Page 121 of Left on Base

Jaxon leans into the window, chuckling. “I think they both did boat.”

“Looks that way.”

“I think,” Fork Guy says, “Patricia might have commitment issues. She’s got a thing for taking people’s money and ghosting them after two hours.”

“RIGHT?” Bus Stop Guy throws up his hands. “But I think I can change her…”

“Oh honey,” Callie mutters, “even I know that’s a red flag.”

Yes, this is actually happening.

Fork Guy leans against Patricia, the meter, then jumps back when it starts beeping. “Whoa! Sorry, didn’t mean to get handsy. I respect your boundaries.”

“She’s playing hard to get,” Bus Stop Guy insists. “Earlier, she was totally giving me signals.”

“Those were literally signals,” I call out. “Traffic signals.”

“See?” Fork Guy gestures. “Bush Girl gets it!”

“Bush Girl?” Callie raises an eyebrow.

“It’s a long story,” I sigh, and wince.

“Not that long,” Fork Guy chimes in. “She fell on her face stalking Baseball Boy here because they’re both emotionally constipated. No offense,” he tells Jaxon.

“Some offense taken,” Jaxon says, grinning.

“Says the guy who tried to eat ramen upside down,” I retort.

“Hey, it was for science!” Fork Guy protests. “Speaking of science, did you know Patricia has a PhD in transportation economics?”

“Really?” Bus Stop Guy is impressed. “I knew she was smart, but wow…”

“I can’t believe we’re watching two guys romance a parking meter,” Callie whispers. “Actually, wait, yes I can. This is exactly how this night ends.”

“Still better game than you and Jameson,” I whisper back, earning a slap on the arm.

“Anyway,” Fork Guy announces, “I should go ice my face. Eye patches aren’t as comfortable as pirates claim. But hey,” he tells Bus Stop Guy, “try Coffee Bean on 4th? I hear their meters are more into casual dating.”

“You know what?” Bus Stop Guy straightens up. “You’re right. Patricia’s not ready for what I offer. Plus, those meters take credit cards. That’s hot.”

“That’s the spirit!” Fork Guy gives him a high five. “There are plenty of meters in the sea. Or the street. Whatever, you get it.”

They both wave goodbye to Patricia, Fork Guy adding, “Your loss, girl,” for good measure.

I’m laughing so hard it hurts, and even Jaxon’s given up holding it in.

“Only in Seattle,” Callie shakes her head, but she’s smiling. “Can we please go home before we witness more parking meter drama?”

“Wait,” Fork Guy calls as he's leaving. “Baseball Boy! Don’t forget that psych essay! And Bush Girl, ice that chin! And remember the forks!”

“The forks?” Callie looks confused.

“Don’t ask,” Jaxon and I say at the same time, and laugh again.

“So,” Jaxon leans into Callie’s window, “I need a ride back to campus?”

I look away. I can’t handle his eyes on me.

---