“Since the dance is next week, why don’t you come watch Sam play at the softball game on Friday,” I suggested, praying my idea worked. “I planned on hanging out after school until the game anyway.”

“Since when do you like softball?” Joe asked with a look of disgust. He only considered soccer or basketball legitimate sports.

“Obviously since Sam plays on the team,” Mom said with a chipper smirk at me.

“I’ll see if I can get off early from work then,” Dad said as he gave Mom a look that said the two of them would be discussing the topic again later.

Shit! Was I really ready to...