Cocky Gamer: A Hero Club Novel by Lauren Helms & Hero Club

Author:Lauren Helms & Hero Club [Helms, Lauren]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Cocky Hero Club, Inc.
Published: 2021-05-15T16:00:00+00:00

“So, be honest, what did you think of Aubrey and Chance?” I twirl my straw around in my glass of iced tea as I look at Ben.

We found ourselves at a tiny hole-in-the-wall seafood place after one heck of a long day. Somehow, Ben and I were able to get out of bed and hit the beach early. We didn’t surf for long, mostly because I knew Ben’s still learning. Sometimes I can get carried away and spend hours on the waves.

We made it back with plenty of time to spare before brunch with Aubrey and Chance. Ben seemed to like them, and they both gave me their approval. Not that it matters since we’re just friends. Then I showed him around Hermosa Beach and took him by the shelter to introduce him to some of my favorite furry friends.

The day has been utterly amazing. I’m trying not to think about how he’s leaving tomorrow, and I’m not sure when I will see him again. I mentally shake myself away from that train of thought.

“They seem pretty cool.” He nods his head. “They’re in their thirties, yeah?”

I nod, confirming the slight age difference.

“They’re protective of you,” he says, his face serious.

“Oh, no. Who said what and when?” I straighten in my seat.

He chuckles and shakes his head. “I expected as much. Aubrey quietly—and not so subtlety—inferred she’d slice my neck if I hurt you. And Chance made it clear I’d hurt for weeks if I even so much as made you cry.”

I blow out a breath. “Wow. I’m sorry about that. They know we’re just friends.” I bite on the inside of my cheek.

“Don’t worry about it. They care about you. It makes me happy that you’ve got people looking out for you.” His half-smile looks sadder than anything else.

“What about you? Do you have any one looking out for you out in Chicago?”

“Sure. I’ve got my teammates. And Garland here in Cali.” He shrugs it off.

“What about your parents? I thought they were in Chicago as well.” I lean my chin on my palm, leaning toward him.

“They are. We’re good, but I’m busy and they don’t understand the whole pro gaming thing. So I wouldn’t say they’re super active in my life. But it’s fine.” He snags a fry from his plate—there are only a few left—and drags it through the small dish of ketchup. I study him and I realize that he looks… sad.

“Are you happy, Ben?” I ask softly.

His eyes drag up to mine, and that cocky smirk falls into place. I immediately see it for what it is—a mask.

“Of course I’m happy.” I narrow my eyes at him but say nothing. He continues. “Why wouldn’t I be happy? I get to do what I love for a living, and I get paid well to do it. I’ve got friends and fans. I’m young and healthy. What’s not to be happy about?” he leans back into his chair, stretching his legs out at an angle. He’s the picture-perfect image of a relaxed, content male.

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