Page 58 of The Illicit Play

We both know this is the closest we’ll probably ever come to celebrity status.

Tyrell’s not planning on going pro. I’m not sure why. He says it’s because he’s not good enough, but I think it’s because he’s not that interested in the pro lifestyle.

Me? I think I’m in the same boat as him. I’ve had plenty of agents calling me, but so far, I’ve stood my ground and told them I’m not interested.

I love playing football, but I’m smart enough to know that the NFL takes a select few, and even if you do get selected, it doesn’t take much for your career to go belly-up. One injury and it could be over.

I want something more stable. Which is why I’m studying computer engineering. My chances of getting adecent job after college are that much higher in an area like that.

And besides, if I pursued football, it would take over my life. I want to be able to split my focus between career and the outdoors. I want weekends to go hiking. I don’t need the fame and glory of being a pro athlete. Give me a forest and a waterfall any day.

“You pumped for spring break?” Tyrell nudges me with his elbow. “Hiking in the forest with Bear Grylls himself. It’s gonna be awesome.” My buddy laughs, and I shake my head.

“I’m not Bear Grylls, man. But I am stoked that we’re getting to extend the trip by two days.”

“You’re the closest thing I’m ever gonna come to meeting the guy. You’re like Black Bear.”

I laugh. “Shut up, man.”

“I’m serious. Last time we went into the forest, and you caught that fish with your bare hands, then built that fire and cooked it for us… City Boy here was impressed, okay?” He taps his chest. “I’m expecting more of that shit over spring break. You feel me?”

With a soft snicker, I murmur, “I’ll try to deliver, man. Hey, did I tell you my dad can’t make it anymore?”

“Really?” Tyrell’s face drops. “Brah, I love that guy. Why can’t he make it?”

“He and his girlfriend are finally moving in together, and it’s the only time they’re free to make the shift.” Pride flares through me as I think about my ol’ man and how much my friends all like him.

It’s understandable. He’s a good man.

And it does suck that he can’t come, but…

“I’m looking forward to just getting away fromeverything. Having some guy time, you know? We don’t really get that anymore.”

“Tell me about it,” Tyrell grumbles, bulging his eyes at me, then quickly wincing and shaking his head. “Sorry. I shouldn’t complain. I love Sienna and Zoey. Nylah’s pretty cool, and Satch seems like a sweetheart. But damn, they’re all pairing off and leaving us in the dust.”

“I was paired off.” I frown. “But not anymore.”

Teah floats through my mind, followed swiftly by flashes of Blake, which is a total mindfuck. I shake my head, trying to get her out of there. She hasn’t looked at me once since she yelled in my face, and that’s fine by me. I seriously do not need that kind of drama.

“Sorry, brah.” Tyrell gives me another nudge. “I know that sucks for you. Heard she’s hooking up with that Macalister guy. Must burn pretty bad.”

“Yeah, man.” I nod, then let out a derisive snort. “Women, right?”

Tyrell doesn’t answer right away, and I glance up at him. He’s nearly half a head taller than me. I’m the shortest guy in the house, and it used to bug the shit out of me, but I’m over it now. Carson’s only got a quarter inch on me, and Zander’s not far off that. But Tyrell and Wily are the giants of the group. I used to avoid standing next to them, but it is what it is.

So, I stare up at my friend, waiting for him to agree with me. Tell me that womenarea pain in the ass, and we should be grateful not to have to deal with them.

But he doesn’t say shit.

I frown at him when he glances at me, then looks away with a tut. “I know. I should avoid the drama, right?”

“But…” I keep going for him.

He sighs. “But… just between you and me?”

“Yeah, of course.”

“Kind of wish I had someone.” He makes a clicking noise with his tongue. “I’m watching all these guys pair off, and I’m like… damn, I want me a woman. Just someone who’s on my side, you know? Someone to wake up with. Someone to make out with. Someone to share inside jokes and shit… I don’t know.” He shakes his head with a little huff.