Page 99 of Rush

“Yeah, of course,” I say, a little embarrassed. “That’d be great. Actually, you know what? I’ll come with you,” I add, feeling a little braver, going with someone.

“I’m taking it, you haven’t been near the bar since you got here?” he says.

I shake my head, biting my lip.

“Don’t put yourself through it then. I’m used to it. But it takes time. I’ll go.”

“Thank you. That’s really kind of you.”

He shrugs. “So, what nonalcoholic beverage can I get you?” he says with a flourish.

I laugh. “Sparkling water’s fine.”

He pulls a comedic face. “No way! Why don’t you go wild and join me for a Coke? Diet, of course.”

I laugh again. “Okay. A Diet Coke would be great. Thanks.”

I watch him walk away in the direction of the bar, and then I turn back to the room.

I get my cell from my purse and check it. There’s a text from Ares. He must have just sent it before they went on the field.

I’m so proud of you, going there alone tonight, babe. You’re amazing. Love you. See you tomorrow. xx

Smiling, I tap back a reply.

I’m proud of me, too. Have a great game. Love you, too. Can’t wait to see you! xx

I open the NFL app on my phone to check the score. Giants are winning.

“You look happy.” Leo appears beside me.

He holds out my Diet Coke, and I take it from him.

“Thanks. Giants are winning,” I tell him, and he smiles.

I close down the app and put my cell away. I have a drink of my Coke.

I wince. It tastes a bit bitter.

“Everything okay?” Leo asks.

“Yeah, my Coke just tastes a bit…iffy.”

He frowns and then takes a sip of his own Coke. He pulls a face. “Yeah, it’s not great. Must be cheap Coke instead of the real stuff. You want me to get you a different drink?” He holds his hand out for my glass.

“No, it’s fine.” I smile, waving him off. I feel bad that he went to get me a drink, and I’m complaining about it. I take another sip. It’s actually not too bad the second time, so it must’ve been me. “It’s actually not too bad,” I tell him, “once you get used to it.”

He sips his own drink, trying it again. “Yeah”—he smiles at me over the rim of his glass—“I think you’re right.”

I take another sip and hold the glass to my chest. “So, I know you’re working, but are you going to bid on anything?”

He shakes his head, an uncomfortable smile on his face. “No…I think the items are going to be a bit out of my price range.”

“Mine, too,” I tell him, and his smile relaxes. “But my dad asked me to put a bid in for him. My choice.”

“Spending the ’rent’s money. Always a bonus.” He chuckles.

I laugh, too, but I don’t actually agree with the statement. I hate spending my dad’s money. I hate that I still owe him so much money. I’m only comfortable doing this because I’m buying this for him. I wouldn’t be comfortable with taking his money and buying something for myself.