Page 18 of Their Cruel Play
“Then she knows what’s happening.” Kenz unlocks the car doors and we get in. “What do you think she’d do differently if she knew?”
I shrug and stare out the front window. “Maybe switch with someone so she wouldn’t be on night shift.”
“And that would mean all those late-night snuggles go away.” Kenz grins. “She knows there’s something going on, but she doesn’t know you have the guys protecting you.”
She backs out of the driveway, and I tip my head back against the headrest. “But what if she could do something about it? What if we’re wrong, and it’s not a high schooler messingaround? What if it’s an actual psychopath, and they go after my mom when I’m not there?”
Kenz blows out her breath. “Fuck, that’s heavy. I suppose it could have been anyone last night. I could have fought off a rapist. But he was built more like a teenager than a full-grown man.”
“I didn’t get a good look at him.” I smooth my skirt down, trying to think if I saw him. Luke kept him away from me.
“I still think you’re safest with the guys,” Kenz says.
“Mom said she would get a security system.” That should help keep us safe. Or at least ease her mind.
“You staying over after the party tonight?” Kenz turns to look at me and wiggles her eyebrows.
“Yes. Though I don’t know how I feel about it.”
“Still mad at them?” Kenz turns into the far parking lot to find an open space.
“Mostly. Caden, Eli, and Nico definitely, but Jack...” This afternoon was freeing and nice and has me considering things I tried to ignore.
She pulls into a parking spot and turns off the car. “But Jack?”
“He’s being nice and thoughtful. I’m afraid it’s just another trap.” I blow out a breath.
Kenz shakes her head. “Maybe. What about Luke?”
My heart skips a little. “Luke’s always an asshole. He doesn’t pretend to be anything else, but fuck, do I want him.” I turn to face Kenz. “How can I want someone if I don’t know if I even like him?”
That’s a little bit of a lie. There are moments when I like Luke. Moments where I feel more for him.
“Just in it for that dick.” Kenz laughs. “We’re too young to care about that other shit, H. You have some premium dudeswanting to give you amazing orgasms. Count yourself lucky, and let them take care of your needs.”
I grin. “They’reverygood at what they do.”
“Yeah, they are. Come on. Let’s meet this chick and get on with the festivities.”
We get in line for tickets. By the time we’re nearing the stadium, it’s time to meet with Sidney.
“I forgot how crowded Senior Night is.” I step closer to Kenz to avoid being run over by some exuberant sophomores.
“It should still be easy to find Sidney.” Kenz goes up on her toes and looks around. She takes my hand. “Found her.”
Sidney and Emma stand next to the concession talking to two guys. Sidney wears Nico’s jersey now and holds another in her hand. Emma just wears her black t-shirt and cheerleading skirt. I vaguely recognize the guys from school. I think they’re on the basketball team.
As we approach, Sidney’s gaze shifts to me before she leans into the flirting guy and passes him something. The guy smirks and heads to the stands. Kenz keeps ahold of my hand.
“I was wondering if you weren’t going to show.” Sidney holds out the jersey like it’s poisonous.
I hand Kenz my purse and pull off Jack’s jersey. Sidney nods Emma’s way. Emma steps up and claims the jersey.
“Thanks.” She gives me a smile before bounding off.
I take Luke’s jersey from Sidney and the smell hits me. It’s not a foul smell but it’s overwhelmingly powerful. It’s a heavy floral scent with this underlying musk. I must make a face.
“Yeah, sorry about that. I spilled my perfume on it.” She gives me a cheeky grin before turning and walking away. “Pleasure doing business with you.”
