Page 34 of Rule Breaker

My mind was running so fast that I didn’t know what to think. But Jackson had a point. One thing at a time.

“Well, I’ll let you guys get back to studying,” I replied and got up. “Thanks for the Coke, and the talk. I feel better. First, I have an apology to make to Maddox.”

My phone buzzed, and I pulled it out. It was an email notification. The results of my essay were in. Sixty-five, barely a passing grade.

“Shit.”

“What’s wrong?” Dane asked.

“I got sixty-five on that economics essay. I’m so fucked.”

Dane got up and gripped my shoulder. “The semester’s not over. How much does it count toward your final grade?”

“Only ten percent, but still.”

“Maybe if you clear things up with Maddox, he can help you out?” Jackson added.

“Maybe. Anyway, thanks again. I’ll catch you guys later.”

I headed for the door and made my way back to my room.

My phone pinged again. And again. One was a message from Jackson with the porn link. Oh man, I had to leave that until later or I’d get no studying done at all. The second was a reminder from Coach about Thursday practice and our homegame on Saturday. The third was a confirmation for my official tutoring session on Friday. More work.

My mind wouldn’t settle, and I didn’t know what to do first. That was always a challenge for me. Starting ten things and finishing none of them.

But there was one thing I wanted done.

Kayden: Can we meet up?

I didn’t count on Maddox replying to me, but I hoped. And surprisingly, a minute later, he responded.

Maddox: If I say no, are you going to keep hounding me?

Kayden: Yes

Maddox: When and where?

Kayden: Library, second floor, one hour

Maddox: K

Maddox

I was only here for Kayden’s apology. At least, I assumed that’s what he was up to. Once that was done, I was gone.

Bad enough I couldn’t stop thinking about that wank session in the shower, or what had inspired it. For the first time in a long time, I needed someone to talk to. But not my therapist. I didn’t feel like getting analyzed. I just wanted another opinion about this situation. So, I texted Daniel. My former coach was the onlyperson I trusted. Outside of my mom. But I could only talk to her in my dreams.

Daniel was the reason I was here, and yet I’d barely called or texted since I arrived. Guilt gnawed at my gut. Another example of me being a shit person. A shit friend. Which is why it was better that I had none.

Maddox: Something’s come up at school and I’m not sure what to make of it.

A few seconds later, Daniel replied.

Daniel: About class or the hockey team?

Maddox: It’s about one of the players, a guy I room with on the road. Kayden.

Daniel: Did you tell him to fuck off? LOL