Treacherous by Alex Grayson & Melissa Toppen Page 14

  Something tells me there’s very little Zayden couldn’t talk me into. I’m just not sure if that’s a good thing or not.

  And while I’m still mortified by what Oliver did today, facing it seems a lot less scary with Zayden by my side. Which makes no sense at all considering he’s been on the opposing team up to this point, playing against me. But it’s still true. He makes me feel… better. Stronger. Braver. And I don’t know if he even realizes it.

  “That’s what I thought.” Savannah pulls me from my thoughts. “I gotta say, I think I’m looking forward to meeting him the most.”

  “Who says you’re going to meet him? I thought we were having a quiet girls’ night in,” I remind her.

  “Oh we are. I’m just hoping he happens to stop by when I’m there. Either way, I’m sure I’ll meet him eventually.”

  “I’m sure you will.”

  “It’s just yet to be seen whether or not I’m going to hug him or offer him a swift knee to the balls.”

  “V.” I snort.

  “What? He’s walking a fine line right now. As for Oliver, let’s just hope he doesn’t try to pull something while I’m there. I’m not above putting hair remover in someone’s shampoo.”

  I cough out a laugh, knowing full well if anyone would have the balls to do something like that it would be Savannah.

  “Well, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. I’m hoping after Paul gets done with him he won’t be leaving his room for a few days. Lord knows he’s the last person I want to see.”

  “Can’t say I blame you there.” I hear papers shuffle in the background. “Though if it were me, I’d already be planning my revenge.”

  “Don’t think I haven’t been tempted. But what does it say about me if I stoop to his level?”

  “It says you’re a badass who doesn’t take shit from anyone.”

  “Or it says I’m just as heartless as he is and I’ll end up feeling even worse about myself because of it. You know me, I can run my mouth with the best of them, but when it comes to actually doing something about it, I’m just not that type of person- no matter how much I wish I were.”

  “I know. It’s one of the reasons I love you so much.” She pauses. “Now, if I’m going to come over this weekend, I really need to get off here. I have an English paper due Monday that I have to finish tonight to free up my weekend.”

  “Okay, well, I won’t keep you.”

  “You’ll call me if you need anything?”

  “Always.”

  “I’ll text you Saturday when I’m headed over. I still need you to send me the address.”

  “Okay, sounds good.”

  “Love you, Ry.”

  “Love you, too.”

  The phone disconnects moments before there’s a knock against my bedroom door.

  “Come in,” I holler as I sit up in bed, assuming it’s my mom.

  When the door swings open and Oliver appears in the doorway, I’m not sure if I’m more surprised or pissed. It’s the first time I’ve seen him since what happened at school today, and while I knew I was mad, I don’t think I realized just how mad until this very second.

  “Hey.” He shuffles from one foot to the other, looking extremely uncomfortable. “I, uh, I just wanted to say sorry for the role I played in what went down today.” He doesn’t meet my gaze, instead choosing to stare at the wall behind me.

  “Little late for apologies, don’t you think?” I clip, knowing the only reason he’s here is because Paul likely made him come up to apologize.

  “Yeah, well, for what it’s worth, I didn’t record that video with the intent of showing it to anyone. I was just planning on threatening to use it.”

  “Like that makes it any better?” I draw back.

  “Anyway,” he continues like I didn’t say anything. “I know you left your car at school today, so I was thinking maybe I could give you a ride tomorrow.”

  “You’re joking, right?” I let out an angry laugh. “You humiliate me in front of the entire student body and you think offering me a ride to school is somehow going to make up for that?”

  “No, I just… I don’t know. I thought it was a start.”

  “You mean your dad told you that you had to,” I cut him off. “Well thanks, but no thanks. Zayden has already offered to pick me up in the morning, and I said yes.” This seems to get his attention and his gaze finally lands on me.

  “Zayden’s giving you a ride tomorrow?” he repeats slowly like he’s trying to process it.

  “He is. That’s where I was this afternoon after your little stunt. I was with Zayden.”

