“Of course, we can all have off days. And today doesn’t change the fact that you’re one of the best swimmers on the team. It’s just, you’ve been kind of off lately in general, K. I just want to make sure everything’s all right.”

Kavya’s lips are back in that tight line, her nostrils flared, and I feel like she’s just on the verge of telling me something when her expression completely changes. She’s got a huge grin, she gets on her tiptoes and throws an arm around my back, then she pulls me in for a noogie. It’s such an energy change that it gives me whiplash.

“Come on, Sean, this day isn’t about me. I’ll walk that one off and be fine next week. Today is about you. It’s about the plan! You’re getting those sweet mer lips, baby. I am not going to bring that down.”

“But, Kavya, you’re never—”

She goes in for another noogie, and I really wish I had my swim cap on right about now because the way she ruffles my hair actually kind of hurts. “It’s about you, dude. Come on. Now get your head in the game so that when it’s your turn to swim, you don’t do what I just did. You’ve got to beat the hell out of everybody else. It’ll be the perfect setup for a jealousy-inducing victory kiss.”

I pull back and take in my best friend. There’s no hint of that tight-lipped grimace, no anger or frustration at herself, nothing. She’s closing that part off, and I guess I have to go along with it.

“D can’t stand all the attention Ross is getting,” I finally say.

Kavya cackles. “Serves him right! Maybe I should go show him some more videos of the Trojan truck and your epic rescue. You know, a not-so-subtle nudge that that could have been him you were carrying off in your big, strong arms.”