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“I want to talk to you about a matter of practicality.” His eyes,so like James’s, look me over. I shiver. How James and his siblings handled having that look directed at them growing up is beyond me. “I have no problem with you dating him. In fact, I think you’ve been good for him. In an ideal world, you’ll be in his life for a long time. But we agree that the most important thing is for him to fulfill his destiny, right? He should have the chance to become the legend he has the talent and potential to be.”
I nod; that’s easy. “Yes. It’s all I want for him.”
“Good. We’re in agreement.” He cocks his head to the side slightly. “All I’m asking is for you not to threaten that. If my son cares for you, he’ll put you first. He’ll never put himself first. And that’s exactly what he needs to do right now.” He takes a step closer. “Whatever problems you’re dealing with, whatever leads to phone conversations likethat—don’t tell him. Don’t make it his problem. Not now. Do you understand?”
He’s right. There was a problem at the diner, and James practically fought to come with me. If he knew about Darryl, he’d do something he’d just regret later. “I understand.”
“Good.” He reaches out and squeezes my shoulder. “And Bex? A word of advice.”
I look up at him. He has a serious expression on his face, but there’s softness in there, too. It’s almost fatherly. I haven’t had a look like that directed at me in years.
I hate how much it affects me.
“This goes for the diner, too. Think long and hard before tying yourself to it. Because he won’t choose the team he ends up on.”
“I know.”
“He’d be faithful, but would it be the best thing for you both? Think about it.”
He gives my shoulder another squeeze before smiling and walking back to the den, leaving me alone in the hallway.
I wipe at my eyes, taking a deep breath, and tell myself to move.
Instead, I stare down at my phone. Since I blocked Darryl’s number, I have no idea if the calls have stopped. I take a chance and unblock it, sending a text that does nothing to slow my heart rate or ease the tension in my shoulders.
Let’s talk before the game.
Chapter 36
Bex
If someone told me back before the semester started that on January 2nd, I’d be in Atlanta to watch my boyfriend play in the college football national championship, I’d have demanded to know how I got back together with Darryl.
Instead, I have James.
When I kissed him at that party, I couldn’t have imagined a future where we’d be together. In love with each other. Where I’d be supporting him in the biggest moment of his life so far, my camera slung over my neck because I’m using my student press pass to take photographs during the game.
It might be the biggest moment of my life so far, too.
I just need to get this talk with Darryl out of the way.
It’s probably pointless to try and reason with him, but I can’t help myself. We do have history, even if all he’s been doing is working to sour it at every turn. Maybe there’s something I can say to get through to him once and for all that I don’t want him texting me, or calling, or seeking me out on campus, and I definitely have no plans to get back together with him.
I find him in the hallway near the locker room. There’s still some time before the game, so he’s not in his uniform yet, and he hasn’t put any eyeblack on his cheeks. He runs his hand through his hair, which is shorter than the last time I saw him, and gives me a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. Did he smile differently when he thought he liked me, or did I just see it in a different light?
“Bexy.”
I sigh. There’s no point in trying to correct him. “Darryl. Are you ready for the game?”
He reaches out and tugs at my press pass. “Oh, shit, look at you.”
I lean back slightly. “You have to stop doing this.”
“Doing what?” he says. “Trying to get back my girlfriend?”
“Yes.” I cross my arms over my chest. I’m wearing James’s jersey, and I know it’s not productive right now, but I hope it annoys him. “You gave that up when you cheated on me.”
“And I told you, that was a mistake. Worst mistake I ever made.”