  “So, that’s your play.” An angry snarl pulls at his lips. “Trying to get between me and my best friend.”

  “There is no play, Oliver. In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not like you. I don’t play games and I don’t purposely mess with people because I’m too chicken to say what it is that’s bothering me. Now if you don’t mind, I have things to do.” I stand and stomp toward him. “You know, the sad thing is, had you actually given me the time of day, I think you might have found that I’m a pretty good person to have in your life. But instead, you chose to make me the enemy. Well I’m done being your punching bag. The next time you swing, I’ll swing back. And that is a promise.” With that, I shove the door closed, forcing him into the hallway without another word.

  ZAYDEN

  I PULL TO A STOP in front of Oliver’s house right as Rylee exits the front door. I can tell by the way she drags her feet that she’s still nervous about showing up at school today. I wish she’d look inside herself and see the strong person I see. Yes, anyone would be reluctant to show their face after what happened yesterday, but I’ll be damned if I let anyone fuck with her either. She’s been through enough already. Oliver got to play his games; it’s time he gets over his shit.

  As soon as Rylee’s ass hits the seat, I don’t even give her a chance to say hello before my hand is behind her head, and I’m tugging her lips to mine. The move is more to distract her from the impending stress of walking into school, but a bigger part, a part I’m growing used to, is for me. I simply want to taste her.

  I pull back just enough to see her eyes. They flutter open and the chocolatey brown depths stare back at me softly, giving me the look I was hoping for. It’s me she’s thinking about now, not the assholes at school or Oliver.

  “Morning,” she whispers, her voice slightly husky.

  I run my nose along the side of hers before pecking her lips one more time. “Morning.”

  Her smile is lazy and relaxed.

  “Nah uh.” I stop her from buckling herself in and pat the seat next to mine. Thank Christ for bench seats. “I want you right here.”

  She bites her lip, indecision warring on her face. After a moment, she relents and scoots over until her thigh and hip press against mine.

  Once she’s pulled the middle strap over and has buckled herself in, I put the truck into gear. Before I pull away, I glance out the window and find Oliver at his car, staring at us. His expression is a mixture of anger and betrayal. I hate that we’re at an impasse right now, but he’s leaving me no choice. I may come across as an asshole and most people know to stay the fuck away from me, but I have my limits, and Oliver crossed them. Until he realizes this, he can go pout in a fucking corner.

  I tip my chin at him. His jaw clenches, but he does the same seconds before I pull away from the curb.

  Rylee sits quietly beside me for most of the ride. When her knees begin to bounce and she picks at a loose string on the bottom of her shirt to the point the hem comes loose, I reach over and grab her hand.

  “Relax, Rylee, before you unravel your whole shirt.”

  She grumbles something too low for me to hear.

  “How did it go last night when you got home?”

  She lets out a long breath. “Well, I overheard Paul giving Oliver hell in his study.” She pauses. “Then Oliver came to my room later.
”

  I jerk my eyes off the road to look at her. “What did he say?”

  “He actually had the nerve to apologize.” She snorts. “As if I’d believe him.”

  As much as I want to believe Oliver does feel remorse for what happened, I’m not sure I believe him either, especially given the look he gave me a few moments ago. He may not have had a hand in releasing that video, but I’m sure he’s not broken up over it either.

  “Just stay cautious, and if I’m not with you, try to stick with Charles.”

  She huffs, her fingers tightening around mine. “This is ridiculous,” she growls. “I can’t believe I have to watch my back at school, all because my stepbrother has a stick up his ass.”

  “It’s only until I take care of some shit and let it be known that you’re not to be fucked with.”

  “It shouldn’t have come to this. If Oliver had just come to me and told me what his problem was, this all could have been avoided. Has he told you what his issue is with me?”

  “No. All I know is it has something to do with your mom marrying his dad. I assume it’s because of how fast it happened.”

  “That’s dumb. I understand him being angry at my mother and his father, but what the hell do I have to do with it? It’s not like I could have prevented them from getting married.”

