“We met Kai in a bar, but she had to go back to Hawai’i.” Steven sighed.
“So, go get her.” Grandma blinked.
I laughed. “We’ll see her during the off-season, she’s got a semester to finish.”
“She’s still in college. Ew.” My niece made a face.
“Kai’s twenty-two. I’m twenty-five and he’s twenty-four. It’s not weird.” I rolled my eyes, handing her a puck as well.
“Kai is… special?” my mom prodded, looking hopeful.
Yes.
“Kai’s very nice.” I didn’t want to talk about Kai to my family right now. If they actually came to visit, then I’d bring up the topic. Perhaps.
Changing the subject, we talked a little longer and took some photos. Finally, I got a text that we needed to get our asses to the bus.
“I’m so glad you came out.” I gave everyone more hugs.
“Yeah, it means everything.” Steven also hugged everyone.
My mom’s eyes were a little misty. “Always. Love you!”
We boarded the bus and headed to the airport. The mood was subdued.
Steven leaned into me and I held him. I’m sure his parents hadn’t texted. When we got to the airport and boarded the team plane, I saw that Kai had texted again.
Kai
Sorry you lost the game.
I replied.
Me
Thanks. We have one more. I loved seeing you in my shirt.
Kai
I loved wearing it.
Kai sent ayou’ve got thisgif.
Steven sent one of a dancing penguin.
Kai
Did you see your family?
Steven
Grandma brought cookies.
Getting out the cookies, Steven snapped a selfie of one, then shoved it in his mouth as he texted it to her. I helped myself to a cookie, though they’d bring us dinner shortly. Then I added the picture we’d all taken together.
Me
Some of my family.
