by Paige,Alyvia
Scanning my overflowing email inbox, I open the delivery confirmation from Incredible Desserts. Everyone loves a bouquet of fruit, right? Well, I know Adalyn will, and my being off the grid has possibly sent her into the “there he goes disappearing again” state of mind, especially after my responses to her texts were simple, basic responses, which wasn’t often. But that’s not me anymore. No more backing down. No more giving up. I’m in it, to win it. Shaking my head with a chuckle, I realize I may have had the television on too much while being on death’s door. Stupid catch phrases. My phone pings across the room, the vibration hums through the wood of the dresser.
Braxton – Dude, are you still being a lil’ bitch?
Brenton – Have you seen the angels?
Brenton – Perhaps the angel of death himself?
Braxton – LOL
Braxton – You’d be the worst patient ever.
Me – One: I didn’t go to the doctor, nor did I consult one. Two: I’d be an awesome patient with the right nurse. Third: I hope you both somehow contract this damn flu
Brenton – WTF, I have a job, man. I can’t ralph on the court.
Braxton – Can you see it? Brenton goes to steal the ball and sharts himself before exploding!
Me – Gross.
Brenton – I hate you.
Brenton – At least you’ll be better for the wedding this next weekend.
Me – I wasn’t sure if you’d get clearance to come. Chase is in the wedding. Stands behind me or in front of me, I think.
Brenton – What is your dad’s son doing there?
Me – Friends of the bride, Hannah.
Brenton – Small fuckin world, bro.
Braxton – Very small. I fly in Friday, maybe we can do drinks?
Brenton – Why?
Me – Yeah, why?
Braxton – I’m Addy’s date to some wedding a patient invited her to.
Me – WTF? The same weekend? I just asked her before we both got sick.
Braxton– She asked me like a month ago.
Me – This conversation is giving me a headache.
Brenton – Dude, I’m so lost.
Braxton – Maybe it’s the same wedding? But two Hannah’s in Columbia–definite possibility.
Me – I’m calling Ads.
Brenton – Yeah, cause that will help the confusion.
Me – STFU
Braxton – LOL see you this weekend!
Adalyn
RUNNING TO THE KITCHEN where I left my phone, I answer with a ragged breath. Whoever just ruined my almost moment of bliss, best be either bleeding a slow death, impaled by an object, or have some sort of emergency other than chit chat. Yes, I’m sure one could argue that if I’d taken my phone with me into the haven that is my master bathroom where a tub full of fresh piping hot water infused with coconut oil awaits me, I wouldn’t have had to race through the house to grab the phone that has already cycled through twice now. But relaxation does not involve a cell phone or talking to people. “Hello.”
“Addy, you okay?”
“Yep, are you dying, about to die, or having an emergency, Braydon?”
“Uh, no. Just missed your voice, although the feeling doesn’t seem mutual,” he chuckles. He ruins my almost moment of bliss and laughs. Ugh!
“I was just getting ready to soak; it’s been a long week,” I offer in a slightly less exasperated tone.
“Babe, it’s only Tuesday.” His statement causes me to chuckle. I click the speakerphone option on my screen, and proceed to strip out of my clothes. “Anyway, I’m sorry to bother you, but was wondering if you’d decided about being my date Saturday?”
“Oh um, I’m sorry Bray, this is the weekend of my patient’s wedding, she invited me.” A guttural moan escapes my lips as I sink into the water.
“Is it Hannah and Carter’s wedding, Ads?” he probes. Sorry Charlie, HIPPA. I cannot tell you that. “Are you naked in a vessel of water?” he follows up with a groan as the water swishes around in the tub.
“No, I’m in a tub full of water completely clothed. Also, I cannot disclose my patient’s name.”
“You’re killing me, smalls.”
“You’ll live,” I laugh. “Oh but Brenton and Madi told me they’d be in town sometime this week, so maybe we can all go out?”
