Page 21 of De Vil

My phone dings and I look at it.

Coach:Why aren't you in the gym?

I sigh. Seriously, I've never had anyone ever be this concerned over me. I'm not sure how to deal with it.

Me:I'm at my next class. Seriously Coach, volleyball and history aren't the only things I have going on.

I don't receive another text, and I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing. However, it gives me the ability to focus on classes for the rest of the day. Taking a deep breath after my last class, I realize how tight and anxious I've been. It feels like someone is watching me, and I can't figure it out because every time I look around or over my shoulder, I don't seem to be able to find anyone there.

Jazz meets me at the quad and I hug her. "Ok, so we need to wear something fun and sexy at the same time."

"You mean we have to dress up?" Jazz looks at me apprehensively.

I kiss her forehead. "Yes you goofball. We gotta make that basketball player wish he had you in his arms all night long."

"I'm not sure. What-if... what-if he was just being nice?"

He was, but I didn't tell her that. The player most likely wants to get in her pants, but I'm going to make sure she comes out of this party still a virgin. "No way. You're gorgeous. Anyone that asks you out should be honored you said yes to them."

"Thanks, Tia."

My skin crawls as I feel eyes on me again. I look around and nothing. Not a Goddamn thing is there. Maybe I'm just being paranoid.

The problem with only teaching one class a day is that I have too much time on my hands. Have I been sitting in every classroom that Tia's been in? Yes I have. She's an excellent student for all of her teachers—except me. It's irritating to see how many people like her but it’s also interesting to see the way she interacts with everyone. Including Jasmine. I don't like how close they are but I understand it. I had a best friend once.

I overheard the two of them talking about a party, and I can already guess there's going to be some massive issues. Parties with younger chicks usually end up with drunk girls not able to hold their liquor and date rape.Great. Of course Tia would agree to go, but I don't like the idea of her being around the slum of the crop.

"Hey, Coach."

I look at one of my players and nod. "What's going on?"

"I was just wondering if maybe I could talk to you about the lineup for the first scrimmage next week."

Well isn't this interesting. "Go on."

Braxton nibbles on her lip. "I know you said I was Captain and that I had the ability to put whoever I wanted into the games. However, I think I want to sit Libby, Harlington, and Falcon out in the first round."

I'm surprised she would say Harlington and Tia. "Why?"

She shifts from foot to foot. "Libby, well she isn't ready. You saw how weak her serve and spike were last practice."

"Yes, I agree with you. Libby should be training more. But why Harlington and Falcon?"

I know why. It's jealousy. "Harlington because she's cocky and thinks she doesn't have to do weight training. Her serves are alright but her assists and sets are lingering on the weak side."

Alright, fair point. I suppose I can see that. "And Falcon?"

She shifts on her feet again. This time she doesn't lift her head. "I just find she's not a good enough team player. Kind of cocky and doesn't work well with us."

That's only half the truth. She is cocky. That's because her game is better than every damn player on the court. I don't tell Braxton that. "I'm not sure I agree with you, Braxton."

"If you don't, I understand. I just want what's best for the team."

I truly believe she does, but her ego is taking a hit when it comes to Tia. "I tell you what. As the captain of the team, you'll have to tell the girls they won't be playing in the scrimmage next week."

Her head pops up, and I can see she doesn't want to do that. "I..."

"Remember, Braxton, you wanted this position. With great power comes great responsibility as the saying goes. Now, at the next practice, let the girls know."

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