Page 86 of The Way We Win

Leaving now. Maybe I’ll take a walk when I get home.

Sir

Kimmie is here.

Maybe I won’t

Sir

Have you ever tried anal?

I duck forward, covering my mouth with my hand before replying.

No, but Iwould for you.

Sir

Sir

Snorting a laugh, I drive my car home. I’ve showered, and I’m in bed reading my spicy romance novel when Austin arrives. He calls goodnight to me and says he’s setting the house alarm.

I pick up my phone to check the time, and remember the text I didn’t read earlier from the blocked number. It’s just a short sentence, and my breath stills.

I see you.

20

Jack

“I’m not trying to tell you how to do your job. It’s about my son’s chance of getting a scholarship.” George Powell is in my office, and to his credit, he’s keeping his cool. “Levi’s not getting the same amount of time on the field.”

It’s true, and I can’t argue with him.

I’ve been playing Austin more, because when Austin’s in the game, Allie is so happy. When Allie’s happy, I’m happy, and I like seeing Austin play. It’s the definition of favoritism, and I don’t have a leg to stand on.

My jaw is tight, and I nod, looking down at my desk. “You’re right. I’ll start him in tonight’s game against Crystal Shores.”

They’re our longstanding rival team. They’re big and tough, and we have the added disadvantage of playing them on the road. Still, it’ll get Powell off my back and free up Austin to play in next week’s homecoming game.

Homecoming coincides with the Halloween fundraiser and the return of Hendrix and his crew. They’ll be wanting to see him play, and I’m looking forward to having the family all together again.

We give Dylan a hard time about wanting us all in Newhope again, but I wouldn't mind that scenario either. It’s been a difficult journey, but our family is strong in love and support.

George stands, holding out his hand to shake. “I heard you were an easy man to work with. I see those rumors were correct.”

I stand slowly, taking his hand and shaking it. “I want all the boys to succeed.”

He nods and turns to leave my office. I’m thinking about going to the library to see what Allie’s doing. After last night’s brief text exchange and my last visit, my blood heats thinking about her. I also have a little something in mind…

Then I see her sitting on the edge of a chair in the lobby.

She’s so pretty in a maroon dress with little white flowers on it that hugs her shape in a way that should be sinful. Her dark hair is twisted up on the back of her head, and her lips are a beautiful wine color.

But she’s not wearing her glasses, and when our eyes meet, hers are wide with fear.

It’s a punch to the chest, and I don’t care if George is standing at the receptionist’s desk. I go straight to her.

“Are you okay?” My voice is urgent.

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