Unsocial

by Dykes, Nicole

  It doesn’t take long at all to get caught up in the qualifying heats. The noise of the crowd and the motors get all our attention. Jax grabs a beer for himself as well as me and Brooke then gets a drink for Luke. He grumbles, but there is no fucking way he’s drinking beer in front of our social worker even though it would be easy for him to pass as 21. Still, it ain’t happening.

  When the third heat runners began lining up Brooke perks up, probably looking for Shriller’s bike. When she points it out, I have to admit it’s impressive. “There’s Adam.”

  “Why the hell is his bike and suit green,” I ask out loud. Seriously, could that color be any more girly?

  “Green is the color of envy, and he likes the other racers to look at him with envy.”

  “Which they do,” says my brother. “He’s number one right now in the world. Just got through running the South America circuit and took home the numbers and the trophies in every race. He has a European tour starts in a few months.” I seriously want to slap him upside the back of his hero worship head.

  Brooke reaches over and grabs onto Luke’s arm as they both move to the front of their seats, and I roll my eyes. We texted back and forth about me meeting Adam today, and I assured her I was fine after she told me over and over that she and Adam were just friends. But watching her get all fan-girly is causing some very unhealthy emotions to shudder through me.

  When the green light goes on, the stands erupt more than they had the previous two races. Shriller and Thriller are flying off everyone’s lips as they cheer him on. I watch stunned as he pulls off some aerials and difficult tricks that I’m ashamed to say would scare the shit out of me to try. I’ve done some bike riding, and I love chasing speed in cars and on bikes, but watching this fucker fly is just a bit emasculating for the rest of us mere mortals. He’s fucking good. And of course, he takes the fucking checkered flag. The crowd is going ballistic just adding to the adrenaline rush of being in this atmosphere. After the race, we head down to the pit to meet Adam Shriller.

  Well, here goes nothing.

  As soon as the ass sees Brooke he’s on her, picking her up and swinging her around. He’s got the top of his suit pulled down showing a Shriller Racing shirt underneath. I admit, for a dude he’s impressively built. Not quite like Jax and me as far as muscles go, but he’s defined, and the chicks in the pits passing by are checking him out just as much as they’re checking the three of us out. Watching him with his arm around her shoulders is starting to get on my last nerve, and it’s taking everything I have in me not to knock his ass to the ground. Yep, not going to go well. Shake it off, man. "Brooke! Holy shit, how long has it been?"

  The fucker holds her at arms length so he can rake his eyes all down her body, not once but fucking twice. My hands are fisted so tight I can’t tell if it’s sweat or blood from my fingernails making them feel wet. "Not even a year, dumbass,” she says back laughing. “You do remember Alex and me coming to see you in June.”

  He assesses her body for way too damn long, again, "Yeah, but the months have been good to ya, sweetheart.”

  I feel my eyes narrow. Yep, I'm going to kill him. She just laughs it off, "Thanks, Adam. Hey, I want you to meet my friends."

  Friends. I cringe. He looks back at us and then back at Brooke, "Well hell, Brooke, when you said you wanted to bring your friends I was picturing blonds, brunettes, or some redheads with tits and ass. Maybe of the cheerleader variety.”

  "Yeah, because I know so many of any of those varieties, and besides you don’t need any of my help getting girls. The last time they were hanging all outside your rig.” They walk over to us, and Brooke introduces us, "This is Jax, Luke, and Dylan."

  I want to put my arm around Brooke’s waist and tell him flat out that she's mine, but I can't, and it's killing me. He shakes all of our hands, "Nice to meet you guys. So just friends, huh?"

  He eyes me when he asks that, and before I can reply Luke speaks up, "Actually Brooke is our social worker, well Dylan’s and mine."

  Shriller looks at me, "Oh?” Then he smiles back down at Brooke, who’s still tucked under one of his arms. “I’d say you two lucked out all around in social workers. All the ones I knew looked like my grandma.”

