Notes:

Additional Cast:

 Elizabeth Lail as Andrea McKay 

Valorie Curry as Anna Matthews

Grey Damon as Ashton Sanders

Keiynan Lonsdale  as Vincent Brown 

Ansel Elgort as Matt Foster

Dulce Maria as Nina Andrews

Vanessa's POV

"To Mary Poppins, when are we going to sing Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious together? Call me, Bob. I think this is the best way to end the column." Andrea laughs after reading the last cupid message.

"Yeah, saving the best for last. People can get really creative." I remark impressed.

"People can but Vincent won't! He didn't send anything in for me!" She pouts.

"I am sure he has something better in his mind." I give her a coy smile and she finds her optimistic mood back right away.

"Since we're done here, I am going by his office. I haven't seen him for almost three hours!" She stands up excited and I giggle. "Hi, Ashton!" She pops onto him at the hallway.

"Hi, Andrea." He chuckles. "What's up with her?" He asks and comes by my desk.

"Well, to cut it short she is waiting for Vincent's big romantic gesture for Valentine's since he didn't send her a cupid message." I explain.

"Isn't it a little cheesy?" He frowns. "Not to mention they are already into a relationship. I can't see how a secret cupid message would make a difference."

"Yeah, it might be kind of cheesy but it is cheesy in a romantic way." I try to make him see the point.

"So you are also into this cheesy stuff?" He sits next to me.

"You're not?" I lean my back on my chair and look at him suspiciously.

"I thought that was clear after my endless debate with Anna at the grill last month." He must be talking about the conversation I wasn't paying much attention to due to texting with Nathan. I nod pretending I just remembered about it. "I only agreed with this thing because she dragged you into this and in her favor you said it was a good idea. So yeah, I basically did it for you."

"Did it for me?" I repeat surprised.

"Yeap. Anna knows my weaknesses and takes total advantage of them." A smile takes over my face. "So you are that cheesy I have to come up with some cupid secret message for you?" He raises his eyebrows at me.

"Sorry but you are too late. I already send them all in." I tease him after clicking on the send button on my computer.

"Hmm, too bad." He rubs his chin. "I kind of know the editor though, do you think he could help me out with this?"

"I don't know about that. You should speak with him directly. But..." I gesture to him to come closer, "I've heard he finds these things too cheesy." I whisper in his ear.

"Is that so?" He starts laughing and I join him.

"My two little lovebirds." Anna hugs us from behind. "Getting into the Valentine's spirit already? Speaking of, are the cupid messages ready for the column, Vanessa?"

"Yes, Andrea and I read the rest today and selected the ones we can actually publish without getting into trouble." I inform her.

"Great! I hope I'll find the one I am searching for." She winks at the both of us.

"Wait. This was all about a guy?" Ashton asks in disbelief.

"Yeap. I made out with a gorgeous fella with the body of a greek sculpture whose name I was too distracted to find out. I have been searching for him everywhere since that party at the dorms in December, yet he is nowhere to be found." Anna sighs.

"Didn't it flash your mind that he has obviously regretted it and is doing his best to hide?" Vincent chimes in as he approaches us with Andrea.

"Oh, believe me I gave him a night he won't ever regret." Anna quips at him.

"I never thought of you as the romantic type of girl, Anna. I am impressed." I point a finger at her.

"Of course I am not that romantic. It was just the practical thing to do. And the last thing I could think of. I have tried everything. Trust me he is really worth it. The way he could use his tongue to-" Anna begins her narration.

"Don't! I will be traumatized forever!" Vincent stops her.

"Anyway," Andrea giggles, "are you guys coming with us at the game?"

"What game?" Anna asks.

"The basketball team has a game in about twenty minutes and Vincent has to cover it as usual." Ashton says while checking his watch.

"Sweaty men running back and forth... I am in!" Anna rushes to the wardrobe to get her coat.

"I am in too!" I say and she throws me my coat as well. Of course I don't catch it but Ashton takes it in his hands before it hits the floor. "Thank you." I smile at him while he helps me put it on. "I had no idea there was a game today."

"Yes and it is a really important one. We are playing against last year's champions. They are a pretty hard team and we have lost a couple games since New Year's Eve so we need to get back on track." Vincent tells us as a sports expert.

"Let's see how this goes." Ashton says and throws a pair of keys at Anna. "Anna, close up the office. Vanessa and I will be waiting for you at the car. Vinc, you're taking your car, right?"

"Yes, we're going to Andrea's afterwards. See you at the court guys." He waves at us.

Ashton puts on his jacket as well and we go to his car.

"Let me." He opens the passenger's door for me and I thank him with a smile. "Are you excited for the game?" He asks as he turns on the engine.

"Yes. I hope the team plays well." I cross my fingers for luck.

"Yeah, the team... You like basketball?" He stops outside the office and we wait for Anna.

"I enjoy watching it more than other sports. But to tell you the truth, I am still trying to comprehend what every whistle is supposed to mean." I admit.

"I will clear it up for you, don't worry." He chortles.

"I am here! Go Warriors!" Anna screams after jumping in at the back seat.

Joseph's POV

Finally the class is over and I am famished as fuck, so me and Matt decide to head towards the grill to grab a bite. Thankfully, that was the last class of the day and the last of the week and I couldn't feel happier. It's Friday at last! Once we get into the grill, Matt quickly finds us a table and when we sit, he receives a text. His face lights instantly, like the sun.

"It's Nina!" he exclaims."She says she wants to have lunch, because she's bored to cook." he grins looking at the mobile's screen and then at me . "Do you mind if I tell her to join us?"

"I totally sympathise with her. Cooking is a pain in the ass, so by all means tell her to come. Plus she is cool to hang out with!" I answer to him and a smile spreads all over his face. "Just don't start devouring each other instead of the food!" I state firmly and Matt nods, chuckling and then answers to Nina.

After a while, the cute waitress comes and after some flirt and many eyerolls from Matt, we order.

"Nothing stops you, does it?" he huffs, getting more comfortable on the chair.

"Why should I stop? I am a free man, unlike you, so there are no limits." I answer casually and he moves his head disapprovingly like he's saying 'There's no salvation'. His reaction makes me chuckle.

"You know it's impossible to sleep with every single girl in campus, right?" Matt says.

"I like challenges!" I exclaim smugly. "Too many chicks, too little time." I remark and Matt chortles.

"You know even if you manage to sleep with every girl, there will be still one who won't do you the favour!" he points out. I give him a curious look. Who does he mean? Don't tell me he means... "Alice!" he remarks. "Sorry to mess with your fantasy, but Alice doesn't seem so keen on sleeping with you." What answer can I give to that? Matt has no idea about me and Alice. "Not to mention, if you try anything on her without her permission, you'll be the next Theon Greyjoy!" Matt points out indifferently and I can't help it, but laugh.

