The Nerd Who Stole The Quarterback (Astra and Zayne) novel Chapter 77

Chapter 77

Chapter 77

ASTRA

Classes blurred together. I sat at my desk staring at the board, nodding along and answering correctly on autopilot. Mr Harlan even paused during Literature. “Astra, you seem distracted today. Everything alright?”

I forced a small smile. “Yes, sir. Just tired.”

He let it go. I always knew the answers, even when my mind was replaying everything that had happened.

By lunch, my stomach was in knots. I sat at our usual table with Priya and Chloe, picking at my food. The black and gold jerseys and spirit banners felt too loud and bright.

Warm fingers brushed the back of my neck. I jumped, turning quickly.

Jason stood behind me, smiling softly. He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to the side of my neck, right below my ear. right there in the crowded cafeteria.

My eyes widened. A few people at nearby tables turned to look.

He sat beside me like it was the most natural thing in the world, his arm brushing mine.

“Hey, love,” he said quietly, violet eyes warm as they searched my face. “You look like you didn’t sleep. Are you okay?”

“I’m okay,” I said quickly. “Just… a lot on my mind.”

His hand stayed gentle on mine under the table. Before I could say more, Priya’s eyes widened.

“Are you guys dating now?” she blurted, loud enough for nearby tables to hear.

My face burned. The flush raced up to my ears.

Jason didn’t hesitate. He wrapped his arm around my shoulders, pulling me closer. “Yes,” he said calmly, a small proud smile on his lips. “She’s my girlfriend.”

Priya and Chloe stared in open shock.

“Wow,” Chloe breathed.

Priya leaned forward, eyes sparkling. “Wait… that was the reason Zane did that yester-”

“No!” I cut her off, heart pounding. “Why would that be the reason?”

Chloe gave me a knowing look. “Well… you know.”

Priya lowered her voice-only slightly. “It’s just that we all know Zane is obsessed with you.”

I froze. “What?”

Chloe glanced around. “And Maya keeps spreading rumors that you… you know, fucked him and took him from her.”

Jason’s arm tightened around me protectively. “She didn’t sleep with him,” he said firmly. “And she doesn’t owe that asshole anything. He’s just a jealous, violent prick.”

Priya raised her hands in surrender, still grinning. “Okay, okay! I’m happy for you both. Jason is way better than… well, you know who.”

Chapter 77

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I managed a weak smile, but inside I felt like I was suffocating. I kept holding Jason’s hand, trying to ignore the stares and the heavy weight of Zane’s jersey on my back.

This was what I wanted, right? A normal boyfriend. Someone kind.

So why did it feel like I was drowning?

The rest of the day dragged by in a hazy blur. I answered questions, took notes I barely read, and tried to look normal.

When the final bell rang, relief washed over me. I grabbed my bag and headed for the exit, already worrying about how I’d come up with nearly five thousand dollars in a week.

Jason was waiting near the main doors, leaning against the wall with a soft smile. His eye was still swollen and bruised, but be looked genuinely happy to see me.

“Hey, love,” he said, falling into step beside me. “Walk with me for a second?”

We stepped outside into the afternoon sun. Students buzzed everywhere, talking about tomorrow’s Homecoming game and dance. The energy was electric, but I felt numb.

Jason stopped near the flagpole and turned to face me, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “So… tomorrow is Homecoming. I know things have been chaotic, but… would you do me the honor of being my date for the dance?”

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