A Different Side (University Park #4)

by C. M. Doporto

  “I hope everyone has a safe,” the professor stared directly at me and I blinked, coming out of my Lexi daydream, “fun, and rejuvenating Spring Break.” A few students hollered, excited to get their party started. “I’ll see you in a week.”

  Everyone rushed to get out of the room and I glanced at my phone. The professor released us twenty-minutes early. Hell yeah! I stuffed my book in my backpack and leaped out of my seat. “Excuse me, emergency here.” I shoved past the students and darted out of the building to my car, heading to my apartment.

  Not bothering to find a parking spot, I pulled up to the curb and shut off the motor. It took me seconds to ascend the stairs, taking them three at a time. I shoved my key in the lock and that’s when I noticed the tremble in my fingers from the adrenaline coursing through me. I was more hyped than on game day.

  I ran to my room and grabbed the shoebox hidden in the corner of my closet on the floor. Hundred-dollar bills neatly stacked and held together by rubber bands were crammed inside. I took a deep breath and removed fifteen bundles of hundreds and the extra roll of twenties I had illegally earned. Part of me felt wrong using this money to buy a wedding ring, but I had to get rid of it. It was a lot of money and Mr. Marshall and Joe assured me not to worry about the transaction because it would be untraceable. I just hoped they were right.

  I grabbed an old backpack and stacked the money inside. I looked inside the box. Only one-thousand and fifty-three dollars remained. It wasn’t too much, but it was enough in case of an emergency. Topping the shoebox with the lid, I shoved it back in the corner and shut the closet door. I left my apartment and drove straight to the jewelry store.

  Wiping the sweat from my brow, I hooked the shabby backpack over my shoulder and went inside. A couple sat in front of one of the glass cases looking at rings with a sales associate. “Hello, someone will be with you shortly.” The older woman smiled as she adjusted her glasses.

  “Thanks, I’m here to see Joe.” I shifted the bag to my left side, feeling the heaviness on my right shoulder. For whatever reason, carrying this much cash made me a little uneasy.

  “Raven, you got here fast.” Joe appeared from behind a door and motioned to me. “Come on back.”

  “Okay, thanks.” I followed him to the back of the store to a small room. A worn brown desk stacked with papers and an old, dusty computer crammed the small space. The office looked like a snapshot from the nineties, with wallpaper in soft pastels and mauve, cloth-covered chairs. Not to mention, the collection of abstract art hanging on the wall that I swore we had in our house at one time. A Walmart rollback special.

  “Have a seat.” He shut the door and inched his way to his desk.

  “Thanks.” I sat on the fabric-ripped chair and placed the backpack on the floor next to me.

  The chair squeaked as he turned to a table behind him. “Do you have big plans for the proposal?” He opened a drawer from a stack of square containers and removed a small burgundy box.

  I’d been thinking about different ways to propose to Lexi, from big and extravagant to small and simple. I had no idea how to do it. It didn’t have to be perfect, just sentimental and heartfelt. As long as she knew how much I loved her and wanted her to be my wife, it didn’t matter to me. Once we got to the island, I’d figure it out. “Not sure yet. We’re headed to South Padre Island, so I plan to do it there. Her birthday is on Wednesday, so probably then.”

  He smiled and nodded. “Sounds romantic.”

  I let out a heavy breath, feeling the heat from the old spotlights above my head. “I hope it will be.”

  “Don’t worry. With this beauty, she’ll definitely say yes.” With his pinchers, he popped open the box and removed the ring. Using a rag heavily soiled with black markings, he shined the band and handed it to me.

  “Wow! It’s big and shiny.” I turned the ring from side to side, admiring its brilliance and sparkle. Small round diamonds surrounded a diamond in the center, and then trailed on each side of the band. The platinum filigree gave it an exquisite antique design that was unique and stunning.

  “You said you wanted a carat and a half round diamond, so that’s it man.” He chuckled.

  I nodded. “This is exactly what I asked for. I just didn’t expect it to be so blingy.”

  “You don’t like it?” His smile shifted downward.

  “No, I love it.” I stressed each word, getting my point across. “I just hope my girl does.”

