Sbarro smelled delicious and I regretted succumbing to peer pressure and ordering an Orange Julius like the rest of Parker’s friends. Kirsten’s question rattled me. I held my finger up as I swallowed. “Not at the moment.”

“Even with all those yummy football boys around?” Amanda asked.

I laughed a little too loud. Clearly, Parker hadn’t told them I was a lesbian. “After you play football with them, they don’t smell so yummy.”

“We should find you somebody. Parker already has a few guys interested. It’s just a matter of time before she figures out which one she likes,” Amanda said.

Red splotches appeared on Parker’s cheeks. “It’s only because I’m the new girl.” She refused to look at me.

Kirsten leaned forward. “Speak of the devil.” She waved at a group of guys. “Hey, Grayson.”

A tall, good-looking guy with sandy-blond hair walked over to the table. Based on his build and Hawkeyes shirt, I immediately knew he was the quarterback of their school. He was flanked by oversized guys who were clearly his linebackers.

“What’s going on?” He nodded at everyone, but his eyes landed on Parker. She avoided eye contact. He smiled confidently. “Parker, it’s good to see you out. I didn’t think your parents ever let you do anything.” He pulled up a chair and sat on the end of the table closest to her.

“My best friend came up to visit so we’re all hanging out.” She seemed so nervous around him. Something felt off.

“Get this, Grayson. Sutton is a quarterback, too,” Amanda said.

He busted out laughing and covered his mouth with his fist. The two goons howled. “You? You’re a quarterback?”

“Yeah, so?” I asked. I wanted to verbally drop my résumé in front of him, but something told me he didn’t care.

He crossed his arms. “I’ve never heard about you. Are you new? What school?” One of his buddies punched him.

“This is my third year leading the Oak Grove Pumas.”

More snickers. “Divisions must kill you. I’ve never heard of Oak Grove. I’ve been the quarterback for Hilltop since sophomore year and we’ve gone to state the last two years. We’ll go again this year. There’s no competition.” He waved his hand at me. “No offense.”

I bit my cheek to keep my anger in check. I silently counted to five. “None taken. Maybe I’ll see you this year.” I shrugged and looked around, bored. That made the guys laugh even harder.

“Be nice, jackasses,” Amanda said even though she was laughing, too.

“I heard she’s actually really good,” Emilia said.

I was irritated that Parker was silent while Emilia defended me. I was having a miserable time, but I promised Parker I would try. I knew she was trying to fit in, but at what expense?