Page 26 of Stealing Home

“It really is.” Adriana agrees

“Glad you both like it.” I tell them and dig into my plate.

We bullshit for a while after eating when Ty gets up from the table.

“I’m ready to hit the pool. Babe, you coming?” He asks Heather.

“Yeah. I’m coming with ya. Adriana, you in?” She turns the question to Adriana.

“Why not? Cole?” It’s like a round robin with Adriana asking me.

“Yeah, I’m in. Ty! Don’t step foot in that pool before me! I haven’t even been in it yet.” I yell at my brother.

“Whatever, don’t make me shove you in then.” He barks back at me.

With that, I get up from my chair and jog to the pool and cannonball in. .

“Thanks, Cole!” Heather yells at me after breaking through the water as I wipe my eyes.

“It’s not like you weren’t coming in, sis. I don’t know why you’re mad.” I retort.

With that she jumps in and heads towards me, which makes me swim in the other direction, but I missed Adriana getting in since she’s right there on the other side of me.

“This is how it’s going to be?” Raising my eyebrows with my question to Adriana.

“I mean, we’re friends, but Heather’s a best friend.” She replies, putting her hands on her hips.

Moving to stand right in front, before leaning my head down with my lips next to her ear.

“I can be your best friend, too.” I whisper before grabbing her hips and since she’s too stunned to talk, I pick her up and put her in front me as I face Heather.

“What are you doing, Cole?” Heather asks wearily.

“Protecting myself. What are you going to do now?” I egg her on.

“I’ll stand down for now. But watch your back, buddy.” Heather says while squinting her eyes trying to intimidate me.

Pulling Adriana a little closer to my front before saying, “Sorry, I wasn’t ready to be double teamed yet.”

Adriana turns around and splashes me. “Not cool sir. Not cool.”

That one splash causes us to act like kids again, horsing around in the pool for hours. Chicken fights, races, and good old floaties. It’s been a good day.

Hell, it’s been a good start to the season too. We haven’t lost a game yet and my new bed had me sleeping like a baby last night.

“I’m getting out. I’m hungry and ready to lounge in sweats.” Ty says as he starts to ascend the stairs of the pool.

“Ditto.” That comes from Adriana.

“Pizza and a movie?” I ask the group. “Need to break in the movie room.”

“You know I love pizza, Cole. That’s not fair.” Heather replies.

“You don’t have to stay. I can order a pizza for myself and hangout.” I sympathize.

“Now I want pizza, so we’re staying. Adriana?” Heather asks her.

“Pizza and a movie sounds good to me.” she replies.

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