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“Coo,” I say tohere on her bed in her doro to the teaht

“Nope Not my scene, Coop You know that”

“You’ll be with me”

“Right” She laughs “And all the floozies ant to hang all over you all night Hard pass”

“When have I ever blown you off for a cleat chaser?” I ask, but I already know the answer Never I’ve never put anyone before Reese, including girlfriends If they can’t handle our relationship, they can find theht I re hborhood I saw her pink bike in the yard and got excited There were no other kids on our street That afternoon her parents invited mine over for dinner, and Reese and I rode our bikes until ere practically falling off them from exhaustion We’ve been thick as thieves ever since

“Never” She heaves a heavy sigh, bringing hts “That’s just not ot her for Christood book to read, and some mint chocolate chip ice creao and have fun Be safe Callme

I have to go tonight As a freshman on the football team for Central University, I have to be there to support my team I have a full-ride scholarship, and as a fresh deal I have to be there “Please, Reese’s Pieces,” I say, sticking my bottom lip out I usually bribe her with candy when I pull out the name, but desperate times and all that

She rolls her light green eyes and holds her hand out “Hand them over”

“I don’t have them”

“What kind of bribe is this?” she teases

“We’ll stop on the way I proirl loves all things Reese’s Then again, who doesn’t?

“Cooper,” she whines “I really don’t want to go”

“Too bad You’ve been holed up in your dore, Reese We’re supposed to be living our best life”

“Hello” She holds up her e-reader “I’ me”

“Coach is going to be pissed,” I say, kicking off my shoes

“What are you doing?”

“I’ comfortable”

“On my bed?” she asks, annoyed

“Yep I’ht alone You either co Coach your nu there”