Chapter 5:

Group Hangout

Saturday afternoon, the sun was warm and the backyard smelled like charcoal and beer. Mark had invited the whole crew to his place for a barbecue burgers on the grill, loud music, and way too many coolers. I showed up in shorts and a faded band tee, already planning to crush some cornhole.

Alex arrived about thirty minutes later, carrying a six-pack and wearing a simple polo that somehow still looked sharp on him. Our eyes met across the yard. He gave me that easy nod and smile.

“Bedhead in the wild,” he teased as he walked over, handing me a cold beer.

“Perfect Tie on...