When he steps back, I blink out of my daze. He’s smirking as he slips his hands in his pockets. “Have a great game. See you on the field.”
I open my mouth to reply, but Quinn links her arm through mine and pulls me to the door. She mumbles something about us being ridiculous. This time, I have to agree.
*****
I suck down the remaining water in my bottle and scan the field, watching the stadium empty. Jeremy pats me on the back and then disappears through the tunnel to the locker rooms. Quinn plops on the ground dramatically, blowing out a deep breath.
“I’m exhausted. First game of the season kills me.”
I nod, searching for Bryce, and see him walking my way with Dean. There are two people following him, and when they get close enough, I squeal, sprinting to them.
Shana’s arm stretches out, and I fly into them. She hugs me back, twisting us in place.
“This has turned out to be quite the start of a semester for you. I’m extremely impressed with your work, Harris.”
“Thank you, Shana. That means the world to me.” My voice clogs with emotion. I step back and hit a wall of muscle. Bryce’s arms wrap around my waist, holding me to him.
Professor Grant gives me a small smile as Quinn greets Shana. She starts to introduce Dean, but Shana holds up a hand.
“We’ve all met. I’ve spent the last quarter of this game with these guys dissecting every play on the field.”
“Really? How’d that happen?”
“I emailed Henry that I was coming. We made plans to finally meet,” Bryce replies. “Shana being here for the weekend was a surprise, but I figured you’d be excited.”
“Actually, Bryce, I’m here for a while, working on a special assignment. Devon and I haven’t found the time to get together since I arrived in Virginia,” Shana informs him and leans into Professor Grant’s side.
My chin tips to the ground as I try to hide my smile.
“Well, if you’re interested in joining us, I invited her team from Brazil to have lunch tomorrow. I’d like to meet them and hear more about your trip.”
My smile vanishes, and I snap my head up, turning quickly. Bryce’s expression is relaxed and calm, but his eyes are challenging me. He knows I won’t start an argument with him in front of not only my professor but also my mentor.
He unwraps his hold on me and throws his hands up with innocence. I squint my eyes but am distracted by Quinn’s loud cackling. She bends over, holding her stomach, and laughs obnoxiously until everyone in our group is smiling—except me.
“How does chillin’ sound now?” she goads me.
I straighten my shoulders and give her an evil glare before pasting on a smile and turning to Professor Grant and Shana. “The lunch is a complete surprise, but I agree with Bryce. It would be great if you could join us.”
“Another time. We have plans tomorrow.” Professor Grant declines.
We small talk for a few more minutes before Shana promises to contact me soon, and they leave. I watch Professor Grant slide his hand down her arm and link their fingers together. She turns and gives me a quick wink. My heart warms at the small act, and Quinn exhales loudly beside me.
“Looks like we don’t have to worry about match-making them anymore.”
“I guess not. They’re really cute together.”
“Now that I know their story, he’s totally hot. A bit dorky but still smokin’. ”
“Totally agree.”
“Are they a couple? I thought they were only colleagues but seeing them together blows that theory out of the water.” Bryce looks at me confused .
“It’s a long story, but I hope it ends with them as a couple,” I answer and don’t elaborate. Then I remember his stunt earlier and give Quinn a small pat, indicating to go along with me. “Anyway, I’m totally disgusting and can’t wait to take a shower and get out of this sweaty uniform. You agree?”
“Absolutely, I need a shower ASAP.” She fans herself. “Why don’t we clean up here in the locker room and meet y’all at the bar?”
“Perfect idea!” I sing a little too cheerily, smiling at Bryce.