Page 35 of The Apple Tree

Kyle paused his hands. “July is my favorite.” Then he resumed reeling in his line.

He was right. I tried to disguise the truth as a lie or a joke. I did snoop in his room, and I did find hisPlayboymagazines.

“I didn’t open any drawers. And I only looked under the mattress just to appease my ridiculous side. I honestly didn’t think you’d have magazines there.” I fought my smile. “I was wrong.”

“The articles are really good.”

I laughed. “Stop.”

He grinned. “It’s true. There was a recent article on AIDS that was well written and thoroughly researched.”

“Is that what you read to Josh at night? Thoroughly researched articles about a deadly virus?”

“No. He just likes to look at the pictures.”

“Coach Collins, you’re a pervert.”

“You mean a hot-blooded man.”

“Oh! I got a bite!” I pulled up on my pole and reeled in the fish.

“Nice one.” Kyle grabbed the fish.

“I can take it off,” I said.

He eyed me with surprise and held my pole while I removed the fish and gently returned it to the lake.

“I should have brought my camera,” Kyle said, handing me my pole.

“Why? So you could take a photo of me and my fish that I couldn’t show anyone because, according to you, this isn’t happening?”

“You’re right. This is our moment. I might not remember the look on your face when it tugged at your line, but I’llneverforget the look on your face when you tried to start the boat.”

“Oh, really? My pain is more memorable to you than my joy?”

“Everything about you is memorable.” As soon as he said the words, he got a look on his face thatIwould never forget.

Panic.

“I meantentertaining.I find your actions entertaining.”

“As entertaining as the magazines under your bed?”

“Did your parents forget to teach you manners and proper etiquette for respecting other people’s privacy?”

“I told you I didn’t open any drawers.”

“For someone with such a biblical name, you make me think Eve is just short for evil.”

“Stop!” I shoved him playfully just as he leaned toward the edge.

I repeat. It was aplayfulshove.

Yet, he fell out of the boat.

“Oh shit! Kyle?”

He emerged and shook his head like a wet dog. “What the hell, Eve?”

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