Page 78 of We Shouldn't Be Together
“Good game, Kai,” Parker says, and I meet him in a high five. “That was some fancy footwork.”
Lewis steps in beside him. “Every few seconds, whoa was coming out of Parker’s mouth.”
I snort. “Well, I am one of the top ten wonders of the modern world.”
Lewis laughs. “Wow, you didn’t call yourself number one?”
“I didn’t want to blow Parker’s mind,” I joke.
Parker lifts his hands in defense. “Sorry for being amazed by my friend. Man, I won’t come to your next game then.”
“Don’t be so dramatic, Park,” I tease. “Honestly, I’m glad I could get it together today. Coach would have rung my neck if I had let him down.”
“Yeah, how many extra practices have you talked him into?” Lewis asks.
“Too many to mess up,” I quip.
“I’m just gonna grab my bag and then we can go,” Tyler calls out. He then jogs toward us, pats my back, and keeps moving. “You were awesome, Kai.”
“Thanks, dude. Right back at ya.”
I move to my bag and pull out my hoodie. Wrapped inside, my phone slips out. When I grab it, I see a notification from Tabitha.
The corners of my mouth hint at a smile as I read her text. I pocket my phone, leaving my reply for after I get home and shower. I don’t need my parents or my friends catching who I’m texting. Who would I be texting when they’re all here?
“We’re heading over to the cafe,” Parker says. “You coming with?”
“I got five layers of grass stains to scrub off,” I joke. “I’ll catch up with you guys later.”
“Okay, man,” Lewis says. “Good game.”
Tyler catches up with the boys. “I’m coming with.”
Parker’s lip upturns. “With that muddy uniform?”
Tyler scoffs, ripping off his jersey and unzipping his duffel bag. “I’m capable of changing.”
Lewis sniggers. “Got deodorant in there, too?”
Tyler pushes ahead of them, whipping on a fresh shirt. “Let’s just head out, shall we?”
They wave goodbye to me, and I can’t help laughing at the clowns.
As I pull the strap of my duffle bag over my shoulder, I can’t help smiling again.
Tabitha, of all people.
Hmm. I kinda want to see her again. She looked so pretty on Friday night.
“Ready to go, Kai?” Dad calls, jingling his keys.
Still smiling, I nod and follow him to the parking lot. “Sure thing.”
Dad regards me for a moment. “Geez, son, you look pleased with yourself?”
I shrug. “What can I say? It’s a good end to a good weekend.”
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