We settled into our seats with our overpriced snacks and drinks, getting ready to watch the game of the season. We would be close to making it to the championship game if we could secure tonight’s win.

Our sports teams boasted some truly amazing athletes. With our scholarship program for the truly elite athletes, we claimed some of the best players in all collegiate sports. It was one of the main reasons Willow Bay offered up full ride scholarships for top athletes. They couldn’t miss an opportunity to go to the richest college in the country and brush shoulders with people who could skyrocket their careers and life.

If they wanted to pay the price for fame like we paid the price for our wealth.

I never knew much about football, or sports in general, but at least I knew what a touchdown was. When our side of the crowd cheered, Kelly and I followed suit—hollering like we were sports fans.

Some of the players looked extremely athletic and after college football, they were a shoo-in to get a spot on the pro football team of their dreams.

Some tackles looked brutal, and I couldn’t help but wonder how bad injuries could get on the field.

As the ball went back and forth and opposing sides tackled each other and referees blew their whistles, we made it to the final stretch of the game. I understood how you could get sucked into a game because I was on the edge of my seat.

Tied.

The away team called for a time out.

“What do you think is going to happen?” Kelly asked, shoveling popcorn in her mouth like it was a feature film.

“Not sure, but I’m not a football buff.”

The bleachers beside us squeaked as someone approached, leaning into my ear. “We’ll win. We didn’t pay shit loads of money to lose.”

Alexander.

“Yeah, I’m sure the sports equipment we use costs a pretty penny,” I said, nonchalantly leaning away from his hot breath. He was persistent, and not in a good way.

Kelly looked up at him and waved. “Hey.”

“Hey,” he replied, still looking at me. “You two going to the festival tonight? A big group of us are going and I was hoping to get some alone time with you, baby girl.”

I shot a glance over at Kelly. “Not sure yet.”

He gripped my wrist. “I’ll give you a ride. I’ll find you after the game.”

I yanked my hand away.

“No need. We’ll see you there,” I said with a tight smile.

He patted my head and stalked away.

Those looks he had were wasted with his corrupt soul. Tall, blonde, and handsome sullied by daddy’s money and deals with the devil.