Page 95 of Pitcher Perfect

Austin shook his head.

“My dad.”

“No way!” Austin turned in the seat to face me. “He’s moving out here?”

I filled Austin in on what my dad had told me and how my finally not butting in to take care of something for him turned out to be the best plan.

“That’s amazing, babe. I’m so happy for you. I can’t wait to get to know him better.”

“He’s stoked to get to know you too. I thought he was going to punch your dad earlier.” I laughed.

“I wouldn’t have hated that,” he admitted.

“If you ever need a stand-in dad for fatherly advice, stern talking-tos, or terrible jokes, my dad is available.”

“Dial-a-dad. I like it.”

Maybe father-in-law someday.“I’m babe, huh?” I grinned as we drove past downtown Portland.

“I’m still workshopping. I reserve the right to test pet names.”

“Whatever you say, Teacup.”

“Nope! No way. You don’t get to call me Teacup.” Austin turned to face forward and tore his hand from mine. He was so adorable.

“C’mon. Tell me the story behind it.”

“It’s so embarrassing.” He groaned.

“I’m your boyfriend now. I have rights to embarrassing stories.”

He laughed. “Oh, really? Is that a rule somewhere?”

“Yup. Totally a rule. Google it. So, Teacup, what’s the story?”

He dropped his head back against the headrest and closed his eyes. “Back in college, we drove down to Mexico for spring break once. I insisted we stop at Disneyland on our way back because I’d always wanted to go. We were all hungover, and I thought a little hair of the dog would be a good idea, so I had some big, fruity concoction.”

“Oh no.”

“Yeah.” He grimaced. “I’d been talking about riding the teacups all week. Once it was time, I didn’t think it was a good idea, but Ty insisted. He said I’d regret it if I skipped it.”

“You didn’t.”

“I definitely did. A belly full of fruity cocktail and all that spinning, I barfed and scarred some poor kids for life.”

My laugh started slow but built until I had to force down gulps of air to focus on the road. “Aww. Teacup ruining the lives of youths.”

“Just you wait until you hear the stories behind the other guys’ nicknames.”

I shot him a devious smile. “I can’t wait to learn all the dirt.”

CHAPTER30

AUSTIN

Ethan:Aus, can you swing by the brewery before you go to Caleb’s? We need your help with something

Austin:what do you need me for that 3 of you can’t take care of?

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