Page 66 of Forever Cursed

Glancing down, I sigh when I recognize his handwriting. I haven’t seen it often, but I would recognize those fancy curves anywhere.

Oh, Rome, we talked about this.

“Rome is being very cooperative with the mentorship. I’ll talk to him once I find him.”

I want to tell him Rome provided the notes on the plays. He’s been helping the rookies get acclimated and ensuring everyone is okay during and after practice. But then I would be stepping on Rome’s toes. He’s finally opening up to me. I don’t want to push him away by crossing a boundary.

“Thank you.”

I offer him a small smile before turning around and heading back into the hallway.

I’m at a loss. I have no idea where even to start looking for him. I’m pulling out my phone when the urge to look up overwhelms me.

“You have no idea how happy I am to see you.” Rome crashes into me and wraps his arms around my waist, lifting me off my feet. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to stand you up. I had to help one of the freshmen with his workout regimen. My phone was in my bag. I got distracted.” He puts me on the ground and places his hands on my cheeks. “Please forgive me.” His voice falters, making my heart ache.

With a sigh, I nod and force myself to smile through the pain. “I’m not mad. You just scared me.” I run my fingers through his hair. “You look like you need to go to bed.”

His jaw is lax, and his eyes are tired. He looks defeated, and I bet he has no intentions of telling me what happened between him and Malik.

“You have no idea.” He rests his forehead against mine and closes his eyes.

“Want me to drive you home? I can walk back to my dorm. It’s not far.”

Without opening his eyes, he nods. “Can you stay with me? I need to hold you.”

“I would love that.” I kiss his cheek, and he hands me his keys.

We walk to his car, his arm wrapped around my waist the entire time. When we approach his old-school Jeep, he rushes forward and opens the door for me, even though it looks like he’s about to collapse.

My heart swells, and I smile at him. “Thank you. Now, sit before you pass out.”

“Yes, boss.”

The drive home is silent. Rome fell asleep within five minutes of getting in the car.

When I stop at a red light, I glance at him and drop my shoulders. Why did he not tell me what happened? Why hasn’t he told me what Malik did? Why lie?

Reaching out, I trace his jawline with my knuckles. “I’ll take care of you,” I whisper. “Even if you don’t want me to, I’ll take care of you. Always.”

Chapter Thirty-Three

Rome

She knew.

My girl knows me better than I know myself.

I had to review those plans and give Malik the notes. I couldn’t chance him screwing me over when the season starts. People like him can ruin people like me. My future is mine, and I won’t let him touch it. Even if that means I go against my moral code. If he wants me to do his task, then fine, I’ll do it.

My eyes were strained when I walked out of the conference room. Malik took the packet without a thank-you, but I didn’t care. I just wanted to get away from him and be with my sunshine.

The car slows, and the engine turns off. I stir in my seat when she places her hand on my shoulder and gives me a gentle shake.

“Hey.” Her tone is comforting, and it soothes my pounding headache. “Let’s get you to bed, come on.”

I open my eyes and unfasten my seat belt. The left side of my head pulses and pain trickles down to my eye.

“I think I have a migraine,” I mumble and wince as she closes the driver-side door.

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