he.”
“What kind?”
“Guess.”
She taps her mouth with a bright pink tipped finger. “Labrador?”
“No way.”
“Bulldog?”
“Really?” I scoff. “You’re overthinking this. What team do I play for?”
“You’re getting a Boston Terrier?” she squeals.
“I sure am. Are you coming with me or what?”
She bounces up and down on the balls of her feet. “Hell yes. I can’t wait to see him.”
“I’ll pick you up at eleven sharp. It’s about a thirty minute drive to the breeder’s.”
“I can’t wait.” Her excitement is obvious.
“Me either.” Tomorrow will be one more chance to make her realize we still belong together.
“Hey, guys.” Clover walks over with a red cup in her hand. “Great game.” She nudges my arm.
“Thanks. It was a tough one, but we got the win in the end.”
“Those are the most exciting games to watch,” Maddie interjects.
“To watch, yes. To play, not so much.” I laugh.
“Hey, Maddie,” Ava calls out as she and Oliver approach.
“Hi.” Maddie smiles.
“Hey, how’s B.U. treating you?” Oliver inquires.
“So far, I’m really enjoying being here.”
“I thought that was you at the game tonight, but we were too far apart for me to get your attention,” Ava tells her.
“Yeah, our being there was kind of last minute.”
“Next time you want to go, let me know and I’ll make sure we’re all seated together,” Ava instructs.
“Sounds good. I don’t know how often I’ll be making it to games, though.”
She’s not planning on coming to all the games? Damn. I was hoping she enjoyed it so much she’d be there consistently.
Marshall waltzes over. “Sis, what are you doing here?”
Maddie looks at him coolly. “Do I know you?”
“Ha ha, very funny. Answer the question, Maddie.” He sounds like an overbearing jerk.
I hold my hand up. “Ease up, man. She’s not doing anything wrong. I’ve been here the whole time and she hasn’t even had a sip of beer.”
Maddie’s lips quirk in a hint of a smile, letting me know she appreciates me sticking up for her.
Marshall looks at me, his eyes narrowing. “Why are you defending her? She’s like a little sister to you too.”
“No, dude. She’s your sister, not mine. And she’s not a little girl anymore.” I stay calm.
“I know how old she is.” He’s annoyed.
“Then you should treat her like you do.”
He stares at me for what feels like an eternity, and I wonder if we’re going to have a problem. We’ve never come to blows about anything before, but I’m willing to for Maddie. He finally relents with a slow nod.
“Point taken.” He turns to Maddie. “I’m sorry. I’m trying to be a good older brother, but I guess I’m getting carried away.”
Clover harrumphs. “Ya think?”
“It’s okay. You can ease up, though. I’m a big girl.” Maddie smiles at Marshall and he pulls her in for a hug. When they part, Marshall says, “I love you, little sister.”
“I know you do.” Her eyes look glassy, like she’s about to cry.
“You guys are so sweet,” Ava gushes.
“Yeah, they're adorable,” Oliver’s sarcasm can’t be missed. “Maddie, I feel for you having this asshat for an older brother.” He punches Marshall on the arm.
Maddie laughs. “Now that the night has become unbearably awkward, I think it’s time to make my exit.”
“If embarrassing you gets you to leave, I’ll just use that method from now on,” Marshall jests.
Maddie flips him the bird. “I hope you all enjoy the rest of your night. We’re going to get out of here before my ears suffer permanent damage.” She references the blaring music we have to talk over.
I’m about to offer to walk them out when Marshall steps in, foiling my plan. He escorts them both toward the front door while I watch.
Oliver nudges my arm, drawing my attention his way. “You’ve got it bad, Shaw.”
“What do you mean?”
“Oh, please,” Ava cuts in. “You like Maddie.”
“I’ve known her most of my life. Of course I like her.”
“You can play it off all you want, but you’re not fooling us,” Ava sets me straight.
I sigh.“Is it really that obvious?”
“Not to Marshall.” Oliver chuckles.
“Good. I haven’t had a chance to speak with him yet.”
He pats me on the back twice. “Tell me when you plan to and I’ll be there to make sure he doesn’t murder you and bury your body somewhere.”
“You think he’ll be that angry?” I ask.
“You won’t know for sure until you find out.” Ava makes a good point. “If she’s important to you, then you should bring it up with him before he notices. That would be sure to make him want to kick your ass.”
I