Page 35

“Obviously.” Jazmin points a finger at me as though she’s going to lecture me. “But our teammates are off limits.”

“You mean we’re not going to talk about how good-looking Genesis Brimstone is?” This is something I’ve taken notice of ever since I found she’s not trying to convert me. Her dark hair. That creamy skin covered with freckles. Those eyes that are as dark as the night. I can’t lie. Genesis is hot.

Jazmin scrunches up her nose. “Genesis? Really? Doesn’t she hate gay people?”

I slap the dashboard of my car as I laugh then wave my finger at Jazmin. “See, that’s what I thought too! But she doesn’t. Her church is accepting of gay people. So, if she tries to invite you after you officially come out to everyone, that’s why.”

Jazmin stares at me then lifts her eyebrow and smirks. “So, what you’re telling me is that Genesis Brimstone is off limits?”

“What do—?” Wait. She thinks I like Genesis? I quickly shake my head back and forth. “I don’t like Genesis. We’re just friends. In fact, I’m going to church with her before work on Sunday.”

“If you say so,” Jazmin says with a teasing tone that makes me want to slap her. She is so far off.

“I do say so.” I turn to face her more fully. “Now come on. I admitted who I find attractive. It’s your turn.”

Jazmin looks down at her hands then back at me. “Don’t judge me for this one, okay?”

I put both hands in the air. “Never.”

“Well, I know she’s obviously younger, but I think your sister’s friend, Jocelyn, is adorable. She’s got that whole shy, quiet thing going for her. It’s so cute.”

My smile widens at this news. “She’s also definitely gay. I guarantee it. She sets off like every gaydar alarm.”

“Yeah. Gay with a huge crush on you.” Jazmin playfully shoves my shoulder. “You must be dense if you don’t realize that.”

Consider me dense, then. There’s no way this is the case. “Absolutely not. Jocelyn is like a second little sister to me. I’m sure she feels the same way since she doesn’t have a sister. You’re just mistaking her looking up to me as a crush.”

“Okay, Mar, whatever you say.”

“You just let me know if you ever want me to work my magic and set that up. Once you’re both out, of course.”

Jazmin laughs. “I’m good. I don’t actually even know her other than the few interactions we’ve had at your house. I just think she’s cute. Kind of like you with Genesis.” It’s clear that Jazmin still doesn’t believe that I’m not actually interested in Genesis.

“Anyway, it’s officially Christmas break. Any plans?” I ask to change the subject.

Jazmin shrugs. “Nothing big. We better be hanging out.”

“We will—every day at basketball practice.”

Jazmin rolls her eyes while I laugh. “You know what I mean. I don’t want my only human contact to come at basketball practice.”

“Is your whole family going away for Christmas break?” I joke.

“No, but they don’t count. I’m not even convinced that the twins are human.”

That’s true. Jazmin’s ten-year-old sisters are crazy. Luckily, since they can’t sit still, most times when I’m over there, they are out with her dad somewhere.

“Well, I promise we’ll hang out.”

“Good.” Jazmin sticks her fist out for me to bump. “I better get home. I’ll see you on Monday.”

“See you on Monday. Don’t worry, I’ll put in a good word with Jocelyn for you.”

“Don’t you dare.” Jazmin flicks me off as she closes the door.

The happiness I feel as I drive away is unmatched. I’m excited for a basketball-free weekend. I’m also surprisingly looking forward to church with Genesis followed by work with Payton. Life is good.

***