  He lowered a pair of weird looking magnifying glasses to his eyes and motioned for me to hand him the ring. Studying the ring, he said, “I’ve been in the diamond business for thirty years and I’ve never had a guy show up at my store and tell me he needed to return it for something smaller because his fiancée thought it was too much.”

  “I pray I don’t break your thirty year record.” I twisted my mouth to the side, keeping Lexi’s simple tastes in mind. She wasn’t one to flaunt the latest handbag or expensive shoes like Shelby. No, Lexi was more down to earth and didn’t care to attract attention. Recalling her previous engagement ring, a small single diamond speckle, I wasn’t sure she’d want to keep it. I should’ve gone for something more simple, but my excitement got in the way.

  “I don’t think you will.” He lifted the spectacles. “You got one helluva deal on this diamond. A VS2, G in color.” He shook his head. “Cash talks, man.”

  “Speaking of.” I lifted the heavy bag and unzipped it. “I have your money.”

  “Perfect.” He gave the ring one more shine and placed it in the box. “Good luck.”

  I paid him and then stuffed the box into the inside pocket of my jacket. “Thanks, Joe. I’m going to need it.”

  “No problem. Come back and I’ll design your wedding band, if you want.”

  I shook his hand. “Sounds like a plan.”

  As soon as I stepped out of the jewelry store, my phone buzzed.

  Lexi: Hey, when you get out of class, stop by the new cafeteria. I’m here eating with Delaney and Luke.

  I quickly tapped out a text.

  Me: Okay. Class just got out. On the way.

  Lying to Lexi wasn’t something I did, but I think I had a good excuse. I drove two blocks and parked at the stadium. I crossed the street, darted up the steps to the student union, and ran into Josh and Shelby.

  “Hey, man. Whatcha smiling about?” Josh fist-bumped me.

  “Nothing.” I shrugged, trying to wipe the excitement off my face, but it was pointless.

  “You got it, didn’t you?” He eyed me, trying to pry the truth from me.

  “Got what?” Shelby looked at Josh and then at me. I’d told Josh what I was planning on doing. He was honest with me, telling me it was too soon, but said if I loved her that much to follow my heart.

  Josh winced and I shrugged. “Yeah. I just picked it up.”

  “So, you still thinking about doing it on the island?”

  I patted my chest, making sure it was still in my pocket. Leaving it in my car was too risky, so I had no other choice than to keep it on me. “That’s the plan.”

  Shelby huffed. “Would someone tell me what the hell you two are talking about?”

  I laughed out a sigh and glanced at Josh. He shot me one of his it’s-up-to-you looks. There was no way to hide this, not even from Shelby. “I’m going to propose to Lexi.”

  Shelby screamed and then slapped her hand over her mouth. “Oh my God! You are? On the beach?”

  “Well, I don’t know if it will be on the beach, but that’s a good idea.”

  Her cheeks formed perfect little pink balls and her eyes watered. “How romantic.” She latched on to Josh’s arm and I could see the hate in his eyes. I had opened a can a worms for him. Shelby wouldn’t stop pestering him until he proposed to her. “You have the ring?” she asked inquisitively.

  “Yes, I just picked it up.”

  Her eyes widened. “Oh, can I see? Please?”

  I shifted my weight. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt to get your opinion.�
�� Reaching into my jacket, I pulled out the box, even though I knew what Shelby would say about it. It was probably more her style than Lexi’s.

  She clapped her hands in small, fast movements. “I’m so excited for you two.”

  “Thanks, I’m pretty damn hyped, too.” Concealing the square box in the palm of my hand, I did a quick glance to make sure Lexi wasn’t around. I took a few steps back, away from the door, and Josh and Shelby followed my pace. Keeping one eye on the doors to the student union and the other on the box, I opened it.

  “Wow!” Shelby gasped. “It’s beautiful.”

  “Is it too big?” I stole a quick glance before returning a watchful eye.

  “Uh, no.” Using the tip of her finger, she touched it. “It’s exactly what I would want.” She elbowed Josh. “Are you taking notes?”

  “Most definitely.” Josh looked directly at me, and mouthed a sarcastic, “Thank you.”

  I gave a half shrug, and mouthed back, “Sorry.” Closing the box, I slipped it back in my pocket. “I’m glad you like it. I just hope Lexi will.”

