Page 39 of Puck Right Off

“Tristan.” His name leaves my lips as a breathy whisper, making me hate myself.

“Where the hell have you been all day? And why haven’t you responded to my texts or calls?”

“Oh, so that’s why you turned the volume of your phone off,” Chelsea says from behind us. “Is Josh home?”

“No, he’s at a party. I told the asshole we have a game tomorrow and that he shouldn’t go, but he doesn’t fucking listen.” Beneath the porch light, Tristan’s angry green eyes turn to me. “I’ve been worried about you.”

“Tristan, what the—” Alex stands in the doorway, a frown on his face as he takes in the scene before him. “Jesus Christ. I went to the fucking bathroom, and you disappear.” His gaze slides to Chelsea, and a wide grin splits his face. “Hello again, gorgeous.”

“Tristan, let go of me. It’s none of your business?—"

“You skipped class.” He loosens his hold but doesn’t release me. His eyes narrow as he examines my made-up face and curly hair. “Why are you wearing so much makeup? And your hair is curly.”

Chelsea puts her hand on his. “Let’s take this inside so you don’t wake the neighborhood. It’s late.”

Alex steps behind Tristan. “I agree with legs. Let’s go inside.”

“Legs?” Chelsea gives him a puzzled look.

“They’re a mile long, sweetheart. And the nicest pair I’ve seen.”

Chelsea laughs, tossing her hair back flirtatiously. “I appreciate the compliment. Help me get these two inside so they can talk.”

“You heard the woman.” Alex grabs Tristan’s arm. Although he lowers his voice, I still hear him. “It’s a bit chilly tonight. Your girl looks cold.”

His words have a magical effect. Tristan immediately wraps his arm around me and ushers me inside.

“I’m not his girl,” I snap at Alex.

Chelsea follows, rolling her eyes. Alex brings up the rear, shutting and locking the door behind him.

Tristan starts on me again. “You didn’t answer my question. Why?—”

“I don’t need to.” I yank my arm away, reaching a breaking point. “I can’t do this right now, Tristan. Just leave me the hell alone.” I whirl around, running up the stairs.

As I flee, I hear Chelsea say, “Tristan, give her some space.”

Running into my room, I slam the door behind me and throw myself on the bed.I wish I never would’ve come to WHU and met Tristan Harrington.

CHAPTER 23

Jordyn

Ichanged outfits three times before settling on a pair of skinny jeans, heeled booties, and a black, long-sleeved t-shirt. The entire time, I inwardly lectured myself for caring what I looked like.

Chelsea, wearing a similar outfit, eyes me skeptically. “I can’t believe you don’t have a jersey or some type of Wolverines attire.”

Shooting her a glare, I turn back to the mirror, critically examining my appearance. “Whose jersey would I wear? I’m sure as hell not wearing Josh’s since I can’t stand him.”

“I know one guy who wishes you were wearing his.” She gives me a smile that makes me want to throttle her.

“Whose side are you on?” I turn away from the mirror, critically studying her as I move closer. “Exactly what happened last night? You seem to be a bit more pro-Tristan than you were yesterday.”

Chelsea gives me a look. “Listen, Jordyn. You know I’m always on your side. But maybe you should listen to him.”

I glare at her, folding my arms over my chest. “No. It’s over between us.”

Chelsea steps closer and places her hand on my shoulder. “Then why do you still seem so miserable? And why, after I came to bed, did you spend half the night crying?”