  Brooke punches him in the abdomen. “Don’t talk about Grandma Kay like that, you ass. Your grandma is the coolest person I’ve ever known. I remember her teaching me to change my oil and spark plugs, and I could do it faster than you could.” She turns to face us, “Ask him who bought him his first motorcycle and taught him to ride and force him to try tricks.”

  “Shit, girl. Don’t say that shit so loud.” He pulls her in close and whispers something in her ear which makes her laugh.

  Swear to god, if I could get away with breaking his arms and legs, it would be a done fucking deal in 3, 2, 1…

  Luke’s voice saying my name brings me back, “Until Dylan gets guardianship of my brother and sisters and me, Brooke is our babysitter.”

  Shriller laughs at that and then turns to me, "That’s seriously cool of you, man. You’re young to be taking on that kind of responsibility.”

  “He's done a wonderful job. They’re my best family.”

  He grins and shakes his head, "I can't believe you are a social worker. That seems so boring for you, Brooke."

  I growl, "She's great at her job."

  He looks at Brooke, "Of course, she is, but I know she has to get bored sitting in an office all day.”

  “She hates all the paperwork, but she gets to spend a lot of time in the field.” Everyone is staring at me again. Shit, maybe that sounded too familiar.

  She shakes her head, "My job is hardly boring."

  "As long as you are happy. I know you worked hard to get there.”

  She smiles, "I am very happy."

  Shriller then turns back to Luke, "So do you race?"

  He shakes his head, "No just a fan. I like working on bikes too."

  "Man, there is nothing like actually doing it."

  I put my hand on Luke's shoulder afraid he's going to suggest he go for a ride. Great now I've turned into a frightened mother. I can’t decide what personality to have today. "Luke plays football. He even has some offers to play in college.”

  Shriller looks him up and down, "Yeah, you look like you’re made for football. All-American type."

  Brooke smiles, "He's incredible."

  Shriller raises an eyebrow at her, "You've watched him play? You hate football."

  She nods, "No, I used to hate football players in high school. But I've watched him play, and he’s really good. The way he works the crowd reminds me of you. Everyone in the stands loves him.” She sounds just as proud of Luke as she did of Shriller earlier.

  Luke looks embarrassed, "It's not that big of a deal. Just a game. Our dad played, and Dylan played."

  Shriller looks me over now, "Hmm, I didn't have you pegged as a jock."

  Jax finally opens his mouth, "Let me guess, you have a problem with football players.”

  Shriller laughs it off, "And you played football too. I would have pegged you running more with the tough crowd Brooke and I did."

  Jax smirks, "Who the hell said football players aren't tough? I hung out with the toughest, rowdiest crowd you'll ever see in high school. We played football and then raised hell."

  Brooke laughs, "I can't picture you in high school Jax, but I'm sure you were just as intimidating then. Okay, all of you are tough guys.”

  She's mocking us, and it breaks the tension making us all laugh. Shriller looks over at Luke, "I'm pretty sure colleges will be coming for you. You’re impressive.” He nods his head at me, "You play in college?"

  I shake my head, "No, I wasn't anywhere near as good as Luke is."

  Brooke beams, "Dylan and Jax own Tricked, the custom car and motorcycle shop.”

  This peaks his interest, "No shit. That's awesome. Dad mentioned you guys opened up a second shop. Next time I'm in town I'll have to look you guys up, I have a few cars that ne
ed some paint. I’ve also got some bikes I want customized for my European Tour."

  Now Jax is excited and slips him a card, "Hell yeah, man, we can take care of you. And Luke is killing it in our bike department. He’s even got some repeat customers and only been working for us a few months. We’re the best custom shop in the Midwest.”

  Great. So this isn't the only time I will see him.

  Shriller then says, "How about we eat and talk about this some more. Luke if you think you could get four bikes done for me by May I think we could work something out.”

  I can see the excitement on Luke's face. Then my best friend decides to irritate the hell out of me. “How about you and Brooke catch up here while the three of us find food. What would you guys like to try? I know I’m gonna be looking for some KC que and beer. Everyone nods in agreement at the food choice, but as for his plan of leaving Brooke and Adam alone to catch up, oh, hell no.