"I can say that she is worth the risk..."I mutter and Matt gives me a surprised look. "But Alice is not like the girls I have on my target. She's different. She's special. She's not for just one night!" I say to Matt sincerely. Matt is one of the people that I can confide things, when I am in a confessional mood. He has proven himself trustworthy, so I know what I will say it will be staying between us. He gives me an examining look trying to comprehend what he just heard.

"Did you just refer to Alice as special?" he remarks with wide eyes. "No hot or other synonym characterization?" Matt says mischievously, messing around with me.

"She's special hot! What's your point?" I say annoyed, flipping out of my previous confessional state.

"Does the notorious player Joseph Nelson have a soft spot for someone?" Matt smirks, playing with his eyebrows.

"I think having sex with the same woman has messed with your brain!" I say, chuckling trying to look indifferent. "I have a soft spot for all women as long as they don't get attached to me." I tell and he huffs, knowing that I just say shit to him to get over this conversation. Thank God, Matt is discreet and he won't push me to say anything that I don't want to share.

"Anyway, Alice is a nice person and a good and supportive friend to Nina." he says casually.

"Yeah she is! She's very easy going and the time flies with her..."

"With who? Don't tell me you talk about me behind my back?" a wild Nina appears behind me with her red long hair in a ponytail. She kisses Matt and sits next to him.

"Don't worry! We say the same things when you're present!" I address to Nina with a grin.

"Great, so what were you beautiful boys talking about?" she asks.

"We weren't talking about you baby,but about Alice!" Matt answers and Nina gives us a suspicious look. "Nothing bad! I was just saying that she's a nice girl." Matt adds.

"And Joseph agreed from what I caught!"A wide mischievous smile spreads on her face. That girl doesn't let anything pass by.

"Nina, why don't you go to CIA? They are looking desperately for people like you!" I change the subject and Nina chuckles.

"Well, it's a possible future career!" she winks. At that moment the waitress comes with our orders, plus Nina's since Matt ordered for her as well and we start eating without talking a lot. We are all pretty hungry. As we're focused on our food, my phone vibrates. It's Grant!

Dude I am fucking sick all day. Unfortunately I can't come to the game. I was hoping to get better, so I could come, but I am even worse. I will be waiting a full recap after it.

"Fuck! Grant's sick!" I groan.

"I hope he gets better!" Nina says in a sweet voice.

"I hope for it as well. He was sneezing all day yesterday, but I thought he was tougher than that." I mutter, sending him a getting well message and wishing him a quick recovery. "Oh man, he was so pumped for tonight's game. Such a bummer!"

"You and Grant have never missed a single game. It's kind of their couple thing." Matt jokes, biting a fry,making Nina chuckle and receiving an eyeroll from me. Of course my eyerolls never made him stop teasing me and I think that's why we became good friends. "So what are you going to do now?The game starts in two hours." Matt knows pretty well that it won't be a problem to find somebody else to go, but Grant is the best choice for the athletic events. He makes the best comments and he's fully informed about everything. As I am about to send a text to a friend, Nina barges in.

"Baby, why don't we go with Joseph?" Matt gives her a puzzled look.

"I thought you didn't like sports." he mutters.

"I am not the biggest fan, but I have to go to one game at least. Expand my horizons!" Nina says cheerfully.

"Well Joss, what do you say?" Matt addresses to me. To be honest, I appreciate the gesture, but I am in no mood to be with those lovebirds in a basketball game and especially this specific one. Matt knows the rules, but he's indifferent about it and I bet Nina is clueless, resulting to make the most stupid questions during it and this is a crucial one. Before I give them my answer, Nina speaks again.

"Why don't we tell Alice as well? She can share Joseph's passion and she hasn't missed a single game. Plus Joseph won't have to be like the third wheel."

Alice, huh? That's an interesting turn of events. I remember her in the last game. How passionate she was. I enjoyed her way too much, but I couldn't show it in front of the others.

"Yeah sure!" I respond, as Matt is about to open his mouth to ask me if I was ok with Nina's suggestion. "Call Alice and tell her we are going to pick her up!" I say to Nina and she claps her hands enthusiastically.

After 2 hours we find ourselves sitting at the bleachers, waiting for the team to come out to warm up. Alice said to Nina she will meet us there, declining my proposition of picking her up and saying there was no need to trouble ourselves. I chose the usual seats that me and Grant usually sit, because besides the panoramic view that helps see even the smallest detail that's happening on the court, they also had been proven to be lucky, since we won all the games, so I don't want to risk anything.

"Hey guys!" I hear Alice's cheery voice behind me. Before I manage to turn around, Nina had already stood up to embrace her friend in a tight hug. I can understand that Nina is too effusive for Alice's taste and I can't help it, but crack a smile to Alice's awkward expression. After the hug is over, Nina pulls her, by the hand and she sits her between her and me.

"Hello Matt!" Alice waves her hand to him and Matt waves back saying hello. "Hey Joseph! Thanks for the invitation!" she flashes a wide smile to me. Why do her smiles have to be so addictive?

"I am glad you came! You're a much better replacement than Grant! More pleasing to the eye!" I say to her with a grin. My comments about Alice come out of my mouth without thinking them and to be honest I don't overanalyze my actions or my words. I say what I think if it's true and the truth is I prefer having such a beauty like Alice next to me.

"I didn't even know that I would get to be compared to Grant... ever" she beams mischievously.

"Grant will be really flattered!" I remark and we both chortle. "Also, I wouldn't stand those love birds alone, sharing affectionate moments." I say sarcastically and she laughs more. "So I am doubly glad you came!"

"My pleasure!" she answers with a grin crossing her face.

"So, to which team we are up against?" Nina chimes in.

"First of all, do you know which team you should support?" Alice asks raising an eyebrow and Nina bites her lip, showing her guilty ignorance. Alice signs, but I barge in before she speaks.

"You cheer for the team with the red colour. You boo for the the team with the green colour. Got it?" I feel like talking to a 5 year old. Nina makes a thumbs up with a wide smile. Seriously nothing can bring her cheery mood down.

"Baby our team is Warriors against Reapers." Matt says in the end. "I will explain anything you need to know! The rules are pretty simple!" he adds and Nina gives him a kiss on the cheek.

