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“Uh, fine.” Short answers. That’s the key to success in this situation.
After a few seconds of more silence he says, “It’s your turn to ask how I’m doing.”
Right.
That’s the polite thing to do.
My focus stays on the game. “How are you?”
“It’s been a long week. Work’s been crazy, and Krew’s had two baseball practices, a game, and then this carnival. I kind of feel like I’m drowning.”
My movements slow as I glance at him. I wasn’t expecting such an honest, genuine answer. Especially two seconds after he sat down. Suddenly I can picture Tyler trying to play the part of dad and mom while also trying to earn a living, and my heart breaks for him.
“I bet it’s hard doing everything all by yourself.”
He shrugs. “It’s not ideal.”
Shoot. What happened to my short answer policy?
“And what about you? You haven’t snuggled up to any new men this week trying to make your ex-boyfriend jealous?”
Do not engage.
I repeat:DO NOT ENGAGE.
“No, that was a one-time deal that I won’t repeat.” I smile back at him.
I’m weak.
So very weak.
“And what about the shoes? Was your sister mad?”
“She didn’t speak to me for a week.”
He laughs, and the sound sends a flutter through my heart. If this is a test, I’m currently failing it.
His eyes drop to my shoes. “Are those tennis shoes?”
I glance down. “Yeah—well, they’re Keds.”
“You’re wearing them with a dress?”
“It’s the practical choice, since I’m on my feet all day.”
He nods. “It is practical.”
Then his eyes go back to the game, and I’m left wondering what all that was about. Does he have a shoe fetish?
“So…are you and your boyfriend going to get back together?”
I give him a look that conveys this topic is none of his business.
“It’s just a question.” He puts his hands up in defense, and dang it, why is that so charming?
“No, we’re not going to get back together. I mean, I hope we do, but I would be an idiot to think that we will. I’m pretty sure it’s over for him.”
“How long were you guys together?”
