Page 52 of A Game as Old as Time

“Can you believe they gave G the lead part and not me?” He winked over at Gunner and set her down.

“Well, you have a big part too! As well as some fantastic singing and dancing. I cannot wait to see how you put your own spin on the character.”

“Yeah, I guess we will see.”

Gunner could hear the sarcasm in his best friend’s voice. The glare he exchanged with Ty continued until his mother broke the awkwardness.

“Well, it was great seeing all you kids. I am so proud, and I can promise.” Her eyes beamed at each teenager in the group. “Coach would be so proud, too.”

I hope.

Gunner gave one last hug to his mother, who then started away with his sister.

“So,” Ty mumbled, “what’s this really all about?”

Come on, Ty.

Juelz punched him in the shoulder.

“Don’t be a jerk. You know what this is about!”

Gunner appreciated the support and again locked eyes with his best friend.

“Just trying to do what I feel is right, Ty. Just trying to help out a little.”

The two continued their heated glare. The tension had grown, and the rest of the group clearly felt uneasy.

Gunner knew he was dodging the talk he needed to have with Ty. They were best friends, and Gunner had some explaining to do. But right now was not the time for this childish game.

“Hailey!” Juelz shriek diverted Gunner’s focus.

She came.

He took a step forward, unable to hide the wide grin that was creeping onto his face.

Man, she looks great.

Hailey moved with elegance everywhere she went. She always looked amazing, and today, he was instantly struck by how beautiful she was in the bright midday sun. Her hazel eyes were sparkling as she joined Juelz, and the yellow sundress she was wearing led his mind to wander again as his eyes followed each subtle movement.

Stop it!

He quickly inhaled, his smile faltering as he looked away.

He knew she was different, and it was not just the way she dressed or spoke. She had an easy confidence that intimidated every boy in school, and she was clearly one of the smartest students in their class. Mostgirls had given Gunner whatever he wanted. They knew he was the quarterback of the football team and a Weston. They would never have questioned or snapped at him like she had that night in the auditorium.

In that moment, Hailey had shown him who he really was, and even though it hurt, she was right. He knew she would never go for a guy like him, at least not anymore. A guy like him had destroyed her family. He could see that every time her eyes met his.

“I see,” Ty said next to him. “Just doing what is right, huh?”

Damnit, Ty.

Gunner could feel his hands clench as he glared back. The tense moment stretched until the voice of the radio DJ called Ty’s name.

“Sorry, boys.” He backpedaled with his hands out. “I have to give the people what they want!”

Jerk.

Gunner stared after his best friend until he sat down with Johnny May, who was about to do the interview.

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