Roughing

Now, I have everyone at the table’s attention, whether I wanted it or not. Bringing Tori here, even with our friends to run interference, was a mistake.

I turn away, checking out the right side of the cafeteria and frown when I see Harper strutting over to our table with her friends. She slides a chair between Clay and Finch, focused on me the entire time. I try to ignore her, but the two feet separating us is not enough. The devilish grin she wears, although not unusual for Harper, makes me want to throw her over my shoulder and drag her from the room. I keep my fingers crossed that she shuts her mouth in front of Tori. We have an arrangement for a reason.

Harper scans my face, acknowledging my warning with a nod. We don’t need words to communicate. She knows the deal. But that doesn’t mean she won’t make Tori’s life a living hell instead of mine.

“Bash,” she coos, “I see you’ve brought the trash with you. I didn’t realize you were doing charity work this weekend. How nice of you.”

Balling my hands into fists at my sides, I yell, “Knock it off, Harper. Apologize. Right now!”

Tori rolls her eyes and chugs the last sip of her soda. “It’s okay, Bash. I can handle this bitch.”

“What did you just call me?” Harper squeaks out.

“You heard me, bitch,” Tori says, her face like stone.

I always loved that fight inside of Tori. It was one of the things I liked most about her. That’s why it upset me so much to see the fire die inside her over the years. I’m glad it’s back.

“He doesn’t even like you,” Harper spits back.

“Harper, stop it!” I yell, crossing my arms over my chest. “I am sick of this shit. You need to leave.”

Her lip quivers at my words. “You don’t mean that.”

“I do,” I say, pointing toward the exit doors. “Now, go. You are not wanted here.”

She folds her hands on the table, leaning forward. “You’re an ass; you know that? You had better stop by tonight, or you will be sorry.”

I do not doubt that she will make things worse now that Tori is back in my sights. It has taken me far too long to get close to Tori again. I’m stuck in a tough position. Harper knows the secret I’ve kept from Tori all these years. A secret that will make Tori hate me. But Harper also knows the truth, and the truth is what Tori would want from me. It would give her closure. If I don’t give in to Harper’s demands, she will make sure Tori finds out. I can’t have that.

“Later, Harper,” I say, shooing her away.

She shakes her head, teeth clenched in anger. Without another word, she gets up from the table, her three minions following behind her as if she’s a celebrity flanked by her team.

I dig my fingers through my hair, frustrated, flashing a forced smile at Tori. “I’m sorry about that.”

She shrugs, unaffected by the exchange with Harper. “It’s nothing. She’s an idiot.”

“How are you feeling?”

“Okay. I’m lightheaded, but for the most part, not bad. I think I could use a nap.”

“We can leave,” I say, pushing my chair out from the table.

“Already,” Jessica whines. “Don’t let that hooker be the reason you’re leaving. She was just trying to get under your skin.”

Tori laughs. “Like I care about Harper. I don’t feel good. I promise I just need some sleep. Have fun this weekend. Don’t worry about me.”

Jessica snorts at her comment. “As if I can ignore the fact my best friend has a concussion and enjoy my weekend.” Jessica turns to Clay. “Would you mind if we cancel our plans for tonight?”

“Jess, C'mon,” Clay says, trying not to look too disappointed. “Bash can take care of Tori. If anyone knows how to nurse a concussion, it’s Bash. She’s in good hands.”

“But—” Clay interrupts Jessica’s train of thought.

“It took me a month to get reservations for tonight, and that was with my dad’s connections. Just let Bash handle things.”

“He’s right,” Tori says. “I will be fine.”

Jessica cocks an eyebrow at Tori. “Really?”