Page 58 of Wicked Games (Fallen Royals 2)

“It’s a big thing.” He ducks his head toward me. “Half the school shows up like they’re fucking college scouts. It’s a party.”

“I’ve never heard of that being a thing,” I say.

He shrugs. “Ask anyone. Even your new friend, Sav.”

My gaze cuts to him. “What do you know about that?”

“Just people talking about how nice it is. You know, the two who were torn apart by tragedy finally found their way back to friendship.”

“You’re joking.”

“So, tryouts. They’re today after school.”

“Good luck,” I say absently, grabbing the last book I need and slamming the door shut.

“Wait—”

I pause and turn back around. “What?”

“Why are you telling me good luck?” He gets closer and squints at me.

“I hope you make the team.” I shift.

“I’m on the team. I’m a captain.”

A nervous thrill runs through me. It’s fun to push his buttons, I’m realizing. I give him my best smile. “If you say so.”

He narrows his eyes, but I hurry away. I make it to class right before the bell rings, slipping into my seat. It’s the one class I have with no one else. The teacher is talking to one of the students at the front of the room, so I open my group chat on my phone.

Me: He wants me to go to tryouts.

Sav: Cheerleading tryouts are at the same time.

I bite my lip.

Me: Sav, you have to be at the cheer one. Riley, come with me.

Riley: Are you doing this just because you’re curious or…

Me: I want to see the implosion.

“Let’s get started,” the teacher calls.

I stuff my phone into my bag, wondering how the hell I’m going to pull this off. There’s a note, along with a picture, tucked alongside my notebooks. And while I cringe to think of his coach looking at it… it’s the best chance to dethrone Caleb.

Riley finds me before lunch and nudges me. “Did you do it?”

“Not yet,” I mutter.

“Give it to me.” She holds out her hand.

I give her the envelope, my stomach twisting.

“Now’s not the time to back down.”

We get to the library, where Sav is waiting at the door, then Riley slips back into the flow of students headed for the cafeteria… which is conveniently next to the gymnasium and sports coaches’ offices.

“You wimp out?” Sav plops down on one of the chairs and takes her lunch out of her purse.

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