After we struggled to get ready in Teddi’s bathroom, we made our way downstairs. Mike’s fiftieth birthday party was going to be an all-out banger. Between Teddi and Ronna, there were so many to-do lists that everyone could pick a few jobs and march forward in the planning without having to consult anyone.

I felt hands on my shoulders, and when I saw that the right one was littered with rings, I knew it was Austin. “What are you going to pick?”

He dragged his right hand down the list posted on the kitchen cabinet, index fingernail painted black.

“I don’t know. Maybe pick up the paper goods and the balloons?” The store that had the order was right next to my house. So technically, I could stop in and say hi. I’d have to borrow a car, though.”

“I think that’s a great idea. It’s on the other side of town and we could pop into the deli on the way home to get the hors d'oeuvres. I’ll drive if you think my car can fit the balloons.” He leaned forward so I could see his profile with my peripheral vision. I nodded once.

That would be great except for visiting with my family. I didn’t want to subject Austin to anything that would give him a bad impression of me. And with my family? He could definitely get the wrong idea about me. I'd avoid my house then. Seemed simple enough.

Once everyone started filing out to-do chores, I saw Teddi and Ruffian busy setting up some lawn games. Peaches was swinging on an old tire swing. The branch it was tied to dipped down low with every pass.

“What are you doing?” I paused on the front lawn.

“I’m security. Practicing for my new major and everything.” She kicked off the ground to go a little higher.

“Peaches, darling. You go too high on that swing and it will snap like a Broadway star keeping the beat.” He pointed at the struggling branch.

“Don’t you worry about me, pretty man. I’ve got reflexes like a ninja and situational awareness that would make satellites look like pussies.” She kicked off even more.

“We’re headed out for balloons and stuff. You wanna come?” I tipped my head toward Austin’s car.

“Nah. Thanks, though. The guys are popping by, so I want to be here to boss them around.” She kicked her foot again, and the tire started spinning while swinging.

“Okay. Don’t make yourself sick. I’m concerned. That’s a lot of motion.”

Peaches laughed, the noise funneling upward in a swirl as she moved quickly.

Austin held out his hand and I took it. “Let’s leave her be. I don’t want her getting all stirred up and then puking in my car.”

He waved to a few people with his other hand, but firmly kept my hand in his grip.