The two teams are getting out in the court for their warm up. I spot Nathan coming out third and he grabs a ball immediately and starts shooting layups. Suddenly, I spot the dick! Armstrong! He obviously plays for the other team and he's the biggest asshole ever. I want to hope his dirty actions won't affect our team's concentration, but I doubt it. He has an obnoxious smile pinned on his face and he starts shooting as well.

"That's Nathan from your birthday!" Nina exclaims pointing at Nathan's figure, who runs and shoots another successful layup. "I knew the gossip about a Nathan, who is the basketball star and a lady's charmer, but I didn't know it was that Nathan!" Her voices goes higher and higher. "Alice, why didn't you tell me you know a campus celebrity?"

Alice looks at Nina with an apathetic attitude, while Matt gives her the eye, obviously from jealousy, but he doesn't react.

"Why? Did you want an autograph?" Alice asks sarcastically.

"No, you silly! Did you know he has slept with 3 women from my floor and guess what? A week before your birthday, I run into him outside of my door. He was leaving from Anastacia's, the girl who leaves across the hall, really early in the morning. Anyway, we shared the elevator until the ground floor, but I didn't know him so I can greet him." Nina sums up her report about Nathan, like a 6 o'clock newscast reporter. How does she know all these stuff? Also, good job, Nathan!

"You haven't told me that!" Matt chimes in and the hint of jealousy and a bit of fear is clear in his voice.

"To tell you what? That he had banged half of my floor?" Nina says indifferently.

"No, that you were alone with him in an elevator! Don't tell me he made a move on you!" Matt says trying to keep his voice steady. I know Matt quite well to know that he's not the jealous type of guy. The thing that I am sure of is that he lacks confidence. Nina had boosted it in a big level, but he feels threatened towards guys like me or Nathan, who can play our moves on girls easily before breakfast. He is aware that for me Nina doesn't count as a girl anymore, but for Nathan that's another story.

"Don't worry, Matt!" Alice answers. "Only Joseph makes moves in elevators!"

"I thought we are passed that!" I puff trying to seem offended.

"I will shoot you with that at every chance given!" she smiles mischievously.

"And you claim to be the mature one?" I answer back crossing my hands and Alice giggles. She goes for a throwback, but Nina speaks first, addressing to Matt.

"No! He didn't do anything! He was half asleep. He barely kept his eyes open! Not to mention the black circles underneath his eyes. I bet he'd slept maximum 2 hours. I could recommend him a proper eye cream." Nina ponders moving her hands. "Anyway, even if he did, you know baby that I have eyes for no one else, but you! I love you and even if the hottest basketball player on campus or the hottest celebrity on the planet flirted with me I wouldn't cede to him,because I have you!" Nina finishes her declaration of love and Matt's eyes sparkle from joy. I can't help it, but feel happy for him, because he deserves a woman to love him for what he is and I am glad he found her.Then Matt leans and grabs Nina into a big kiss. Oh no, the underage program is about to start!

"You two knock it off! This is not the place and the time for this!" Alice brings them back to reality snapping her fingers. Nina breaks the kiss, giggling guilty.

At that moment the game is due to start. The two team's captains shake their hands and they set in position for the yambol. And it begins. Nathan pulls a great game so far. He is focused and he hasn't missed a single basket. Great great! We can do this! We are a few points ahead, but it's not enough. Alice cheers every time a basket goes in, clapping her hands enthusiastically. She's so passionate about it. I try hard not to focus on her, but on the court. Matt and Nina aren't as indifferent as I was expecting. Nina listens to Matt carefully, in order to understand what's going on and she cheers with him at every point we get. As we are watching, Nathan does a faul. Ok, don't panic, it's just one! We can do this. After a short period of time he does another.

"Shit! It's too early man!" I shout making my thought out loud.

"Darn! The coach is getting Nathan out of the court! This is bad!" Alice sympathises with me.

"But there are other players who can play!" Nina says cheerfully. "I mean isn't it fair all of them to get an equal time of playing?"

Me and Alice turn our heads to her at the same time, with an are-you-kidding-me look pinned on our faces.

"They are not toddlers! The don't play for the joy of participation and then sing happy songs! This is a serious fucking game! This team we're up against is last year's champions! They humiliated us last year! It's not just a matter of getting advanced, it's also a matter of honor!" I address to Nina in a serious tone.

"Hey dude, don't be a jerk to her!" Matt gives me a glare and Nina squeezes his hand, softly.

"I see! A lot of things are on stake!" Nina says condescendingly and stops talking... For now.

"Who is this asshole who's getting on my nerves?" Alice exasperates pointing at Armstrong.

"Welcome to my world! This is the biggest dick you'll ever meet! He takes advantage of different situations to take fouls in favor of his team! The jackass!" I yell in frustration. "The SCU basketball fans want to kill him, since last year!"

"Count me in those as well!" she remarks. "Play fair, you jerk!" Alice shouts and the people around her praise her yelling 'Attagirl'! I have to admit I enjoy her way too much, seeing her like that! It's a guilty pleasure!

"If I understood correctly, we boo him!" Nina speaks again and Matt nods, holding Nina's hand. He hasn't left it in the whole game.

The game goes on and the second period is almost over! Suddenly something happens and John the captain is about to fight with Armstrong. That's such a deja vu. Same shit different year. John looks really heated up! The players are trying to separate those two and the referees interfere to keep the order, but John is ready to beat the shit out of Armstrong.

"Why all of this, out of the sudden?" Matt wonders.

"Because Armstrong is a dick that's why!" I answer puffing.

"That's a very scientific answer!" he remarks and I eyeroll.

"He plays dirty! He infuriates the players, by saying different things. He distracts them, messing with their heads, their concentration!"I retort, looking at the court. John has caught Armstrong by the flannel.

"I thought the players had to be focused and not paying attention to their surroundings!" Matt points out.

"It's the heat of the game! Emotions are out of control!"I answer back. Matt is about to object, but I interrupt him. "If you're about to say something stupid, I'd much prefer you to start kissing Nina!" Matt closes his mouth immediately and Nina's eyes sparkle from anticipation. He gives her a kiss and then they continue to watch at the court as the fight is about to unfold.

"Obviously the hand of a professional is needed!"Alice exclaims and she rolls up her sleeves as she stands up in the same time.

"Where are you going?" Nina asks curiously.

"To show to this piece of trash how it is done!" she answers firmly. Although I find her reaction quite enjoyable and amusing, I am sure she means it. There's nothing better than seeing this douche have his ass beaten by Alice, but she will find herself in trouble.

"Sit down, Schwarzenegger!" I pull her by the hand to make her sit.

"Nooo! I want to blacken this idiot's eye so bad!" Alice exclaims.

