“Did you already have plans? It’s ok if you do.”
“I kinda double-booked,” I admit, running a hand through my hair, a habit I picked up back in my teenage years when I didn’t know what else to do with my nerves.
“Tell me more,” Lisa says with a smirk as she drops onto the couch.
I take a breath and sit beside her. We don’t usually talk much about relationships, so this feels slightly unfamiliar.
“I’m going on a date with this girl. Her name is Gwen,” I begin.
Lisa immediately sits up straighter, her interest piqued. “Go on.”
“I met her at that Grizzlies charity event. She was doing the blue line challenge and fell. I skated over to help her… and honestly, she hasn’t really left my mind since,” I explain.
Lisa lets out an excited squeal.
“Oh my god, this is everything,” she says, practically glowing. “It’s been a while since I’ve heard you talk about a girl. She must be special.”
“She is,” I say without hesitation.
“I’m sorry I scheduled something on your first night back,” I add with a small shrug. “I said yes the moment she asked if I was free.”
Lisa laughs, shaking her head. “This girl has you wrapped around her finger already.”
She grins. “I cannot wait to meet her. Don’t worry about tonight. I’m a bit tired from traveling anyway,” she says, letting her head fall back against the couch.
“How about I cook you breakfast tomorrow? Waffles, how mom used to make them?” I suggest.
Lisa’s expression softens into a smile. “That would be amazing. You’re already making me hungry.”
“Sounds like a plan. Look, I need to get ready. Is there anything you need before I go?” I ask.
Lisa shakes her head. “Go put on your makeup, bro,” she teases.
I roll my eyes and head toward my bedroom. Once I close the door behind me, I take a deep breath. I feel bad leaving her alone, but maybe some time to herself is exactly what she needs. I just hope she wasn’t saying that to make me feel better.
Before getting dressed, I quickly text Gwen.
ME: Looking forward to seeing you xx
I toss my practice clothes into the hamper and step over to my closet, scanning through options. I settle on a navy shirt and a pair of jeans. Gwen said to dress casually, but I’m not entirely sure what that actually means.
After spraying on some cologne, my phone buzzes.
GWEN: I hope you’re hungry :) xx
The thought of seeing her, of being close to her again, maybe even kissing her, makes my stomach flip. It’s an unfamiliar feeling, but in the best way.
“Hey,” I say when I walk back into the living room.
I hesitate for a second before speaking again. I can’t believe I’m about to ask this, but I’d rather know.
“When someone says to dress casually… is this what they mean?”
Lisa bursts out laughing.
“Ok, now I really have to meet the girl who has my brother in a chokehold like this,” she says, still chuckling. “You look great. And yes, this definitely counts as casual.” “Are you bringing her something?” Lisa asks, and she can clearly see the panic written on my face.
“I didn’t think to get anything. Shit, what do I get her?” I ask, suddenly flustered.
