The Guy on the Left (The Underdogs Book 2)

by Kate Stewart

I can’t believe I dated this asshat.

  “How very philanthropic of you.” I’d chosen my clothes and words carefully while with him trying to fit some idealistic mold. It was exhausting, and I despised that I felt I had to put on such airs to try and impress him. As much of a gentleman as he was, we didn’t mesh, not in the real sense.

  It strikes me now just how much Troy and I have in common. We were both raised by single parents, both of us hustlers doing whatever we have to, to reach our goals, to take care of our family. We even fold our towels the same way. I love that.

  And then there’s our little boy, who brings us so much joy, living proof of just how well we fit. It’s while sitting in my ex-boyfriend’s office on one of the shittiest of days I’ve had in years that I realize I’m falling for him.

  I’m falling for Troy.

  I smile as Brett cringes. “That did sound horrible. I didn’t bring you in here to belittle you. It’s the last thing I want to do.”

  “You’re doing a fantastic job.”

  He barks out a laugh. “God, you don’t mince words. I love that about you. I’m sorry. I’m really not trying to be a dick.”

  “Just stop saying you’ve played on my field when you’re in a different ballpark, and we’re good.”

  “Fair enough,” he straightens his tie. “So, how are you, really?”

  “Good.”

  “Dante?”

  “He’s wonderful.”

  “Good to hear,” he leans in, his fingers splayed on his desk. “If you need me to cut you a break on rent, just let me know. It’s not a problem.”

  “That’s not necessary, but thank you.”

  “Look, if I’m in the position to help, let me.”

  “You’ll always be in the position to help. I appreciate it. But I’m a big girl. It was a bank error.”

  “Okay. So, how’s the school year going?”

  “Good, almost over.”

  “And Roy?”

  “You know damned well his name is Troy.”

  “Right. Clarissa—”

  I stand. “I really need to get going. I don’t want to keep Dante waiting.”

  He sighs. “Okay. Please tell Parker I said hello.”

  “I will.”

  He rounds the desk and pulls me in for a hug. When he pulls away, he keeps his hands on my hips. “If you ever change your mind, for any reason, call me.”

  I pull away, giving him back his hands. “Thanks, Brett. I will.”

  Just as I reach his door, he stops me. “I really fucked up with you. I should have taken us more seriously.”

  “No,” I say, glancing back at him. “Don’t be sorry. It worked out the way it was supposed to.”

  “I like your cologne.” I can hear a hint of jealousy in his voice.

  “Thanks, it’s a new one.”

  “Oh yeah, what’s it called?”

  “Take notes.”

  I can’t help my strut as I walk out.

  Troy: I can’t feel shit.

  Clarissa: Wish I was there to kiss it and make it better.

  Troy: I can’t believe I’m paying for this.

  Clarissa: It will be worth it when they call your name.

  Troy: It will. But this is seriously hell on earth.

  Clarissa: Stop whining, Jenner. Think of Dante in class sporting his father’s NFL jersey.

  Troy: Now that’s good motivation.

  Clarissa: Need more?

  Troy: Bring it, baby.

  Clarissa: Think of Dante’s mother sporting your NFL jersey with her lips wrapped around your cock.

  Troy: Jesus, yes please. Give me more.

  Clarissa: Sorry, I have to go shape young minds.

  Troy: You’re cruel and filthy.

  Clarissa: FaceTime tonight?

  Troy: It’s a date.

  Jamey’s Crockpot Potato Soup

  Restaurant Manager, Beaver Falls, PA

  Makes 6 servings

  6 hours

  1 30 Oz. Bag Southern Style Hash Brown potatoes

  2 14 Oz Cans Chicken Broth

  1 Can Cream of Chicken Soup

  1/2 Cup Onion – chopped

  1/3 Tsp. Pepper

  1 8 Oz. Cream Cheese – softened

  Optional Toppings:

  Green Onion – chopped

  Bacon Bits

  Shredded Cheese

  Combine broth, soup, onion and pepper in slow cooker and stir well. Add potatoes. Cover and cook on low for 5 hours.

  Stir in cream cheese and continue to cook for 30 minutes stirring occasionally until cheese is melted.

