Chapter 21

Nearly a week after the assault, Clarke's released to go home. Sore and frustrated by being stuck in his room for a few extra days, Clarke is relieved when Steven takes him to practice. Coach Greene refuses to allow him to participate in exercises or get into uniform.

"How are you feeling?" Coach Greene asks, sitting with Clarke in the locker room.

Sighing, Clarke struggles not to grab his side, "Coach, I'd be lying through my teeth if I said it doesn't hurt. I have a doctor's appointment after practice today. With any luck, he'll tell me about how long I'll be out of action."

Waving his hand to keep Clarke's attention, Coach Greene explains, "Your starting spot is safe. I just need you to heal and take it easy. Until you're medically cleared, you can go between the press box and the field. I want you to film practice and occasionally help Coach Moss draw up some new plays."

"I can do that, coach. Sorry, I let you and the team down."

"You've done no such thing! The rumor is around town is that you stopped your sister from being raped by her boyfriend and friends. Even if a fraction of that is true, then you're a bonafide hero. I won't ask because it involves family, and that's a matter left where it belongs. Now, go get the camera. It's in my office. I'll see you on the field."

Clarke nods before getting up on his feet. He walks into the office, picks up the camera from the desk, and walks from the locker room to the field. The clouds overhead pull the humidity to a comfortable level. The threat of rain lingers over Brighton.

The team stretches, getting loose before lining up to run plays. While Coaches Moss and Sapp work each side of the team to the extreme. Clarke not being on the field is felt as Emmitt tries to scramble to give other receivers time to get open deep downfield. The speedy and hefty defense makes it difficult for long-yardage plays, but they sometimes struggle with crossing routes and play-action pass.

Occasionally, Clarke pulls the inexperienced varsity wide receivers to the side for pointers. The former JV trying to get ready for the challenges the upcoming season offers has them rattled.

As thunder claps in the distance, Clarke isn't rattled by it. He's focused on the team while ignoring the buzzing in his front pocket. His phone constantly goes off as Tracy wants to talk.

"Come on, Clarke! Text me back! Jesus quit being so damn stubborn," Tracy says as she waits for her voice coach.

Inside the outdated office with a window air-conditioning unit, Tracy feels good about her progress during the program. Tracy's Texas accent has seemingly vanished for the last couple of weeks. Now able to blend with anyone from New York, Tracy feels a sense of pride.

Tracy doesn't wait long for the instructor to arrive. After setting her purse and suitcase under the antique wooden desk, the final review begins, "Good morning, Tracy. This is our last morning together. I must admit, it has been a pleasure working with you this summer."

"Thank you, Ms. Slater. You've been such a huge help," Tracy says, sitting with her hands in her lap, "Any last-minute advice or recommendations?"

Picking up her laptop, Cheryl logs in to pull up Tracy's file, "Well, to begin, first-year attendees rarely receive an offer. However, the Philidelphia Broadway Company is offering you a spot next fall. It's not a major role, but you can become the understudy for Beetlejuice. Portraying Lydia is perfect for you to begin your career. I have your offer letter to sign, should you be interested."

Her eyes light up; Tracy's nearly in tears, "Are you kidding? Yes! Hell, yes, I will take it!"

Cheryl prints the commitment letter and hands it to Tracy, "Sign it, and an agent will come to you in Texas to review the contract terms sometime over the next few months. I'm excited for you. Congratulations on the offer; you've worked hard and, if I may say, busted your ass to prove to everyone you belong in this world."

"Thank you! I can't wait to get on stage. I've dreamed of this for so many years. I've watched many clips on YouTube and worked with Amelia and Jarvis to the point that I was ready to quit from burnout. It took me longer than I wanted to adapt to what you said that first day of class, but with practice and dedicating myself to our craft, I won't settle for second best for long."

Unable to hide a smile, Cheryl waits for Tracy to sign the letter. Once it's handed over, Cheryl slides it into a folder inside her suitcase, "Good. I love that sparkle in your eyes. It reminds me why I fought so hard to get into this business. Now, let's go over a few final notes so you can enjoy tonight's premier. Your first Broadway show is something that'll leave a lasting impression."

