Page 59 of Just A Chance

“You’re not protecting me, you’re suffocating me. Please, just leave.”

He blinks and when his blue eyes clear, I see the pain. I look away, not able to bear it. But I don’t regret my words either.

He doesn’t say anything as he slips out the door.

The shop is empty. The sky is dark. I flip the sign closed, lock the door, and cry.

Chapter 24

Sean

Againstmybetterjudgment,I confided in Trent on the way to basketball. He’s been laughing for a solid minute.

“Her dad really broke you guys a part? What rating was this kiss, PG, PG-13, TV-14, TV-MA, R?”

I narrow my eyes at him. “Geez, how many ratings are there?”

“More than there used to be,” he says. “Did it bring back memories from high school, being caught by a parent?”

I pull into the parking lot and turn off the truck. “You know, I think I liked it better when you weren’t talking to me.”

I hop out, but he’s right on my heels. “You’re really serious about her.”

“More than anything,” I mutter.

“Interesting,” he says, pulling open the gym door.

“What’s interesting?” Grant asks from where he’s lacing up his shoes. He’s been pulling late nights with a teething baby lately, it’s good to have him back.

“Sean’s in love,” Trent says.

“I didn’t say that.”

“It’s the best thing I’ve ever been,” Grant says.

Trent and I both look at him. “Dude, come on. That was so cheesy.”

“Cheesy, but true.” Our buddy Connor slaps Grant’s shoulder. He’s just gotten engaged and brings it up every week at basketball. All these lovesick fools are ruining the game. “Who’s the lucky lady?”

“Can’t we just play? Like men?” I grumble.

“Sean’s grumpy because her dad walked in on them kissing,” Trent says so helpfully.

Hoots and hollers echo through the gymnasium. They are clearly enjoying my suffering. I can’t fault them too much. I’ve caused them all to suffer a time or two with the same teasing.

“Did she get grounded?” one of the guys calls.

“Oh, come on now,” Grant shushes everyone. “I’m sure it’s just a time-out.”

“I hate you all.” I take a ball and sprint down the court for a layup. The rest of the guys follow suit warming up and Trent joins me by the hoop.

“So now what?”

I know what he’s asking, but I don’t have a good answer.

“I don’t know. I can’t argue with her dad. I’m not good enough for her, not yet.”

“Is that really what you think?” Trent rebounds the ball and holds it against his side. “I know I haven’t been your biggest fan lately, but you’re not a bad guy.”