Page 66 of Home of the Brave

“No, it is not included as a spinning ride.” She smiled.

“Would you like to ride it?” I then quickly added, “With me?”

“Oh, good, you’re being specific.” She laughed. “Yes, I would like to ride it with you.”

“Great,” I turned, and she moved in closer to me as we headed in the direction of the massive ride.

I wanted to put my hand around her waist or shoulders so we didn’t get separated through the masses, but wasn’t sure if that would be too forward.

This wasn’t a date.

At least, it hadn’t been up until this moment.

No, dates had to be planned. There was intention, a question, and agreement.

Not asking to go on a ride.

This was just two friends––no not even that––acquaintances, enjoying all the fair had to offer.

I was suddenly back in middle school. Sweaty palms, self-doubt, and all.

We found the end of the line and joined, a few people glanced toward me, but the wonderful disguise Cambrie bought was still working, and I was happy I’d changed after we were done with official duties so I could blend in for the day.

“Victoria?” A somewhat familiar voice called, and I looked around to see half the women from the East team walking toward us.

Just perfect.

“Hi,” Victoria waved and stepped forward to give one of them a hug. “Presley, how are you?”

“Great,” she looked over at me, and her eyes widened. “That’s a good look on you, Josh.”

“Hey,” I shushed her. “I’m incognito.”

Crystal laughed next to her. “You look ridiculous.”

“Then I fit in,” I gestured to her tangle of flashing necklaces and oversized flag shirt.

“Hey, fans gave me these.” She gripped the necklaces.

“And I picked out the shirts,” Presley shot back.

Then I realized they were matching and grimaced. “Good choice. I can see your style hasn’t improved since college.”

Victoria pointed at me. “I forgot you went to West Penn too. Did you guys play at the same time?”

“I was a freshman when she was a senior,” I explained.

“He was such a pest. Listened to everything Hunter told him to do.”

“Like what?” Victoria asked, a little too excited.

“Grabbing coffee or food for the guys. Running their errands. Pranking the women's team.” She narrowed her eyes. “I had to throw away my lucky laces.”

I put my hands up. “I was not responsible for that.”

“You were there,” she snapped.

“Yes, but I did not mess with your skates.”