Page 48 of Offside Attraction

“I am going to fucking regret this,” I grumble, shoving my hands deeper into my pockets as Tripp drags me toward Lance’s fancy house.

There are a lot of cars parked outside, a lot of luxurious cars. Parties like this reminds me that Crestview Preparatory is for the rich and the wealthy. And Hayes fucking Griffin sits at the top of that pinnacle.

“Nah, you won’t. You spent four years in New York. You can handle any shit thrown at you.” Tripp says.

Yeah, Seth and I usually hit clubs in the weekends back in New York City. Top clubs. Perks of being an underground fighter. It was cool and fun. And it’s nothing compared to high school parties. So this is definitely going to suck for me even though it’s not my first high school party.

“Plus, I want to see you get a little loose for once,” Tripp says, flashing a grin as he pulls open the door.

As soon as we step inside, the music hits me like a wave, drowning out my reluctance. The house is packed, people dancing, chatting, and cups sloshing over. I feel like a fish out of water, the energy swirling around me while I try to find a spot where I don’t feel so exposed.

For a team bonding party, there are a lot of alcohol, girls making out with guys in the staircase and in the dark corner of the house, and so many people from our school that I don’t know.

“See? Not so bad!” Tripp nudges me like it’s my first high school party, already scanning the crowd for familiar faces. “Let’s grab a drink and mingle!”

I nod, but I’m not convinced. The last thing I want is to be cornered by some hyperactive classmates. I make my way to the kitchen, pouring myself a drink, and try to blend into the background.

“Look who finally decided to join the fun!” a familiar voice cuts through the noise. It’s Lance, wearing a broad smile as he approaches me. “Dakota! You made it!”

“Yeah, I’m here,” I reply, forcing a smile as I take a sip from my fruit punch.

“You remember Tripp,” I say to Lance, gesturing to Tripp’s lanky frame by my side.

Lance turns to Tripp. “Yeah. Sup, man.”

“Cool.” Tripp says, flashing Lance a small smile as they shake hands.

“I’ve seen you play. You’re good.”

“Thanks. I try,” Tripp says, obviously grinning even though I’m not looking at him, but surfing the crowd for a familiar face.

Tripp likes to act like praises don’t get to him. But he likes it.

“Just wait until everyone gets warmed up. It’ll be wild,” Lance says, grabbing my attention, his enthusiasm contagious.

I open my mouth to reply, but my gaze drifts across the room to where Hayes is sitting down on a long couch, surrounded by his usual entourage—his girlfriend, Shay, beside him.

The sight sends a jolt of irritation through me. Hayes seems to command attention effortlessly, his charm radiating, making everyone around him laugh. I hate how easily he fits into this scene, how he always looks like he belongs. And right now as I watch him from across the room, I hate how good looking and irresistible he looks. His dumb pretty face glows under the clublights, his dark brown eyes sparkle as he smiles at what Finn is saying.

God, I hate that he always looks effortlessly attractive.

“Hey, you okay?” Lance’s voice pulls me back, and I realize I’ve been staring far too long.

“Yeah, just—” I start, but I can’t finish my thought because Hayes has caught my eye, our gaze locked as the smile on his face suddenly turns to an irritated glare.

He glares at me, his dark gaze cutting deep into my skin. I glare back, not backing down from our intense gaze as I bring my drink to my lips to take a sip.

“Dakota,” Lance says, clearing his throat.

I look away from Hayes to stare at Lance who’s been watching me.

“I wonder what happened between you two in middle school. The tension alone can cut through glass.” Lance says, grinning at me.

“And I thought I was the only one who noticed it.” Tripp mutters beside me.

“Come on. Let’s join the others,” Lance says, and before I can protest, he’s already dragging me toward Hayes and his entourage.

“Look who I found lurking around.” Lance shouts as we reach the couch.