Page 53 of Cheap Shot

Jay’s brows shot up. “You didn’t act like you had a boyfriend last night.”

I wasn’t sure if he was trying to cause drama or poke holes in our story, but Simon didn’t flinch. “Oh, this was the guy giving you problems?”

I met his eyes and nodded, ready to hug him for picking up on things so quickly.

“Yeah, she called me and said she was uncomfortable, so I picked her up. She was really upset that someone ruined the girls’ night out.” His voice grew a bit threatening.

Jay held up his hands. “Whatever, man. She was flirting with me and all over me. If you want that trash, you can have her.”

He shoved past us and hit the door so hard it swung out and hit the wall with a crack.

I stepped away from Simon and let out a sigh. “Thank you so much.”

He nodded, his eyes full of concern. “I noticed how uncomfortable you looked over there, then heard you say you weren’t interested. I didn’t like that he started following you, so I stepped in.”

“I really appreciate it. He wasn’t taking no for an answer.” I was almost shaking now. Adrenaline had kept me alert during the whole altercation, but now I was burned out.

“I’m glad I could help. I hate seeing guys put girls in bad situations.”

“You look familiar.” I couldn’t place where I’d seen him before.

“We’re in the same biology class,” he explained.

I nodded. “Right, yes! Sorry, my brain is kind of foggy.”

He looked me over. “Do you want me to walk you anywhere? It doesn’t have to be your dorm if you don’t want me to know where you live. I can take you to meet up with friends or something.”

He was so thoughtful, and I was tempted to take him up on his offer, but he’d already done enough for me.

“That’s okay, but thanks for offering. I don’t think he’ll be bothering me anymore.”

He nodded once. “If you’re sure.”

“Yeah, I’ll see you later.” I hesitated. “Thank you again.”

He smiled. “No problem. See you in class.”

I was nervous Jay would be waiting for me outside, but he was nowhere to be seen so I hurried across campus toward my dorm. I kept my head up, paying attention to my surroundings even though it was still busy with students milling around.

I was hoping to run into one of the girls or even my political science group but didn’t see any familiar faces on my way. I could see the dining building when I heard my name called.

It was a male voice I didn’t recognize, and I was tempted to ignore it but turned my head just enough in the direction to see Reid and his little brother walking on the path parallel to mine. It must have been Jake that called out.

I waved, and we continued on the sidewalks as they merged together. “Hi, guys.”

Reid eyed me, and Jake grinned.

“Are you okay?” Reid asked. Of course, he could tell something was wrong. He seemed to have an uncanny ability to sense my emotions.

I shrugged. “I’ve had better days.”

Jake chuckled. “I feel you. I thought I was in shape, but one practice with the team, and I’m pretty sure my legs are going to fall off. I’m not sure how I’m even walking right now.”

I laughed. “So are you guys heading in?”

“We’re actually going to grab an early dinner,” Reid answered. “Do you want to come?”

I glanced at Jake. I didn't want to invade their brother time. “Oh no.”