Page 102 of Wallflower

"No thanks," I said. "I should go."

As Dare walked me to the door, I picked up my shoes, stopped and turned around.

"You know, you should really make an effort to come to Dare's games," I said.

"It's okay, Vi," Dare said softly.

"No, it's not," I said back. Then added, "He has a gift. It's plain for everyone to see. Dare's the best on our team, and he's going to do great things, probably go to college on a scholarship and play for the pros one day. He's that amazing."

His dad gave me a patronizing grin. "We have jobs, young lady. We can't just drop everything to see every single one of his soccer games."

"What about just one?" I countered.

After a moment, I shook my head.

"The saddest thing is you're his parents. You really have no idea how wonderful you son is. Do you?"

They just gaped at me as I left, but I didn't care. Dare was right. His parents really did suck. And someone had to say it. I walked blindly out to the driveway. It took me a few minutes to put on my shoes and get the car door open. I was that upset. But as I was finally about to get in, Dare grabbed my elbow. As I turned, he pressed my clothes into my arms.

"Fresh out of the dryer," he said.

"Thanks," I said back, avoiding his eyes.

Placing his hand under my chin, Dare lifted until I had to look at him.

"Thank you," he said. "No one's ever stood up for me like that."

I swallowed. "No problem. They may hate me now, but it was worth it."

I could do nothing as he lowered his head and placed a gentle kiss on my temple. My eyes closed as he let out a breath.

"Drive safe, flower. I'll see you in the morning."

I left feeling lighter than air. Maybe something really could happen between us, I thought. Maybe Dare just didn't believe in love because he hadn't found his person yet. Maybe…I could be that person.

For him.

Maybe he could be it for me.

Hope was a dangerous thing, but it sprang eternal in my chest as I looked in the rearview mirror and noticed Dare watching as I drove away.

CHAPTER 17

Dare was quiet on the drive to school.

I didn't think much of it.

I mean, we'd had a pretty long talk the other night, so maybe he needed space. No problem. I could give him that. But when he refused the breakfast I brought him? That was when I grew concerned. Dare loved to eat. Anything, everything, I was pretty sure the boy was constantly hungry.

When I parked, I looked over to him, but he was staring straight ahead.

"Everything okay?" I asked, keeping my tone light.

He jolted as if startled. "Oh yeah. Just got a lot on my mind."

"Care to share?"

Dare gave a half-smile. "You worried about me, flower?"

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