Together, Tracy and Cheryl go over some voice manipulations. The session lasts nearly an hour and a half. Finished with the lesson, Tracy meets Amelia back in the dorm. Inside the cozy dorm room, the two girls take time to pack.

"You best keep in touch after you get home!" Amelia says, allowing her Appalachian accent to be heard.

"Me? You best answer my texts and Facebook messages. I'm going to miss you, ya hussy!" Tracy teases and winks.

Giggling fills the room as the young ladies prepare for their last night in New York.

"I don't think I could've managed this place without you and Jarvis."

Feeling cocky, Amelia takes Tracy's hand, "You know, sweetness, there's no need to rush. I just hope you haven't regretted anything we did together. If so, I'm glad these walls can't talk."

"Without a doubt, I've enjoyed it. I can't believe Jarvis thought we were sleeping together. Honestly, it's been nice knowing what it would be like if I had a sister. Although, do you think Jarvis has any regrets from the parties we've attended?"

Amelia stops to look at Tracy, "If he does, I'll whip his ass myself. Y'all definitely made looking like a couple out on the streets something to enjoy. I would've thought a city like this would embrace anyone in an interracial relationship, but the looks we've got from people could kill."

"You got that right! Like I thought Texas was bad at times. New York City opened my eyes to how closed-minded people can be still. But forget those assholes, and let's polish off a terrific summer with some fun," Tracy stops, thinking over how things have been with Clarke, "If only my so-called boyfriend wouldn't have stayed an asshole. He's still ignoring me!"

It's a shock to Amelia over how Clarke ignored Tracy all summer. The few times they've talked, Amelia has witnessed nothing short of intense fighting, followed by Tracy ready to get smashed at parties. When word reached Tracy about Clarke getting hurt, the tears on Amelia's shoulder broke her heart.

"Look, I ain't 'bout to tell you how to live your life, but maybe it's best when you get home to rub what you've done this summer in Clarke's face. From my point of view, he's a grade-A jackass. He doesn't deserve you."

Tracy prepares her next statement with fear, "As much as we've fought this summer, I love him. Do I have any regrets? A few, but when I get back to Brighton, it's going to be tough to tell Clarke about certain aspects of the program. Anyway, let's forget about leaving and get ready for tonight. We have dresses to pick up. Is Jarvis waiting for us to meet him for lunch at Picadillie?"

"Yes, and it's your life, but if he hurts you, I am flying to Texas to kill him. I love ya, girl," Amelia pulls Tracy in for a hug and refuses to let go for nearly a minute.

Packed with a change of clothes, ready to depart in the morning, Amelia and Tracy make their way to meet Jarvis. Lunch is spent out under the sunshine on a concrete patio. Jarvis is seated when the other two arrive. He's hiding his dark eyes under a pair of RayBan sunglasses. Dressed in a white Ralph Lauren polo with Tommy Hilfiger shorts and a pair of black sandals, Jarvis can't take his eyes off Tracy.

Locked on her in a spaghetti strap with a built-in bra that barely keeps her breasts in place, Jarvis is ready to drool, staring at Tracy's tan legs with the cut-off shorts, "Fuck me running backward; you are drop-dead gorgeous," He says to himself.

Enjoying a long lunch, the maroon umbrella over the table provides a perfect cover from the sun. Nearby traffic makes it difficult at times to talk. Tracy and the others try to talk over the traffic, and when Jarvis takes Tracy's hand to express how he feels, her phone rings with Clarke's face on the screen.

"Pardon me. I need to take this call."

After Tracy is out of earshot, Jarvis smacks his hands on the table, "Fucking son of a bitch. I go to admit that I have feelings, and that loser has to call. Talk about impeccable timing!"

"Relax. You have until we leave for the airport to tell Tracy how you feel. Breathe and chillax, but don't be afraid to disclose that you're the one who helped her get the shot in Philly since she refused to sleep with anyone to make the recommendation for her."

In the corner of the gated dining area, Tracy regrets answering the call.

"How are you feeling?" She asks.

"Seriously? I got stabbed and had to have surgery. How do you think I feel? I'm fuckin' pissed off! I can't practice, it hurts to move and breathe, and you're still not home."

