Page 55 of Play Fake

“Olivia!” I give a mock gasp, like I’m shocked, but I glance back to make sure we weren’t being overheard by some of the families near us.

Meanwhile, Olivia just shrugs and laughs.

“Just saying, you might as well use the benefits of being a fake girlfriend. I’m sure Waylon would be happy to oblige.”

“Waylon would be happy to oblige any girl.”

“I don’t know. I think he might like you, Kenz. For real.”

“Maybe,” I hedge, looking back at the field where he’s lining up again. I wouldn’t hate it if he did like me, but I wasn’t going to let myself get caught up in the idea, either.

Before we know it,the game is over and I’m following Olivia down to the makeshift area where the friends and family wait for the guys after the game. She’s explaining the rest of the season and where they rank versus some of the other teams they’re up against when a short, blonde woman comes up to me.

“Saw you’re wearing a Prescott jersey. Are you friends with Waylon?” She gives me a sweet little smile.

“Yeah, I am,” I smile back, giving her a questioning look.

“Sorry, I’m his mom and when I saw the jersey, I just thought I’d see if you knew him.”

“Oh, yes.” I set my pop down and wipe the condensation from my palm, offering to shake her hand. “Actually, I uh, I’m dating Waylon. I don’t know if he’s told you about me, but—“

“Oh, my god. Yes! You’re Mac, right?” She takes my hand and gives me a firm little shake and a wide smile.

“That’s me.” I smile tighter. It feels awkward meeting her without Waylon around, but I guess this is happening whether I like it or not.

“Well, that’s good. Super awkward if it wasn’t!” She laughs.

“I’m his mom, obviously, Sheila. This is Waylon’s brother, Jake,” she pats the teenage boy next to her on the shoulder. Even at his age, he’s outgrown her by several inches.

I give a little wave, and he gives me a chin nod in return. Oh, to be a disgruntled teen again.

“Nice to meet you both,” I nod at them again.

“I’m Olivia. Liam’s best friend. I know he and Waylon are pretty close, but I still claim the title,” Olivia inserts herself into the conversation, and I could hug her for it.

“Oh honey, I don’t blame you. We women have to take charge, or they’ll run us all down.”

“Right? That’s my theory, anyway,” Olivia gives her a smile.

She is so much better at this stuff than me, and I’m glad I have her with me.

“I see you guys found each other.” An arm comes up around my shoulder, and I’m not sure I’ve ever been more thankful to hear his voice.

“We did,” I say softly.

“You better not scare her off, Mom. I like this one. So, no crazy shit about weddings and babies, okay?” He looks at her and then turns to me. “She’s definitely going to tease you about that, but don’t take her seriously.”

Then he plants a kiss on my cheek before pulling me closer. He smells like his soap, fresh from the shower, and his hair is still damp.

“I’ll try to remember that.”

“Listen, I’m just happy you’re letting me meet her. I’ll be on my best behavior!”

“That’s a low bar,” Waylon tuts at her.

“Now don’t be a smart ass. I just got here,” she chides him playfully.

“You guys ready to get some dinner?”