“Thanks.” Brennan lifted his bat bag onto his non-pitching shoulder and walked through the gate toward me. “It was such a nice surprise to look up into the stands and see you. I didn’t even know that you knew I had a game today.”
“I pay attention.” I blushed and looked quickly at the ground.
“Hey, didn’t I see Rachel here with you?” He asked, looking around.
“Yeah, she was, but she had to leave to pick up her little sister. She wanted me to tell you congratulations on winning. ”
“When you talk to her later, tell her I said thanks for coming.”
“I will,” I nodded. “Did anyone else come to watch you play?” I asked, scanning the crowd for a woman who looked like Brennan and was toting little kids.
Brennan frowned, “No, my parents couldn’t make it today. They were both busy.”
“I’m sorry.” I felt bad for bringing it up.
He smiled, “It’s okay. The come to as many of my games as they can. Anyway, you were here, and that more than makes up for it.”
I smiled, “I had no idea that you’re such an awesome ball player. You’re the best player on the team.” I nudged him lightly, “It was fun to watch you strike ‘em out.” I giggled.
“Thanks,” he answered, modestly.
“Hey, how are you getting home?” The field had emptied. All the players had grabbed their stuff and left. “Didn’t you ride to school with Rachel this morning?”
“Yeah, I did. I didn’t know what time the game would end, so I told my mom I’d text her to come and pick me up when it was over. ” I shrugged to emphasize that it wasn’t a big deal.
“Do you want a ride?” he offered.
“If you don’t mind…”
We began to walk toward the parking lot. “I don’t mind. Unless, of course, you planned this,” he teased raising one eyebrow.
“I didn’t plan it! I already told you my mom was going to pick me up.” I hit him playfully on the arm.
“Ouch. That’s my pitching arm,” he said rubbing it.
“It is? I’m so sorry.” I frowned.
“I’m only kiddin’. I’m right handed. Not left.”
I laughed, because it was important to laugh at his jokes – flirting 101. “Phew,” I wiped my head across my forehead.
I followed him to his car, a silver Honda Accord. “Hop in,” he said, as he threw his baseball gear in the trunk.
He climbed in and started the engine. He faced me, “You’ll have to tell me how to get to your house. Since I’ve only been here for less than six months, I’m still learning my way around. I don’t know all the street names yet.”
“I live about ten minutes from here, in the Cricket Hill neighborhood. Do you know where that is?”
“Is it off of State Street?”
“Yes.” I watched as Brennan played with the radio.
“Which neighborhood do you live in?” I hoped it wasn’t too far out of his way. I bit my bottom lip.
“I live in Copper Woods, on East Pine Lake. Even it was out of my way, I wouldn’t care.” Brennan winked, and my insides melted.
He backed out of the parking space and headed in the direction of my house. As he drove I asked him questions about baseball. I knew so little about the game that I wanted to understand it better. He patiently explained the difference between a fastball and a curve ball. It was hard to concentrate, being so close to him in such a small space. All I could do was nod my head.
“Thanks for the ride,” I said, as he pulled into my driveway, “and I promise, I didn’t plan it.”
“I didn’t plan this either.” He leaned over and lightly brushed his lips against mine, taking me by complete surprise. My heart raced, and I was warm and tingly all over like I had received an electric shock. I felt it everywhere – all the way down to my toes. Kissing Brennan was beyond anything I’d ever experienced.
He slowly moved his lips against mine, and I followed his lead. The kiss deepened, and desire consumed me. Without even thinking about it, I reached up and ran my hands through his hair. It felt like silk under my fingertips. His hands cradled my face.
We kissed for several minutes before Brennan pulled away. He gently stroked my cheek, “Even though I’d like nothing more than to continue kissing you, I need to get home to ice my arm. I have a special ice pack that I use. Usually my dad brings it to the game for me, but since at the last minute he couldn’t make it, it’s still at home.” He paused and leaned his forehead against mine. “I’m sorry. You’re not mad are you?”
