Page 167 of Cruel Steps

“The Royals posted some videos on their socials, trying to stir shit up.”

“What kinds of video?”

Cody hesitated, telling me all I needed to know. It was bad. “Most of it is smack talk, but there were some allegations against Holden.”

“Allegations? What?”

“They’re saying he cheats and dopes. It’s bad, Peanut. Rumors like that can ruin his chance to be drafted.”

“But they’re just rumors. It’s not true!”

“I know, but perception is a big part of a player’s image. The Royals are trying to get in his head, so he’ll screw up tomorrow and lose. The team’s worried it’s possible without Colter on the field.”

“They should have more faith in him. Holden’s a rock!” I argued.

“Even rocks shift with enough force.”

“Not Holden.”

“You should remind him of that tonight.” Cody winked, and my cheeks flushed with heat.

“Rivers, you trying to steal my girl again?” Arms wrapped around me, and a body pressed into me from behind.

“Nah, Cap. Peanut’s all yours. Later.” Cody kissed my cheek, not caring that Holden’s arms surrounded me. Holden growled, but Cody only laughed as he walked off. Colter shook his head as he came around and blocked me in.

“How about we get out of here?” Colter suggested. His eyes shifted up to Holden, and I knew he’d been filled in on the rumors, his worry evident for his best friend.

“Best idea all night,” Holden said.

“Let me check on Taylor.”

Holden grunted, but let me go. “Meet you in the hallway. I can’t be here a moment longer.”

I nodded and headed for Taylor. The two guys were hanging on her every word, looking at her like lovesick fools. I couldn’t tell which one she liked better. Her eyes lit up when she spotted me.

“There’s my bestie!” She threw her arms around me.

“How much have you had to drink?”

“Just one glass. I swear I’m fine.”

I checked her eyes, finding them alert. “We’re headed out. You good?”

“Yep.” She nodded.

“Which one are you going home with?”

“I decided to take a page out of your book. I’m not choosing.” She smirked.

“Do they know that?” I asked, lifting a brow. Taylor turned, throwing her arm around my neck.

“How do you boys feel about a Taylor sandwich?”

They gulped and then looked at each other. The taller one shrugged and then gazed back at Taylor. “I’m game.”

“Me, too,” the shorter one rushed to add.

“What’re your names?” I asked, my protectiveness surging.