ANITA

I leaned over the pool table, the felt rough against my stomach, and lined up my shot like my life depended on it. The short plaid skirt I wore rode up just enough to tease, and I knew it. I always knew exactly what I was doing around Festus and his best friend. Especially Maddox.

The cue stick felt smooth in my hands. I pulled back, exhaled, and struck. The ball rolled true, kissed the pocket, and dropped.

“Ha. Your turn, hotshot,” I said, straightening up with a smirk that I hoped hid how fast my heart was beating.

Maddox circled the table slowly, chalking his cue like he...