I totally forgot about Datson coming up today when I decided to cockblock myself and take sex off the table until after I’ve taken Sydney on five dates. I woke up to my buddy pounding on the front door at noon ready to get out on the lake which puts a wrench in my plan for date number one.

Sleep was fitful and the blue balls I went to bed with were super distracting, so I planned out all five dates. They’re epic. One plus of dating Sydney now instead of two years ago is how much more I know about her.

My dick aches to finally get inside of my best friend, but I meant what I told her… I want to do it right. Not many people get a do-over so I’m going to guess a triple-over is even rarer. I’m not going to need a third try though. I’m getting it right this time.

I can hear the shower going in Sydney’s bathroom as Datson and I pack the cooler.

“Jonah’s having a party tonight and Ollie’s down this year too.” I toss in a half-empty bottle of Malibu and a couple of cans of Coke.

“I’m so stoked to be here. Two weeks at home sweating my ass off working on the farm with my dad and brothers and I’m ready for school to start.”

“Did you tell them you’re not planning to work there after graduation?”

“Nah, not yet. I don’t want to listen to them lecture me for the rest of the summer about letting down the family.” He rolls his eyes.

The Datson family owns a farm not far from here and despite his brothers all wanting to stay and help run it, my buddy still feels pressure to go back after graduation. I think if he knew what he wanted to do instead, his family would be more understanding. All he does seem to know is it isn’t farming.

I’m hardly one to talk since I’m struggling to make a decision about my own future, but I give him the advice everyone’s been giving me.

“Do whatever feels right for you. It’s your life.” People who say that have never had any pressure from their family or coaches.

With a sigh, I give him my best advice—no bullshit. “Just be honest and tell them you want a chance to pursue other things. It isn’t like the farm is going anywhere if you change your mind.”

He mumbles his acknowledgment but in a way that I very much doubt he’s going to act on my words.

The cooler is packed and I let the lid fall closed.

“All right, let’s do it.” He claps his hands.

I glance toward Sydney’s room. The shower’s not running anymore, but my girl hasn’t come out.