Page 76 of Stolen Bases

I wait for Mason’s retort, which never comes. I guess I know who’s in charge. Though, I get it. I’d do anything Talia wants.

“Sorry, Cam. What’s your problem?”

“How do I know it’s love? I’ve never… I don’t know what being in love is like.”

“If you can answer yes to any of these questions, then you’re probably in love,” my brother says. “Do you wish you could be with her all day, every day? Dream about her? Look forward to getting her texts and calls? Blow off other people to call or text her? Have you had flashes of a future with her? Stare at her picture on your phone when you’re alone?”

I don’t answer. Every question Mason has listed is a resounding yes. I have, indeed, done all those things.

“Based on your silence, I’d say you are in love with this woman. But seeing as you two aren’t supposed to be together, maybe hold off on saying it.”

“Mason, how could you say that? You waited, and that didn’t work out for us, did it?”

“You wear my ring and share my last name. I think it all worked out, don’t you?”

“Yeah,” Emery answers, all dreamy-like.

“And I’m out. Thanks for the info.”

“Cam?”

“Yeah, Em?”

“If you aren’t ready to say the words, show her. It means more to be shown, not told. But don’t wait too long to say it. Women like the words.”

“I will. Thanks.”

“Yo.”

“What’s up, kid?” Eli sounds more tired than usual.

“The usual.”

“Is that so?” He hums, not believing me for a second.

Aside from the occasional text, we haven’t spoken since Arizona, which is not unusual while I’m traveling during the season.

“Yup. Just finished the last game here in Boston. Headed home in a few days. You still coming to the family picnic?”

“Cut the shit. I haven’t missed one yet. What do you want?” He’s exasperated with my stalling.

“Why do you think I want something?” I hedge.

“Cameron.”

“Eli.” I say his name with the same tone and wait for him to laugh.

He doesn’t. “I’ll hang up on your ass.”

“Ugh, fine. Way to skip the fucking foreplay.”

“If I wanted foreplay, I sure as shit wouldn’t ask you to provide it.”

I bark a laugh. “Point taken. But find someone to cup your balls for a bit. You’ve definitely taken over as the grouchy brother.”

“That’s just ’cause Mason’s gone all soft. The lucky fucker.”

Interesting. Is my brother seeing someone? Eli is also a cagey fucker like Mason. He’s all up in everyone else’s business, but like me, he will deflect with humor if you hit the nail too close to the head when you bring up women and relationships.

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