  “Because you’re more convenient. He can’t take his anger out on your mom and his dad.”

  I pull into a parking space at school and shut my truck off. Rylee is back to bouncing her knees, so I grab her thigh until she stops. When she lifts her head to me, I lean forward and kiss her.

  “It’s going to be fine. Stop stressing,” I murmur against her lips.

  “Yeah, yeah,” she grumbles.

  I grin and nip her bottom lip before I open my door, pulling her out on my side by the hand. The parking lot is already full, and several pairs of eyes watch us as we walk across the lot. More follow as the whispers begin, alerting their friends. I keep Rylee’s hand in mine, and I’m damn proud of her when she keeps her head held high.

  The bustle of the hallway quiets down when we walk through the doors. A couple of people actually have the balls to snicker and point while several others whisper among themselves. I want to smash every single one of their heads in.

  “Unless any of you fuckers have anything to say loud enough for us all to hear, I suggest you turn the fuck around and keep doing what you were doing before we walked in,” I boom, meeting the gaze of several people.

  Wide eyes dart away and everyone scurries on their way, peeking glances over their shoulders.

  “I don’t know if having you here with me is making things better or worse,” Rylee says just loud enough for me to hear.

  “Why’s that?”

  “Because now everyone will think you’re my bodyguard or something.”

  “So?” I stop us at our lockers and turn to face her. “How is that a problem?”

  “It makes me look weak. Like I need the hot, tough guy of school to protect me.”

  “Hot and tough, huh?” I smirk and lean against my locker.

  She rolls her eyes and turns to enter the combination on her lock. “It’s not like you don’t know you’re the hottest guy in this school.”

  “So, I’m not just a hot guy, I’m the hottest guy? I’m really liking where this conversation is going.” My grin is big.

  She laughs, pulling a couple of books from her locker before slamming the door shut. “Just so you know, flattery isn’t attractive, so you just lost a ‘hot guy’ point.”

  “Well, since I’m the hottest guy here, I can probably manage to lose a few points and still be at the top.”

  “You’re ridiculous,” she states, shaking her head and smiling.

  “And you’re sexy as fuck.” I step in so close that she’s forced back into the lockers. I put my fist above her head. “And just so you know, you’re the hottest girl in this school. It makes total sense that you and I should be together, since we’re both the hottest and all.”

  I lean down and brush my lips against hers, no doubt adding more fuel to the gossip raging on behind us. I couldn’t care less if people see me kissing Rylee. Hell, I’m glad they do. If everyone sees Rylee with me, then it’s less likely they’ll fuck with her to avoid my wrath. Not to mention, it’ll keep any interested guys away.

  I wrap my arm around her waist and press my chest against hers. Her generous tits smash against me, tempting me with their softness. I bet they’d feel fucking divine in my hands.

  Her nails bite into my biceps and she releases a little whimper. I’d give my left nut to be alone with her right now. But we’re not, so I reluctantly lift my head and put a couple inches of space between us.

  “Are you fucking kidding me?” a snide voice comes from behind me.

  I turn around slowly and narrow my eyes at Tiffany. Her hand is thrown up on her cocked hip and her face is scrunched up in disgust. Her posse is behind her.

  “Walk away, Tiffany,” I warn with a low tone, still enraged about her part in yesterday’s events.

  “When I heard you rode in together, I thought they must have saw wrong, or maybe you were playing nice because you felt sorry for the bitch.” Her heated gaze flicks behind me to Rylee before settling back on me. “Holy shit, Zayden, are you fucking her?”

  I take a threatening step toward her, and her eyes widen in fear. I’ve never hit a girl in my life, and I won’t be starting now, but the more scared Tiffany is of me, the better.

  “It isn’t now, and it never will be, any of your business who I fuck, Tiffany. I don’t hit women, but I’m sure I can find a girl here who you’ve done wrong who will gladly do it for me. I suggest you mind your own business, and while you’re at it, leave Rylee the fuck alone.”