“No, of course not,” I responded. I was worried though about how I was going to make it to the door without falling over. Brennan’s kisses had left me breathless and shaky. Trying to act normal, I added, “I don’t have practice tonight, so I’ll call you later.”
“I’d like that. And thanks again for coming to my game – it meant a lot to me.” He smiled, showing off his perfectly straight teeth.
Surprisingly, I made it inside without stumbling. Leaning against the closed door, I waited for my pounding heart to slow down. Step five was a huge success.
Comments:
prettyinpink: I surprised him with a mixed CD of all of our songs. He really liked it.
countrygirl: I love surprises, keeping them is the hard part. I bought us tickets to see Tim McGraw and he was so happy he kissed me right in front of Abe (my beloved horse).
redbird: I discovered my guy hates surprises!!
BLOG #6A
Step Six: Flirting 102
By now you are an expert at flirting – twirling your hair, playing with your jewelry, biting your lip, looking him in the eye, giving him compliments, and laughing at his jokes. You no longer have to think twice about it, it just happens naturally. So now it’s time to take it to the next level – flirting 102. How is flirting 102, different from flirting 101? Basically flirting 101 provided a framework, while flirting 102 adds dimension.
I will make this step even easier to follow by dividing it up into two layers. Each layer brings you and YOUR GUY closer together in a fun and playful way. I’ll explain them one at a time in detail, but it doesn’t matter which one you do first.
Don’t panic. I haven’t misled you yet, right?
The first layer is to come up with a game. That’s correct, I said a game. This game will only be played by the two of you, and it will help you get to know each other better while having fun. He won’t even realize what’s happening.
An easy way to do this is to play 20 questions, asking one question a day to each other. It will keep your guy thinking about you even when you’re not together, because he’ll be mulling over your latest answer or which question he should ask you next.
You can easily adapt any game to fit his interests, whatever they may be. If music is his thing, you could take turns naming a feeling or an event, and the other person has to come up with a song to match it. Or when you are listening to music while riding in his car, you could each shout out the first adjective that comes to mind every time a new song comes on. If he’s a sports fanatic, you could switch things up to fit that interest too.
Other games might include, “Would You Rather?” or “Truth or Dare?” I’m sure you’ve played both of these games at one time or another, so I won’t explain them. You can make up your own questions or download a free app, if you feel stuck.
These are just a few suggestions, please feel free to use one or invent your own. This layer is easier than it sounds. Give it a try and then leave a comment. I check them often, so don’t forget to leave one.
Brennan and I made plans for Friday night. We had been busy all week long with baseball and swimming to do anything other than work on homework together. I didn’t know that there was a guy out there who took school and sports as serious as I did, until I got to know Brennan.
We decided to hang out at my house, order a pizza, and watch a movie together. We were both tired from staying up late every night doing the mounds of homework the teachers assign
ed and getting up early for school every day. There was a big party at Adam’s house that a lot of the kids were going to, but that didn’t interest neither Brennan nor I. Ellie, of course, was going, so that was an even better reason to stay in.
The doorbell rang at exactly 7 p.m. Apparently, Brennan was punctual, an admirable trait. The only problem was that Ellie was still here. She hadn’t left to meet her friends, because she was still getting ready. She just got out of the shower, and it would take her at least another half an hour to do her hair and get dressed. I glared up at the ceiling and silently hoped that she wouldn’t ruin my date. I knew she was biding her time, waiting to unveil the secret she’d discovered, until she could use it to her best advantage. Putting those negative thoughts aside, I opened the door.
My breath caught in my throat when I saw how amazing Brennan looked wearing dark wash jeans and a Phillies’ t-shirt. His hair was damp and ruffled, like he just got out of the shower. He smelled good too; clean and fresh like soap with a hint of pine. He looked at me, and I blushed, remembering the kiss we shared just days ago.