  Shelby gave an approving nod. “Trust me. She’ll love it.”

  I opened the door to the student union and we walked in. “Are you two eating here?”

  “Yeah, I heard the new cafeteria is open,” Josh said, heading to the stairs.

  Shelby pouted and pulled Josh in the opposite direction. “I really want Chick-fil-A.”

  “Alright. Let’s go get your chicken sandwich.” Josh shook his head and trudged behind her.

  “I’m meeting Lexi upstairs, so you guys come up after Shelby gets her food.”

  “Okay, we’ll be up in a few minutes.” Josh gave a two-finger wave as Shelby towed him to get her favorite fast-food fix.

  People packed the cafeteria, leaving no open tables or chairs. I searched the room and spotted Luke and Delaney. Lexi sat in front of them with her back facing me. I snaked my way through the crowded room toward the table where my friends sat. Luke and Delaney caught sight of me and I held my finger over my lips, telling them to be quiet.

  “I guess. I don’t have any plans for Spring Break.” Lexi said, stabbing her food with a fork.

  “We do now,” I whispered in her ear, feeling her body shiver. I kissed her on the cheek, inhaling her sweet scent.

  “We do?” She leaned back, looking at me with a questioning gaze.

  “The Raven’s in the house.” Kyle Reeves, along with Cage Rutherford, Marcel Johnson, and Tony Rodriguez chanted from the table behind us. It didn’t take long for the students in the cafeteria to repeat the phrase, including Lexi. I bowed, showing my appreciation for their support.

  Once the applause dwindled, I took a seat next to Lexi.

  “What’s up, man?” I reached across the table and exchanged a fist-bump with Luke.

  “Busy as shit.” Luke shook his head.

  “I understand. You’re three for three, right?” Baseball season was in full-swing.

  “Yeah. We are.”

  “Cool. By the way, that protein drink you told me try,” I gave him a thumb up, “I like it. Better than the other stuff I was drinking.”

  “I told you,” Luke reiterated. “So, where are y’all headed for Spring Break?”

  “South Padre Island.” I smiled and pulled Lexi close to me, looking at her. “Like I promised you.”

  She half-smiled, half-frowned as though not knowing whether to be excited or worried. I understood where her concerns were stemming from — my probation. “But, I—”

  “Now that just sucks. What am I going to do?” Delaney huffed, crossing her arms and slouched in her chair. I felt bad for the girl. I wasn’t sure what Luke had planned for them, but knowing baseball didn’t stop during Spring Break, I guessed nothing was on the agenda.

  “You can come with us. We have a big group going. Josh’s parents have a huge condo on the beach. We’re going to party it up and celebrate my baby’s birthday.” I planted a kiss on Lexi’s lips. She didn’t respond, remaining freakishly still.

  “I can?” Delaney’s attitude did a three-sixty.

  Lexi started at her and then turned to me. “Raven. I think—”

  “The Marshall’s in town!” Cage’s voice roared and the entire cafeteria turned their attention to the front entrance. Students broke out in a cheer, repeating, “The Marshall’s in town!”

  “Josh!” I stood up and motioned to where we were sitting. “Dude, get over here.”

  With one arm hooked around Shelby and the other high in the air, he waved to his fans. Josh didn’t suck up the attention like me or Shawn, preferring to stay on the down low. Shawn swaggered behind him, flirting with Jenna, the stalker-reporter that just couldn’t stay away from the football team. To make matters worse, the Silicone Triplets trolled their way in my direction and then quickly averted their mission.

  “That’s right, bitches. Turn your skank asses around.” Delaney yelled, pointing at them.

  Covering my mouth, I laughed under my breath. I had to give it to Delaney, she wasn’t afraid to take up for her friend.

  “They don’t give up, do they?” Lexi glanced over her shoulder and they shot her go-to-hell looks.

  “Can you blame them?” Delaney asked, eyeing them back.

  Lexi turned in my direction, her eyes appraising me. Without warning, she grabbed my face and shoved her tongue in my mouth. It was hot, sexy, sloppy, and so out of character for her. I dove my fingers into her hair and kissed her fervently, loving every minute of it. Feeling the rise in my pants, I pulled away slowly. Dazed and out of sorts, I rolled my tongue across my lips, relishing her sweetness. “Damn, you should do that more often.”

