Rob: I just called Talulla and asked them to hold a table for two at eight. I've heard the peach upside-down cake is crazy good. Does that time work for you?
Ben: Or I can pick up food and swing by your place. I'm good for a chill night on the deck if you are.
Rob: If you're not up for dinner out, we can do takeout. What's your preference?
Ben: Your choice, babe.
Rob: I'm down for anything you want.
In the spiritof full transparency and a strong desire to avoid jealous man tantrums, I started a group message with Rob and Ben.
Magnolia: Hey guys. I'm going to the game at Fenway with my brothers tonight. Some other time. Okay?
Ben: Enjoy it. Talk soon.
Of course,he responded first. Such a competitive little shit.
Rob: If it goes into extra innings and you want to crash in the city, you're always welcome at my place.
Ben: FLAG ON THE PLAY
Ben: PASS INTERFERENCE
Ben: Get your ass back to the line of scrimmage, boy.
Rob: Settle down. The pass is good. No interference.
Magnolia: You guys. For real. Chill.
Rob: As I'm sure you can see, I'm completely chill.
Ben: You wouldn't know chill if you were literally frozen.
Magnolia: If you two weren't amusing, you'd be annoying as fuck.
I slippedmy phone into my bag as a smile pulled at my lips. Andy was right. I was hooked on these two.
Chapter Eighteen
Ben: I'm going to mow your lawn.
Magnolia: Is that some kind of innuendo?
Ben: No. I'm mowing your lawn.
Magnolia: With…a lawn mower?
Ben: Yeah.
Magnolia: I'm sorry but do you know how to operate a lawn mower?
Ben: Of fucking course.
Magnolia: I want to believe that so much.
Ben: It's going to be awesome. Just you wait.
Magnolia: Or maybe you find a different project?
