I cup her face with one hand, feeling the weight of everyone’s gaze on us. My lips press down onto hers, soft and warm, staking my claim for all to witness. By Monday at school, everyone will know she’s mine.
Serenity’s hand pushes against my chest as I deepen the kiss she’s fighting hard to resist. I nibble on her lips, coaxing her to let my tongue in. Her body melts against me, finally giving in. Her hungry lips part, and I slide my tongue inside, claiming her completely.
“Get a room!” someone shouts.
Serenity’s eyes snap open, and she pulls away.
I smirk and let go. She stumbles back but quickly finds her footing.
Noré grabs her arm, pulling her into the circle. Her teammates bombard her with questions about the kiss.
Vick strides over. “Hey Nico, what’s going on?”
“Nothing much. Just out with my girlfriend. We’re heading to dinner.”
He nods approvingly. “Nice one, Pitucco. Catch you at practice.”
Four hundred points already banked for that kiss.
From across the lobby, Lorna shoots me a fierce glare. She looks pissed. But why? We’re not together. Never will be. Maybe she’s jealous of Serenity. Her friend Daniella yanks her arm, pulling her toward the concession stand.
“Trouble in paradise,” Rod sneers beside me.
“Fuck off, Rod.”
“Serenity’s way out of your league.”
I spin on him. “Mind your fucking business, Rod.”
Katy clamps a hand on his arm, eyes wide and gray. “Come on, Rod. The movie’s about to start.”
He mumbles, surrenders, and walks away.
I glance at the circle of cheerleaders swarming Serenity, firing off questions about her new relationship.
I stalk toward the group, scowling. “Alright, ladies, I’m taking your friend. We’re going on our date.” I grab Serenity’s hand.
“We’re not going out,” she says through clenched teeth.
“Tell your friends goodbye,” I insist.
Serenity exhales. “Goodbye. See you Monday at practice.”
“Bye, Serenity,” the girls chorus.
“They’re so cute together,” Noré comments.
Outside, I lead Serenity to my car.
“I’ll follow you in mine,” she offers.
I say nothing.
As I draw near, I give a nod to her bodyguards, Fitz and Javier. “Serenity and I are going out. See that her car makes it home.”
Javier, her lead guard, glances at Serenity. “You’re going on a date? With him?” She shakes her head. “It’s not a date.” I entwine our fingers. “Catch you at the restaurant, guys.”
She tries to pull her hand free. “The more you resist, the more I’ll hold on.” Another eye-roll from her. “Fine. Let’s just get this over with.” Serenity thinks she can shake me off. Not until the school year ends.