  Lexi ran her fingers through her long strands while holding on to her lip. Shit! I was ready to lay her on the table right there. “Don’t worry, I will.” She winked and I about came undone.

  “You go, girl!” Delaney reached across the table. “Show them who he comes home to at night.”

  “You’ve got that right.” Lexi laughed and slapped her hand against hers.

  I shook my head, grinning at my woman and her crazy friend. “Trust me, you have nothing to worry about, baby.”

  She smiled at me and then shot them a don’t-mess-with-my-man look. No doubt, my woman had grown a pair. But she didn’t have to worry. I had the best catch and I was never releasing her.

  “Luke, my man.” Josh high-fived him. “I’m ready for another workout session. When are you free?”

  “It wasn’t enough for you?” Luke smiled, and then made a hand gesture, hinting they had done more than exercise. We all laughed at his jesting.

  “Shit, you kicked my ass, but I want more.” Josh gave him a playful slap on the back.

  “What? You were crying like a baby.” Shelby nudged his arm. “Complaining how much you were in pain.”

  “Shel.” Josh shot her a sharp look. She rolled her eyes and sat next to Delaney.

  “Damn, I’m that good?” Luke rubbed the scruff on his chin. “Maybe I should open up my own gym.”

  “Sign me up, man. I’m there.” Josh and I both raised our hands. He knew what he was doing when it came to training athletes.

  Delaney pressed against him. “I told you you’re awesome.”

  He cocked a brow. “Yeah, but I thought you were talking about something else.”

  “Ha-ha. You can show me later.” Delaney traced his lower lip with the edge of her nail and then licked her finger. “You had some wasabi.”

  “I wouldn’t want that getting on you.” Luke gave her a once over and Delaney slapped his arm playfully. Turning to Josh and me, he asked, “You’re ready for some more torture?”

  “Bring it on, man.” Josh motioned with two fingers. “Yeah. Stevens just isn’t doing it for me. I mean he’s good, but I get so much more out of my workouts with you.”

  I rested my arms against the table. “Coach just needs to can Stevens. I mean, he needs to get with the times. His workouts are so old school.”

  “
No kidding.” Kyle leaned back in his chair, catching some of our conversation.

  “Guys, I’d like to help you, but my schedule is pretty tight with baseball in full swing.” Luke’s face twisted in apology.

  “And don’t forget me.” Delaney reached under the table and Luke jumped. His eyes bugged out and she laughed before turning to Lexi and Shelby.

  “Uh, I got first dibs, bro.” I elbowed Josh.

  “Yeah, yeah, I hear ya.” Josh waved me off. “Let’s talk.” Josh grabbed a chair and sat at the end of the table. “So there’s no way we can workout on the weekends?”

  I overheard Lexi, Shelby, and Delaney talking about plans for Spring Break. I glanced at Lexi and shot her a smile, excited about our getaway.

  Luke held up his hands. “I’m traveling, and with practice and classes, it makes it hard. Y’all can come to the gym when I’m working and I can try and help you guys.” He paused for a moment. “We can meet up one night and I can make y’all a workout plan to follow.”

  Josh and I looked at each other and nodded. “That works.”

  Luke scratched his temple. “I’m not sure Raven can keep up with Josh, so it might not work.”

  Lexi latched onto my arm and tugged. “Hey, you’re not seeing Dr. Galen next week?”

  I broke away from my conversation. “No. He’s going out of town for Spring Break.”

  “Why didn’t you tell me?”

  I turned back to Luke. “Yeah, man. Whatever!” I slapped the table and it shook.

  Josh pushed me and I bumped Lexi. “He said it, bro. Not me.”

  “Raven.” Irritation laced Lexi’s voice.

  “Yes? Sorry, baby.” I quickly gave her my full attention. “What did you say?”

  Her face softened. “Why didn’t you tell me about this trip sooner?”

  “I’m sorry.” I wrapped my hands around hers. “Josh found out this morning that we could get the condo for the week. Josh, Shelby, and I were talking about it before class today.” I reached behind me and grabbed Josh by the shirt. “Isn’t that right, dude?”