Page 37 of Friends Rucked Up

I check my phone for what feels like the millionth time. I have no messages.

“Just text her,” Lance says, peering over the seat behind me.

I let out a big sigh before turning to meet his gaze. “Oh yeah, and what should I say?”

“Want to come over and suck my cock?”

I shake my head. “What while her brother’s at my place?”

“Invite yourself over to her flat.”

I wouldn’t be asking her to blow me, but it would be nice to see her. “You’re a dog.”

“No. I’m just not a pussy and go after what I want. Here, pass me your phone, I’ll message her.”

I let out a strangled laugh. “That would be a bad idea. You would only get me in trouble.”

He shakes his head while letting his lips thin in disappointment. “You have little faith in me. Do you want to know the main difference between me and you?”

“No, but I’m guessing you’re going to tell me anyway.”

“Yes, because I think you need to hear it. So, this is how your evening looks if you play it your way.” He frames the moment while pausing for suspense. “You’ll go home, chat with Harlan about tonight’s loss, and then fall into bed alone with only your right hand for company.” I try to speak, but he holds his finger up to show he’s not done talking yet. “Or you could give me your phone, I’ll set up a night with your girl, and instead of sleeping alone you can get your form back so we can win the league.” He says the last part loudly and everyone cheers.

Everyone starts to chant, “Scarabs,” over and over.

I can’t help but smile. My mind might focus if I go with Lance’s plan, but I’m just one guy in this team. Sleeping with Saylor is not going to fix our losing streak, but going home to wallow in self-pity doesn’t sound so great either.

Usually, I wouldn’t let someone else take control. I prefer to play it safe and work it out myself, but Lance’s plan is what I want. Without overthinking it too much, I hand over my phone. He smiles before he sits back in his seat. I’m left waiting for him to tell me what’s happened.

There’s a few more chants on the bus and morale picks up before we make it into Selby.

Lance finally passes my phone back and says, “You’re welcome.”

I feel like a deer in headlights as I stare at him, but he doesn’t give anything away in his expression. Opening the messaging app I read the messages.

Lance: Hey babe, it’s Lance. My boy needs a cuddle after the match tonight. Are you available?

Saylor: I saw the game. You guys played well; it’s a shame fate wasn’t on your side. My door is always open for Alfie.

Lance: Why are you watching the game at home? The rugby VIP for friends and family is also open to you even if we’re away from the grounds. Then you’d be here to greet your man when he gets back.

Saylor: Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.

The messages are sweet and not what I expected. Lance is usually full of fire especially with his sharp tongue.

We pull into the rugby club grounds and start unloading from the bus.

“Thanks for arranging my night,” I say to Lance as I make my exit.

“Don’t fuck it up,” he responds, making me smile.

The journey home seems shorter than usual and before I know it, I’m parked on our street. I could take my bag home, but Harlan would dampen my mood.

By the time I get to Saylor’s door, my hands are clammy and I’m nervous. I’ve wanted more from her for so long I’d began to think it would never happen. Now, there is only a thin piece of wood between us. I knock on the door, waiting to finally get to see her face.

The door swings open and it’s Harlan who greets me. “Hey, buddy, sorry about the game,” he says, pulling me into a hug.

My brain short fuses for a second. I should’ve guessed they’d watch the sports together. My heart drops. Did Saylor show him the messages?

---