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“WOOHOO!” I jump up with my fist in the air, nearly dropping my phone in the process. “Have you already booked a hotel? Are you flying or driving? How long are you staying? Will you be coming to the game? Can you buy me winter clothes while you’re here?”
“You have class, pumpkin. We’ll discuss details later. But you have your debit card, and I’ve put money in your account for essentials.”
“I know. But I didn’t want to—”
“Proper clothing to avoid pneumonia is essential.”
“Yes, sir.”
“We are so proud of you, honey.” Mom’s voice is thick, and I hear her sniffle. I blink back tears. “You looked like…pure magic on that field and we can’t wait to see you shine in person.”
“And meet this boy—”
“Man.” I correct my father automatically, my eyes widening in shock that I did.
“Well, excuse me.” I hear them whisper, then a loud lip-smacking sound and I know Mom has kissed his cheek to mollify him.
“More than there are stars.” Shoot. I’m crying, I can’t help it. I miss them like a phantom limb, but I know I am exactly where I belong. Meeting with Jenna and accepting the scholarship and invitation to the cheering program here was the best decision I’ve ever made.
“More than there are stars.” I whisper hoarsely. They disconnect the call first and I sit back on the bench, my phone cradled in my hand, letting the emotion roll over me until I’m in control and ready for my next class. I walk about five feet and my phone chimes.
Brad:Who is this boy with his hands all over you in the video?
I hold the phone to my chest as I walk, laughing and smiling, and genuinely so damn happy.
Addy 12.
I can’t wipe the giddy grin off my face, but it’s not like I’m trying. I meet Eva at one of the crosswalks that lead to the entrance of the stadium. She’s got the same shit-eating grin on her face.
“You’re all loved up. Good to see your girl bringing a smile to your face.” I roll my eyes at Eva’s teasing and keep walking up the slight incline. Truth is, I haven’t spent time alone with Daya in more than two days. Not for a lack of trying but between classes and studying, we haven’t had the time. Seeing her at practice isn’t enough. However, I was reminded that I’ve neglected my boys and Daya insisted I go to dinner with Ty, Lyn, Prib, Hall, and a bunch of other guys on the football team and cheer squad last night. It was good for the soul to hang out with them. I missed Daya, but I didn’t realize how much I needed a night with the guys until I was sitting in a booth, surrounded by my friends, getting roasted for the epic photo spread and story that hit the university’s website and print publications earlier in the week. I’ve heard murmurs across campus; it seems to be a big hit with everyone. Edee did a fantastic job capturing Daya’s immense natural talent, beauty, and strength.
My favorite photo, which was the centerfold, is of me beneath Daya, ready to catch her, absolutely entranced. Eternally devoted. Her back arched, the blue flowy gauze skirt thingy stretched out artfully, her head nearly touching the soles of herfeet, giving her an ethereal aesthetic. I’m having that shit blown up and framed.
Of course, my unending grin today has nothing to do with any of that. Edee came through for me in a big way and Eva and I are about to execute my little project before the game. We talked with the others on the squad, double checking for consent. Not a single person we asked objected. So, Eva and I are armed with our trusty tape, ready to get things rolling.
“Let’s do this!” Eva grunts exaggeratedly, making me laugh, as we high five. We split off with the agreement we’ll meet up outside the locker rooms in a bit. Wouldn’t want to miss a moment of the show. By the time everyone else on the squad, and the football players and support staff start rolling in, I’m just about done.
In the men’s locker room, I change quickly while they laugh and poke fun at each other. I’m moseying on down to the women’s locker room to meet Eva, when the screeching starts. Like music to my ears. I’m not normally a vindictive or vengeful person…though no one has ever messed with someone I love, so I guess I didn’t know I had it in me. But I will go scorched earth for Daya in a heartbeat.
Shaye, Lindsay, and Jillian throw open the doors and stomp out with crumpled paper clutched in their angry fists. Shaye spots me first, and points at me, murderous intent clear on her mottled face.
She screams. “You did this on purpose! I’m reporting you for harassment!”
“What? Moi?” I feign innocence, but the French might have been a step too far.
“You printed these to humiliate me!”
“Whatever do you mean? This is a team building exercise.” I nod toward Eva behind the girls. She’s got a smug grin and a satisfied gleam in her eyes. I should remind myself never to piss her off. “If you have a problem, you can take it up with your captain.”
Shaye’s a little maniacal, waving her hands around, spit flying from her lipsticked lips. Her tone is low and lethal when she hisses, “You did this forher.” I know exactly who she’s referring to, and damn right I did.
I shake my head forlornly, taking a step closer to Shaye. “I did this to remind everyone on the squad that no one is above anyone else.”
“Are there more?” Jillian asks quietly. If it wasn’t for the scowl and fury in her eyes, I’d think she was sad. Nope, just pissed.
“More what?” There is a large crowd now, both locker rooms emptying in the hallway to watch the shit show.
“More pictures,” Lindsay begins, swallows hard, and continues, “of us…awful, ugly pictures!” Tears form in her eyes, and I might feel bad if not for the joy they displayed at my girl’s dismay when the tables were turned. They brought this on themselves. Fuck around and find out.
