Page 51 of Sidelined Love

“So… how’s the season going so far?” I ask Levi.

He relaxes a bit at the mundane question. “It's going well so I can't complain. Just trying to keep the momentum going.”

I nod along, hoping he doesn't notice how panicky I feel. I'm painfully aware of his eyes on me, and the only thing keeping my hands from shaking is my holding this drink.

Once again, thank you, Jade. I'm convinced she heard me thanking her because she jumps in to continue the conversation.

“I saw that you guys play WTSU in a few weeks. That'll be a big game.”

Levi acknowledges her with a glance. “Yeah, we're focused on preparing for that one. It's an important matchup.” He looks back at me. “Maybe you both could come watch? I could leave tickets for you to grab.”

I freeze, unprepared for his direct invitation again. Jade's eyes widen in excitement. “We'd love to!” she exclaims.

I shoot her another look. I hate that he's putting me on the spot with this in front of Jade. “Levi, you know how I feel about this.”

“Yes, but I was hoping you'd change your mind.”

Jade looks between Levi and me, trying to figure out what is going on.

I take a long gulp of my drink, disappointed that I've finished the damn thing. “I appreciate the offer, but I don't think it's a good idea for me to come to the game. As I mentioned before, sports aren't my thing, and my life is complicated enough right now without getting caught up in”—I gesture vaguely—“all of this.”

Before Levi can respond, a boisterous voice suddenly interrupts us.

“Hey, guys!”

We all turn to see Wilder barreling toward us, a huge grin on his face. He makes a beeline for Jade, throwing an arm around her shoulders.

“Jade! I've been looking everywhere for you.”

Jade laughs, probably because she's used to Wilder's over-the-top personality due to their friendship. “Wilder, hey! Didn't realize this was your type of bar.”

He grins. “Had to make an appearance here. Couldn't miss out on Sapphire's famous Thursday specials.”

His eyes drift over to Levi and me. “Oh hey, Hailey. Fancy seeing you here.” He tosses a wink my way.

I roll my eyes because I swear Wilder and Jade are working together to make something happen between Levi and me. Speaking of, Levi stands up a little straighter, his jaw tightening. I can't deny that I find his reaction interesting and a turn on.

Maybe I have had too much to drink. Nah, that's not possible because I've only had one.

“So!” Jade says brightly, breaking the silence. “Who's up for another round? These drinks won't order themselves.”

“I'll come with,” Wilder says. “Anyone else want anything?”

If Wilder hadn't offered to go, I would have in order to get some space away from Levi. Instead, we both decline. I need a minute to process everything and with him standing here, I know I'm not going to get it. As they head to the bar, Levi turns to me.

“Sorry about that. I hope I didn't make you uncomfortable with the invitation.”

“It's fine. Don't worry about it.”

I shift my weight from one foot to the other, trying to find something to say or an excuse to get the hell out of here.

Levi's gaze lingers on me as he reaches out toward me, only hesitating for a second before gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. His touch sends a shiver down my spine.“Hailey,” he begins, his voice low and serious. “Did you wear your hair down for me?”

“Excuse me?” His question completely takes me by surprise. There is no way I heard him right.

“First of all, the last thing I would do is change my appearance for anyone, let alone you. Second of all, are you trying to piss me off? Do you get off on me being mean to you?”

He takes a step toward me and leans into whisper, “That's one of many things about you that gets me off, Rook.”

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