Old Enough to Love... (Just One of the Guys)

  “Fine. You sound upset.” It was more of a question as the music faded.

  My head was hurting. “You still at the beach?” I rubbed my forehead.

  “We are. I think Josh, Brett and I are going to get a room. Crash here then drive back tomorrow.”

  “Great. Have fun,” I said sourly.

  I heard his breath on the other end. “Em. I’ll drive home tonight. It was just a thought and if it upsets you then it isn’t worth it.”

  I squeezed my eyes tightly shut disappointed I was being a bitch for no good reason. I didn’t deserve his patience. “Zach. I’m sorry. I’m pissed at Grant. Are the girls there?”

  “By the girls…I’m guessing you’re referring to Estelle, Clair and Jaycee?” He seemed annoyed.

  “Forget it.” I was sorry I asked.

  “You don’t know how bad I wish I was there to hold you right now. Make you understand there is nothing to worry about.” He sighed. “What did Grant pull this time?”

  I wished he was here too and I couldn’t very well admit to trying to walk some dwarfy dweeb home. No one would ever understand my relationship with Grant. The incident on the ski slope this year gave Zach a peek into the competition between us. That got me in enough trouble so I certainly wouldn’t offer up this story. “Oh. Just Grant being Grant.”

  “Be careful, Em. Don’t let him pull you in,” Zach’s tone was soft and caring. I needed him…wanted him. I stared out at Grant and Ryan by their fire.

  “I’m not. I better go. Have fun tonight,” I said not wanting to hang up.

  “Do you want me to text you when we get in?”

  “Sure. If I don’t text back then I’m asleep. Love you.”

  “And I love you. Sleep tight.”

  I disconnected the call, looked out at the fire, went inside and fell on my bed. I hated summer.