Tracy struggles to maintain composure, trying not to explode, "I will be home tomorrow."

"Good! When you get here, we need to talk. New York's turned you into a bitch."

"Excuse the blue fuck out of me? I've turned into a bitch? How can you say that to me? You're supposed to love me, even through my faults. If this is how you're going to talk to me, forget picking me up at the airport. I'll have my mom do it."

Without saying anything, Clarke hangs up.

"You sorry son of a bitch. You'll pay for that!" Tracy says, feeling her cheeks starting to glow.

Taking a seat at the table, she sits in silence.

"From the look in your eyes, Clarke must've really pushed 'that' button," Amelia says.

Crossing her arms, Tracy fights the urge to cry. Jarvis sits there feeling helpless. The rest of lunch remains in silence. Jarvis settles the tab, allowing Amelia and Tracy time to pick up their dresses. The duo returns to the dorm with their selections from Hollie Ray's Boutique.

The rest of the afternoon, Tracy puts on her make-up. Her dress hangs on the dresser, waiting to be put on. While the phone call replays in her mind, Tracy battles against crying so she doesn't smear her eyeliner.

"Amelia, what do I do about Clarke? He was serious when he called me a bitch."

"If I were you, I'd find the best-looking guy and fuck his brains out before going home. Then, when the next big fight happens, I'd throw it in his smug face. Burn that arrogant bastard's pride to the ground."

Confused, Tracy sniffles while she stares at her reflection, "You know if I wasn't with him, I would've had some fun. I'd let Jarvis get his hands on me."

In a double take, Amelia can't believe Tracy's noticed all the glares and subtle hints Jarvis has thrown at her, "You knew?"

"Hell, yes, I've known. He's hot! Like I said, if I wasn't with Clarke, I'd rattle his bones until there was just dust."

Finally, a laugh is heard with Tracy covering her mouth. The mood improves, but Amelia texts Jarvis when Tracy's not paying attention.

Hey! Major update! She's into you! After the show, take her to the afterparty and get her smashed. She said you're hot! I'll stay out so you can have our room.- Amelia

FUCKIN' A! Maybe I can win her over. Thanks, Dollface. I owe you a huge one.

Nearly ready, Amelia slips into a rosy Maya Slip Dress with white high heels. The long spaghetti-strapped dress shows off her firm cleavage. Tracy's anxious to wear the black Carolina Rib Mini Dress paired with red stilettos. The thicker shoulder straps hide the way she hunches at times, and the small slit customized to show off the curves of her breasts guarantees to grab any man's attention.

"Girl, you look stunning!" Amelia says.

"Oh, so do you. Are you ready to meet Jarvis downstairs?"

Amelia nods and then holds the door for Tracy. They find Jarvis in a traditional black and white three-piece suit when the elevator doors open. It doesn't take long for them to hail a taxi and arrive at the theater. Inside, the three friends are escorted to the rear row of the Front Mezzanine. Jarvis leads both ladies as they cling to him. Amelia takes the fat seat as Jarvis sits in the middle, giving Tracy the spot on his other side.

Tracy's astonished by the sight of the stage. She's dreamed of attending a Broadway show for years. Sitting there, she takes in every moment. The bright red velvet curtains, the light fixtures, and the musky scent of decades of visitors travel through Tracy's nose, leaving her in awe.

"I can't believe it. I'm here attending a Broadway play!" Tracy squeals.

Jarvis leans in, whispering, "The crew performing are having an afterparty, and we're invited. So, would you be my plus one? Amelia is going with Barry Fletcher."

Gasping, Tracy covers her mouth, "You don't need to ask. You bet your sweet ass I'll be your plus one. Thank you."

Ready to get through the show, Jarvis can't wait to reach the climax. He's shocked as the lights dim. Tracy takes his hand.

"Oh, here we go!" Tracy whispers, bouncing in the seat.

During the play, Jarvis's heart skips a beat whenever Tracy squeezes his hand. At intermission, their hands are interlocked. Tracy doesn't notice it until Jarvis instinctively squeezes his hand.

"Oh! My bad!" Tracy says and gasps.

"Don't be sorry. Before we arrive at the afterparty, I wanna talk."

