Page 445 of Ruthless Court

He finally sits.

“Why?”

There it is.

I could bullshit him.

Talk about wanting to surprise her.

Christmas.

Young love.

Instead, I tell him the truth.

“Because she wouldn't bring me.”

His expression barely changes.

“I know.”

That catches me.

“You know?”

“She told us she's seeing someone.”

I lean back.

“She told you?”

“Her mother extracted details.”

“Sounds familiar.”

“I know it's basketball.”

I pause.

“How?”

“Hannah's mother is not subtle.”

“Did she tell you who?”

“No.”

He studies me.

“I figured you or Vale.”

My entire body tightens.

“Vale?”

“I watch Stanford.”

“Don't even get me started on Vale.”