Page 20 of Love Never Happens with your Brother’s Best Friend

“Roger that, boss.”

We fall into an easy stride back down the track we came in on. A few minutes later Rita’s radio buzzes. Dylan’s voice comes through.

“Dylan calling Rita. Pick up, Sis.”

Rita stops and pulls out the comms device. “Go ahead, Dylan. What’s up?”

“We have a situation.” I can hear raised voices of the family in the background.

“Alright. What’s going on?”

“We have decided to abort mission,” Dylan says with a nervous laugh. “We’re returning to base right now. We won’t be joining you at the camp.”

“Ah, Dylan. That’s a shame. Is anyone hurt?”

“No. No, nothing like that. I think the kids have had enough of the Great Outdoors. They’re all out of snack food and they just want to play video games now.”

“Oh. Okay,” says Rita. Her eyes connect with mine, but her expression is hard to read. “We’ll pack up and be down soon.”

“Hey. Wait a minute,” I interrupt.

“Just a second, Dylan,” Rita says, then she turns to me.

“What if we stay tonight?” The idea just popped straight out of my mouth completely bypassing my brain. “I mean. We’re here now, aren’t we?”

“Are you sure?” Rita gives me one of her suspicious, eyes-narrowed looks.

“Yes. Rita. I’d like to camp out tonight.” I look deep into her eyes and with honest sincerity I say, “If that’s alright with you, of course.”

Rita shakes her head. “You don’t have a tent.”

“No. You’re right. But I’d be happy to sleep in the shelter. I have the camping mat and a sleeping bag,” I say with bright enthusiasm. “You know, I feel like I want to stay. It would be a shame to come out here and not get the full outdoor, camping experience.”

Rita pauses for a beat, takes a breath, then hits the comms button.

“Hey, Dylan.”

“Yo.”

“Brodie wants to camp out tonight. Is that a problem? Do you need me to help with the family?”

“Hey. Great idea. No problem at all, Sis. Hey Brodie.” Rita hands me the comms set which crackles with static. “Enjoy my backyard. Shame I can’t be there too.”

“Thanks, Dylan.”

“And, um, try and stay out of trouble.”

“What do you mean?” I laugh. “There’s no one out here, Dylan. It’s the perfect getaway.”

“Yeah, bud. It is. Enjoy the peace and quiet.”

“And, besides, it’s only one night.” I look at Rita. “What could possibly happen?”

“Well, Rita knows the trails just as well as I do. She’ll take good care of you, I’m sure.”

“Okay, Dylan. We’ll see you tomorrow,” I say, then hand the unit back to Rita.

“I’ll buzz you when we’re out, okay?” she tells her brother.

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