  She looks at Rylee again. “You don’t honestly think he actually wants you, do you?” She laughs sinisterly. “He’s only with you because of that video and he knows you’ll be an easy lay.”

  I’m about to open my mouth and lay into her, when Rylee places her hand on my arm. She appears beside me, and I’m surprised at the serene smile tipping up her lips.

  “I think someone might be jealous that I’ve got the guy and she doesn’t. You worried I might be better than you?”

  Tiffany’s lips twist into a nasty sneer. “I’ve had him, bitch, and believe me, he’ll come back for more after he’s done with your ass.”

  I bark out a laugh. “You’ve had my dick in your mouth and your teeth scraped half of the skin off. Twice. I wouldn’t count on a third time.”

  She scoffs, rolling her eyes. “You loved my mouth. You just don’t want to admit it in front of her.”

  “Hate to break it to you, but most men aren’t into pain when they’re having their dick sucked. Might want to use a mouth guard for the next unfortunate soul.”

  A few people break out into laughter, and Tiffany’s cheeks heat in embarrassment. If she wasn’t such a bitch, I might feel remorse for being an asshole, but she’s treated Rylee worse. All of my fucks have been spent when it comes to Tiffany.

  With a huff and a glare tossed Rylee’s way, she spins around on her heel and stomps off, her band of followers trailing behind her.

  “Shit,” Rylee mutters beside me. “She’s going to be out for blood now.”

  I throw my arm over her shoulder and steer her toward our first class. “Fuck Tiffany.”

  “Yeah, I bet she’d just love that.”

  “Probably, but my dick isn’t going anywhere near her again.”

  She brushes some hair off her face and looks up at me. “Did she….” She looks down in the vicinity of my dick and quickly looks back up. “Did you really let her suck you off?”

  I stop her right outside the classroom door. “Yes, but she was just a convenience.”

  Her gaze moves to my neck and she clears her throat. “Is that what I am?”

  I tip her head back up so I can see her eyes. “
What do you think?”

  “I don’t know,” she admits quietly, nibbling on her bottom lip. “I don’t want to think so, but I don’t know.”

  “I guess I’ll have to prove to you you’re more than that.”

  “Holy hell, Rylee,” Charles says, coming to a stop beside us. His gaze moves to me. “Oh, hey, Zayden.”

  I tip my chin. “Charles. How’s it going?”

  “Better now that I heard what you said to Tiffany.” His lips twitch, giving away his mirth.

  “It was nothing more than she deserved,” I respond truthfully. “I need a favor.”

  “What’s up?”

  “If Rylee isn’t in class or with me, stay with her.”

  “Zayden, I don’t—” Rylee tries to protest, but I talk over her.

  “Tiffany’s pride has been hurt. She might try to retaliate against Rylee.”

  He nods. “Got it.”

  I turn to Rylee and find her lips pressed into a firm line. “I’m not afraid of Tiffany.”

  “I know, but for my peace of mind, I’d prefer if Charles or I were with you until we know for sure if she’s planning anything. Tiffany can be a crazy bitch if provoked.”

  She doesn’t like it—I can see it in her eyes—but she appeases me anyway. “Fine.”

  “I’m heading in. Sit with me in the back?”

  After she nods, I press a quick kiss to her lips, ignoring Charles’ pleased grin as I walk through the door.

  “SO, IT’S LIKE THAT, HUH?” Oliver asks as I walk toward him, wiping the grease from my hands. I’ve been expecting this conversation; I’m just surprised he waited until I was at work and didn’t try to confront me at school. Of course, that may have been because he hasn’t had the opportunity since we’ve either been in class or I’ve been with Rylee.

  I stuff the rag back in my pocket.

  “I saw the two of you all cozied up at lunch,” he continues. “Trading in your best friend for a girl?”

  “That’s entirely up to my best friend. Is he going to make me choose between the two?”

  He shoves his hands into his pockets and works his jaw back and forth. “You had to pick the worst fucking girl in school, knowing how much I can’t stand her. You even hated her yourself.”