We get back on the boat. The mood is light and everyone else is ready to keep partying. I only had the one beer hours ago because I’m driving the boat back, but even if I could get wasted, I’m not feeling it anymore. I’m staying sober enough to be the responsible one in the friendship.

Maybe a part of me has always known my feelings for Sydney went beyond friends, but I’ve managed with the simple fact that she didn’t feel the same. And I’d do anything to be in her life, even pretend I don’t think she’s the hottest girl on the planet.

But Sydney seems to have lost some of her excitement for partying too. She’s reserved and quiet, two things very un-Sydney like.

“You good? We can go back any time you want.”

“I am a little tired.”

“What?” Jonah butts in. “It’s early. And we’re going to The Cove tonight.”

“It’s been a long day.” I’m already picturing being back at my place with just Sydney and away from people who make me confront or analyze who we are to one another.

“Come on,” Jonah whines.

“I’ll call you later.” I lift my hand and he grabs it and pulls me to him and whispers near my ear, “You’re totally going back to bang, right? That kiss was on fire.”

I step back without a response and wave to the rest of the people on the boat. “See you guys later.”

Sydney waves her goodbye and we head down to my smaller boat. She settles back in on the same seat she sat on during the ride up while I untie us and start toward the house.

“I think I drank too much,” she says on a yawn.

“Being on the water all day will take it out of you. I’m sure the alcohol didn’t help.”

“I just need a nap and then I’ll be ready to go out tonight.” She yawns again.

By the time I get us home, Sydney is passed out. I gather all the stuff before waking her.

“Babe, we’re back.”

Her lids are slow to open. She sits up and stretches, arms out to her sides. The movement pushes out her boobs. I glance down at my feet so I don’t give away my thoughts while I lift the cooler onto the dock and then step off the boat. I help her out and we start back.

Either I’m speed walking or she’s slower than normal. I pause to let her catch up.

“Sorry, I’m so tired. I can barely pick my feet up.”

“Ride?”