Landon pulls me to his chest, and presses a kiss to my forehead. “It’s okay. I understand why you didn’t. But you’re right, we do need to do some damage control. Get ahead of it before that witch talks to anyone else.”
I pull back and straighten my shoulders. “I’ll go see if Harrison is still in his office.”
“We’ll do it together.”
I shake my head. “No way. I don’t want to drag you into my mess. This is on me.”
A sad smile tugs at his lips. “You don’t always have to do things on your own, you know. I’ve got your back, and I’ll stand by your side through all of this bullshit.”
“But I don’t want you to get in trouble.”
“As long as I’m with you, it’ll be worth it.”
Something warm pools in my chest, spreading over me like a comforting blanket.
Landon’s eyebrow arches. “You’re looking at me like you want to kiss me.”
I chuckle and hold out my palm, waiting for his hand. “Play your cards right, you might get more than a kiss.”
He waggles his eyebrows. “Come on. Let’s go get into some trouble.”
Chapter 28
Landon
Junior Year - June
I avoideye-contact with everyone in the locker room.
I got here early so I could change before the guys came in. Don’t need anyone questioning the bruising on my ribs. I wrapped myself as tight as I could, and I have the pads to protect me.
I just have to make it through this game.
One game.
I can do this.
Patrick claps me on the back, and I swallow down an agonizing groan. “Scouts are coming today. You ready?”
“Of course.” I nod once. “Been ready.”
I’ve been waiting for this moment for years.
The assistant coach from the UCLA men’s lacrosse team will be in the stands.
For me.
This is the moment my life changes forever.
Dad knew this, which is why he made sure to go extra hard on me today. I should’ve grabbed dinner somewhere near schoolinstead of going home. Should’ve told him I was going to the library to study. But Mom was excited to cook my favorite meal before the big game. I couldn’t let her down.
I push off the bench, and my ribs scream in protest, but I swallow the pain. Bury it deep.
I’ll play my best no matter how much it hurts.
That asshole won’t take this away from me.
I step out of the locker room, and Ainsley leans against the wall, spinning her stick in her hands, waiting for me like she always does.