  Brooke looks at me and communicates silently, it’s okay, and I have nothing to worry about. I still don’t like it, but what the fuck can I do? “Yeah, sounds like a plan.”

  The three of us leave my girlfriend and her famous ex in front of his very impressive motorhome. Did I forget to mention that his rig is in running for the Taj Mahal or wheels? I need to tour the thing when we get back. Right now I’m making double time through the crowds to leave as little time as I can for Brooke and race boy to “catch up.”

  “Man, slow the fuck up. What’s your hurry?” Jax asks.

  I give in, "Just hungry.”

  I finally spot a concession selling ribs, sandwiches, and cold beer. Perfect. In short time, the three of us are loaded down with bags of BBQ and brews, and I’m once again shoving through crowds like someone is chasing my ass. When we get back, Brooke is relaxed sitting in some lawn chairs that have been set up in front of the trailer. I leave Jax and Luke pulling out food after setting mine down. Brooke moves over to me, "Are you okay? You seem tense."

  Of course, I'm fucking tense. I've just met my girlfriend’s ex, and I can't say shit to him. "I'm fine."

  She nods because she knows I'm not being honest, but doesn't push it. "He's someone you have to get used to, but he’s a good guy.”

  "Yeah, seems real cool.” I know my tone is anything but friendly, but fuck it.

  She smiles, "I know he's cocky, but I'm sure he's intimidated by you and Jax, maybe even Luke."

  "Right," I say sarcastically.

  Speaking of the cocky little shithead, he’s walking back toward us with a cocky little grin. "Alright, let’s eat. Jumping trick ramps can work up a fuckin appetite.”

  Jax and Luke are already scarfing food because let’s face it; they have no shame. The three of us fill up some paper plates and start eating as well.

  Shriller immediately starts talking shop. Asking how Jax and I got started in the business. He even impressed all of us telling us about some of the cars and bikes he’s see before. The man knows his stuff and knows what he likes, and he seems impressed by Luke’s knowledge and interest in bikes. After we’ve eaten our fill, he shows us around the rig and shows off his bikes. Again, the motherfucker is impressive, and I’m slightly, okay, a lot, jealous of his toys, and that’s saying a hell of a lot considering some of my toys. As the afternoon goes on, he introduces us to some of the other racers, and Jax is on the ball handing out our business cards. I see a serious increase in business soon.

  Jax decides he wants more beer and asks the rest of us if he can get anything. Since Adam is racing, he hasn’t been drinking anything but water, but since we’re going that way, he offers to take us up to the entry stands, where the race participants hang out to watch qualifying heats. “Hey, Dylan look over there. That’s Hastings waving us over. We need to say hi to him.” Hastings was one of our first clients in Kansas and sent quite a bit of business our way since we opened. I turn around to check on Brooke and notice him meandering along behind us, too slowly, again with his arm around my girl. What the fuck, he can’t hold himself up?

  After we visit with Mr. Hastings for several minutes, I turn around to look for Brooke. The arm around her shoulders is playing with the ends of her hair, and I want to break every finger in his fucking hand. Instead, I try taking deep breaths before I lose what little control I have and become the hometown villain for killing off the hometown race hero.

  This has been one of the most frustrating days of my life, and I love the fucking races.

  Chapter 32

  Brooke

  Adam guides me as we meander behind the guys on our way to what they call the Eagle’s Nest, which is basically a place in the infield of the track where racers can watch the preliminaries since it offers a 360-view of the track. Several people stop us on the way to congratulate or offer will wishes to Adam along the way, and when I look up, I see Jax and Dylan talking to an older gentleman.

  Finally, we are moving again, and Adam pulls me in close putting his arm around my shoulders. In the back of my mind, I know if Dylan sees this he’s not going to be happy. I've been surprised as well as impressed at how well he’s held himself back on several occasions. But he has to know that I’m not interested in Adam like that. I reassure him several times on the phone last night that Adam and I are just friends. But I’m not going to deny that it doesn’t secretly thrill me that he’s feeling jealous or even possessive.