  Garnish with optional toppings as desired.

  Clarissa

  “Come on, baby, please.”

  I blow in my hands, rubbing them together before trying the ignition again.

  “It’s not going to start, Mommy. You’ve tried a hundred times.”

  “Shit!” I bang my hands against the wheel as Dante opens his mouth to claim his reward. “Not a word, son.”

  I glance over to where Theo’s car sits in the driveway and debate on asking for a favor. I turn it one last time and get nothing but a mechanic light in the dash.

  “Maybe I can fix it?” Dante pipes from the back seat.

  “It’s okay, Peanut, I’ll get it fixed.” I chew on my lip and decide I don’t have a choice. “Come on, we’re going to ask Theo for a ride.” I gather Dante, pulling his hood up as I walk across the yard and knock on the door. Theo answers after a beat with a sleepy smile.

  “Hey, Clarissa, good morning, Dante.”

  “Hey, bud.”

  I can’t help my laugh. “Theo, I’m so sorry to bother you, but my car isn’t starting, and I was wondering if you could give us a ride to school?”

  “Sure. Just let me grab my coat.”

  The ride to school is filled with updates, mostly about Troy.

  “Theo, did you know Troy is at camp?”

  “Yeah, pretty cool.”

  “He’s going to be in the Enful.”

  “That’s NFL, baby,” I correct. “The National Football League.”

  “I knewed that.”

  “You knew that.”

  “That’s what I said.”

  “Sorry,” I say, glancing at Theo. “I know it’s early.”

  “It’s fine. Happy to give you a lift. Will you need a ride home?”

  “No, I’ll figure it out. Thank you.”

  “Troy is going to be as big as the Hulk,” Dante supplies.

  “Someone’s got a new hero,” Theo says with a smirk.

  “He’s definitely a fan. How about you? You’ve been busy yourself.”

  “Yeah,” he glances over at me. “It’s been a good year.”

  “What’s she like?”

  “Loud, beautiful, crazy, everything.”

  “That good?”

  “Better.” Theo glances in the rearview. “Dante, how was your Christmas?”

  “Santa brought me a desk and a new bike. And all my Legit Life Merch. I’m wearing my hoodie now, see?”

  “He’s driving, sweetheart.”

  “You should get a hoodie, Theo. I’ll make five bucks.”

  “Dante, that’s rude.”

  “Sorry. But it’s soft. You should get one, Theo. It’s Legit.”

  Theo chuckles. “I believe you. I think I may be able to order one.”

  “Okay, I’ll send you the link when I get home.”

  “They’re sixty dollars,” I whisper to Theo.

  “It’s cool,” he says.

  “You really don’t have to.”

  “I’ll look for your confirmation email,” Dante practically shouts, appearing between our seats, making us both jump as we pull up to his school.

  “Thank Theo for the ride, Dante. And if he doesn’t want to buy a hoodie, he doesn’t have to.”

  “Thanks, Theo, bye Mommy,” a teacher who is clearly freezing her ass off waves to the two of us before leading Dante into school.

  “He’s someth
ing else,” Theo chuckles.

  “Yeah, a natural salesman. Seriously, don’t worry about the hoodie.”

  “It’s not a problem.”

  Since when is sixty dollars not a problem for a college kid? Sixty dollars is a fortune to me some days. Apparently, Theo’s in better financial shape than I am because I have no clue how I’m going to repair my car.

  “Do you know what’s wrong?”

  “Wrong?”

  “With your SUV?”

  “Oh, uh, it’s like eleven years old. It’s gasping for air at this point.”

  “I know a guy at Honda if you’re looking for something new.”

  “Thanks, I need something. I was going to try to wait until next month, but the universe decided to take a shit on me.”

  “Well, let me know.”

  “I will.”

  The rest of the way to school, I wrack my brain, trying to think of a way to arrange and rearrange. I could barely afford to pay rent this month with the shortage of Troy’s checks. He had to quit his job at UPS because they wouldn’t give him leave. He’s officially unemployed and spending a fortune on a bet that may or may not pay off. Like a fool, I’d started to count on that money, and now we’re both gambling on his ticket. I have no business doing that.

