Hat Trick (D.C. Stars, #4)

by Chelsea Curto

I’m quiet; she’s loud. The life of every party and vivacious as hell with witty comebacks and a laugh that would bring any man to his knees. And if it were me down there, I’d wear a collar and crawl if she asked me to.

“It’s a game we like to play.” Lexi smirks in my direction with bright red lips. She grabs the toothpick from her drink and wraps her mouth around the speared lime. “I do something bad, then he punishes me.”

I know what you’re going through, Mitchell. You can’t hide from it forever, and you can’t get through it alone.

I’m not asking you to give me a mile, Riley. I’m not even asking for a foot.” “I hope not. I only have one now, and it would be pretty fucking rude of you to take that from me.”

I think I need to get my head checked, because that outburst was the hottest display of emotion I’ve ever seen in my goddamn life.

“You and I never talk one-on-one, and I’m nervous. Blame my daddy issues.”

“If there’s one thing I love to do, it’s prove everyone who’s ever doubted me wrong. That’s what you’re going to do too.”

“I’m leaving. Congrats on the loss,” I say. “Glad to know you all suck without me.”

“And you can’t let it define you. Not when you’re so much more than what’s under your clothes.” He pinches the bridge of his nose. “That sounded stupid as hell. Pretend like I never said it.”

“Speaking of cute as hell, I saw Riley eyeing you during our class.” “That wasn’t a subtle segue at all.”

“You really want to know?” “Mhm.” Riley leans in, invading my space, and I don’t do anything to make him leave. “I really do. Won’t be able to sleep tonight until you tell me, actually.”

“I think my therapist will be happy to know I’m out of the depression stage of my grief. A condom full of cum has to mean I’m on the upside of things.”

“If I had it my way, we would be going back to your place after this and having round two.” “That wouldn’t be very friendly of us, would it?”

“I’m selfish, I guess. I want things that are just for me. I want to know I’m special.”

“Do it yourself? I know you can. But here’s the thing, Lexi. I’m not going to be able to sleep. I’m not going to be able to eat. I’m not going to be able to do anything except wonder if you’re okay and taken care of. Put me out of my misery and let me do it for you.”

“You didn’t have to worry about me.” “Yes, I did.” I sigh and give her a long look. “We’re friends. Friends worry about each other.”

“A one-time thing.” “I’ve heard that before.” “I’m serious. It’s a nap. That’s it.” “Mhm. Just leave a fucking toothbrush at my place next time, Lex.”

“I want you to fuck me without one.” Hell. Forget using my cum. I want those eight words tattooed across my chest. Branded on my skin, right above my heart, so I can remember my time of death.

“A lost prosthetic is probably infinitely better than two teenagers humping each other on the ride.” “Oh, we should try that. Forget about my leg.” “Keep your pants on, Mitchell.”

Today wasn’t pretty great. It was the best day of my life.

“Don’t gloat,” I tell her, knocking her shoulder with mine. “It’s not a cute look.” “Please.” She grins. “I’m always cute.” “Debatable,”

“You have no idea how much I like you, Mitchy,” she whispers back. “Even I can’t comprehend it.”

“I love you,” I whisper. “I love you so much, and I hope you still love me too.” “I never stopped. And I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.”

“Yes,” she whispers. “Yes to which one?” “All three. To liking you. To loving you. To spending the rest of my life with you, however that might look for us. I want all of that, Riley, and more.” “That’s a hat trick, Lexi baby, and that means I win.”