Tracy feels her heart drop. Each beat strikes her ribs harder as her breathing becomes erratic. Feeling her palms get sweaty, Tracy begins to feel confused. On the one hand, she doesn't feel guilty about taking Jarvis's hand, but on the other, the thought of sending him the wrong signal eats at her.

"Yeah, sure, we can talk. About what?" Tracy asks.

"Whatever. Our time together, me trying to help get you to London after your first contract expires. Anything really." Jarvis replies, hiding his intentions, feeling the instant tension.

The lights flicker, indicating intermission is about over. Patrons return, and the show picks up with the next scene. Knowing an unpleasant time at the afterparty is coming, Tracy tries to stay focused on the rest of the show.

When the show ends, Tracy's part of a standing ovation. The theater claps as the cast is introduced and takes a final bow. Trying to hide the quick, shallow breaths, Tracy makes her way to the aisle, waiting for Jarvis and Amelia to make their way backstage. They bump into Cheryl at the edge of the stage, and she guides them to Gotham Hall. It's nearly a ten-minute walk.

The teenagers are led to a stage where colored lights and techno music are heard. Amelia finds her date and vanishes. Tracy's heart rate rises more when Jarvis takes her hand, leading her onto the dance floor.

It doesn't take Tracy long before she begins to sweat. Jarvis notices she's having trouble keeping up with him, "Hey. Do you need a break?" He shouts over the music.

"Yes, please!"

Walking off the dance floor, Jarvis and Tracy walk backstage. They make their way to a refreshment table. Jarvis picks up a paper cup and pours Tracy some punch. Upon downing the first gulp, Tracy nearly spits the punch out.

"Fuck me! This stuff is spiked." Tracy informs Jarvis.

"I know. This is a private event, so we won't be bothered here unless it's taken out to the public. Before we go home, it's a chance to cut loose, let our hair down, and have a fucking blast."

Aware that it will be a fun night, Tracy puts herself into party mode, downing the entire cup with a quick second serving. The strong alcohol presence pushes through Tracy's body. Jarvis notices her defenses have lowered over the next few hours of drinking and dancing.

When the moment arrives, Jarvis purposely bumps into Tracy at the end of a song. She nearly falls, but Jarvis grabs her, pulling Tracy into his body, "I won't let ya fall."

"Good to know. I could've falled down and go boom, on my butt. That hurts, mainly because I have a big ass." Tracy says, heavily slurring the statement.

"I think you have the perfect ass. I bet you could bounce quarters off of it," Jarvis says, pausing as Tracy's cheeks blush, "You also have such beautiful, full lips that I'd love to kiss."

Puckered up, Tracy closes her eyes, picturing Clarke in his place. Jarvis doesn't hesitate to press his lips down against hers. The passion behind the embrace creates a moment that pushes things to another level.

Behind the drunken vision, Tracy sees and hears Clarke. Jarvis thinks she's giving him the signal for more, "How about we ditch this shindig and go back to your place?"

"Anything you want, lover. I'm all yours and only yours tonight," Tracy mumbles, feeling her gut instinct scream 'no' at her.

Unwilling to wait, Jarvis takes her by the hand, nearly ripping her shoulder apart on the way outside to hail a cab. It doesn't take long for them to reach the dorm. Climbing from the taxi, Tracy'sbody begins to show more signs of intoxication. She can barely stand still. As she sways, Jarvis scoops her into his arms. Carrying her to the elevator, the night guard pretends to see nothing and keeps reading his novel.

When the elevator doors slide open, Jarvis carries Tracy to her room. Unable to watch her struggle to insert the key into the lock, Jarvis snatches it, turning it, shoving the door open.

"Let's not waste any time!" He says, lifting Tracy over his shoulder.

Tracy can't help but giggle until she's thrown onto the twin-size bed. Jarvis quickly strips and slides onto the bed. Reaching under the soft dress, Jarvis hooks his fingers around the top of her thong.

Still believing she's back home with Clarke, Tracy reaches down, lifting her dress over her head. It hits the floor. Jarvis crawls over her, stopping to kiss her neck.

"Oh, yes, that feels so good. Please, kiss me more!"

