Page 18 of Rise Above
“He’s a complete pussy, TJ. He knows I’d easily
kick his ass. Where are we going?”
Jefferson ambled over to our group, defeat clear in
his eyes. “What are we doing? You offering invites and not handing one out to me?”
“We plan to go eat,” Dre and Nat said at the same
time.
“Let’s go to Shelby Diner. They have the best
waffles.” Jefferson grabbed his bag and motioned for us to follow.
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Rise Above
CHAPTER 4: YOU’VE BEEN WARNED
TALON
The diner was crowded, practically brimming with
people. It was a relatively small restaurant, but it seemed extremely popular. Because it was slightly off campus, most of the patrons were students. Honestly, it kind of reminded me of Kerby Lane in Austin. A wave of nostalgia hit me thinking of my home; it had been a long time since I had even been back to Texas. I definitely owed my mom and brothers a visit.
The seven of us were quickly seated and handed
some slightly sticky menus. I knew I was meant to be
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Rise Above
focused on selecting an order, but my attention was on the woman across from me. A layer of dirt and sweat still covered her skin, but it didn’t take away from her beauty. Despite her small frame, she was muscular. She seemed so carefree about her appearance which was weirdly charming. I barely knew this woman. Fuck, I didn’t even know her, and she somehow was getting under my skin.
“Do you know what you want?” An older waitress
asked, poising her pen to write.
“Um, yeah,” Davis said, “Can I have a decaf coffee,
strawberry waffles, and a side of bacon?”
Orders circled around the table before it was my
turn. “Orange juice, over easy eggs, sausage, and wheat toast please.” The waitress nodded and headed off.
“So, are you regulars at the soccer games?” The
young woman with two curly balls on her head asked, directing her attention at Zeke and me.
Zeke gave a small nod. “Sorta. We only show up for
this one.” He put his hand on his brother. “Plus, it breaks up the monotony of games and practices.”
“And how do you know Davis?” This time the
