Page 62 of Switch Hitter

“Yeah,” I lie automatically, then sigh because lying to him is not how I want this relationship to be. “Actually, no.”

He hums softly like that’s allowed.

“What’s up?” he asks, voice gentle.

I stare at the screen for a beat, thumb hovering over the messages like they’re going to bite me. Then I open the thread.

The chat explodes in my face.

Mom

You’re bringing someone home for Easter?

Dad

Do we get to know her name before we meet her?

David

Sean, get back here and spill the beans.

Sean

His name is Emiliano.

David

SEAN! GET BACK HERE.

Sam

James

Don’t let David scare him off.

Leeann

Wait. Her?

Mom

Honey, is he a friend from the team?

David

WHO IS EMILIANO?

Sam

David, I swear to God.

James

Dad, you assumed “her” so fast I heard it from here.

Dad

Be respectful. Sean can you give us a call when you get a chance?