"You have nowhere to go!" I drag her with more force.

"Why so?" she asks like a five year old.

"Because I don't want you to get in trouble!" I tell her firmly. Alice stops moving and turns to look at me. "Let those assholes do whatever they want! You stay here!" I command her and in my surprise she listens. "Stubborn spitfire girl! Always ready to get involve into a fight! If I hadn't met your father, I would bet you were raised by the Yakuza." I point out.

"My blood is boiling! Especially when I see stuff like that! I hate dirty behaviours!" she complains like a little girl, which I don't know why, but I find it adorable, moving her hands nervously in the air and finally she throws them on her knees in exasperation, huffing. Then I put my hand on hers and grab it tight. This action happened out of nowhere. It just did. Alice's hand bounced a bit from the sudden contact, but she doesn't take it away. I squeeze it lightly and we stay with our hands matted, until the referees manage to separate John and Armstrong and until the second period is over.

"I am going to get something to drink! Do you guys want anything?" I ask, standing up, letting go of Alice's hand. The truth is I don't want to leave it. My hand got used to its warmth and now it's complaining, but I try not to show any emotion. Alice doesn't show anything either, but I am sure she enjoyed it as I did.

"I'll come with you, because I want to go to the restroom!" Matt stands up as well.

"Can you bring chips?" Alice orders with a smile, before me and Matt go.

Vanessa's POV

In about 15 minutes we get at the court. We struggled finding a parking spot since there are many cars outside and even more people inside. We see Andrea waving at us from the bleachers and we try to make our way through the crowd to reach her and Vincent. The game has already begun, so many of the Warriors fans are furious at us and complaining that they can't see because of us standing in the middle.

"What did we miss?" Anna asks enthusiastically.

"We are four points behind and Parker is at the bench since he has committed two fouls already." Andrea informs us and Vincent looks at her full with pride for her inner sports reporter.

"Two fouls already? How did that happen?" We are only five minutes in the game and if I remember correctly Joseph has mentioned to me that it is not good for a player to have many fouls since the very start.

"That jerk Armstrong played his part well and did the exact thing he did last year. He brings his theatrical skills in, charging our players with non-existent fouls. Seems like Parker is his first victim for tonight. I hope our captain John won't let him have it again." Vincent puffs.

"He is pulling the same trick? Someone would expect the team to be prepared for something like this." Ashton remarks.

"I know!" Vincent yells in frustration.

"Will you two stop so we can enjoy the game?" Anna exhales. "And the players." She adds and Andrea laughs. I react with a simple nod. I look over at the bench trying to spot Nathan. Instead of sitting down he is stand up and vociferating to encourage his teammates. He is really focused on the game and high fives everyone whenever couch takes a timeout. He must really love basketball and it is obvious he also enjoys the team spirit. By the halftime he hasn't played again but he emerged to calm down our team's captain who almost got into a fight with that Armstrong guy. He is tall and blond and has Anna drooling over him since the moment we got here but I gotta go with Vincent on this one. He seems such a vain.

"Oh my God! He glared at me!" Anna screams when the teams get into the locker room.

"He did look at our direction." Andrea confirms her suspicion and Anna jumps up from her seat.

"Yeah with an obnoxious smirk! Who does he think he is?" I say angrily.

"The king of the basketball court! God, he is so hot!" Anna continues on praising him.

"Let me remind you he is our opponent!" Vincent rushes into our conversation. "This is technically betrayal!"

"Why can't guys admit that another guy is hot? Does it make you question yourself, little Vinc?" Anna raises an eyebrow at him.

"What? Never!" Vincent answers in a loud tone.

"Okay, you both made your point." Ashton tries to cut off the tension. "Would you like anything from the canteen, Vanessa?"

"Yeah, I would kill for a hot dog right now! I'm all rumbly in my tumbly!" I giggle.

"You used to watch Winnie the Pooh?" He chuckles. "Chloe didn't miss a single episode and forced me and her brother watch it as well." I can't believe someone understood I pulled a Winnie the Pooh quote. It never happens. "I'll get you your hot dog." Ashton stands up but I grab his arm.

"Can I come with you? It seems like Vincent and Anna aren't done with their argument yet."

"Sure but don't leave my hand. The crowd is crazy." He advises and I nod.

And Ashton is right as always. As I see, the only thing crazier than a crowd watching basketball is a crowd trying to get their order before the halftime ends.

"We're lucky, Tim is here." Ashton tells me.

"Tim?" I narrow my eyebrows.

"Hey, Tim! Long time no seen!" He raises his hand up so he can see him. "Can you get us two hot dogs, man?"

"Coming your way, Ashton!" He gives him our hot dogs right away, ignoring some people's complaints.

"Thanks, Tim. Come by the house anytime. I haven't seen you in a while." Ashton pays him and we step beside as Tim waves us goodbye.

I take out my wallet to give Ashton some money.

"Nope." He shakes his head. "That ain't happening."

"Fine." I exhale. "But next time, it's my treat."

"We'll see about that." He takes a bite from his hot dog and I raise an eyebrow at him. "Now, eat." He tells me laughing.

"I am more stubborn than you are, just so you know." I give him an intense look. "Mmm, this is either the best hot dog I've ever had or I am terribly hungry."

"Probably the second. Besides, you haven't tried my homemade hot dogs yet, so there's that." He cooks too? Is there anything this guy can't do?

"I bet they are way better than mine. And I have never even attempted to make hot dogs. It is a well-know fact that I am a walking nightmare in the kitchen." I giggle.

"What? Really? I refuse to believe that."

"It is sad but true." I shrug.

"Okay, we are going to change that. Hot dogs are the easiest food in the whole world. I'll be your teacher." He suggests with a smile.

"It's settled then! But when your kitchen catches up on fire, remember it was you who offered." I warn him.

"You can't be that bad." He chuckles.

"Oh, yeah I am worse than that." I make a grimace.

"I can't imagine you being bad at anything." He says softly and tucks a curl behind my ear.

"Hey Ness! I didn't expect to see you here!" I hear a familiar voice and the moment I turn I see Joseph, greeting me with a smile. "Hey Ashton! What's up?"

"Hey Joseph, tough game isn't it?" Ashton greets him back with a nod as he retrieves his hand and stands next to me to face Joseph as well.

"Hi Joseph! Yeah, it is tough, isn't it? I am missing your explanations whenever I can't figure out what is happening." I giggle awkwardly.

"I thought that I was doing a good job at clearing things up for you!" Ashton smirks at me mischievously.

"Of course you do! I am thankful for that!" I raise an eyebrow at him chuckling.

