Chapter 30
Trinity
I read Preston’s text, then let out a heavy sigh. At least that bought me a little more time. Time to dwell on what he wanted to talk about. I already knew what he wanted to talk about. I just wasn’t sure in what context.
My stomach growled as I dropped my phone on my bed.
I hadn’t eaten anything before the game, my nerves wound too tight.
It was late now, almost nine, but I was starving for something other than the food I rationed from my last trip to the store.
Who knew how long his meeting would be and I was starving.
Instead of sifting through the pantry, I picked up my phone and swiped the missed calls from my mother off the screen before I called Laces Out.
I caved, ordering myself a greasy cheeseburger.
You could never go wrong with the double patty melt.
The homemade French fries topped off the unhealthy meal.
It was delicious and I’d probably have to run three miles to lose the calories, but it was worth it.
It wasn’t a far drive, and I was grateful for the nights off after a home game. It would be exhausting having to work a shift after tending to a bunch of needy athletes.
The bar was packed, and I had to park almost at the back of the parking lot where the dumpster sat. Snatching up my wallet, I swung open the door, then made my way across the gravel, entering through the side door that was designated for pick-up orders.
Elton smiled through the kitchen window. “Order is almost up, sugar. Wrapping up your burger now.”
Elton was in his late sixties and the fry cook who grilled those burgers to perfection.
“No problem.”
I rested my elbows on the counter, glancing to my left at the open restaurant and bar. I could see the team across the floor, especially J.C., who had Landry draped over his shoulder as he downed a shot.
I chuckled as Ashley, another waitress, grabbed my ticket. “Hey, Trinity.” She typed quickly on the screen. “Be glad you have the night off. It’s a madhouse with the win over Arkansas.”
“I bet it is.” I laughed.
I unzipped my wallet when Landry shrieked from across the room. “Trinity Maxwell. Get your ass over here!”
J.C. placed her on her feet before she crossed the room with a lazy smile. She is feeling those tequila shots.
“Hey, Lan.” I was surprised when she wrapped an arm around my shoulders, tugging me in for a hug.
Affection was not something I was used to. My mother was not accustomed to physical touch. At least not with me.
“Come celebrate.” She smiled again, waving over at the team.
I lifted my hand at Lawson, J.C., and Krew. “Sorry. Not tonight. I have a major paper due Monday and I’ve not written a single word.”
It was the honest truth. I had not written a word in three days. Wonder why?
“Fine.” She pouted. “But we’re having a girls’ night soon. Me, you, a cheesy 2000s rom-com, and a large pizza.”
“Deal.” I grinned.
“Keep your money.” Elton placed my brown bag on the counter. “It’s on me.”
“Elton,” I scolded.
Ashley rolled her eyes. “Don’t argue. He’s like talking to a brick wall.” She nudged him in the side with a wink before she tucked my ticket under the register. “Have a good night, Trinity.”
“Thanks. And thank you, Elton.”
He waved behind him, taking his place back behind the grill.
Turning from the counter, I moved my gaze to the other side of the restaurant, freezing when my eyes landed on a table near the window.
Heat licked up the back of my neck when I saw Preston, sitting at a table, with Sierra.
They were alone, leaning in close to talk over the noise.
My heart thudded violently in my chest as she reached across the table and caressed his forearm.
He didn’t stop her.
An unexpected meeting.
I scoffed internally, shaking my head when my name was bellowed. I jerked my gaze to Lawson, who tossed his hands up. “You’re leaving?”
As soon as freaking possible.
I didn’t speak, just waved the bag in his direction like that was answer enough.
When I turned back, Preston’s blue eyes locked with mine.
I felt hot again, like betrayal was seeping into my pores.
Poisoning my blood. Not your problem, Trinity.
He wasn’t mine. We weren’t anything really.
He could have dinner with whoever he wanted.
But one thing I didn’t tolerate was a liar.
Remorse flashed in his expression, but I quickly averted my eyes, moving steadily to the side door.
I pushed through the exit, my chest physically aching with each step that carried me farther away from the building.
Was this what he wanted to talk to me about?
That our “almost kiss” was a mistake? That we needed to forget it happened because he was getting back together with her?
I hated how I let this affect me. How I let him affect me. I was three strides away from my car when I heard my name called through the empty parking lot. Music from inside the bar played in the distance, a few engines from the main road mixing with the melody as I ignored the voice.
Preston’s voice.
“Trinity.” He was closer now, but I still kept my strides steady. Unaffected.
When I reached my car, his palm slid in the crook of my elbow, turning me to face him.
“Trinity,” he said again.
I blinked, then tilted my head. “Shouldn’t you be in your meeting?”
“It’s not what it looks like.”
“What it looks like is none of my business.” I bit the inside of my cheek. “I just prefer not to be lied to. If you had other plans, you could have just said so.”
He ran a hand through his hair. He wasn’t wearing his cap, and he looked genuinely distraught. “I didn’t lie. I was told there was a meeting with all of the coaches to give an interview with her. I showed up, and no one else did. I would never lie to you.”
“You don’t owe me anything.” I shrugged a shoulder. “What you do on your own time—”
“Don’t do that.”
“Do what?”
“Downplay this.” He motioned between us.
“This?” I questioned.
“This,” he repeated, stepping toward me.
“You’re here with someone else,” I reminded him. “And I’m just your—”
He inched a step closer. “Say neighbor or student or whatever other excuses you can find, Trinity. Dare you.”
I glared at him, hurt and irritation consuming my rational thoughts.
“That’s exactly what I am, Preston.” I threw my hands up. “What are we even doing? You really want to risk your career over scratching an itch?” I shook my head. “I worked hard to get here and I sure as hell won’t be known as the woman who spreads her legs for whatever team she’s working for.”
“That’s what you think this is?” He practically growled. “Scratching an itch?”
“I’m sure Sierra would be more than happy to assist you.” I yanked open my door and slid inside before driving the knife in one last time. “Coach.”