“Hi, Brennan. Come in,” I said shyly, opening the door wider and motioning with my other hand for him to enter. I was a ball of nerves. This was the first time EVER that I had invited a boy over to my house. And Brennan wasn’t just any boy – he was THE boy.
“Hey,” he smiled, instantly brightening the entryway.
I stood there awkwardly for a minute, unsure of what to do next. I still had a hard time believing that Brennan was here. He reached out and took my hand. I looked down and smiled. There was something so right about it that I knew I had nothing to fear. Everything was going to turn out fine.
“The pizza just got here, and my mom made a big salad to go with it. Let’s go eat. I’m starving,” I said, leading Brennan into the kitchen. I let go of his hand to grab two plates out of the cupboard. I handed him one, “Help yourself.”
“What do you want to drink?” I peered into the refrigerator, “We have milk, diet coke, root beer, and water.”
“What are you going to have?” He asked me.
“I’m having root beer, of course.”
“Me too then,” he chuckled.
I grabbed two root beers and handed him one. Then I filled my plate with pizza and salad. “It’s nice out tonight, let’s go eat outside on the back porch. My parents are out there, and I want to introduce you.”
“Lead the way.” Brennan nodded and followed me outside, easily balancing his plate and soda.
“Mom, Dad, this is Brennan. Brennan, this is my mom,” I said pointing to the dark haired woman with green eyes, “and this is my dad,” I said gesturing to the other end of the table. “As you can see, I obviously inherited my bright red hair from him.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing,” my dad teased.
“Don’t even get me started,” I sighed, sitting down.
Brennan set his plate down next to mine, and then shook hands with my parents, “Nice to meet you both.”
We talked with my parents, as we ate. Brennan told them all about baseball and his plans for college. My mom smiled a lot, while my dad simply nodded his head. I couldn’t be sure, but I thought my parents liked him.
“I know Ellie is getting ready to meet some friends. Josie, are you two still planning on staying in and renting a movie tonight?” my mom asked, finishing the last bite of her pizza.
“Yeah,” I said, suddenly feeling tense. Was my mom actually going to suggest that Brennan and I go with Ellie to the party?
“That’s what I thought,” she smiled. “I just wanted to let you know that you and Brennan can watch one down in the basement. Dad and I are calling dibs on the family room TV.”
I always knew that my mom was pretty cool, but I wasn’t so sure about my dad. I thought for sure he’d object, but he didn’t. I guess Brennan had really impressed him with his plan to major in aerospace engineering.
“Thanks,” I said hardly believing my good fortune. I was going to be spending the evening with MY GORGEOUS GUY, hanging out watching a movie down in the basement, and my parents approved!
“Come on, Sean, let’s leave this two to finish their pizza.” My mom pushed back from the table and stacked my dad’s empty plate along with hers.
My dad took his time, but followed her back into the house.
“They seem cool,” Brennan said, when the door closed behind them
“Yeah, they’re alright,” I agreed. I was lucky to have such understanding parents.
A few minutes later, we finished eating and were on our way to the basement. Suddenly, Ellie appeared wearing tight jeans and a skimpy top. She stopped dead in her tracks when she saw us, scowling. “What’s going on, sis?” she asked, accusingly.
“Nothing. We’re staying in tonight.”
“Well, that’s nothing new for you,” Ellie said snidely, “but what is Brennan doing here?” She looked him up and down, and I felt my anger rise. I wanted to slap her across the face for checking out MY GUY right in front of me. Who does she think she is?
“Brennan is here to see me.” My eyes flashed angrily.
“Oh, that’s right, you’re tutoring him in math, I forgot.” Ellie refused to believe that a hot guy like Brennan would willingly choose to hang out with me.
“Not tonight,” said Brennan, casually. “No books.” He lifted up his hands to demonstrate that they were empty.
Ellie frowned and her forehead wrinkled.
I smiled broadly, not hiding my happiness. “Brennan and I are going to watch a movie down in the basement.”
