Page 21 of It Started at the Lake

“I remember.”

“And no serving overhand.”

I put my hand on her arm, stalling her. “Are you nervous? We’ve played this a dozen times. I know the rules.”

She stares at the grass. “Last time I played against Cam, he creamed me. I want to win, but the chances are slim. He just gets so annoying and braggy after a victory. I really want to crush him.” She makes a fist with one hand and twists it into the palm of the other.

Sibling rivalry at its finest. “I get it. Would you rather switch partners and team up with Henry so you have a better chance at winning?”

She winces. “Do you mind?”

I shake my head. “Not at all. If beating Cam is what your ego needs, I’m more than willing to pair up with him.”

“That means you’ll lose.”

“I’m aware, and I’ll accept it if it means you’re happy.” I tug on her arm. “Come on, winner. Let’s get this showdown started.”

She bobs her head, her high ponytail swaying behind her. With a new pep in her step, Evie bounces to the courts.

As we approach the two side-by-side pickleball courts, Bennett and Emerson are already playing a game.

With their shirts off.

Seriously, is Bennett averse to covering his torso? A little modesty would help me keep my attraction in check. Instead, my brain reminds me of his teasing comment from last night. “Wish I were still in my swim trunks?”

I stop dead in my tracks five feet from the court, bringing Evie to a halt beside me. I’m doing my best to get used to the sight in front of me, but I doubt I ever will. Bennett’s completely focused on the game, giving me time to survey his body at my leisure. Heat starts in my core and spreads throughout my limbs until I’m one hundred percent positive I’m on fire. I’m bouncing back and forth from staring at Emerson and Bennett, enthralled at the ripple of their muscles as they move. I’m pretty sure I’ve never witnessed such grandeur in all my life. Guaranteed women would pay thousands—millions—to be in my shoes right now.

“What’s happening?” Evie asks, hands on her hips. “Why did we stop?”

There is no way on earth Evie finds her cousins attractive. She’s probably witnessed this scene a hundred times and is wondering what is wrong with me. How do I explain this stunning display of athleticism?

Okay, pickleball doesn’t take a ton of skills to play, otherwise it wouldn’t be so popular with my grandma and her friends. But this? This is two men showing off their chiseled chests, washboard abs, defined shoulders, and sculpted backs in broad daylight. And I’m getting a private viewing.

Just remember, nothing can happen with any of them.

“Camille Rivens,” Evie chides. “Are you checking out my cousins right now?”

I do the only thing I’m capable of. Slowly nod, not once straying from watching Emerson and Bennett play. Bennett is taller and slightly broader than Emerson. There’s something about the oldest cousin that makes me linger on his body a smidge more than Emerson’s. I’m not sure if it’s his size, or that I spent more time with Bennett, but all I want is to plop onto the grass, grab a fan—possibly some grapes—and spend my morning staring at these two men.

No, Mils. That will make your attraction turn to lust, which turns into wanting a wedding. Clear your head. Focus on yourself.

Evie laughs. “I get it. They’re hard to resist.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Alrighty, Mils.” Evie claps her hands in my face. “Showtime is over. We have a game of our own to play.” Evie stands behind me, pushing on my back. “And you made a promise to yourself. I’m going to help you keep it.”

She’s right. I’m playing with fire. I let her guide me to our court, where Henry and Cam are chatting.

“Change of plans, boys.” Evie steps onto the court. “We’re splitting up. Cam, you’ve got Mils on your team. Henry, I’m with you.”

I close the gate behind me. “Cam, is that okay with you?”

“Oh, yeah.” He grins cockily. “We’re gonna sweep the floor with those two.” He holds a fist out to me.

I bump it, smiling.

“Please,” Evie says. “Henry and I are totally going to win.”

---