Page 85 of Stepping Up to the Plate

This is all a misunderstanding. I was handling a situation at the club. I wasn't involved with that woman except to ensure she was okay after an incident.

Kent

We believe you, Papa Bear. You've been glued to Lola since the day she let you into her honey pot.

I exit the group chat and send Robby a separate message. As much as I love Kent, he tends not to take things seriously enough. I think it's a mask for his own feelings of inadequacy, but regardless, I need frank answers right now.

2:20 PM

Me

Has she seen it?

Robby

I don't know. I was at the Becker Foundation office when I found out. Tiffany sent the article to Carina, along with several colorful threats. I'd avoid her if I were you.

Robby

If Tiff knows, I bet Lola does, too. Have you heard from her today?

Me

No, I haven't heard from her since last night. She texted me while I was in the middle of the whole mess that she was going to bed. I crashed as soon as I got home. I sent her a message this morning, but nothing yet.

Robby

What are you going to do?

Me

Just left G & K. I'm heading to her place now. I need to see her in person. She knows how I feel about her and that I would never cheat.

Robby

Maybe. But she thought the same thing about Phil…

Me

I am NOTHING like that asshole.

Robby

I know, man. I'm simply pointing out that she may be experiencing similar feelings of betrayal you'll have to deal with. Don't take it personally if she doubts you. Getting cheated on can give you relationship PTSD.

Me

You're right. In person, she'll see the truth. We’ve been talking about forever. I wouldn’t throw that away for anything.

Robby

Good luck. Let us know if you need anything.

I toss my phone in the cupholder as I run a hand down my face. The last twenty-four hours have been a shitshow. I need to know where Lola’s head is at and reassure her that she is my everything and absolutely nothing happened despite how it may appear. I can only hope she doesn't let her experience with Phil color this situation. It's different. I'm different. All I need to do is prove it to her.

ChapterForty-One

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