prior. The other suggested maybe it was for his mother. Regardless, the fact that Dalton Thompson did it made it news.

Amanda gushed now that my hand wasn’t wrapped around her mouth. “Holy crap. You’re going out with Dalton again?”

“And that’s the reaction I was worried about. One can’t simply go out with Dalton without everyone speculating. Can you imagine the shit he’s going to get?”

“What are you talking about? Any guy would be lucky to date you.”

I snorted. “Right, because I’m so knockout gorgeous.”

“Shut up. You have to know you’re a bombshell. Sure, maybe travel-sized, but beautiful nonetheless. You’re proportioned just right. Trust me. Girls are jealous of your knockers and ass.”

I laughed at her choice of words even though I was sure she was blowing sunshine up my ass. Long-legged twigs were what guys were looking for, in my opinion. I wasn’t sure what Dalton’s deal was with me. Maybe he had a list and he had reached short and curvy.

“How else do you figure you got a recognized player to paint his face for a nationally televised game? I couldn’t even get my douche-canoe ex to stick around.”

“Well, he was an ass. It seemed like you and Collin hit it off last night, though.”

“We did. We’re supposed to go out again when he gets back, but . . .”

“Oh no. What’s wrong with him?” I knew that tone in her voice. “You didn’t even give him a chance,” I said, thinking about poor Collin. Amanda’s dating track record was less than stellar.

“I don’t know. He seems a little too good to be true. I’m waiting for the second date to see if his true colors come out.”

“Oh my. God forbid he’s a good guy.”

“Ha. You’re a fine one to speak. You’ve got the team’s all-star jumping through hoops and you’re all like, ‘I’m too ugly.’ Seriously?”

“Don’t be a jerk.” I chuckled, swiping at her. “I bet Collin would do the same for you.”

She smirked. “I’m not so sure of that. Dalton is pursuing you like you’re holding the golden ticket to Wonka’s Factory. He wants your candy.”

“Shut it.” I frowned at her with butterflies dancing lightly in my stomach.

The heart on Dalton’s face was a popular topic the rest of the evening. Especially since Dalton played great, as usual. As the last few minutes of the game ticked away, the announcers declared the heart a lucky charm and speculated whether Dalton would repeat it for every game. I could have spoken up and at least set everyone at Gruby’s straight, but I kept my lips tightly closed.