29
Nick couldn’t remember the last time he’d relaxed, really relaxed, with a group of friends.
Excluding Derek, of course.
Even Caitlyn had simmered down and sat calmly in front of the fire crackling in the cool air.
Mateo had stowed his worn, acoustic guitar on the boat and now brought it out to fill the night with beautiful music.
Abby sat at his feet and Maria sat beside him. It was the closest Mateo had allowed her to come since her return.
Nick was happy for her. Maria wasn’t asking for much and Mateo’s simple decision to stay had made her day.
Derek shifted and his thick arms knocked into Nick. It was the second time for the night that he had done it. Nick was starting to believe it was on purpose.
Still he stayed quiet. Nick preferred having the line-backer-wanna-be next to
