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I glance at him through the mirror.
“If you need a ride home, call me,” he says, a firm edge to the words. “Doesn’t matter the state you’re in. Be responsible, all right?”
I nod, holding his eyes. “I will.”
“Good.” He takes a breath, a warm smile returning. “You’ve come a long way, kid.”
It’s my turn to grimace. “Dad...”
“Wait, now. Just let me be a proud father for a second. You’re the only son I’ve got. I only get to do this once.” He stands a little taller, always towering above me. “My only son is headed to his first party on the very campus I courted his mom on. It’s a weird feeling.”He chuckles. “Part of me wishes you and Courtney would never grow up. If it were up to me, you’d be The Heartbreaker of Chicago North High forever.”
Heartbreaker.
Scandal at Chicago North.
Nothing’s been whispered around the dinner table at home?
It’s been bugging me since Trisha said it.
What did she mean?
“Speaking of, I talked to Trisha Wells before practice the other day,” I say, turning away from my reflection, finally satisfied with my appearance.
Dad’s brow tightens for a second. “Oh, yeah?” he says. “What’d you guys talk about?” A quick laugh. “Does she want to do a follow-up article?”
“No. Well, maybe. But no, she mentioned something about a scandal with Coach Thomas,” I say, choosing my words carefully. “Wondered if I’d heard anything about it.”
Dad blinks with interest. “Have you?” he asks.
“No,” I answer.
“What else did she say?”
“Not much. Coach Novak showed up and shooed her away.”
With a shrug, he drops the football onto my bed. “I wouldn’t worry about it,” he says, not looking at me. “Every rumor’s a story with Trisha, you know that.”
“Right.”
“Have fun tonight.” He pauses in the doorway, glancing back. “And you call me if?—”
“If we need a ride,” I say with him. “I won’t let you down, Dad. I promise.”
“Good.”
He leaves, and I exhale the breath I was holding.
Scandal at Chicago North.
And my father knows what it is.
* * *
We park in G-lot near the center of campus, only a quick walk away from Greek Row. The sounds of the street carry throughout campus, luring us closer like a wicked siren’s song. Each step is more exciting than the last; our first official steps toward becoming gods amongst men.
Alpha Delta Xi.
But first, we have to get inside.