  None.

  I’ve always been self-reliant. Always. And now I’ve grown used to the help.

  Troy needs me to be strong and get him through this time, and I’ll be the same support to him as he’s been to me in the last five months. As I thank Theo and shoulder my bag, I decide I’ll take on Troy’s mindset.

  I’ll do whatever it takes.

  Troy

  “Hey, little man,” I say when Dante answers Clarissa’s phone.

  “Hey, Troy!”

  “What are you doing?”

  “Helping Mommy cook dinner.”

  “Whose recipe tonight?”

  Suddenly I’m staring at the ceiling.

  “Dante?”

  “Sorry, I had to wash my hands. We’re having Terri’s Roast. She was a legal scretary from Virginia.”

  “That’s secretary,” I hear Clarissa correct. “And for dessert,” Clarissa adds, coming into view, wiping her hands on a towel. My chest tightens at the sight of her. “We have Joanne’s Mud Pie.”

  “Mommy says she was Canadan. It’s got gummy worms in it!”

  “Oh, yeah?”

  “That’s Canadian,” Clarissa corrects.

  “And they talk funny, they say aboot,” Dante giggles, “it’s supposed to be about, but they say it like aboot.”

  I chuckle. “I get it, bud.”

  “How are you?” Clarissa asks, eyes full of concern.

  “Hanging in,” I wink.

  “Why are you putting your finger on the screen?” Dante asks, tilting his head. I realize that I’m outlining Clarissa’s face with my finger like a fucking douche. Jesus. I want to take my own man card.

  “There was a gnat on my screen.”

  “Eww. You should clean your phone. Mommy says there’s more acteria on a phone than a piece of poop.”

  “Is that so?”

  “That’s bacteria, baby,” Clarissa chimes in.

  “That’s what I said, gah.”

  “Uh huh,” she replies. I can hear the smile in her voice.

  “Troy, when are you coming back?” Dante asks pulling the phone and conversation from Clarissa’s reach. “How many sleeps?”

  “Thirty, little man.”

  “That’s too many!” He whines.

  “Okay, go set the table,” Clarissa says, taking the phone.

  “K. Bye, Troy!”

  “Night, bud.”

  Clarissa watches his retreat before turning back to face me. “We’ve got about a minute.”

  “I miss the hell out of you.”

  “That’ll teach you not to be such a badass. What’s the housing like?”

  “Lifeless, shitty. I want some of that pot roast.”

  “I’ll make some when you get home.”

  “Yeah?”

  “Of course.”

  “Talked to Mom, said she’s watching Dante tomorrow night.”

  “Yeah,” her eyes dart away. “I’ve got a parent-teacher conference. Is that okay?”

  “Do they still have parent-teacher conferences in high school?”

  “They do if their kid writes, ‘Ms. Arden has DSL’s on the chalkboard.’”

  “DSL’s?”

  She leans in on a whisper. “Dick sucking lips.”

  I throw my head back with a laugh.

  “Har, har, laugh it up.”

  “Yeah, well, just remember those lips belong to—”

  “And he’s back,” Clarissa warns.

  “Blocked by my own sperm,” I mutter.

  “What’s sperm?”

  I show all my teeth as Clarissa gives me wide eyes. “Thanks, Troy. Really.”

  “Sorry.” ‘I miss you,’ I mouth.

  “Me too.”

  “Call me after lights out?”

  “If you’re lucky.”

  I kick back on my couch. “I’m feeling pretty damned lucky.”

  “That’s two dollars you owe me, Troy!”

  Joanne’s Mud Pie

  Transportation Manager, Canada

  Makes 6–8 servings

  20 minutes

  1 Package Oreos – Crushed

  2 Large Packages Instant Chocolate Pudding

  6 Cups Milk

  1 Large Container Cool Whip

  Gummy Worms

  Make pudding as directed on package. Stir half of Cool Whip into pudding. Set aside enough Oreos to use for a topping. Stir the rest of the Oreos into the pudding mixture. Pour pudding mixture into bowl or individual serving dishes. Sprinkle remaining Oreos on top of pudding. Place gummy worms on top. Chill for at least 1 hour. Top with remaining Cool Whip when serving.