"No offence, Ashton, but I am a master on matters of basketball! I can transform a noob to a specialist in no time!" Joseph says playfully.

"Sounds like I can't fill your shoes but I'll try to do my best for Vanessa then." Ashton remarks and looks at my direction smiling.

"I think I have a long way till I become a specialist." I admit giggling. "But I am thankful for any help I can get."

"You can't be worse than Nina! I reassure you!" Joss smirks.

"It is common for girls not to be such an expert in sports. Don't worry about it." Ashton gives me a sympathetic glare. "So what's up, Joseph? I haven't seen you in a while. How is the project with Mr Roberts going? Philip told me about it. Sounds really exciting."

"It's amazing! The team's cool and the subject is really interesting and innovative! Mr. Roberts even made me go to DC to watch a seminar about this!" Joseph effuses over his project.

"Oh, that sounds really intriguing, yes! What is it about?" I haven't heard of it before. Joseph seems to be really eager about the project.

"It's about how a computer can interact in a better way with the human. It's pretty awesome how many ways there are, but I don't want to befuddle you with the technical details." Joseph passes his hand through his hair. "So what do you think of the game? Nathan is kicking ass back there!"

"Yeah, that's what the others said too. We were a bit late and we missed the start of the game so we haven't seen him play yet." I comment shrugging. "But he is doing his best to support his teammates from the bench! That's what being a part of a team means after all, right?"

"His team is really looking up to him and it's a huge achievement considering he's only a freshman." Joseph remarks and his words bring a smile to my face.

"There has been put much pressure on his name from the very start of the year." Ashton mentions while nodding his head. "He is more than qualified, nobody can deny that."

"That's true! So Ashton, I didn't know you come to the games... I haven't seen you." Joseph states.

"I am not the biggest fan but out of all of our college's teams I believe the basketball team is offering the best show. And they have made a name for themselves throughout the years. Last year's loss still hurts but remember our freshman year? There were parties celebrating the championship that lasted a whole week!" Ashton expresses his support for the team.

"Those were good years! To be honest I don't remember much from this week. I was so wasted!" Joseph points out with a nostalgic look.

"Let's hope they win again this year! They have a big chance, don't they?" I ask them both with enthusiasm.

"If they win this match yes, but I am not sure how focused they can be with asshole Armstrong messing with their heads." Joseph puffs annoyed.

"Ashton and Vincent mentioned something similar. What do you guys mean exactly?" I ask curious.

"He is just playing dirty. It's his way of playing. We saw it happening last year, I would expect the team to be ready for him this time." Ashton states puzzled.

"I don't know! John seems really upset! Not to mention Alice has already packed her bazooka and I am trying really hard to cool her down." Joseph says.

"Alice is here? I had no idea! Sounds like her!" I chortle thinking about my friend being extra pissed at this Armstrong guy. Maybe Joseph should let her do her thing this once.

"Yeah! Along with Nina and Matt." Joseph says.

"Really? I haven't seen Nina in a while! Do we have time to go over and say hi?" I wonder giving Ashton a confused look. I have no idea when the game starts.

"I am afraid no. The game is about to start again." Ashton informs me.

"You're right and I need to buy snacks for the game! See you around guys!" Joseph informs us and leaves.

We greet Joseph goodbye and we get back to our seats. The teams are back on the court and warming up. Just a little bit before the game starts again, our team's coach pulls Nathan and John aside to give them some extra instructions I guess. The players take their places and the referee gives the signal for the second half.

"Parker is back, that's good. Go, go, go!" Vincent yells.

"Yeees!" We all scream together after Nathan scores a three point shot.

"That's it! We are now 15 points behind." Andrea says showing up at the score's sign.

"We can eliminate the difference if we-Yes!" Vincent raises his fist in the air and the whole court stands up after a second three point shot from Nathan.

"He is good! That I can say." Ashton exclaims.

"Warriors! Warriors!" The crowd shouts rhythmically to encourage the team's effort.

The third period is our team's best with Nathan and John stealing the show. There is only 20 seconds left for it to end and the ball is ours. After receiving an excellent assist -as Vincent commented- from Nathan, John takes the shot and scores!

"We are only 4 points behind!" Andrea claps her hands.

"Damn it, John took the shot too fast, leaving 5 seconds on the clock." Vincent exhales. "Enough time for Armstrong to pull his shit. No! Damn it! I knew it!"

"That wasn't a foul!" Ashton yells. "And now his ass is awarded with free throws!"

"It is our captain's fourth foul, right?" I ask trying to decode their frustration and they both answer with a nod.

The teams gather to their benches for brief instructions by the coaches and we are set for the last period. Nathan steps first in the court waiting for the others. He takes a glance on our side and spots me. I awkwardly wave at him and he shakes his head smirking. The game starts right away and one minute later the captain of our team is out and sitting on the bench after committing his last foul.

"John can't think straight! This Armstrong guy... Damn it!" Vincent crosses his arms pissed.

"Don't curse, baby." Andrea tickles his nose.

"I totally understand him. If I was that close to Armstrong, I would faint..." Anna sighs getting an eyeroll from Vincent.

The game goes on and we try to keep up with the score but it seems like our team has already given up and Nathan is now playing on his own. The once hardcore Warriors fans have begun to leave the court.

"That is their dedication to the team?" I puff irritated as another group passes by us.

"Most of them are here to celebrate a possible victory. When they see that there is limited chances for it to happen, they lose their interest." Ashton shrugs.

"This is so rude!" I exhale.

Three minutes later the game is over and we have lost.

"Such a great game!" Anna remarks and we all turn to face at her.

"We did lost." Andrea says disappointed.

"Don't care." Anna whispers and Vincent gives her an annoyed look.

"Shouldn't we go down and talk to them?" I propose pointing at the team.

"And tell them what exactly? Sorry but Armstrong did you good tonight?" Anna begins to laugh but stops immediately after my deathly glare.

"I don't think there is something to say to them. They'd probably want to be left alone." Ashton squeezes my arm gently to vanish my tension.

"Yeah, I doubt they even want to talk to me right now. But a man gotta do his job." Vincent stands up. "See you, guys." He gives a quick kiss to Andrea and goes towards the locker room where the team is already heading to.

"Let's go home." Anna leads the way.

"We can't leave Andrea alone." Ashton says being his thoughtful and sweet self.

"Oh, no. Don't worry about me, guys. I'll go to the restroom and then meet Vincent. I don't believe it will take him long. Besides, our team doesn't have much to say." Andrea smiles at us.

"As I said, let's go." Anna shows towards the exit.