Obliging the request, Jarvis gradually kisses his way between her breasts. Tracy reacts, sucking in a deep breath, "Yes! You know how much I love your mouth on me. Make me moan, baby." She mutters, placing her hands on Jarvis's head.

Ready to fill the invitation, Jarvis kisses them until he reaches Tracy's left nipple. Taking it into his mouth, Tracy arches her body, tightening her grip on Jarvis.

"More, harder, give me more!" She demands. "Don't forget to play with the other one. Don't play favorites!"

Turning his attention to the right breast, Jarvis can barely contain his patience. His breathing hastens, feeling the urge to plunge into Tracy's body to release his summer frustration. Not playing long on the right breast, Jarvis doesn't bother kissing his way between Tracy's legs.

"Oh, my God! Yes, baby, yes! Do it; stick your tongue inside me!" Tracy pleas, digging her fingernails into Jarvis's skull.

Moaning when she feels his mouth sucking her clitoris, Tracy pulls his mouth in tighter when he gingerly chews on it, "FUCK YES! MORE! I WANT MORE. SUCK HARDER!" She nearly screams.

Jarvis does as he's told. He clamps down a little more, using his tongue, flicking it from top to bottom of Tracy's clit. Her legs and arms draw up, shaking as her breathing gets more rapid.

"I'm, I'm cumming!"

Tracy's body tenses for several seconds. Once she releases Jarvis's head, he leans over, picking up his pants. With his wallet open, Jarvis pulls out a condom, sliding it over his long, thick cock. Positioned over Tracy, she reaches out, taking Jarvis's member, guiding it to her hole.

When Jarvis feels the tip be guided inside, he doesn't wait to shove the entire twelve inches into Tracy's pussy. Sucking in with an immediate stutter of breath out, Tracy's body doesn't waste time adapting to the bigger cock pounding in and out.

"Yes, more, harder, yes, fuck me more, deeper, good God, you feel so damn good!" Tracy says between gasps.

All Jarvis can do is groan, feeling his seed swell up, ready to explode, "God, Tracy, your body feels amazing. You're so tight and beautiful. I love you!"

"I love you! I love you too!" Tracy screams, digging her nails deep into Jarvis's back seconds before he unloads into the condom and collapses on her body.

Drenched in sweat, Tracy and Jarvis lie there, holding each other. They pant, but when Tracy catches her breath, she shocks Jarvis, "I can't begin to explain how much I do love you and need you, Clarke."

Stunned, Jarvis opens his eyes, unable to believe what he heard. His heart instantly shatters, but his mind quickly goes from agony to revenge. He rolls off Tracy's body and lies there until he falls asleep.

Hours later, Amelia walks into the room. Seeing Jarvis's arm draped over Tracy, she smiles, thinking they have become an item.

"Good morning, you two," Amelia says, lightly nudging Tracy's arm to wake her up. "I take it everything went well last night?"

Groggy, Tracy smacks her lips, feeling the hangover with a headache. Once her vision clears, Tracy feels an arm around her, "Who, what, why am I naked?"

After Amelia hears Tracy, she gulps, covering her mouth as her hand trembles, "You mean you don't know what you did last night?"

Scared, Tracy looks at the arm draped over her and screams.

"WHAT THE FUCK? Please tell me we didn't do what I think we did," Tracy says, panicked.

Awakened from the ruckus, Jarvis licks his lips, kissing Tracy on the back of her neck, "Good morning, 'lover,' I hope you enjoyed last night as much as I did."

"NO, NO, NO, NO! I don't believe you! This has got to be a nasty joke!"

Getting out of bed, Jarvis looks around the bed, but when he steps back, he finds the used condom resting on the floor. He bends over, picking it up to rub salt in Tracy's emotional wounds.

"If you need proof, it is right here. Last night you were all over at me afterparty, and you fucked my brains out right here in that vary bed," Jarvis explains, with a cocky smile.

Tracy's jaw quivers. She sits there, feeling the dampness on the sheets. The entire time Jarvis stands there, smiling with a chuckle, "I told you how I felt last night, and you were so drunk you thought I was your Texan boyfriend. Now, have fun explaining that to him when you get home. Adios, mami." Jarvis says, picking up his clothes and slipping them on as he exits the room.