  “So Brooke, how's life?"

  "Great,” I tell him honestly. “I like my job even though it’s busting my ass.”

  He chuckles, "You know I was busting your chops earlier. I’m proud of what you’ve done. Can’t say I don’t miss the wild Brooke from high school.”

  I laugh, "I still have my moments. But I have grown up some too.”

  When I look forward again, I meet Dylan’s narrowed gaze. Uh oh, definitely not a happy boyfriend. I smile at him to get a feel of just how pissed he is, and when his hands cross across his chest and his eyes narrow even more as he watches our approach, I pretty much get my answer. I may be doing damage control.

  “Somebody looks pissed,” Adam snorts beside me.

  “Stop it,” I tell him and scoot out from under his arm heading toward my man.

  “What the fuck, are we going infield or not?” He’s barely hanging on, and I wish I could pull him aside and talk to him, but now is not the time. I just offer him a sweet smile and silently reassure him again. Jealous boyfriends are exhausting. But again, if the roles were reversed, I would probably be acting just this side of crazy.

  The Eagle’s Nest isn’t very full. Everyone up here is standing at different parts of the railing watching the qualifying heat that going on. Adam moves to stand beside three guys who are studying some jumps at the back end of the track. I mostly just make my way around and take everything in. I like this vantage point. When I hear Adam call Dylan and Jax’s names I look over and see him introducing them to the group of men, he was talking to. I appreciate how Adam is involving them and introducing them to his fellow race participants.

  I turn my attention back to the grandstands to get a different perspective of the fans. It’s loud and difficult to hear yourself think when you’re up there with all the fans screaming and the bikes motors growling as they fly around the track. Up here it’s mostly the noise of the race and less of the fans. When Adam calls my name I look up to see him motioning for me to join him and another gentleman. As I make my way, over I notice a familiar face, Baxter Holt. He was in our class at school and also a fellow adrenaline junkie. I notice he’s also wearing a race suit. I remember in the day that he raced BMX, but I never knew him to race motorcycles.

  “Brooke Porter, damn it’s good to see you again.” He gives me a quick hug which I return enthusiastically.

  “Baxter, it’s good to see you. I didn’t know you raced.”

  “My second year actually. Just decided to make the move from BMX, and caught the attention of some pro sponsors at the end of my first amateur year. Here I am.”

  “We’ve been back in th
e pits with Adam, so did you place in your heat?”

  “Yeah, looks like I’ll be running in seventh so far. We’ll just have to see at the end of the tenth heat,” he tells me.

  We stand and catch up on the years since graduation until someone calls him over to the rail. He excuses himself leaving Adam and me alone again. Adam points to a jump telling me the difficulty level and how he’s planning to approach it in the finals. I watch different riders approach it, and all of them look to be taking it cautiously, and if I know Adam he’s taking notes and planning how to blow up a big trip to secure a win.

  He turns and leans his back against the rail and surprises me with his next question, "So, what's up with that Dylan guy?"

  "What do you mean?"

  "I mean, is he always like that? He’s seriously fucking intense.”

  “He is, but he’s really a good guy. He's a man of few words, but he and his family have been through a lot this last year.”

  "So, you’ve talked about his life story?”

  "I am his social worker, so I have to know a bit about his past."

  "Hmm. Any reason he’s looking at me like he wants to kick my ass?”

  I try to laugh off his observation. “I’m used to that look. It’s nothing new.”

  "Is that really how you want to play this, Brooke?”

  “I have no idea what you’re talking about. That look is just classic Dylan.”

  “Did you ride here with them today?” he asks.

  “Yeah, I did. Thank god, I would have hated to try to park in that madness out there.”

  He turns to me and puts on his best charming smile, "Stay the night, and I’ll take you home in the morning.”

  I’m speechless because that’s an invite I never saw coming. I don’t even have to look to know that Dylan is watching us. His stare is burning holes in my back, and I’m sure shoots death lasers at Adam. "I can’t. I have a boyfriend."