“I’m not getting my hopes up!” I add defensively to fill the space. When I do, I feel something in my body—something in my gut arguing with me. Idowant to get my hopes up. But I don’t want to admit it.
“Cass. Really?”
“He’s literally here through…what, August? And then the season is done. It’s already July.”
She makes a knowing sound. “Mhmm. Okay. So your little scantily clad outfit has nothing to do with a certain baseball player? Slash cowboy…just busting out your “A” game for no particular reason?”
I roll my eyes, even though she can’t see it.
“It’s ninety degrees and humid, Avery. I’m dressing for the weather.”
“Right. And the short shorts just happened to be the most climate-appropriate option?”
“Exactly. They are breathable.”
She laughs. “You’re unbelievable.”
I glance back at the mirror, and the way the shirt hits just above my waist, and how my legs look.
I feel a little…different. More open, maybe. And a little daring.
“No,” I say, quieter this time. “I’m just…going to a game.”
Another pause. I don’t know who I’m trying to convince at this point. Me or her.
Then she says, a little softer, “Okay. But just so we’re clear? You’re allowed to look hot for someone.”
My stomach flips.
“I’m not—” I start, then stop. “I’m just going to have fun with my family.”
“Uh-huh,” she says. “Call me later. I want updates. Any hour of the day, Cass! I’m up at six a.m. these days with the new puppy.”
“Noted.”
We hang up, and I stare at myself one more second, and just then see Jackson’s text that says he’s out front.
I push my sunglasses on and head for the door.
Jackson’s car pulls up right as I walk out.
Ivy leans across the front seat, grinning. “Damn, Cass. Who are we impressing today?”
“No one,” I say quickly, sliding into the back.
Jackson glances at me in the rearview mirror, a smirk tugging at his mouth. “Sure.”
“Shut up.”
“Relax,” Jackson grins. “What kind of big brother would I be if I didn’t give you shit? I guess Ericisgonna be there.”
“Honey, you really think Eric is her type?”
Jackson shrugs.
The drive is short, but the energy builds with every mile.
The music is up, the windows are down, and the heat is rolling in.
