Page 50 of Tempting the Player
I’d kind of like to see that, but I turn my head and cover my mouth as I say, “Nothing. I’m fine.”
Then I glance back at the Panhellenic Council president. “Hey, Paris.”
Her teeth are so white and perfect she could do toothpaste commercials. “I just happened to see you on my way out and wanted to pop over and say hello.”
I wave. “Hello.”
“Have you given any more thought to performing at the Spring Fling?” Her eyes sparkle and plead. She’s gorgeous even when she’s being annoying, which is even more annoying.
“No, actually I haven’t.”
She looks crestfallen but doesn’t let it deter her. “I ran into one of the guys in your band and he said they’ve been working on some new material.”
“You talked to Eric?”
“No. The one with the long hair and septum piercing.”
“Ted,” I say. “And I’m not part of their band. I just fill in sometimes for their singer.”
“Mackenzie, I know. She’s great.”
“You know the band?”
“Duh. I’m not an idiot. I did my research. They’re good.”
“So, why not let them do the show without me?”
“You know why.”
I groan inwardly.
“They won’t get the same draw unless you perform with them. It doesn’t even have to be every song. You could pop in for one or five.” She looks so hopeful.
“I’m sorry. My answer is still no.” I wrap both hands around my coffee cup. “But you should ask them. You’re right, they’re really, really good.”
“All right.” She sighs. “I guess I don’t have any other choice. If I don’t get something finalized, the committee is going to have a meltdown.”
“It’ll be great,” I reassure her, trying to ignore the weird disappointment I feel settling in at passing up the opportunity. I just can’t. Not yet. And this will be great for Eric and the rest of the group.
After she’s gone, I drop my head and stare down at my chipped white nail polish. I’d almost forgotten about Hendrick when I remember the earpiece. “Sorry. I forgot to press the button.”
“It’s fine,” he says in that smooth, even tone.
“Feel like a walk?”
“Sure. Where are we going?”
I stand and grab my things. “My favorite place on campus.”
17
HENDRICK
“Thisisyour favorite place on campus?” I ask as Jane walks into the campus bookstore. I keep my distance but decide to walk in and get a closer look at what she’s up to.
“I like shopping and this place is so festive. And they have lots of fun stuff. Books, magazines, clothes, computers...” She trails off as she stops in front of an end cap with Valley U hats. She grabs one and puts it on. “What do you think?”
“Looks good.”
