Page 52 of Quarterback Sneak

“What kind?” I ask, trying to trip him up.

“Evie, if it would get you out on a date with me, I’d drink a bottle of steak sauce, any kind.”

“You’re crazy.” But there’s a smile on my face at his words.

“What’s your favorite class so far this semester?”

His change in topic throws me a moment, and I have to think a moment. “Probably childhood development.”

“Why?”

“It’s fascinating. For instance, did you know that a baby’s brain doubles in size during their first year? Or that babies are born with all the neurons they need for life? That’s why the child’s first three years are the most important as far as development.” I catch myself when I see Tessa giving me a raised eyebrows. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be,” he says in that low voice of his. “That’s all fascinating. Are you getting an education degree?"

“I am. Early childhood education. What about you? Wait, sports something, right?”

“Actually, no.”

“Really? Okay, now I’m curious. What’s your major?”

“I’m majoring in environmental science.” His words shock me. “Surprising, right?”

“Kind of,” I admit.

“I get that a lot. Everybody thinks I should be doing some kind of sports degree.”

“Who cares? If that’s what you want to study, then go for it. Who cares what anybody else thinks?”

“Thanks, Evie.”

“Why are you interested in environmental science?”

“I’ve always loved and done well with all the sciences in high school, and I think they’ll really help me in the future. My family owns a lot of property. It will fall on me some day, and I want to care for the lands the best I can and be able to find ways to manage the land and all its resources.”

“That’s great, Zane.”

He laughs low. “It was great until this Physics class I’m taking this year. It’s kicking me in the backside. I’ve always done well in Physics, but this class is next level. I'm pretty sure the Professor is out to ruin my life.”

“Why do you say that?”

“I’ve had a lot of run-ins with him. I’m usually fine with all my professors, but I think this one has it out for me. It’s probably because I’m an athlete. Some professors don’t take kindly to athletes.”

“That’s terrible. What’s his name?”

“Why?” I hear the amusement in his voice.

“If I ever run into him, maybe I can tell him what I think about how he treats athletes.”

“Yeah, I don’t think I’ll tell you his name.”

“Well, if you change your mind, and want me to give him a piece of mind, I’m your girl.”

“Yeah, you are.” His voice is low and soft and suddenly, I don’t feel like we’re talking about the same thing anymore. His words make me feel something deep inside that I don’t think I want to examine too closely. At least, not until I take care of things with Jace. A dark feeling comes over me when I think of Jace.

“Can I ask you something?” I ask Zane for the second time tonight.

“You can ask me anything, Evie.”