“Yes, Madi is in the wedding that I am in. Most likely the wedding you will not disclose to me on if you are or are not attending.” A growl fills the receiver before a long sigh takes up the silence.
“So, I’m going to let you go.” I chuckle. “Oh, and thank you for the fruit bouquet. Best breakfast/lunch combo ever!”
“You’re welcome. I’ll see you.”
My phone does its standard double beep indicating the call has ended, and I sink below the water. Emerging only after I can no longer hold my breath. I cannot believe I didn’t put two and two together in regards to the weekend wedding. Doh! Oh well, guess he’ll have to be okay with the alternative of seeing me over taking me as his date. I’m not ready to date him. Having dinners at home, taking drives, or getting coffee— that’s stuff we did as friends— that’s not dating.
THE REST OF THE week came and went quickly. My phone pings in my front scrub pocket a few times while paying for my dress. Hannah James gave me the color scheme at her appointment Wednesday. The same appointment where I saw Brielle Sava again, Hannah’s best friend and also the girlfriend of Supercross King, Jase Fields. My, oh my, it’s been a week. Seriously, she gets to sleep with that. Lucky bitch.
Braxton – Landed early, don’t come to the airport. I repeat do not come to the airport.
Braxton – Addy, report in…
Braydon – I got your wedding date…
Braxton – Ruhroh… Mayday! Mayday! Remember I love you!
After reading texts from Braxton and Braydon, the need to drive to the airport is withdrawn and the option of grocery shopping is now in play. Perks of friendship infringement, two birds, and two stones. A slow stroll through Publix, a cart full of fresh produce and meat with a dash of processed food and candy, my mood has improved tenfold just cruising up and down the aisles of deliciousness. Is this leveling of my once exhausted and slightly irritable mood sad or awesome, jury’s still out?
I hit the track option on my stereo once I turn out of the parking lot to head home. Stephen Lynch, the singing comedian, fills my car. My face hurts from smiling and singing embarrassingly loud. Decompression, it’s a must. Yes, it’s been a long week, and I’m set for an exhausting weekend. Fingers crossed my program acceptance letter is in the mailbox when I get home.
I applied to the neonatal intensive care unit here in Columbia and back home in Alabama. Would I prefer to stay here with my friends? Absolutely. Closer to Braydon? Definitely. But is it a necessity? No. The only necessity is that I’m happy, and I think this switch might be the ticket. It’s been about a month since I clicked submit. I was told it might take six months to a year before there is an opening in the unit, but I should be receiving a confirmation of acceptance within one to two months. While I’ll miss the day to day with Dr. Watret as well as the mothers I am able to work with month to month, I think this is what will fill that void. Making a difference, putting purpose to my education and dedication.
I keep thinking I should be nervous, but I’m too damn excited. As soon as I turn onto my street, I see a very familiar truck parked in front of my place. Pulling in, I switch back the key to kill the engine of my car, and click the garage door button fob that resides on my visor. This must be why I received the “mayday” text. Well, bright side, they can assist me both bringing in and putting away the groceries. Ever the optimist… no perhaps an opportunist?
Deserting my car, dress, and groceries, I make my way to the mailbox, which is so conveniently located at the front of Braydon’s truck. It’s crazy that it seems to be in place here, it fits. Whoa, crazy person–his car fits at his place, not here. A quick smile and wave is all I offer before turning back to my mailbox.
Pulling the door open slowly, I peer inside, partially hopeful, partially freaked, but still not nervous.
“Something gonna bite ya in there, darlin’?” Braxton’s southern drawl causes me to jump, and the envelopes flutter to the ground.
“Dammit, I even figured y’all would try to scare me.”
“Uh, you just waved at us.” Braydon laughs. “Stressed a bit?”
“Noooo,” I drawl. “Just a long week.”
“Seems to be your go to answer this week.”
“Need help getting the groceries in?” Braxton asks gaining my attention. If a glare could kill, Braydon would be dead on the spot. Damn him and his observations.
