Page 262 of His Hungry Wolf

“I wish. I’d give anything to have a reason why my life was so shitty. But, no, I’m just a freak show of the normal variety. Not that you’re a freak show,” I backpedaled realizing how it sounded.

“That’s okay, I am,” Quin said with a smile.

Our conversation ended when Nero exited one of the hallways and joined us. Another guy followed him. As soon as Nero spotted me, our eyes locked.

“You made it.”

“Of course,” I said trying to pull myself out of my amazed stupor.

“I’m glad. I hope these two didn’t bore you,” Nero said pointing at Quin and his brother.

“Ah, not even close to it,” I said with a chuckle.

“I’m Titus,” the friendly guy behind Nero said offering me his hand.

“I’m Kendall.”

“And, how do you know our star, here?”

“I’m, umm,” I looked at Nero not sure what I should say.

“He’s a friend,” he said staring into my eyes again.

The silence drew out.

“Okaaaay,” Titus said grabbing everyone’s attention. “Is anyone else starved? Riding the pine can build up quite the appetite.”

I looked at him confused and then turned to Quin who had been my football translator before again becoming my obsession. “Riding the pine?”

“It’s what they call it when you’re on the team but you don’t get to play in the game.”

“Oh.”

“Yep. Not everyone gets to play as a freshman like ol’ Nero, here. Then again, not everyone can play like him either.” Titus grabbed Nero’s shoulders and shook him.

Nero lowered his head and blushed. I would never have guessed Nero was humble.

“So, is Lou joining us?” Titus asked the group.

Quin replied. “No. He has a date.”

“Huh,” Titus said looking a little disappointed.

I looked at Quin.

“Lou’s my roommate.”

Something told me that there was more to the story than that. I wasn’t about to ask.

As the group walked to a nearby pizza place, Nero fell back and walked with me.

“How did you like the game?” He asked me with a proud smile.

“You were impressive. I could see why everyone says you’re so good.”

“It was my best game of the season. I finally felt like I had something to play for.”

“Yeah, Quin told me that you have a chance at going pro.”