Page 61 of Finding You

“Come on,” Devin said, motioning to the truck. “I know you’ve got food in the car and it’s pretty warm out. I want to get back to the shop and get everything home before it goes bad.”

Nodding, she agreed. “Let’s do this!” And when she climbed into the cab of the truck and he smiled at her, she felt herself relax. Everything was going to be alright.

It had to be.

She just wished that something would go her way.

ChapterTwelve

Driving over to Levi and Jade’s later that afternoon, Devin wondered why he hadn’t done anything like this before. It wasn’t like he didn’t socialize with his friends or go out and do things, but this was the first time he’d been invited to a barbecue with this particular group of friends.

Huh, maybe we’re not as close as I thought?

Yeah, that thought went through his mind, but it was MacKenzie’s comment that really made the most sense.

“Did you ever notice that single people rarely host barbecues or casual get-togethers?” she asked while they were driving over. “I mean, they’ll host parties for things like the Super Bowl, but rarely ever just invite you over for a potluck sort of thing. Or maybe it’s just the way I’m looking at it.”

“No, I don’t think it’s just you. I was kind of thinking the same thing.”

“Do you think it’s a couple’s thing? Like…you only get invited if you’re part of a couple?” Then she laughed, but he had a feeling she hit the nail right on the head.

He hadn’t been part of a couple in a long time–around the same amount of time it had been since he’d gone to something like this. If it were a town event, he was there, but when it was a smaller get-together, he couldn’t remember when he was on the guest list.

Unless it was guys’ night for poker or to watch whatever sport was currently in season.

It was crazy to be annoyed by this revelation, but for some reason, he was.

“Guess being a nice person isn’t grounds for getting invited anymore,” he murmured.

“Oh, I don’t look at it like that,” she countered. “When you’re single, it can be seriously annoying to be around couples. Especially those who are newly dating and think everything they do is adorable.” She groaned. “They are the worst. After that, it’s newlyweds. All they want to do is talk about their wedding and honeymoon, and, ugh…enough!”

Devin couldn’t help but laugh because she was spot on.

“The couples who’ve been married a long time, however, are entertaining at first, and then get annoying.”

“Okay, now this I’ve got to hear.”

“They’re comfortable with who they are, but also have a ton of advice that most people didn’t ask for. That starts out entertaining–especially if you’re not the one they’re advising. But then, the spouse who’s been quiet up until that point, suddenly chimes in and then they start either arguing with each other, or have to explain to everyone why each other is wrong. Annoying.”

For a moment, Devin thought about the different couples he knew and he had to admit that she pretty much described all of them.

“Wow,” he said with amusement. “I don’t think I ever paid that much attention or people watched that closely, but…you’re right.”

“Kevin and I were the worst couple to be around because we just didn’t care and usually brought our bad moods and arguments everywhere we went.” She shuddered. “So glad that’s over.”

Reaching for her hand, he gave it a squeeze. “Me too.”

And when she smiled at him, he realized just how happy he was to be a part of this couple. He didn’t think they gave off that “everything we do is adorable” vibe, but maybe they would if this weren’t a temporary situation.

Way to bum yourself out right before we get to the barbecue, dufus…

So he pushed that thought aside, and fortunately, they were turning onto Jade and Levi’s block.

“This is the first time I’m seeing their house,” he admitted. “They moved in not that long ago. Jade used to have a cute two-bedroom place around the corner from me. But with her and Levi getting together, they knew they needed a bigger place.” When he parked in front of their house, he let out a low whistle. “This is easily three times the size of Jade’s old place. And the property is massive!”

“I have nothing to compare it to, but I’m still impressed. What a great front yard!” She paused. “Is that…is that a volleyball net I’m seeing over there?”

Volleyball was one of Devin’s favorite activities. It was always fun, and it was a good way to let his competitive nature come out and play, so he was thrilled when MacKenzie pointed the net out. “Do you play?” he asked.

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