Page 35 of Reverse Pass

“Maybe it’s worth it. But not before I know he’s actually going to be there.”

“The Delta girls will know. One of them has been hooking up with someone on the offense. We’ll find out from her.”

He definitely will not be there, and he won’t pick anyone if I can help it.

And the tone in which I think that makes me a little embarrassed for myself. If I’m getting jealous of undergrads just talking about him? I have a problem. I do, however, have questions about this whole blonde-only rumor given that the last time I looked in the mirror I was very obviously a dark brown brunette.

* * *

When I getin the house, Joss greets me enthusiastically in the dining room.

“Ben stopped at the greens place and got us the salads for dinner.”

“He did not! Oh my god, it sounds amazing.”

“It’s in the fridge for you.”

“Don’t tell me he got the smoothie things too.”

“Yup. Pomegranate for me and mango for you.”

I turn into the kitchen and see him mixing protein powder into his.”

“Moving that boy in here was the best thing we ever did Joss. I told you.”

“You were right. I was wrong. No socks all over the living room or anything. In fact, I think he cleans when I’m not looking.”

Ben’s face contorts as he tries to hold back laughter.

“Truly a fine specimen whatever species he is.”

I reach into the fridge and grab the smoothie, stabbing it with a straw and taking a sip. It tastes like heaven after the long day I’ve had.

“I think I’m going to kidnap him Vi. Take him to one of those states where you can marry minors. Lock it down for the long term, you know.” Joss leans over the counter, ogling Ben dramatically as she eats another bite of her salad.

“Oh yeah? Well lucky for you, I think he might be barely legal. No need to evade the cops at the state border. Mama Beth might have something to say though if she finds out.”

“Is that the mother?”

“Mmmhmm.” I nod, jumping up on the counter and pulling a fork out. “And she is a force to be reckoned with. She’s the reason he turned out so well. A little credit to Nora too I suppose.”

“I’m good with mothers. They love me.”

I raise my eyebrow at Joss, knowing full well that with her tattoos and piercings she is not always the girlfriend moms envision for their sons.

“I clean up well!” she protests.

“Well, make sure you get a blonde wig while you’re at it.”

“Blonde? That’s not my color, and you know it. We tried it that once and it was a disaster.”

“Maybe find some blonde sorority girls you can pay off to help you lure him into the car then?”

“That’s a possibility. Why blonde?”

“That’s the rumor on the street. Ben here only goes for blondes.”

“Curious and curiouser. And you have this on good authority?”