Total pages in book: 26
Estimated words: 24418 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 122(@200wpm)___ 98(@250wpm)___ 81(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 24418 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 122(@200wpm)___ 98(@250wpm)___ 81(@300wpm)
Without prompting, my mind drifts to the new football coach. That man was way too hot to be a teacher or on the school staff. I’d heard some people talking about the new coach. The girls were drooling over his looks, and the guys were talking about how badass he was in the NFL.
I didn’t give it much thought when I overheard the comments. After seeing him up close, I understand the hype. He’s so damn fine, and what did I do? My beaver-wearing ass landed right on top of him.
Of course the first time I’ve got a hot guy between my legs I’m dressed as a beaver. I didn't think it was possible for me to be embarrassed so easily because normally I don’t give a shit. I know that after graduation I’m never going to see these people again. The only thing I’m worried about is doing what I need to so that I can get my diploma and get the hell out of here.
Yesterday I was absolutely mortified, and I hold Bennett responsible for it. I’d lay into him, but he’s actually one of the good guys. I know he’s only trying to help me so that I don’t make a total fool of myself. He’s growing on me too, and it makes me wonder what is wrong with me. I already have one too many friends with Tins.
She and I ended up having a handful of classes together, and in every one she made sure to take the seat right next to me. She even managed to find me at lunch after I was unable to evade her.
After a while, I ceased my efforts to avoid her, and I now believe that we are best friends. At least that’s what she has programmed into her phone. The girl texts me at all hours. Okay, I have to admit some of the memes and TikToks she sends are funny. Which is why I’ve decided to keep her.
The plus side to wearing a uniform every day is that I don’t have to think about what to put on every single morning. Today I spent some time on my hair and put on a little makeup. While I’m doing it, my mind drifts to Coach Shay, and I’m annoyed at myself. After that, I rush through the rest of my morning routine.
When I hit the bottom step, I smell coffee and then make my way to the kitchen. Uncle Callum is there and already dressed in one of his usual suits. He’s been MIA lately.
“Hey, kiddo.” He greets me like that all the time even though I’m eighteen.
"Morning." I nod back and head to the coffee maker. He’s already poured mine into a cup that I can take with me.
“How are things?”
“Things are good,” I say automatically.
“I haven’t gotten one call from the school, and you’ve been back for a few weeks now.” He lifts a brow.
Shit, have I been that bad? I don’t seek out trouble; it has a way of finding me. I’m not great at turning a blind eye, and my emotions get the best of me. I know I try to pretend I don’t have any, but clearly that’s not true.
“I guess I’m doing what I’m supposed to.” I take a sip of my coffee and hum appreciatively.
“I’m sorry I’ve been so busy with work that I haven't been around.” His expression turns to regret.
“It’s fine. I’m an adult,” I remind him.
He nods, but I know he doesn’t want to be absent like my parents were. Callum makes an effort when he can, and when he can’t be here, he checks in with me. I know it's because he cares and not because he feels obligated to. He’s nothing like my parents.
Callum never asked to be stuck with a teen. I barely knew him when my parents died. Hell, I barely knew them, either, but Callum uprooted his whole life to come live here so I didn’t have to change schools. He stepped up and took care of the daughter of his estranged brother. That speaks volumes to his character.
“I know, but I’m going to see about moving things around. I should be home early tonight. Chess?” He taught me how to play years ago. Back then it was how he would get me to come out of my room. Now it’s our thing.
“Actually, I’ll be late tonight.”
“Date?” he inquires.
Coach Shay pops into my head, and I swiftly shove him right back out.
“Ha! You’ve got jokes.” No way am I dating a boy from my school. “I’m going to the football game.”
Callum lets out a deep chuckle, and when I don’t join him, he stops.
“Wait, you’re serious?”
“Yep.”
“Okay, so everything isn’t fine.”
Shit, of course he thinks it’s weird I’m going to a high school football game.
“I made a friend. She’s new and wants to go.” I try to shift the narrative so that I’m not outright lying to Callum.