The Freshman (College Years 1)

“Who’s your friend?” One of them asks. It’s Caleb. The player.

Oh no.

If he flirts with her, even the slightest bit, she will fall madly in love.

“This is Gracie. She’s my roommate and best friend,” I say, sending a look to Caleb that says I will cut a bitch if he tries to flirt with her.

As in, he’s the bitch I will cut, so he better back off.

“Nice to meet you,” Tony says to Gracie, offering her his hand.

She takes it, sending me a quick look that I can’t quite decipher. “Nice meeting you too, Tony.”

Tony’s smile widens when his gaze returns to mine. “You’ve told her about me.”

“I have.”

“I’m flattered.”

“It’s no big deal.” I wave a dismissive hand. It’s Gracie’s turn to elbow me in the ribs.

“What are you guys up to?” Gracie asks.

“We just finished class. We always meet up here in the quad on Tuesday when we can and grab a late lunch before practice,” Tony explains.

I file that information away for later. “Nice,” I say casually. As if I haven’t been out here waiting for him. “I’m so glad we ran into each other.”

Gracie giggles. I ignore her.

“Me too.” Tony shoves his hands in his pockets and we just stare at each other for a moment. Memories of our encounter in his car ping between us and the tension grows thick. I can feel it.

Can anyone else?

Gracie clears her throat. “Hey, Tony. What are you doing tonight?”

Oh no.

“Nothing. Why?” His dark brows pull together.

“Well, I’m going to a concert at Strummers, and I invited Hayden to go with me.” I glare at her, silently willing her to shut up, but she just keeps talking. “And I thought it would be fun if you came with us too.”

Tony’s words are for me. “You cool with that?”

I shrug. Like it’s no big deal, though inside I’m dying. I mean, I don’t want to go to this shitty concert, but if I can go with Tony? Then, yes. Please sign me up. “Yes, I’m cool with it.”

“Great.” His focus is now on Gracie and he smiles at her. She appears a little dazzled by its appearance and I want to tell her, girl, same.

But I don’t.

“Thank you for inviting me,” he continues.

“You need a date?” Caleb pops out of the group and approaches Gracie, a flirtatious smile curving his lips as he saunters toward her. “Because if you do, I’m your man.”

“I’m going tonight to watch the lead singer. He’s my boyfriend,” she says pointedly.

Well, Robin isn’t her boyfriend yet, but I guess she doesn’t need to clarify that particular fact to Caleb.

“And I’ll be your bodyguard. What do you say? I’m sure your boyfriend would appreciate two big, strong football players watching over you in the crowd.”