“Yes, but how in the hell do you know I have groceries?” My inquiry is apparently funny, both guys chuckle as they follow me to the car.
“Funny, you should ask,” Bray says as he loads the plastic bags to his arms through the loops. “Zach Braxton Adams stalks us… daily via his iPhone application. Should’ve seen it coming… a man with three first names.”
“Oh my goodness, you’re crazy!” I laugh.
“See, douchebag, she doesn’t even care,” Braxton taunts. “And my last name is not a first name.”
“Brax, groceries.” I point to the trunk before pulling my dress from the back seat. I’m beyond grateful for the dark plastic garment bag, especially with two sets of intrusive eyes feasting with curiosity.
“Yes, ma’am.”
Braydon
I ROLL SLOWLY INTO the church parking lot, Madi riding shotgun since Adalyn’s house is on the way; it just made sense to pick her up. Rehearsal followed up with dinner and dessert is our life for the next few hours.
“See, Bray, I told you we wouldn’t be late.” She beams when the truck comes to a stop.
“We are barely on time,” I muse and hop out to greet Brielle and Jase. “Sweet Ellie,” I coo before picking her up in a hug and spinning her around. “Babe, you look like you’re not feeling great, I mean beautiful but tired.”
“Thanks,” she whispers once her feet are on the ground.
I turn my attention to Jase and nod a hello, “Long time no see.”
“I still say we rematch,” Jase declares, jutting his chin up in a nonverbal hello.
“Aww, Brie, your guy still butt-hurt that I kicked all their asses last night?”
“I heard about that fucking video game all freaking night. Don’t be surprised if Hannah kicks your ass today; I’m sure Carter bitched about you taking out each team like a fucking sniper too.” Her eyes light up as she looks to Jase then back at me. “Bunch of flipping children. Speaking of, where is Isaac?” Brie asks Chase who has come to stand beside me. Chase is Isaac’s legal guardian since Keelie, Isaac’s mom, passed away during delivery.
“There,” he offers back quickly and points to Alison who is toting the little guy on her hip. Chase had been convinced that Isaac was my biological child, but aside from the legal test proving that I am not, he looks nothing like me. Actually he’s looking more and more like my best friend.
Jase pulls the heavy wooden door open as we continue our conversation. I hear Madi bidding farewell to someone as she steps through the door.
“J, come sit with me. When Hannah and Carter get here, we’ll see if they notice.” Brie’s eyes are alight with self-entertainment, clearly reminiscing on her childhood. I look over to see Jase kiss the top of her head just as the door swings open and Carter’s cousins, Max and Derek, file in mid-conversation.
Jase did a damn good job putting together a bachelor party, a night fitting all Hannah’s stipulations–no strip clubs, no strippers, no getting arrested. Basically what the bride couldn’t do, neither could the groom, except we drank. Unless Hannah asks and as far as any of us— and our manhood— is concerned, that little element is on lockdown. Jase had his bus filled with food and booze. The girls, as I was informed by Madi without probable cause, pretty much vegged out eating and getting pampered.
“Ladies and gentlemen, quiet down please. We will begin in approximately ten minutes,” the petite lady with long brownish-gray hair requests.
The rehearsal went swimmingly, well, if you erase the unease of Brielle around Chase or the confusion marring Madi’s face every time she would sneak a peek at Isaac then at me. I mean, it was funny, but that probably wasn’t helping my half-brother’s twitch. As speeches and the dinner entertainment begin to wind down, I flip my iPhone over and catch a missed text message notification.
Madi – Dude, rescue me… my cousins are about to die a death by a dull butter knife.
I can’t help the burst of laughter amidst the heartwarming words of Brielle. I do not however miss the glare from Ellie. Maybe I’ll die via a dull butter knife. I quickly reply to Madi.
Me – LMAO. Use the spoon, it will be harder to stitch them up.
