Page 79 of Ruthless Rose

Chapter 42

Ishould have known better. Life is never that easy, and people—especially someone like Alora—aren’t to be trusted.

Max, Scarlett, and I had chosen to skip the fanfare of the homecoming parade after school and had instead opted to have pizza delivered at Max’s. I’d picked at mine, more nervous than hungry, while watching Max and Scarlett scarf theirs down. By the time we finally show up at the game, the crowd is crazy and half out of control. I’m amazed at how many more people have shown up to this game compared to the one I’d attended last week. Then again, I guess it is the homecoming game, and just because I’ve elected not to get sucked into it in the past doesn’t mean this isn’t completely normal.

As I watch the people in the stands, someone tosses a beach ball into the air. It’s almost more entertaining to watch the ball come down on oblivious people’s heads than it is to watch the game. I give a little chuckle, watching the chaos of the crowd for another few seconds before I shift my focus to the field.

I’ve always been a people watcher. What else is there to do when you’re on the outside, looking in? The average person is interesting enough to watch, but football players are a whole different beast—especially for me because of my past experiences with them. So many of them are Roses with money, social standing, and this ridiculous power that most others don’t have—well, they’re definitely different than Thorns. I know there are those who think they are so far above the rest of us that they can get away with whatever. And it can be really hard to tell which is which from casual observation.

My thoughts refocus on the game where the offense has just taken the field, so Xander and Micah are both out there. Scarlett grabs my hand and hurries to a spot near the fence where we’ll have a better view to watch the play. I still have no clue how they know where to line up or what plays they run or even how they remember them all, but I have to admit, I like to watch Micah in uniform. He’s sexy as hell.

“Oh fuck, would you look at this?” Alora’s voice grates right over my nerves as she, Farrah, and Danica approach from the other side of the fence where the cheerleaders have gathered. It feels like she’s flaying the skin right off of my back with every word. She keeps her distance, and I swear it’s so she has to speak loudly for everyone nearby to hear. “Look at how you swim in Micah’s jersey, Double D. Maybe one day you’ll grow some boobies and fill it out for him. He’s always liked more than a handful.”

That bitch winks at me, and it’s all I can do to not reach over and poke her in the eye.

On either side of Alora, Farrah snorts loudly and Danica bites her lip, watching my reaction—which, I won’t deny, must be bordering on murderous. I’m steaming at the obviousness of her cruelty. Just when I think I’m in control of things, she shows up again and lashes out at me.

“Shut the fuck up, Alora. I’m warning you,” Max snaps.

I glance over my shoulder at his sharp words. I hadn’t realized Max had followed us over here, but I’m suddenly very glad he did.

“Whatever.” She turns to me. “Have fun at the dance tomorrow with your gay-as-fuck date, Daphne.”

Scarlett lunges toward the fence, but Max grips her shoulder in warning. “Don’t. She’s not worth it.”

I’m seeing through an angry, red haze, but make every attempt to control myself. “Thanks. He’s more fun than most guys I know. Definitely better than that asshole Shayne whose jersey you were wearing today. Nice date.”

She winks at me. “Why don’t you let me be the judge of my date. I’ll let you know how it goes. I heard he likes you too, though.”

A shudder rolls through me as she and the other cheer bitches sashay back to their spot in front of the bleachers to the crowd as the game progresses.

“Sorry, guys. I can’t seem to get out of her crosshairs.”

Max rolls his eyes. “Tomorrow is homecoming, and she’s not getting her way. What better reason does she need to be a pain in the ass?”

“Yep. Those spankies under her cheer skirt sure are in a twist.” Scarlett side-eyes me, then bursts out laughing. “I’m sorry. I can’t help but laugh at how desperate she’s coming across lately.”

“You really think it’s all … false confidence?” I nibble on my lip.

Max smirks. “No doubt. She’s been denied what she wants, so she’s trying to make you think she’s cool with it. If you think the pseudo-calm of the last few days was the new normal, I’m afraid you’re mistaken. The homecoming dance should be a fucking hoot.”

We all glance over to where the cheerleaders have run down the field, waving their pom-poms in an attempt to energize the crowd. Alora’s eyes seek out Micah, who isn’t watching her because he’s glanced over his shoulder in our direction. I lift my hand to wave, but just as I do, he pivots back to the field.

At halftime, Rosehaven is leading River Rock 14 – 3, and the marching band has just taken to the field for their performance. I pull my phone out of my pocket when I feel it vibrate. The wave Micah gave me as the team jogged back to the locker room had seemed a little lackluster and when I check my texts, I understand why.

Daph’s Dream Dick:I’m not feeling so hot, so I don’t think I’ll be partying tonight.

Me: What’s wrong?

Daph’s Dream Dick:I just feel off. Stomach’s not right or something.

Me:Uh-oh.

Me:You’ve played great tonight, btw.

Daph’s Dream Dick:I’m hoping I can hang in there and finish it out.

Daph’s Dream Dick:Do you mind if I catch up with you at the dance?

Me:Not at all. Get some rest. Text me later?

Daph’s Dream Dick: Sure.

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