The Pass (Smart Jocks #5) - Rebecca Jenshak Page 0,44

at a slight disadvantage not knowing everything the lake has to offer, but I think back to everything he’s told me and the little bit I saw when I went out on my own.

Or maybe all five dates are like date one. Maybe he assumed we’d do playful and fun all on our own and kept the theme of the dates super romantic. I really want to guess right for reasons that really have nothing to do with the date count. Stupid competitive nature. Okay, think, Sydney.

“A tiny hint?” I plead.

“Oh no, no way.”

I growl deep in my throat which just makes him laugh.

“Oooh, I’ve got it. Bowling!” I saw an adorable bowling place in the strip mall. Bright neon lights. It looked super fun and Tanner and I actually went bowling once with the guys. It was a great night that ended with me sleeping over and us talking half the night. We learned so much about each other and it was when I finally felt like we’d worked past whatever could have been and become real friends.

I’m so sure of my choice and excited too, but Tanner shakes his head. “Damn, that would have been a good idea. Remember that time we went years ago with Nathan and Chloe? I think even Joel and Katrina came. That was a good night, but that’s not what we’re doing for date three.” His big smile falls. “Shit, having you guess just makes me realize how many dates I want to take you on. We’re gonna do it all, babe. Just you wait.”

17

Sydney

I’m doing some yoga and light stretches on the deck. It’s so peaceful out here during the day. I’m starting to think I could get used to this whole lake life thing. The weekends are crazy. The roughly twenty to thirty-five age demographic drives down with their friends, and the lake, as well as the bars, are packed. During the week there are still people out, but it’s a lot more families than singles and the feel is different, less chaotic and more chill.

When I finish up, I roll the mat and head inside.

“Tanner?” I call to the empty living area. He went to grab some more groceries, but I see the empty paper bags on the counter, but no Tanner.

“Bedroom.”

I follow his voice and walk in on him pulling his T-shirt over his head. The movement ruffles his hair. He balls up the white material and tosses it in the hamper.

“How’s the shoulder?” he asks.

“It’s feeling better. I’m going to see the physical therapist again tomorrow. I miss volleyball.”

He walks toward me. The muscles in his chest and stomach flex with each step. “You’ll be back and better than ever soon. I’m going to hop in the shower and then if you’re game, take you on date number two.”

“A day date?” I smile wide, already excited for whatever he has planned. “I’m game. Do I get a hint yet?”

“Nope.” He takes out his phone and tosses it on the bed.

“At least tell me what I should wear.”

“That feels like cheating.”

Rolling my eyes, I sigh. “Dress? Shorts? Bikini? Heels? Flip-flops? Tennis shoes?”

There’s a faraway look on his face as I talk. “Tanner?” I wave a hand in front of his face.

“Sorry.” He snaps out of it. “I was picturing you in all those things. I really want to say bikini and heels…” He looks up toward the ceiling and smiles. “The bright orange one and your hot pink heels… yeah.” He nods.

I try to bite back a laugh and fail. “Your brain is a scary place.”

“Shhh. You’re ruining it.” He presses a finger to my lips and keeps his gaze on the ceiling.

I swat his hand away and he finally breaks out of the trance. “Shorts and tennis shoes.” He sighs dramatically. “But keep the orange bikini and pink heels ready for date four.”

Well, that sparks my curiosity, but he heads off toward the bathroom. The shower starts as Tanner’s phone begins ringing.

“Your phone’s going off,” I yell to him.

“Can you answer it for me? It’s my sister. She’s been calling every day to make plans for the Fourth.”

I grab it off the bed and take it to the open bathroom door. “Here.”

He pokes his head out of the shower curtain. “My hands are wet. Answer it and tell her I’ll call her back.”

I hesitate and he adds, “Otherwise she’ll just keep on calling. She’s annoying like that.”

He disappears back into the shower. Silently clearing my throat, I put