Page 33 of Game Day

First time, they both pull scissors.

Then rock.

“Not real academic types,” Atlas says in my ear.

A few more draws and Miles pulls paper over Jay’s rock.

Miles crows with victory. “Like you said, Jay—you run things on the court. I'm running this."

Jay frowns, looking for a way to argue, but there’s nothing he can do.

“Why’d you fight for this?” I ask Miles.

“You do a lot for us. I want to return the favor.”

I’m not the kind of guy to lean on other people, but they make it impossible not to care about them.

When our round is done, the guys are laughing about something when Sierra leans over. "Another?"

I shake my head.

"Call Nova,” Jay says. “It’s damn obvious you want to.”

Rejection is always close at hand, but Nova’s never given me reason to feel like I can’t put myself on the line with her.

I lift the phone and hit her contact.

Three rings, then her voicemail chirps. "This is Nova. I'm so glad you called!"

Her voice makes my chest tighten.The pleasure at her cheeriness blurs with disappointment that she’s still dodging me.

"Hey, Pink. It's me. I'm at Mile High with the guys and heading home in an hour or so.” I pause. “I miss you."

I click off and turn back to the guys.

* * *

We're getting ready to leave when I feel a tapping on my shoulder.

I turn to find Nova standing behind me, dressed in a denim jacket, her hair piled up in a loose knot.

"Pink."

"Sorry I missed your call. Mari and I were painting at the studio." Her lips curve as she reaches up to play with a piece of hair that’s fallen out of her bun.

My mood that’s been getting darker all night lifts, like clouds blown through on a breeze.

“It’s all good. I’m glad you came.”

Relief edges in at the confirmation that she wasn’t purposely avoiding me.

She greets the guys warmly, exchanging hugs.

“Congrats,” Miles murmurs.

“It’s going to be epic,” Rookie agrees.

“We’re gonna go.” Once everyone’s done saying hi, Jay hitches a thumb toward the door. “Have a good night, kids.”

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