บททั้งหมดของ Craving The Enemy: บทที่ 41 - บทที่ 50

CHAPTER 41MASONThe second we stepped into the room, I knew we’d walked into an ambush.Malik was stretched out on Tyler’s bed like he’d been posing for a Men’s Health spread, Avery had his arms crossed against the wall, Damien was lounging in the chair like a smug mob boss, and Liam was perched on my bed, grinning like he’d just won the lottery.Every single one of them was staring at us.“Well, well, well…” Malik dragged the words out, eyes flicking between me and Tyler. “Took you long enough.”Tyler froze mid-step, glare already forming. “What are you even talking about?”Avery snorted. “Oh, come on. You two leave together looking all tense, vanish for hours, and now you stroll back in here looking… relaxed.”Damien added, “Tyler’s hair looks suspiciously messed up, by the way.”Tyler touched his hair instantly, muttering, “It’s not messed up.”I leaned against the doorframe, folding my arms and letting the smirk come naturally. “So, what exactly are you accusing us of?”Malik pro

CHAPTER 43TYLERThe new sports agent showed up late the next morning, wearing a suit so sharp it probably had its own PR team.Markus Vance.That was his name. The higher-ups had been hyping him up since the national team merge announcement — “the best in the business,” “can get you any contract,” “a master negotiator.”From the way he walked into the rec hall, he already knew it.“Gentlemen,” Markus said, flashing a practiced smile as if cameras were already on him. “It’s an honor to work with the best of the best. I’ve followed your careers — and trust me, the opportunities coming your way? Life-changing.”A few of the guys clapped. Mason just leaned against the wall, arms crossed.Markus’s gaze landed on him almost immediately. “Mason Grant,” he said like he was greeting royalty. “In the flesh. I’ve heard… stories.”Mason’s mouth ticked up in that lazy smirk. “Guess it depends which ones you’ve heard.”Markus stepped closer — too close — and gave him a slow once-over. “All of them

CHAPTER 45MASONThe hallway was quieter after the meeting, the hum of conversation fading as people split off for drills or coffee. I’d just started heading toward the locker rooms when a hand caught my arm. Markus. “Got a minute?” he asked, all polite smile and sharp eyes. I could’ve said no. I should’ve said no. But curiosity and that little flare of irritation from earlier had me nodding. “Sure.” He led me toward a quieter corner, away from the main flow of players. His suit was perfectly pressed, his tie knotted like he’d practiced it in the mirror ten times. Even his cologne smelled expensive. “This will be quick,” Markus said, slipping his hands into his pockets. “I wanted to speak to you privately about… opportunities.” I arched a brow. “Opportunities?&r

CHAPTER 47MASONIf Markus wanted to play games, fine.Two could play.I was gonna make sure he knew exactly where I stood — and that Tyler was off-limits.Which is why, the second I saw Tyler at breakfast the next morning, I slid right into the seat next to him, my arm brushing his side like I didn’t even notice.“Morning,” I murmured, leaning in close enough for my lips to almost touch his ear. “Sleep okay?”He glanced at me, chewing his toast. “Fine.”“Yeah?” I smirked. “I kept dreaming about you.”Tyler froze mid-chew, then rolled his eyes. “You’re unbelievable.”From across the room, Markus was watching.Perfect.During drills, I kept it up. “Nice shot,” I called when Tyler nailed a corner. Then, when he missed one, I jogged over, hand on his lower back, leaning in like I was giving him pointers — but my voice low enough only he could hear.“You know I like you better flustered.”He swatted at me. “You’re insane.”Markus was still watching. His jaw looked tight.Later, in the loc

CHAPTER 49 TYLER Markus stood in front of the group the next morning, all smiles like he was hosting a morning talk show. “Alright, team. Today we’re splitting responsibilities. Mason will be accompanying me into the city for some press appearances and photo ops. The rest of you will have the day off to rest and recharge.” I blinked. “Wait… just Mason?” Markus’s grin widened. “Yes. The sponsors want him front and center. He’s got the look, the stats, and the story. It’s perfect.” My stomach twisted. “Right. Perfect.” Mason glanced at me, his brow creasing like he wanted to say something, but Markus was already steering him toward the exit. As soon as they were gone, Malik walked over, hands in his pockets. “You’re glaring at the door like Mason just ran off with your boyfriend.” I scoffed. “Don’t be stupid.” He smirked. “So… not jealous at all?” “No,” I said flatly. “You’re sure? Because your voice is doing that tight thing it does when you’re lying.” “Malik, drop it.” He