Page 10 of Coming Up Roses

“No, baby, I got it. You call me later this week, okay?” I kiss her cheek and promise I will.

I head to my truck with my brother hot on my heels. “You seem happy,” he throws out.

“And that’s weird because . . .?” I challenge as I fish my keys out of my pocket, hitting the Unlock button.

“No, not weird. You just seem more . . . jovial than usual.” Jovial? Who even says that?

“Nah, man. Nothin’ new here,” I counter, holding his gaze. “Nothin’ at all.” He regards me suspiciously, not quite believing me.

“Nothing, huh? All right, bro, if you say so. Have a good night.” I start to get in my truck. “And whenever you want to tell me about her, I’m here to listen.”

I freeze. Shit, he knows me too well.

“Man, I don’t even know her name.” It slips out before I can stop it. I think he’s almost as surprised as I am by my accidental admission.

“Ha! I knew it! Tell me about her,” he demands, pumping his fist in the air. I roll my eyes, crank the engine, and ease out of the driveway, not bothering to answer him.

---