Madi – They will be dead, no stitching required.
Me – Wanna skip dessert at Angelo’s and head over to Adalyn’s?
Madi – YES!
Forty-five minutes later and we are sitting in Adalyn’s driveway. Soft amber light sneaks through the small spacing of the blinds. Someone listened to my suggestion about window coverings… shocking.
“What’s got you laughing?” Madi asks as we make our way up the paved walkway to the door.
“Adalyn finally listened to me and started using her window treatments as they were designed to be used. I’m a bit shocked.”
Madi’s laughter barks out just as the front door opens. “What’s so funny, gorgeous?” Brenton asks as we make our way in.
“Oh nothing, sweetheart,” I retort and dodge the balled up hand that’s headed my way. “Where’s Ads?” I probe, glancing room to room.
“Putting away dinner,” Braxton says from the couch, remote in hand.
“Ah,” I acknowledge him and step around Brenton and Madi. Once I’m in the kitchen I saunter toward Adalyn perched on the counter, swinging her legs. “There you are. Quite a sight for sore eyes, how’ve you been?”
“Hmm, good I guess. How was the rehearsal?”
“Long as fuck, but Hannah is happy and that’s all that matters. She’s bursting at the seams happy, but damn her pregnancy has her all over the place.” I laugh as I maneuver myself between her bare legs.
“Whatcha doin’ there, big guy?”
“Want me to move?” I try to take a step back before I even finish the question but am pulled toward her center when her lower limbs lock around my waist. “Guess not.”
Planting my hands on either side of her hips, I take inventory–goose flesh covering her bare arms and chest, pebbled nipples pressing against her tank top, and those deep dark chocolate irises surrounding her dilated pupils.
“Hi.” I inhale deeply taking in the scent of coconuts with me.
“I…” Crashing my lips against hers, I halt any further words coming from her mouth.
With my arms now tightly around her waist, I pull her closer to me. Her hot core scorches my throbbing cock as it juts against the zipper of my jeans. I swallow down her guttural moan as my tongue swipes hers, each of us fighting to maintain control.
“Oh, don’t mind me,” Braxton announces his presence behind us just before a blast of freezing cold air slaps against us.
Resting our foreheads together as our harsh panting slows, a small coy grin grows into a mega-watt smile causing her eyes to crinkle at the sides. “You are so goddamn perfect,” I whisper, moving my mouth nuzzling the length of her neck.
“We should, mmm, uh, get back to our friends.”
“I hate them,” I growl into the crook of her neck before slowly backing away.
“No you don’t…”
“Oh I do.” I sigh rounding the corner with her trailing behind me. “Bye, shithead. I’ll see you tomorrow, Madi and Brenton.”
“Aww Bray, don’t be mad. I’ve seen y’all far more involved than that…” Braxton laughs.
“God, go to bed, Braxton,” Adalyn shouts as she walks down the hall in
the opposite direction of me.
Adalyn
SHOWER AND SHAVE–CHECK.
Soft rollers in my hair–check.
Dress ready for tomorrow–check.
Cell phone charged–shit, where’s my charger?
After fifteen minutes of searching my room and the two bags I had packed yesterday for a last minute trip that I may need to take if I receive an acceptance letter for the NICU position at Alabama Memorial, I throw Braydon’s old t-shirt over my naked chest and trudge into the living room.
“Dude, really?” I groan. I do not miss college. I do not miss walking in on my friends. On. My. Couch.
“Shit,” Madi’s harsh whisper directed at Brenton, I assume, only causes a bark of laughter to fly from my mouth.
“Kids!” I huff after grabbing my charging cord from the entryway table and stalking back to my room. Not long after I am cozied up in bed do I hear the front door close and my cell phone pings.
Bray – Sleep sweet, gorgeous.
Me – I’m likely going to have nightmares, but thank you. :P
Bray – What’s wrong?
Me – I walked in on Madi and Bubs.