Ryder:
Okay. Play it cool. That’s what they say. Smooth. Confident. Chill.
I pulled on my shirt, adjusted it twice, then a third time for no reason. My hair looked fine—I think—and I’d already doused myself in way too much deodorant. My hands were still kind of sweaty, though. Great.
Uncle Saint and Aunt Kat were throwing their usual end-of-school-year pool party. I’d gone to this thing every year since I could remember, but this one felt... different. Because she would be there.
I walked over. The backyard was already packed—laughing, splashing, the smell of burgers on the grill. Mom and Dad were there helping set up. Dad gave me a nod. Mom waved. I nodded back like I wasn’t barely holding it together.
Alex caught me first. Typical younger brother sneak attack with a shoulder bump. I
