Page 222 of Jocks

“I’m okay, I think.”

I look up to see who my hero was, and I am shocked to find Cashel holding the man down.

“Police are on their way,” Brandon says. Within minutes several cars pull up and an officer takes my statement.

“We will contact you if we need anything else,” the officer says, giving me a sympathetic look.

I go to leave, and I’m stopped by a hand on my shoulder, which makes me jump.

“Shit, sorry.”

“Thank you,” I tell him, trying to leave again.

“Oakley, are you okay?”

“I’m fine, thank you.” I open my door, but he places his hand on the handle.

“Let me take you to dinner,” he says.

“You want to take me to an actual dinner or just to humiliate me…again?

“Dinner, I promise. We can even take your car if it makes you feel better.”

What will it hurt? I mean, maybe my pride, but I’m driving so I can turn around if I want.

“Fine.”

He instructs me to a Greek restaurant. Not the one I was going to hit up on the way home, but a nicer one.

He even takes my elbow like a gentleman, ordering a nice bottle of wine when we’re seated.

“Are you okay, really?”

“I’m shaken up, but I’m fine.”

“He didn’t hurt you?”

“No, thanks to you. I thought you were at a game?”

“Nice to know you follow me.” He smirks and I blush.

“I know you’re a hockey player and that there was a game. I don’t follow you, though.”

“Ouch, but I was. My dad says I need to get my shit together, meaning I need to graduate. I was going to the bookstore for helpful books.” He blushes when he says that. It’s cute.

“You’re in danger of not graduating?”

“I’m pulling grades enough to play, but I need to graduate, and I don’t think I will.” he shrugs.

“I can help you.” I have no idea why I offer.

He did save my life and my purse, it’s the least I can do. My father would be happy since it will look like I’m mending bridges.

“You will help me?”

“Yeah. What time is your practice tomorrow?” They practice on weekends even if there is no game. I think they’re next game is Monday.

“Early. Dad is trying to kill us,” he groans. I giggle.

“Just come by after practice, bring all your books and your syllabus. I’ll help you get caught up or whatever.”

“Thanks, Oakley.” He gives me one of his dazzling smiles. The one he gives to the girls that makes them swoon. I just know his tricks. I’m not falling for them. This is just to help him get a diploma, nothing more.

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