We greet Andrea goodnight and Ashton drives me and Anna to the dorms. He suggested to go grab a bite but I am super tired and Anna has to keep up with her diet schedule because she had two mega burgers for lunch today. Go figure.

Joseph's POV

After a while, I come back and the third period is about to begin. We are a few points behind, but we can turn this around. Come on, guys! Fuck those noobs!

"I didn't know you were so much into basketball." I say to her, smirking, as she seems really anticipated for the next period to start.

"Well I am not the biggest fan, but when I am at the bleachers I get passionate! I think it's the crowd energy, the place..." Alice admits grinning.

"I think you will be Grant's permanent replacement from now on!" I smile to her and she smiles back.

"I will be an update for sure!" she chuckles.

"Nathan is back on the court!" Nina announces enthusiastically. "This is good, right?" I take my eyes from Alice to look at the court and I see Nathan join the team again.

"It's a great thing! Get them man!" I cheer loudly like the rest of the SCU crowd. As it's expected, Nathan plays an amazing game. He starts shooting any chance he gets and they are all in. The whole crowd goes wild. The third period is over and the fourth is on. We can do this!

The whole stadium starts cheering to encourage the team. Everytime Nathan puts a basket in, me and Alice jump off our seats exulting and exchanging high fives. Now we are 3 points behind. Then Nathan passes the whole defense and he shoots a 3 points basket. It's a tight! At the moment me and Alice and the whole SCU stands up clapping and yelling. As we are jumping I grab Alice in a hug in my enthusiasm. Alice grabs me back as well and we both jump like crazy.

"Yes yes!We can win this!" She exults full of happiness.

"Tear those bitches down!" I shout, finishing the celebratory hug with Alice.

The game goes on with the final period, but then shit happens. Our captain does his fifth foul and because of that he's out of the game.

"Why is Rose's boyfriend out? He is a good player... I think, so he should keep playing!" Nina asks looking clueless at the court. This girl has no idea of basketball at all. I am about to shout to her at that moment, but Matt, aware of the situation, speaks first. Also who's Rose's boyfriend? John?

"The captain..." Matt starts explaining, but then receives a clueless look from Nina and changes his words. "Rose's boyfriend did 5 fouls and this means that he has to leave the court. A basketball player can't make more than five in the whole game!" Nina makes a long ah exclamation in realization.

"Excuse me!" Alice barges in. "Who's Rose's boyfriend?"

"I think it's John!" I answer looking at Nina. "The captain!"

"Yeah John Westfall, a senior! He started dating Rose Mitchell, from the painting club a 3rd year student since December!" Nina throws all the info she knows. "Also this black haired guy is Dylan Fletcher! He broke up with Lucy like a month ago, because he cheated on her with her roommate." Nina continues talking cheerfully, emphasizing every word.

"How do you know all these stuff?" I exclaim, forgetting for a minute all the chaos that's been going on and because I am fucking curious!

"Dear Joseph, there are girls who love to talk. And when I say talk, I mean gassing and gossiping. You don't know how many things I've heard about the whole team and especially about Nathan! You don't know how many things I've heard about you as well, mister! Your reputation precedes you!" Nina winks at me mischievously. Alice wasn't paying much attention to the conversation, but the last words got her for sure.

"Is it a good or a bad reputation?" I ask curiously.

"Good for sure! It seems your audience is very fond of you!" Nina says and I feel a wave of bragging overwhelm me resulting to a smirk, while I feel Alice stiffening next to me.

"His audience needs a desperate visit to the doctor!" Alice chimes in annoyed.

"Why? The girls were perfectly well! Their reviews were extraordinary!" Nina continues saying smiling cunningly, looking at Alice with a meaningful look. My bragging smirk becomes even wider.

"I doubt that! I bet they were just desperate!" Alice yells irritated.

"I don't think so! And why do you act like that, Alice? Joseph is a grown up man and he can do whatever he wants!" Nina says casually.

"I doubt that too! Joseph throws himself to them and those women react like Johnny Depp hitted on them and it's irritating and idiotic..."Alice exasperates without any obvious reason. Her behaviour is odder than usual. This isn't her shooting her usual snarky comments... Wait a minute... Is she jealous? Really? The thought makes my smirk even wider if that's even possible. I just sit more comfortable to enjoy her one woman show. "And you, stop smiling like a fool!" Alice hits my arm.

"Joss, have you noticed that as long as you are smiling like the duke of Luxembourg listening to your 'achievements', the team is losing?" Matt gets my attention back on the court. God! He's right! We are far behind! What's going on? The team isn't concentrated! They lose the ball even before they pass the middle.

"Catch a fucking rebound!" I shout so loud that I feel my lungs burn.

"The team has given up! They don't even bother!" Matt says.

"Only Nathan hasn't!" Alice adds and it's true. Nathan is running his ass up and down still trying! I know this is a lost cause, but I admire his attitude. He's going down with his head high! After some minutes the game finishes. Everybody on court look devastated like all the fans on the bleachers. The Reapers team sings and cheers hugging each other. I spot Armstrong who has this obnoxious smile, messing with our team's destroyed emotions.

"This piece of shit!" Alice yells, when he sees him. "I wish I could deal with him!"

"I wish that too!" I say huffing and I drag her with me to get out of the stadium.

"Too bad my first game was a defeat! I wish the next one will be victorious!" Nina tries to cheer us up.

"Baby, even if it is, the chances of getting disqualified are greater." Matt fills Nina's blanks.

"Oh! That's bad, but we can't lose hope! Fingers crossed!" She says even more cheerfully. "When is it? I need some time to gather even more spicy info on the players!"

Alice and Matt chuckle slightly, but despite her attempts to cheer me up I am in no mood. Then Alice approaches me.

"Nina is right! Let's not lose hope" She says with a faint smile.

"You're right, but still they managed to humiliate us..."

"There's always another chance! Next year we'll kick their asses!"Alice says firmly, trying to cheer me up and I think it's working somehow.

"I hope." I mutter.

"Come oooon! The team is good! It has Nathan and the coach is great. There is always the possibility this Armstrong guy not being able to see from his one eye..." she sneers and she makes me chuckle a bit.

"You're right! Next year we're watching this together! Promise me!" I say to her looking at her captivating eyes.

"I promise!" She grins and she leans for a kiss at the my cheek. "Goodnight Joseph! Goodnight guys!" she says, before she leaves to go to her car. Despite the fact that I feel awful, by the defeat, I had an amazing time with Alice as always. How is it possible she makes even this shitty basketball game better and more colourful?

"Hey Joss! Nina's freezing!" Matt snaps me out of my thoughts and I haven't realized that I was watching Alice leaving... Again!

