Page 75 of Shot Taker

My chest has been stretched so tight it feels as if my heart is going to beat out from within my ribs.

After landing, I showered and headed to the stadium, figuring I’d find Clay there.

I follow the winding hallway toward the court, replaying what I’d rehearsed in my mind.

When I get to the end of the tunnel, I hear Clay’s voice, hushed but urgent.

“…need to talk about our deal.”

“The deal where I agreed I’d get you to LA?” Harlan’s voice cuts in, every bit as tight but with an edge of frustration.

I pull up out of sight. This must be related to what they were fighting about at Christmas.

“You didn’t hold up your end of the bargain,” Harlan says.

“It wasn’t my fault she came back.”

The hairs on my neck lift.

“No, but you were supposed to stay away from her when she did.”

My heart stops.

I can’t believe what I’m hearing.

I want to run, but I can’t bring myself to do it.

Instead, I step into the hallway.

They both turn to face me. Clay’s expression is tight with shock, Harlan’s surprised and guilty.

“Who were you supposed to stay away from?” I ask as steadily as I can.

“Nova. I thought you were in New York,” Clay says, but Harlan clears his throat.

“You. He was supposed to stay away from you.”

No.

“Why?” My voice trembles at the edges.

“Because it would be easier for everyone.” Harlan again.

I turn toward him, my hands clenching into fists at my sides. “You’re supposed to be family. I trusted you, and you manipulated me.”

His jaw tightens. “Nova, that’s not what—"

“Mari always did growing up, but at least she was my sister. Who are you to manage my life?”

He doesn’t answer.

“And you.” I round to face Clay, intending to confront him with all my anger.

But looking at him has emotions rushing up at me in a wave.

The backs of my eyes burn, and I spin and bolt out of the building.

Clay’s on my heels. “Nova. Nova, wait.”

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