Mercedes kept her grin hidden until they were at the bottom of the bleachers and out of sight of the jerks who’d been behind them.When she repeated to Carli what she’d said to them, her friend laughed.That’s perfect.Maybe it will teach them to keep their mouths shut.
When they finally reached Evan, the back slapping had pretty much ended.Still, Mercedes bounced over to him and wrapped him in a hug.He was sweaty and covered in dust from the field, but when his arms held her tight, she didn’t even care.She saw him that way every day after work and had gotten used to it.
Great job today.Did you get MVP of the game?
Evan looked smug until Carli asked,What does that mean?Most Vain Player?
Evan tugged his sister into an embrace, then rubbed his knuckles over the top of her head.When she pulled herself away, she teased,Oh, it means Most Vicious Player.
Don’t you forget it, little sister.
How about I forget what a jerk you are and buy us all ice cream?Only because I’m hot and want some.
Evan grabbed his water bottle and said, Wait a minute,then proceeded to pour the rest of the liquid over his head and neck.When the bottle was empty, he shook his head, sending droplets everywhere.
Carli glared.You haven’t changed at all since you were a kid.
Why would I?Being an adult stinks.All that responsibility and stuff.I’d rather play games.
Mercedes stepped into the squabble between the siblings.It was all in good fun, yet there’d been times Evan had pushed a bit too far.In retrospect, she had a feeling he was intimidated by how successful his younger sister had become.I’m ready for ice cream.I’ll even pay.Let’s go celebrate your big win.
Carli should pay.She’s marrying a rich doctor soon.
His sister frowned his way, and Mercedes dug her elbow into his ribs with a glare.Don’t make me tattle to Blake.
Evan looked appropriately chagrined and bent over to pick up his bag.He threw asorryat Carli, then circled one arm around her shoulder in an approximation of a hug.
The ice cream parlor was on the way back to their apartment.They settled into a corner table and rehashed the game.Evan especially wanted to relive his great catch and the winning home run.
Did you get the invitation for my parents’ anniversary party yet?Mercedes asked Carli when her ice cream was almost finished.
We did.That was super sweet to invite us.Blake is trying to get his on-call dates switched around so we can go.
Evan scowled.She gets an invitation, but I don’t?What gives?
Yes, you’re invited.I told you the other day.Weren’t you listening?
Evan stared off into space like he was trying to remember.Now that she thought about it, she’d been wearing only a tank top and skimpy shorts at the time, as she’d only recently gotten out of bed.He’d been looking at her, but maybe he hadn’t actually seen what she’d signed.Interesting.
When is it?I might have something important to do that day.His facial expression showed humor.
Weekend after Labor Day, on Saturday at three.We’re having it at my folks’ place.
So next door to Gram and Pops.I assume they’ll be there.
Mercedes snickered.Yes, their good friends and neighbors will be there.Are you available to come?
I’ll have to check my calendar.The pompous look on his face made her laugh.We could drive down together.Save gas.
Mercedes winced.I’m going down the night before and staying at their house.I have a ton of stuff to do for the party.
Carli waved at Evan.You could go down then, too.I’ll bet Gram and Pops would let you bunk with them for the night.
Mercedes nodded quickly.That would be great.We could even take a walk around the harbor or the beach at night.It’s so gorgeous down there on the ocean.
A smile slowly grew on his face.Sure.I’ll check to see if I can stay over.He stood and tossed his dish and plastic spoon in the trash.Now I really need to get home and take a shower.I don’t know how you’ve both managed to sit so close to the stink for so long.
Carli made a face.I’m used to it.You’ve always been a big stinker.
