I can’t stop smiling. There’s still a goofy grin on my face when James walks into the kitchen and sits down beside me. He raises an eyebrow and signs.
So, I got an interesting call from Benton today. Would you know anything about that?He reaches over to my plate, picking up a piece of broccoli and eats it.
Fuck me, I should’ve known he’d call and rat me out. I have two options. Own up to knowing what he’s talking about or play dumb. I’m going with option two.
Really? What was it about?
James smirks as he shakes his head at me.
Don’t play coy. I got my ass reamed for not being with you today when you dropped the paperwork off at the league headquarters. I told him that was weird since I didn’t know anything about it.
My eyes drop to my nearly empty plate. I hate that Benton got pissed at him for it.
Sorry. I made a poor judgment call. When he talked to me, I made sure he knew that you didn’t know anything about it.
He smiles. One that reaches ear to ear.
Also heard that you were saved by a Scorpion.He places his hand over his mouth as he gasps.
I lean forward, slapping his shoulder.Stop it. He was just at the right place at the right time and helped me. Nothing more.
My phone lights up, and my eyes drop to the screen, seeing I have a new message from Lincoln.
He pauses, then smirks.Oh no. It’s your Scorpion boy, isn’t it?
I can’t help but roll my eyes.
Maybe. You know you say that like it’s worse than it is. Lincoln’s a nice guy.
James holds his hands up in defense.
I get what you’re saying. He is nice and scrumptious to look at. But your brother’s not going to think the same thing, and you know that.
He asked me out.I can’t help but do a little dance in my chair. Not able to contain my excitement any longer.
So, what’s the plan? He picks you up in his fancy truck, you two make googly eyes, and Benton commits murder?
I toss my napkin at him.
Stop.It’s just a date, James. I want to see where it goes.
James tilts his head to the side, and he just looks at me for a second. As if he can understand my every thought. I don’t look away. No, I gaze right back at him until his face softens into something almost understanding.
You like him.
I can’t deny it. So, I don’t even bother.
Yeah. I think I do.
James smiles before he starts signing.
Then good. You deserve happiness. And if he makes you happy, then I’ll support you all the way.
My chest tightens as relief forces its way to the forefront. I don’t need James' approval or acceptance, but it’s nice to have since he’s my best friend.
Lincoln does make me happy. And he’s trying so hard. He’s taking ASL classes. He even did this.
I pull up the video on my phone and hold it out so that James can watch it.