Nathan's POV

I am heading over Ro's to watch the game. I hope my team wins tonight since my actual team lost its last game. That Armstrong was truly a pain in the ass. Anyway, I haven't seen blondie Robin in ages and I kinda missed her company. She is always too cheery for my taste but it usually works for me too, as my mood is lighten up everytime we hang out. I pass by the pizza joint to take the pizzas I ordered earlier. You can never show up as a guest with bare hands. That's one of the useful things my mom has taught me. Maybe the only one. Okay, there's a chance I am exaggerating. I don't want to think about my mom right now. I am meeting the whole Parker family next week as my dad told me they are coming to my game so I can worry about our family drama then.

I park outside Robin's house and grab the pizza boxes with me. It takes her sometime to answer the door.

"Hello handsome!" She greets me with her smile.

"Hello to you too, gorgeous! You didn't have to make a big effort to impress me you know, I am already a fan of yours." I tell her with a smirk. "What were you doing?" She is wearing pyjama bottoms and a white tank top that has a stain on it.

"I was jumping on my bed, listening to music. Sorry for the outfit, Parker, this was the only tank top I have clean. Come on in." She mentions with her head for me to follow her to the living room.

"If that's your only clean one, I don't wanna know how your dirty ones are." I raise an eyebrow at her. "You're such a weirdo. Anyway, as you can see I brought the food so you can bring the essentials for us to eat like civilized people. I know it's not your style but maybe you can try it this once in honour of your guest."

"Man, I can't take that stain off, I don't even know what it is. It's Alex's turn to do the laundry by the way, I am a clean person. Have a seat and I'll be right back." She takes off, but only for 5 minutes. Then she comes back with 2 plates, napkins and 2 cola cans.

"I got you the pineapple one, I remembered you are kinda obsessed with it. For no reason obvious to me." I tell her and hand her the pizza box.

"That's why you are my favourite! Turn the TV to channel 6, bruh, we are already 2 minutes in." She opens the pizza box and grabs one piece.

"Geez, I should be the one complaining. You're such a dude sometimes." I eyeroll and turn on the tv. Fuck, we're already 10 points behind?

The game goes on and it's proven to be a real tough one. Ro is commenting nonstop and with a full mouth, I don't know how she does it. We are both disappointed when the team we support fails to turn the game around and we decide to stop watching 3 minutes before the game officially ends.

"That was such a fiasco! I can't believe it!" I remark shaking my head in disapproval.

"At least the cheerleaders were pleasing for the eyes." Ro jokes and turns the channel to E!

"I don't know what Sophie would think about the cheerleaders." I lift my eyebrows playfully at her.

"My pretty girl is not the jealous type...sorta, and I meant for you, idiot. I didn't even notice them." She sticks her tongue out. "Any news on that field?"

"On the cheerleading team? Well, I have been given the chance to meet half of them in person." I tell her grinning.

"And? Come on give me info, I am in a relationship now, my life is not wild, I live wild through you and Joss." She jokes again and looks at me expectantly.

"And you are missed my friend. Seriously, I think we have been out and wild together less than five times before you got whipped with Sophie." I frown trying to remember. "As for the cheerleaders, what can I say, you know they are quite flexible. In a really impressive way."

"I know we haven't spent time together, dude, and I hate being that person, but I can only please one person at a time. I promise you though, we will get wild some time in the near future. And yes, I know they can be flexible, but I hope you are being careful." She points her finger at me.

"Always. You won't become an aunty anytime soon." I chortle. "How are things going with Sophie? You're both still madly in love with each other?"

"Hey, I would be an excellent babysitter, if you want to know." She feigns offence. "And me and Soph are doing amazing! I am preparing the best Valentine Day ever! What about you? Doing anything or anyone specific that day?" She chuckles.

"I am sure you are. Valentine's day was made for you and your cheesiness." I tease her. "As for me, I haven't planned anything special. Whatever comes up, I am open."

She shakes her head. "Still the same ideas huh? You belong to all the girls. I swear, you and Joss are the same."

"We're just trying to make the most of everyday. What's wrong with that?" I shrug. "You are whipped enough for the three of us."

"Not whipped... I belong to my pretty girl and she can do whatever she wants." She rolls her eyes and throws a pillow at me. "Ohhh, speaking of Sophie, remember I took photos of you guys at her birthday?"

"Yeah, you were wandering around with that camera of yours."

"Exactly, I'll be right back." She gets up abruptly and runs upstairs. She comes back running again, holding two polaroid photos. "Here, I have one of yours and one with you and Vanessa. Wanna have it or should I give it to her instead?" She eyes me carefully.

"Hmm... Let me see those." I say indifferently as she hands them over. As she already told me, there's one of me giving her the middle finger. She was taking pictures all the time, really. I guess it was a sweet gesture for Sophie, to make her remember her surprise party. The other picture is me and Vanessa. Well, Vanessa in on the front laughing her heart out while I am on the back kinda staring at her. She was really beautiful that day. Well, she always is but she was exquisite on Sophie's birthday. Let's not forget she had dressed up for that Ass-ton guy.

"I'll keep them both." I tell Robin as I put the pictures in my jacket's inner pocket.

"Your look is different you know. It gives the picture a different vibe." It's all she comments, never taking her gaze off me.

"You think? It's a great picture." I state shrugging and concentrate on the tv.

"It is great indeed, pretty much like Vanessa, don't you think?" She asks next.

"Yeah, I guess. She was really pretty that night." I comment with my eyes still on the tv. How does Robin watch this shit on E! ?

"Hmmmm, I forgot guys and their inability to make conversations about their feelings. Thank God I am surrounded by women." She puffs.

"You're weird, you know that, right?" I raise an eyebrow at her. "Speaking of Vanessa, do you have any idea what's going on with her and that guy from the paper?"

"Ashton?" She asks and I nod. "They could be anything. What do you think?" She is being annoying right now.

"Since I am asking you, it means I don't know, genius." I give her a fake smile. "I know they hang out a lot and that she left early on Sophie's birthday to go to his place."

"What did Alice do during Sophie's party?" She asks but I don't get why Alice is relevant.

"Earth calling Ro. Has Sophie taken over every single part of your brain? I am telling you about Vanessa." I pat her on the head slightly.

"Do you, or do you not remember what Alice did on Sophie's party?" She asks again.

"I don't?" I frown confused. The only thing I remember about Alice is that she disappeared on the first floor with Joseph for a fair amount of time but I am not gonna give my friend Joss like that.

"You sure noticed things and remember things about Vanessa though. There's a study that says we remember the things we like. I always remember actors' names." She is making a grimace and crosses her arms. This is nonsense really.

