Page 28 of Set Play

A snort behind me scares the shit out of me and I whip around to find Lukas standing there, arms crossed and face smug. His amber eyes twinkle with mirth. “Well, if that’s how you react when you ‘hate’ her, I’d hate to see how pissed off you’d get if you liked her.”

Rather than dignify that with a response, I move toward the bar to close my tab, raising my right hand over my head and making sure he can see my middle finger salute. His laugh follows me the entire way.

In the comfort of my hotel room, I finally find the courage to respond to Élise. I type out a message but pause before hitting send. Thoughts of her feistiness fly to the forefront of my mind and just like that, I’m typing out a new message instead.

If anyone asks, I blame the alcohol.

There’s not a single other reason that justifies it because like a glutton for punishment…

I poke the bear.

Today 8:24PM

Me:

I’m sorry, who is this?

Chispita:

The fuck do you mean ‘who is this?’ How many fake girlfriends do you have?

Me:

Now, now, chispita, no need for cursing.

Me:

For what it’s worth, I’m sorry I didn’t warn u. I’ve been looking trying to find u. even called Henri.

Chispita:

I knew you knew who I was! Wait…You called Henri? When? And why were you looking for me?

Me:

Maybe I wanted to find the woman I was a douche to when I saw her last & to apologize.

Chispita:

Nice try...

Me:

Fine. I called him a few days ago.

Chispita:

Weird…he didn’t say. But, we also haven’t talked much since the game. Now answer the other question.

The idea of her brother not talking to her over that day tempts me to throw my phone. Somehow, I manage to restrain myself and do as she instructs.

Me:

My agent has an idea on how to fix this, but I want to talk face to face

Chispita:

What’s this miracle idea?