Page 52 of Tastes Like Watermelon Moonshine
“What, Mom?”
“Maybe you should call her. Ask her, instead of wondering, and letting those fears build up. Go straight to the source. And obviously pray about it too.”
I nod, staring down at the sidewalk. “You’re right, Mom. I gotta pray it over first. Something I haven’t done much lately.” Haven’t really prayed, haven’t read the Bible other than what I need to read for Bible study.
“I wish I could give you a hug, but I’m praying for you for sure. And I love you.”
“Thanks, Mom. Love you too,” I say before ending the call.
Tennis shoes show up in the edge of my field of vision. I drag my eyes up until I meet Josh’s eyes.
“You doing okay there? I couldn’t help but hear the end of your phone call.” Josh studies me, his head cocked to the side.
I nod, my lips in a grim line.
“You know, Jared and I are here for you. Our little Bible study is a great time to bring these questions up. We’ll talk them over, pray it over.” His hand settles on my shoulder.
With the bomb that Mom just dropped, I need someone to talk to. Someone to help me figure this all out. And as much as I know it’s right to take it all to God in prayer… I want a person to talk to. I want answers right away.
Josh has sort of taken Coach’s place in my life, so why not spill it all to him? “Let’s finish this workout, and then we can talk,” Josh says with a hand on my shoulder.
I meet Josh’s gaze and give him a weak attempt at a smile.
Chapter 24
Raegan - The Past
Ourlittlegangisall gathered at Freddy’s because Austin told us he had something to share with us. The sounds of chatter and spoons in sundae glasses, the smell of hot fudge and fresh waffles cones fall away. My spoon lands on the table with a thud.
His dream is coming true. The plan he has for his life, it’s happening. All of his hard work has paid off. His hitting, catching, and throwing skills are worthy of playing for a minor league team. And the fact that he got drafted right out of high school… Most guys end up playing college ball before getting drafted, from what Austin has told me.
My vision tunnels in on Austin. I can already see him wearing the Lariat’s colors: maroon and tan. The maroon will make his emerald eyes pop.
“You’re serious?” I know I’ve asked the question about five times now, but I still can’t wrap my head around it.
His warm hands rest on my shoulders and he shakes me as he repeats himself. “One thousand percent serious. Rae, I’m really going to play professional baseball.”
I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a bigger smile on his face.
“We’re talking a team like the Lariats? Right?” I say once I can finally formulate something other thanyou’re serious. My mouth gapes open as if it’s the Grand Canyon. “Like you… in professional baseball pants?”
“Um, it’s minor league, so it’s more like the Spurs. And I’ll be wearing a Jersey, with my name and number, too.” Austin tilts his head and raises one eyebrow.
Chrissy’s laughter along with her elbow in my ribs jar me to my senses, and I tear my eyes from Austin’s.
“He doesn’t know, silly.” Chrissy whisper-yells in my ear.
“What don’t I know?” Austin’s eyebrow notches higher on his forehead.
“That Raegan has a thing for guys in baseball pants.”
“Is that so?”
My cheeks flame in response to Austin’s question.
“So, you’re a fan of baseball just for the butts?” He leans in close, his eyes filled with a teasing glint.
This man. Always making me swoon. I pull my features into a serious, grown up look. “I enjoy baseball, in general.” I try to say it with a cool, calm air, but it comes out with a laugh. “The butts are just an added bonus.”
