Page 39 of Sporty Girls Don't Fall For Loners

He shrugs, eyes still on the TV screen. “Same old.”

“Have you made any new friends?”

“There are people I hang out with.”

“When are you coming back home?”

He shrugs.

“Did Aunt Ally send you a video of my game?”

His smile finally returns. “Yeah. You completely demolished Chefield. Did you see the look on their quarterback?”

“Nope. Was too busy celebrating.”

“He looked like he was about to cry! It was awesome.”

I laugh. “I try my best to bring tough, macho jerks like him to tears.”

“I showed my friends the video. They couldn’t believe my sister is an actual quarterback, and for a really good team.”

“So you’re proud of your big sis?”

He tries to hide a smile. “Maybe a little.”

“I miss seeing you in the stands. You were always one of my biggest cheerleaders.”

“Yeah,” he mutters as he plays with his pillow.

We’re both quiet.

“Uh, I should go,” Brock says. “I need to finish the documentary before lights out.” He rolls his eyes. “Can you please tell Grandma and Grandpa to cut me some slack? They treat me like I’m a little kid.”

“They’re just worried about you.”

“I’m not going to hurt myself.”

“I never said that.”

He shakes his head as he puffs out a breath. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay. You’re doing really well, Brock. I’m proud of you.” I offer him an encouraging smile. He was such a mess after the accident. My parents and I thought he would…well, let’s just say he’s come a long way since then.

“Thanks.”

“And I know you don’t like when I mention Lexi, but I promised I’d give over a message.”

Brock sighs. “Okay.”

“She and the boys miss you a lot and can’t wait to talk to you when you’re ready.”

“Message received.”

I watch him for a bit, then shake my head. “I’ll call you in a few days. No more freaky sharks, okay? Those things will give me nightmares.”

He grins. “No promises.”

“Good night, Brock.”

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