Page 39 of Ruthless Court

“It’s professional.”

“It came from a drugstore bag.”

“Drugstores sell professional products.”

“No cherry-colored makeover. No jerseys. No fake team.”

Piper folds her arms.

“Fine. Stay here.”

Her tone changes.

Not playful now.

She glances at my books, then at the clothes spread across my bed.

“It’s your first night of college. You can spend it alone with your laptop if that’s what you want.”

The dig is small.

It still finds the right spot.

I came here because I wanted something different. A life that didn’t revolve around Dad’s practices, his players, or the gym. I wanted friends who knew me before they needed something.

That requires leaving the room.

Even when the plan is terrible.

“Fine.”

All three girls brighten.

“I’ll go.”

Piper squeals and hugs me.

“But I’m dressing myself.”

Her excitement drops by several degrees.

“We can help.”

“That sentence sounded threatening.”

“You at least have to wear something cute.”

“I own cute things.”

Jules glances at my thick glasses.

“Do you?”

I give her a flat look.

“My contacts are enjoying a private vacation with the rest of my luggage.”

Kenzie winces. “Those glasses are intense.”