Page 181 of Drop Three

Bodhi’s arm wraps around the back of my chair. “It’s pretty incredible, right?”

The penthouse we purchased is in one of the tallest high-rise complexes in Atlanta, and the view is spectacular. Our entire living room is encased with floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for a panoramic view of the city, just like Bodhi has always wanted.

“It’s dope,” King says.

“I know where I’ll be when I need a change of scenery,” Tenley admits.

I steal a glance her way and pin my sights on the man beside her.

Tyler.

I don’t know how I feel about him yet. He seems nice—not who I would imagine Tenley dating, though. I should try to include him in the conversation.

“Tyler, so what do you do for work?”

He shoves his dirty blond, shoulder-length hair out of his face and smiles wide. “I’m a lifeguard.”

“Pshhhh,” Gus interrupts.

Everyone at the table turns in the direction of the harsh sound.

Gus sits directly across from the happy couple, with his arms crossed and a cocky smirk on his face. “What are you, twelve?” Gus bites out.

“August!” Tenley gasps.

He waves her off, rubbing his mustache between his fingers, waiting for Tyler to answer.

Tyler clears his throat. “Actually, I’m thirty-two. I’ve been a lifeguard since I was twenty. Can’t imagine doing anything else.”

“Cool, cool,” Gus responds, seeming to not care about Tyler’s reasoning. “Venom, pass the steak sauce, please?”

Tenley cuts him a glare. “Get it yourself, thigh buffer.”

Gus laughs and I instantly feel uncomfortable for them. Well, maybe more so for Tyler.

“Well, on another note, we have an announcement to make!” Kodi speaks up. Cal stands beside her, and they join hands, sending each other a loving smile.

I love seeing my brother happy.

Looking at Kodi, Cal announces, “We’re adopting.”

“What!” I screech at the top of my lungs. “Are you serious? I’m gonna be an auntie?”

Tears fill my eyes, and I couldn’t be happier for my brother and best friend. I run to hug them both, the rest of the table joining me in a big group hug.

“Yes,” Kodi whimpers, being squeezed to death.

“We’re going to foster for a while and see how it goes. Our goal is to adopt a child out of the foster care system like Mom and Dad did for me,” Cal says with tenderness.

He has the greatest heart, and I know he will make the most amazing father.

“I think that’s a great idea, brother. I’m so happy for you both.”

“This is turning out to be one hell of a celebration! What’s next? Bodhi and Navy, you got any news to share?” King asks, dimples at large across his warm brown skin.

“Nope,” I say.

“Actually, there is something I’d like to share,” Bodhi says, catching me off guard and turning to face me. He holds my arm up high. “You’re looking at the Strikers newest Sportswear Designer.”

---