  Clarissa

  “Hey, you two,” I walk in exhausted, aching for a hot bath. Pamela looks up from where she cradles a sleeping Dante on our couch. “Shoot, I was hoping to be home in time to tuck him in.”

  She reads my posture. “You okay?”

  “Yeah. Long day. Thanks so much for watching him.”

  “No problem, anytime.”

  I lift Dante from her arms. “I’m just going to put him down. Do you mind staying for a second so we can talk?”

  “Sure.”

  Things are still a bit awkward between us though we’re both trying to find our groove. It’s obvious she still harbors resentment toward me, but I’m determined to try and mend this fence. Once I have Dante in bed, I walk out to see Pamela looking at the freshly hung photos I have on the wall.

  “I have copies of all of them that you’re welcome to.”

  She looks over at me and I damn near flinch at the hurt in her eyes.

  “I know I’ve apologized—”

  She raises a hand. “I think we’ve beaten this horse to death. I’m still trying to work my way around it with my own son.”

  “I caused that, and I’m sorry.”

  “He didn’t have many friends growing up,” she says, scanning the pictures before glancing back at me. “He was the sweetest, most considerate child. I see a lot of Troy in Dante. And I know it has a lot to do with how you’re raising him. But that baby is most definitely my grandson.” She smiles. “Just as shy in public, but observant, he watches everyone like a hawk.”

  “Troy was shy?”

  “So shy. I was worried for so long he would never snap out of it. But then puberty hit, and then came football, and dear God, it was like whiplash. I don’t think he ever really knew how to handle it.”

  “That’s so different from the guy I know.”

  “Look closer, darlin’.”

  “I’m sorry?”

  She shakes her head. “You wanted to talk to me?”

  “I know I have no right to ask you for anything, but I need a favor.”

  “Shoot.”

  Troy
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  Parker: Hey, spermenator. Do you know where our girl is?

  Troy: Always nice to hear from you, Parker. And no, I haven’t talked to her since this morning.

  Parker: She’s not texting back.

  Troy: Probably because it’s after eleven. And you’ve always had your wine and Ambien after eleven.

  Parker: She told you she avoids my calls after eleven?

  Troy: No.

  Parker: LIAR! Women. You think you know them, then some penis comes along, and it’s no more titties before testes.

  Troy: Titties before testes? That’s a thing?

  Parker: I just made it a thing.

  Troy: Will there be anything else?

  Parker: Yes. What are your intentions with my BFF?

  Troy: How about none of your damned business.

  Parker: EHHH. Wrong answer.

  Troy: Jesus. Even your texts are annoying.

  Parker: Secretly, you adore me.

  Troy: Rub your fingers together, and you’ll get an inkling of how much.

  Parker: Well, you bought me a Christmas gift.

  Troy: You STOLE my Grand hoodie. That wasn’t a gift.

  Parker: I’m wearing it now, and it’s amazing.

  Troy: Make sure you wash it before you return it.

  Parker: If you want it back so much, It’s in India. Come and get it. (Devil emoji)

  Troy: Nah, keep it. But make sure to write a review. (Devil emoji)

  Parker: I’m going to kill your baby mama. (Cursing emoji)

  Troy: Will there be anything else?

  Parker: Yes. Please don’t hurt her.

  I tense at the idea that Clarissa voiced that fear to Parker, and that doesn’t sit well with me.

  Troy: Hey, baby, you up?

  Minutes later, and without a reply from Clarissa, I get an Amazon link from Parker.

  GrandGirl#08 Reviewer Ranking 1,037

  Men’s XL Texas Grand Hoodie-Garnet

  I got this hoodie gently used. Well, the hoodie, I can’t say much for the previous owner, but I have my suspicions this hoodie has seen more floors on the Grand campus than thongs on an adult film set. Anyhoo, it’s nice and comfortable and seems to be doing its job for the moment. But, if at any point in time, it starts to show any wear and tear, I will reduce it to an unrecognizable pile of muscled material…slowly, oh so slowly, and thread by thread.