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I look up at the scoreboard and wipe the sweat from my forehead with my jersey. It’s not even really a question at this point; this one is in the bag. We’re hanging on to our ten-point lead as the clock ticks down. The buzzer sounds, and I take a deep breath. That was a good game. I felt like myself in that game, and it’s been a while since I felt that. I can’t help my smile as Star drops an arm around my shoulders and gives me a quick side hug. “And that’s how it’s done.”
“Good game, Star.”
“And a great game to you, Riley! How many points did you score?” she asks as we walk towards the bench.
“I don’t know.”
She shakes her head. “I don’t know how you don’t know. I always know how many points I make in a game. It’s called keeping a running total.”
I elbow her in the side, and she laughs. The rest of our teammates congratulate us, and we spend a moment acknowledging the other team. Then we make our way off the court. I can’t help my smile when we get close to the hallway where the guys are getting ready to make their entrance. They whistle and celebrate our win with us, but there’s one guy that catches and holds my attention.Hey, Handsome,I say through our bond when I get close.Go show them how it’s done.
He surprises me by pulling me into his arms. His teammates whistle and cheer, but I ignore them.You were amazing out there! Great game, Baby. You looked so hot out there.
My inner temperature starts to rise, and I know I need to create some space between us. He has a game to focus on, and I need to let him go. I pull back, and he instantly releases me. I step up on tiptoe and kiss his cheek.I’ll see you after the game.
He locks eyes with me.I’m counting on it.
Somebody gives the call for them to go.Go get this one!
He nods at me, nothing but focused now, and then runs out with his team. I watch them a minute and then hurry to the locker room, so I can shower and change and head out to watch the game. Thankfully, Coach doesn’t keep us long. I take a fast shower and then dress in our travel outfit—black athletic pants and FMU navy pullover and head out to watch the game. “Riley!” I turn back to see Star hurrying after me.
“You’re so fast.”
“I don’t want to miss this game.”
She links her arm with mine. “Definitely. It should be a good one.”
Thankfully, the guys are still warming up; so, we didn't miss anything. “Do you want to grab anything to eat or go sit—” I don’t finish my question because there’s suddenly a tall guy standing in front of us, likerightin front of us. He glares down at me. “Uh, can I help you?” I manage to ask.
“Yeah, number fifty-two, you can.” I lift my eyebrows in surprise. I glance at Star, but she looks just as confused as I do. “My girl played against you tonight. You hurt her.”
I frown in confusion. I don’t remember hurting anyone. “Are you sure?” I start. He takes a step closer, and I step back to avoid him...right into a firm chest.
“Is there a problem here?” Reid’s words are like blades. “Is there a reason you’re in my girl’s face?”
Any other time, I think I would love the possessiveness and protection he’s offering, but not right now.I’ve got this,I send him. “What are you talking about? How did I hurt your girl?”
The guy’s attention leaves Reid to settle back on me, and I feel Reid step even closer. “When you went up for that layup, you took my girl out. She hit her head on the wood floor hard. She probably has a concussion.”
I suddenly remember the play at the end of the third quarter when I went on a fast break, and this girl came out of nowhere and slammed into me in the air, sending both of us to the ground. “Are you talking about the girl that body slammed Riley on her fastbreak?” Star asks with wide eyes that quickly narrow. “Is your girl number thirteen?” He nods, and Star opens her mouth to speak, but Reid beats her to it.
“She should have gotten a flagrant foul for that move,” Reid grounds out. “Now, I suggest you back off and leave my girl alone unless you want us to get the authorities involved.”
This finally gets through to the guy, and he turns away in disgust. I whirl around to face Reid. “Thanks, Marshall; but I had that.”
His face instantly changes, losing its anger. “I know you did, but thanks for letting me feel like I was protecting you.” He kisses me on the cheek and then heads back out onto the court.
When I look back at Star, she grins. “He’s pretty much perfect for you.”
I shake my head reluctantly. “I know. Let’s go get some food; I’m starving.”
With arms laden full of food, we make our way to our seats. Because we’re players in this tournament, we all get seats near the floor, which is fun.Hey, Love.My mom’s voice in my head catches my attention.
Hey, Mom. What's up?
I won’t keep you. I’m sure you’re at Reid’s game.