“WHAT? This is wrong on so many levels,” Ellie complained. Her voice rose with every word, “Mom and dad never let me hang out down there with a boy.”
“I wonder why?” I rolled my eyes.
“What I wonder,” Ellie put her hands on her hips for emphasis, “is why Brennan is here with a loser like you?”
“Fuck you, Ellie.” I took a step closer to her. This time I really was going to hit her.
“Are you going to show Brennan your temper?” she asked in a patronizing voice, watching me closely. “Tsk, tsk, tsk.” She turned to Brennan, “Redheads are known for their bad tempers. You could do so much better.” She flipped her hair over her shoulder and stuck out her chest.
Brennan put his arm around me and pulled me to him. “I like redheads, temper and all.” He leaned closer to Ellie and whispered, “I actually think it’s kind of hot.
Now it was Ellie’s turn to be angry. Only Ellie didn’t show her temper, she just got even. The smug look on her face made my stomach queasy. “Here’s an idea, you should ask Josie to show you her binder -”
“Ellie,” my dad interrupted, coming out of his office with his keys, “aren’t you late enough already. Wasn’t I supposed to drop you off at Kathy’s over an hour ago?” I sighed with relief. My dad had good timing.
Even though I knew this thing with Ellie wasn’t finished, I put it out of my mind for now. I ignored her and grabbed Brennan’s hand, “Come on, I’ll show you around downstairs.”
Moments later I heard the front door slam.
“My parents had it finished off a couple of years ago.” I led Brennan through the various rooms while commenting, “This is the game room. As you can see, we have a pool table, a ping pong table, and a sitting area with a TV for the Wii.”
Brennan walked by the pool table and ran his hand across it. “Do you ever play?”
“Sometimes. And to be fair, I should warn you that I’m pretty good.”
He didn’t comment, but smiled.
“Over here is the exercise room.” I led him down the short hall and opened the first door on the right. “My dad put this in to make my mom happy. She’s really the only one who uses it.” I continued down the hall, “This is a powder room. And finally for my favorite room of all,” I opened the last door and turned on the lights, “the movie theater room. Complete with popcorn machine.” I pointed to the corner.
“Sw
eet.” He nodded his head in approval. “I’m glad we decided to hang here.”
“What do you want to do first?” I asked. “Do you want to play a game?”
“Sure.” We went back into the main room. “What’s your favorite?”
“No, not again,” I shook my head. “I asked you first. You can’t answer my question with one of your own.” I put my hands on my hips. “What do you want to do?” I asked in a firm voice.
“You know, you’re cute when you get angry.”
I drew my eyebrows together.
“Okay, okay.” He looked around, “Pool.” His eyes turned brighter and he smirked. “I want to see if you’re as good at pool as you said.”
I laughed. “You’re on.” I couldn’t resist a challenge. I had been playing pool with my grandfather since I was little. I grabbed the triangle and racked the balls. “Ready?” I watched as he chalked his cue stick. “You can break.”
“Well, thank you.” Brennan bent down and lined up his shot. I couldn’t help but admire his backside. His jeans fit him perfectly. He glanced over his shoulder at me, and I quickly pretended to be fixing my shirt. I didn’t want him to know that I was totally checking him out. He smiled and then sunk two striped balls.
“Lucky shot,” I said, hoping it was true.
“Maybe,” he winked, sinking another.
I quickly discovered that I wasn’t the only one good at pool. It didn’t take long before we each only had one ball left, plus the eight ball.
It was my shot. I had to maneuver around until I was practically leaning across the table. I could feel Brennan’s eyes on me, making me feel self-conscious about sticking my butt out so far and my chest was almost touching the table. I sunk the cue ball into the pocket, “Shoot,” I said, blushing. How am I supposed to make a shot when an incredibly hot guy is staring at me?
Brennan chuckled.
“It’s your fault, you know,” I pouted. I hated losing.
The Perfect Prom Date Page 6
