Page 13 of Fighting

“Caleb, meet Liam Kelly. He’s one of Peacock Springs’ Bravest, and my oldest friend,” I say, using an overly friendly tone. “You’ve probably heard about him from his brother.”

“Can’t say I have.” Caleb assesses Jim, eyes narrowed.

“Hey, little brother,” Liam says, pulling Jim in for a side hug.

“We share a birthday,” his twin grumbles as he bats him away, surreptitiously side-eyeing me.

This is so perfect. This is what I need. Something comfortable and familiar.

“Why don’t we get out of here?” Jim says, steering Caleb away from Liam and me. “We can go over any outstanding business before your trip back to the city.”

As they depart, we smile and wave, shouting, “Bye! Have fun! Be safe, sweetheart!” among other motherly phrases, until we’re laughing raucously.

“Come on, Matty.” Liam slaps my back. “Let’s help Lily collect the folding chairs.”

He heads for the rolling cart while I start folding.

“Did you tell me you were coming tonight?” he asks as he slides two chairs onto the arms that hold them in place on the cart.

“No. Surprise! I’m back, baby.” I toss both arms out and wiggle my fingers.

“What do you mean ‘I’m back’?” He mimics my playful tone.

“I mean Stef is a genius who’s going back to school for her PhD.” I give a half-hearted eye roll.

“Nerd Alert,” Liam teases.

“Right.” I slide two more chairs onto the cart and dust off my hands, scanning the cleared-out room.

“You guys are lifesavers. Thank you,” Lily squeals as she steps out of her closet-sized office.

“Any time, Lils. I’m here for the rest of the year, and I’m always happy to help you.”

“Oh, wow. That’s amazing. I’m so happy to hear that,” she stammers. “Does that—oh my god.” She huffs like she’s annoyed with her inability to string a coherent thought together.

“Stef and Lee took the penthouse, and while she’s living large, I’m going to house-sit for her.” I shrug.

“Oh, I love it. We’re so lucky to have you home.”

Her excited tone and constant motion make her hard to follow, so I’m surprised when she wraps her arms around me in a friendly hug.

“Also, goodbye.” She makes a shooing motion with her hands. “I want to get out of here, and I’m sure my dog is anxious for a walk. You have to leave so I can lock up.”

With placating smiles and quick goodbyes, we make our way onto the street. When we hit the center square, I stop and turn slowly, taking in the full downtown view. Instantly, my body relaxes. Just being here is alleviating some of the tension I accumulated in the city.

“Are you on duty tonight?” I ask when I find Liam observing me like I’m a lost tourist.

“No, but I was going to work out before heading home. What’s up?”

“Can I join?” The words are tentative. It’s ridiculous, really. I’ve known this guy my whole life. I know it’s fine.

Liam takes a half step closer and puts a hand on my forehead. With a slight humming sound, he grabs my wrist and stares at his watch like he’s taking my pulse.

“Why the hell are you acting like such a weirdo?” He drops my arm. “Come on, let’s go.”

Nessa still hasn’t respondedby the time Liam and I are finished. My little white lie means I need to make things right, so I try to call, but after a single ring, it goes to voicemail. My shoulders slump in response. Shit. I should not let a declined call fuck with my head.

Before I can pocket my phone and force my thoughts elsewhere, the device buzzes in my hand.

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