Page 46 of Rebound
“How’s this for a truth? There’s nothing in it for me if I go out with you.”
I should know I need to work harder with Lavinia. For one thing, she’s the only girl I’ve really, truly wanted. For another,she’s probably right and there’s nothing in it for her if she agrees to go out with me.
The last time I dated was in college and it lasted all of six months. I’ve no idea what I’m doing. The only thing I know is I can’t stand the idea of her with someone else.
I’ve seen her with Josh, and I burned with jealousy each time he kissed her or put his arms around her. She’s mine. My Blossom.
“My personality and body aren’t enough?” I ask.
She shakes her head. “Pass.”
I shrug helplessly. “What else can I offer?”
Lavinia grins like the cat who got the cream. I should know, that’s almost the same look my cats get when they do something I tell them not to. Like they’re the boss of me and I’m their servant.
“I’m glad you asked. What I want will benefit you as well. Be nice to the team. Listen to Coach. Follow his plays. Make an actual effort with the guys. Do that, and I’ll think about going out with you.”
Oh good, she’s not asking for anything too impossible. How am I supposed to make an actual effort with the guys when I’m not sure they want me on the team? I’m not sureIwant to be on the team, and I have a reputation to protect.
Your reputation is that of an asshole.
Right. Okay. I can do this. “Are you sure you wouldn’t prefer something really expensive?”
Lavinia rolls her eyes, shaking her head. “No, Roman. I might be a material girl, but I don’t want material things.”
“If I do all that, then you actually have to go out with me. Not just think about it. Tonight. After the game.”
She opens her mouth, closes it, looking up and down the hallway. She wasn’t expecting me to counter her offer, and she looks almost nervous considering it.
“Jules and I are going dancing after the game,” she says. “If you show up, I’ll save you a dance.”
I brace a hand against the top of the doorframe and lean in towards her slightly. She smells absolutely delicious, and it takes everything in me not to pull her in and kiss her. The feel of her lips on mine haunts me day and night.
“What will you wear? I want to make sure we match.”
“Well, that’ll be awkward because Jules and I are going to match.” She takes a step back and raises a shoulder in a shrug. “Maybe ask one of the guys to see if they’re willing to match with you.”
“You know they hate me.”
Lavinia sticks out her bottom lip in a pout. “Aw, your charming personality and body aren’t enough to convince them?”
I can’t stop my laugh, and Lavinia looks entirely too pleased with herself. Fuck Josh for thinking Lavinia wanting to always win was reason enough to leave her. Did he not see the twinkle in her eyes when she’s victorious or the brightness of her smile?
“I’ll see you tonight at the game?” I ask.
She nods. “The one time you can match with your teammates, and they have no choice other than to accept it.”
She backs up another step and stops, staring at me. “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas?”
My smile is slow as molasses. “You’ve got a deal, Blossom.”
I watch the sway of her hips as she walks away and I already know that if I get a taste of her tonight, there is no way I’m letting her go.
SIXTEEN
LAVINIA
I’m nervous because I can’t stop thinking what if what happens in Vegas,doesn’tstay in Vegas? I can’t date my brother’s teammate. When we break-up, it could affect the team dynamic. I already know arguing with myself is futile because as I watch him warm up, I’m already thinking about tonight and the cute little dress I’m going to wear.