"Robin Summers, are you capable of making a simple conversation on a specific matter with another human being?" I sigh and rest my head back on the couch. "Alice has nothing to do with this and neither has Sophie. I just asked you if you know what's the deal between Vanessa and Ashton."

"It's not my problem you are a thickhead, idiot. And Vanessa's deal is not my business. Why is it yours?" She continues with the annoying questions.

"So you don't know. Why didn't you just say it?" I raise my hands up in the air and look at her with eyes wide open. "It would have saved us both a lot of time."

"I wanted to rile you up my friend. I like teasing you, I have a bet going on with myself." She winks and throws another pillow.

"I have no idea how Sophie tolerates you. Sometimes you act so damn strange." I throw the pillow back at her.

"Again, not my problem you are a thick head. I know what I am talking about." She giggles, but then the doorbell rings. She looks surprised.

"Is Sophie going to make a guest appearance?" I ask her smirking.

"No moron, she is studying." She gets up and goes to the door, returning with a sulking Sam, looking like crap. Ro seems worried.

"Hey Sam! How you doin? There's still some pizza left over here." I point at the pizza boxes on the table.

"Hey guys, sorry to interrupt your game night. I am not hungry." She says and sits on the couch next to me.

"Everything alright?" I ask looking at Robin who is narrowing her eyebrows anticipating Sam's answer.

"No, life sucks." It's what she replies.

"Hey, what's up? Is everyone ok at home?" Ro asks concerned.

"Yeah, yeah they are all fine." She groans.

"It's a girl thing then? I should probably go, leave you two alone." I say gesturing my hands to give them the space they need.

Sam rolls her eyes. "You stay right here, I need a man's opinion." She comments and rests her head on my shoulder.

"Hey, my shoulder is right here, you bitch." Ro exclaims pouting.

"Bite me, whipped head. Nathan's shoulders are stronger."

"That's an undeniable truth." I state with a smirk. "I'm guessing there's some problem in paradise with you and that pretty girlfriend of yours?" I ask Sam.

"I feel betrayed by this." Ro gestures me and Sam with her hands. "What did you do to Nicks?" She asks raising her eyebrow.

"I stalked her FB." Sam says in an instant. Ro facepalms.

"Seriously?" Robin comments.

"It took you long enough considering you've been together for a while now. What dirt did you come across with?" I put my hands behind my head and wait for the info, but a punch meets my arm.

"Hey, don't indulge her." Ro chimes in, annoyed. "Sam you know better than to stalk on Nicky's Fb, you moron." She glares at Sam. "And Nathan dear, there's no way Nicky has dirt." She says sure of that.

"She is no innocent!" Sam retorts and lifts her head off my shoulder.

"Take that, blondie!" I stick my tongue out at Robin while rubbing my arm. It damn hurts. "What did you find, Sam?"

Sam puffs and groans a few times and rests her head on my shoulder again. "Her ex liked a photo of her."

"Ha, take that, Nate. Told you." Ro brags.

"Will you keep your mouth shut?" I raise an eyebrow at her. "Okay, her ex liked a photo of her and?" Ro giggles at that.

"And what? And what? Are you kidding me? Her ex liked a photo of her, Nate! This is a disaster!" Sam says exaggerating a lot.

"Imma let you handle that Nathan." Ro states and turns her head to the TV.

"Yeah, like you've been helping a lot already." I give her an eyeroll. "So let me get this straight, Sam. An ex liked a photo of Nicky's and you're acting like crazy because there's a chance she might hook up with that ex again or something?"

"Of course! You think this is a possibility too, right?" Sam looks at me with sparks in her eyes. Ro groans and shakes her head.

"The truth is I don't have a well-developed opinion on your girl. I have barely talked to her. You know her. Do you think she is capable of doing such a thing to you?" I ask Sam ignoring Robin's reactions.

"Of course she is not!" Ro gets to it first. "Sam, stop pulling a Nat."

"Hey, leave that bitch out of this, I am not her." Sam bites back angrily.

"Who the fuck is Nat?" I look at them both puzzled.

"A neurotic jealous ex." Sam replies.

"Exactly Sam. Don't be like her." Ro says calmly this time.

"Has Nicky ever given you a reason to be a neurotic jealous girlfriend?" I can't believe I am giving love advice. Me out of all people. For God's sake.

"No she hasn't, but she didn't tell me her ex liked her photo!" Sam groans again.

"Oh for fucks sake!" Ro exclaims again. "Nicky loves you, moron. Calm your tits. Don't be a drama queen. Nathan tell her."

"Yeah, calm your tits, Sam. Nothing sounds wrong to me." I tell her with a smile and caress her back.

"Yeah, mama said that too as well, but you know what they say, history repeats itself. I was cheated once, imma be cheated again." Sam reasons.

"For Buddha's sake! It doesn't work like that, you idiot. If you keep being a stalker and jealous, Nicks is gonna get fed up with you. Calm down." Ro tries to advise her.

"Plus, history belongs in the past. Let bygones be bygones. Nicky doesn't seem like a cheater to me. But you know what they say. Trust is the most important thing into a relationship. Maybe you should talk to her about it?" I shrug and look at the tv.

"Nate's right. Ten points to Gryffindor!" Ro raises her fist on the air and Sam throws a pillow at her. "Now let's do our nails and take cosmo quizzes."

"And that's my queue to go!" I pat them both on the thigh and stand up. "I hope we helped you, Sam. If not, I offer to take care of that ex." I wink at her. "Ro, it was a pleasure as always."

"Thank you Nate, you are awesome, like for real, I love you. This bitch here is way too moral for me. Imma make my mama make cookies for you." Sam gets up and hugs me. "I will give you her address if she keeps being a threat." She whispers in my ear so that Ro won't hear.

"Come on Nate, I'll walk you to the door." Ro gets up as well.

"Do you want me to throw the trash away?" I offer pointing at the now empty pizza boxes.

"Duh, I am walking you to the door, what do you think I am doing?" Ro laughs and Sam joins her too.

"I am such a good friend to you." I grab the boxes and wave Sam goodbye. Robin walks with me to the door and opens it for me. I get out but before I leave she grabs my arm, making me turn around to face her.

"Vanessa is not dating Ashton. I thought you should know." She smiles and shrugs. Seconds later the door closes and I walk over my car with gigantic grin on my face.

A/N: Nathan's team lost! How do you react at a loss? And on a scale from 1-10... How much of a Nina are you as a fan of sports? xD Hope you enjoyed the chapter! Votes and comments are always welcomed. xx