Quaking in bed, Tracy begins to cry. Amelia doesn't change out of the dress or know how to react. She picks up her bag, ready to leave, "I wish I had the right thing to say. Um, text me when you get back to Texas. I'll pray for you and hope it works out. Later, girl, thanks for being a great roommate. Don't take too long. Shuttles to the JFK are loading up."

Unable to move, Tracy sits there partially uncovered, crying. As every tear strolls down her cheeks, Tracy gets flashes from what happened. Clarke's face gradually gets replaced with Jarvis's, causing her to cry harder. As the minutes tick by, Tracy pulls a hand away from her face. She picks up her cell phone. Unlocking it, Tracy taps the phone icon.

It doesn't take her long to scroll to Clarke's name. Tapping the call button rings until his voicemail picks up, "Sup? You've reached my voicemail. Drop it like it's hot, and I'll hit ya back. Later!"

After the ding, Tracy tries to come clean, "Hey, baby, it's me. Look, I did some quick reflection about our summer. I am so sorry for what I've did. I don't have a lot of regrets in my life, and you are nowhere near that list, and I love you with all my heart," Tracy pauses, sucking in a deep breath, "However, when I get home, I need to talk to you, but only when I get settled in. I love you."

Still in shock, Tracy forces herself out of bed. Getting dressed, she leaves the dress and shoes in the dorm so it doesn't remind her of the night she shattered everything back home. Dressed and alone, Tracy makes the trip downstairs. When she hands over the dorm room key, Tracy avoids eye contact with anyone she recognizes from the afterparty. In the back of her mind, everyone is gawking, pointing, and talking about how she was all over Jarvis at the party.

Outside, the clouds arrive from Texas over New York. The crackle of thunder with rain begins to fall. Tracy gets inside the shuttle, sitting alone.

"Are you ready to go?" The shuttle driver from the airport asks.

"Yes, please take me to the airport," Tracy says, closing the door.

"Right away, miss. I hope your summer in New York was pleasant." The young man says, placing his foot on the brake and dropping the white JFK van into gear.

The entire ride to JFK, Tracy sits there, gnawing her nails. As her heart pounds like a war drum, her mind imagines how bad things with Clarke could be. The fight to hold back more tears increases when Clarke texts her.

I got your message. Look i know this summer has sucked but i am so glad to know u r coming home. I will see u in Dallas. Love Clarke

Baby, I cant wait to see u too. I want my mom to pick me up. Its not to be mean or whatever but i need some time to relax at home. I love you oh so very very very very much – Tracy

I can respect that. Text me when u are ready to c me – Clarke

Pulling up along the curb, Tracy picks up her bag before opening the door, "Thank you, sir," she says, taking out a five-dollar bill, placing it in the TIP jar.

The van pulls away when the door shuts. Tracy checks in at the counter. She sits by the large window, waiting for the announcement to get on the plane for Texas.

Her world crashes more when a message travels throughout JFK, "Ladies and gentlemen, due to the weather, all flights are under a lightning delay. Please stay tuned for further updates and enjoy your day here at JFK International Airport."

Slumped into the hard red plastic chair, Tracy takes out her phone.

"Hi, Tracy. Is anything wrong?" Gracie Lynn asks when she picks up.

"No, mom. I have a change of plans. I told Clarke not to pick me up when I arrive in Dallas. Would you or Daddy pick me up instead? I want to spend some time with y'all before I bounce around Brighton."

Touched, Gracie Lynn is speechless for a minute, "Absolutely, I will be there! I have something for you when you get home too. Are you about to leave?"

"No. The weather has a delay. Go ahead and leave. It shouldn't be long. I love you, Mom."

"Oh, Tracy. I love you too. I can't wait to hear all about New York. I'll admit, I am jealous but oh so very proud of what you accomplished. Bye, love you."

The line goes dead, and Tracy sits there for almost three more hours before boarding the plane. When everything is ready, the pilot takes them down the runway, and the plane lifts in the air with the passengers raising their arms, cheering in celebration. Tracy sits, staring out the window as New York gets smaller and smaller. The entire flight home, she ignores every broadcast from the cockpit and flight attendants as she prepares for the worst moment to come in her life.