Page 33 of Vince
Sydney
True to his word,Vince and I enjoyed the rest of our date last night. As I walk to our shared class, my thoughts run over our conversation. Though I’d never admit it, I’m eager to see him again. I love how easily our conversation flowed after we agreed to keep things light. We chatted about anything and everything under the sun. I learned that he used to play in a garage band in high school, though he claims he wasn’t any good, but it was his lame attempt to meet girls—of course, this had me laughing in disbelief.
Knowing what he looks like now, I can’t imagine how any girl wouldn’t have been into him just a few years ago. Vince has this charismatic charm and sexy swagger about him. He has to know the effect he has on women, right? I could just picture him playing his guitar. Unfortunately, he refused to sing for me last night, so the jury’s still out on whether or not he has any talent.
When my eyes land on his beautiful form, the bounce in my steps accelerate to close the gap between us. I can tell the moment he spots me because his face morphs to a beautiful smile in greeting.
Damn. He is hot.
“Hey, Syd.” He leans in and kisses me on the cheek. “How’s your day?”
Better now that you’re here. “It’s been a typical Tuesday. Thankfully, my professors haven’t given too much additional homework, and the time flew by.”
“That’s always a good day. Jules was up before five thirty this morning, so it’s been long for me. I hope I didn’t keep you out too late last night.”
Shaking my head as we make our way to our seats. “Naw. I’m used to living off five or six hours of sleep. I enjoyed our impromptu date last night—so you won’t hear me complaining. But I didn’t have to be up at the ass-crack of dawn. So—I’m sorry for your lack of sleep.”
“I’d much rather spend time with you than sleep.” He shrugs as if he didn’t just say the sweetest thing ever. “Have you given any thought as to where you’d like to go on date three?”
“Honestly, I’m good with whatever. I’ve gotta go to the playoff game with Abby this week, but other than that I’m free.”
“I think I can work around that. Vanessa’s working this weekend. There’s always a crowd when we have home games, so unfortunately, I’ll be watching the game from my couch with Jules. It’s too noisy to take her to a place like that.”
“No kidding. But, man, you’re missing out. I hope we win the next two games, so we can be in the championship. Wouldn’t it be something if we can pull off another record-breaking season?”
Vince smirks in my direction. “I take it you’re a big fan?”
“Hell yeah. I haven’t missed a home game since arriving at CRU. I love basketball. I used to play in high school, but I was never good enough to try out for a D-1 school like this. I’m here on an academic scholarship I couldn’t pass up, or I’d likely still be playing at a smaller university.”
“What position did you play?” Vince asks as he eyes me up and down. Knowing I’m a good head shorter than him, I’m sure my lack of height has him wondering.
“I played point. Don’t let my average legs fool you, I still have an amazing vertical jump and can likely outscore you from the back court.”
He slowly peruses my legging-clad limbs. “Syd, there’s nothing average about you. But I’ll make a mental note to never challenge you in HORSE, or I’ll likely get my ass kicked.” His chuckle has butterflies dancing in my belly.
“Oh, you can count on that. I’m as competitive as they come.”
The professor starts class, but I swear I hear Vince mutter, “I have no doubt you are.” Leaving a goofy grin on my face, I do my best to listen to today’s lecture.
Thankfully, our class goes by in a blur of taking notes and class discussion. As distracting as Vince can be, I am able to fully focus and answer the question I am called upon by our professor when the time comes. Now if he’d asked me a question five minutes earlier, I would have probably mentioned something about sexy-corded forearms, because good God, Vince has to have the sexiest arms on the planet. I’ve never been more relieved to be paying attention in my life when I am called upon.
By the time it’s over, I’m eager to continue our conversation from last night. I’m dying to know more about him. Don’t even get me started on thinking about his scorching kisses. Though the thought alone will get me through a busy night at work. Unfortunately, I already know he won’t be stopping in because he takes care of Julia each morning, but at least I won’t be disappointed. Knowing my time with him is limited, I’m eager to get out of class and enjoy our walk home together.
When we get outside, Vince casually asks, “Do you have plans for dinner?”
“Uh… I have to be at the bar by seven, but I’m free until then. Why?”
“Vanessa’s home tonight and selfishly, I’d like to spend more time with you. But if you’re busy, I completely understand.”
He can be as selfish as he wants.Hell yes, I want to spend more time with him. “What do you have in mind?” I ask, trying not to sound too eager.
“Well… we can either grab something quickly in town, or I can cook for you?” He shrugs in the most adorable way, as if he’s unsure of himself.
“There’s no need to go out. I’ve got everything to make tacos at my place. Chloe might be home, but Abby has to work. Do you mind eating in?”
Reaching for my hand, he links his fingers through mine. It feels as if it’s the most natural thing in the world, but my body zings to life when he runs his thumb along mine. “I think I can handle that. But so we’re clear—I wasn’t trying to skate out of cooking. We can cook together, and I’ll be sure to leave in plenty of time for you to get ready for work.”
“All I have to do to get ready is put on a t-shirt with the bar’s logo, throw on a pair of jeans, and change my shoes. I’m sure I can handle that.” I can’t help the sarcasm at the end—I don’t really primp before work. It’s just not worth it. By the end of the night, I’m usually sweaty. My goal is to make money, not draw attention to myself. Besides, I don’t want him to think I’m that high maintenance.
