Page 34 of Brick Wall
We make eye contact, but she doesn’t say anything in response. That would be a yes.
“She is not my anything, nor will she ever be.” My voice is firm.
“Did you used to date?”
“Date is a generous word to use.”
“Oh,” she says quietly with an awkward understanding.
I wasn’t planning to waste any time thinking or talkingabout the hyena, but I feel like Annie needs to hear this. Plus, we have plenty of time to clear the air.
“I met her when I was a dumb rookie. She was my real estate agent and helped me get settled when I first moved to Boston. We saw each other for a few weeks.”
“What happened?” she stumbles and adds, “If you don’t mind me asking.”
“I realized she was a terrible human being.”
She chokes on a laugh. It’s not a full-on belly laugh, but it’s nice to see her more like her old self again.
“She keeps showing up randomly. It’s annoying,” I admit.
“Sounds like she wants you back.”
“Never going to happen. I will never fall for the hyena’s tricks again.”
“Hyena?” she questions, sounding amused.
“Yes.”
“Athena the hyena?” Her laugh is slowly coming back.
“Yes. She’s opportunistic, unpredictable, and untrustworthy.”
I take her hand and squeeze it. “What did she say to you?” There’s an edge to my voice when I ask.
“Not much.” She waves her hand in front of her face like it’s not a big deal, but those eyes still have a touch of sadness to them. “She did say that you’d be reunited again soon. Just so you are aware.”
Fuck. I hope it’s a lie and not the truth. The last thing I knew, she moved to New York or New Mexico or something. I have no idea, really. I was just glad she was gone.
“She also said that you’ve known each other forever? I got the impression you were high school sweethearts or something.”
A snort accidentally slips out. “Or something. No, as mentioned, she was a real estate agent recommended to me when I first met the team to help me get settled.” Settled, she did. I don’t think that’s what the organization meant when they sent over her contact information. “I’ve known her since my first season, so almost ten years now, maybe?”
I was such an idiot. I had recently moved to Boston as a cocky rookie. I had so much money and confidence, and Ifell right into her trap. She never liked me. She only liked my football contract and status.
“Is this the first time you’ve seen her since then?”
“No, she keeps popping up occasionally. I often run into her at charity events because that’s how she finds her wealthy real estate clients. I’m also not the first guy on the team she’s dated, so I run into her at the bar every now and then.” I pause for a moment and piece together something. “I saw her at your surprise party last week. At first, I thought I was hallucinating.”
“Is that why you left without saying goodbye?” Her voice sounds small.
“Feet didn’t tell you?”
“No,” she confirms while shaking her head.
“I couldn’t find you to say goodbye, and I needed to leave quickly. I asked him to tell you. I’m sorry.”
“Oh, no problem. I was happy you came, so thank you.”
