Page 67 of Strike & Score
I’m almost back to the house, and wanting to be off this phone call more than anything.
“Well, mom, you may not realize this, but I’m more than just my looks. I’m smart, athletic, and an all around good person.”
“Of course I know that, which is why you deserve the best, and to not have to struggle like we did for so long.”
“We were fine,” I grumble, looking up at the townhouse I’m sharing with Colin. The modern architecture, the location so close to campus in Seattle, I know this place had to cost a ton of money. It makes me hate it even more. Something about the fact that my mom thinks money is the end all be all when we got by with far less. But then there’s people like Colin and Walter who have more money than they know what to do with and it doesn’t make them good people.
“Well now we’re even better. Think about it, Mayson. You can’t hide behind Colin forever.”
“I don’t,” I scoff.
“No, but he thinks he has some hold over you. Walter is concerned. Maybe some space would be good for you two.”
I bark out a laugh. “Oh now you want us to have space. It’s a little late for that.”
The front door opens, and there stands my overly attractive stepbrother. He must have been expecting me because what he’s wearing should be a crime. The shorts he has on are short enough to show the viper tattoo wrapped around his thigh. The cut off shirt he has on is completely open on the sides. He leans against the door frame with his arms folded and eyebrows raised.
“Just think about it. And go out with Garrett. Even if he’s not the one it’s good for you to get out there.”
“You know what,” I say loud enough for Colin to hear as well. “I’m done with you, or anyone else telling me what I’m doing with my life. You can support me and what I choose to do with my life, or you can stay out of it.”
I hear her start to argue, but I hang up, done with the conversation.
Colin doesn’t say anything to me until I’m about to walk past him through the door. “That was hot.”
“Fuck off.” I push past him, storming into the house, done with everyone.
“That was even hotter.” He follows me into the kitchen.
“I’m not in the mood for whatever you’re planning or thinking, or justyou.” I wave him off as I grab a water bottle from the fridge.
Colin leans over the counter, just looking amused. “Who were you talking to?”
I take a large gulp of water before answering, and he just waits. That stupid look remains on his face. “My mom.”
“What did she want?”
“What do you think?” I roll my eyes.
“They must be working together or something because my dad gave me shit about us recently, too.”
“He knows?” I exclaim.
“Hethinkshe knows.” He shrugs like it’s not a big deal.
“Thinks he knowswhat?”
“Hold on, we can revisit that after you tell me what your supposed plan is with me.” Again, he continues to look smug as shit, and my brain is moving a million miles an hour trying to keep up between the phone call with my mom, his dad knowing something, and now whatever it is he’s talking about.
“What? Can we stick to one fucking conversation?”
“No, the other shit doesn’t matter right now. I’m curious about what you’re telling your teammates.”
“None of your business,” I scoff, moving past him because I need take five minutes to untangle my mind.
“See, it is my business because one of my teammates overheard you say something about using me until the Rites are over and that’s it?” He doesn’t look as amused now. He looks scary with that look in his eyes that has me straightening my spine and preparing for a confrontation.
“And? You believe them?” I sass.
