“She did the work.” As she takes a drink, she nods thoughtfully. Then, still holding the drink up to her mouth, says, “I think I finally figured out what all your ex’s have in common.”

“I’m almost afraid to ask.”

“They made it easy on you. They built a relationship and you were along for the ride.” That stings a little, but she places the cup on the bench and leans in. “I don’t blame you. Your schedule is nuts, and to fit into your life, any girl is going to have to be cool with that, but they each took control so that they never had to wait on you to make a move.”

“I’ve got moves.”

“Hello, ‘Mister I’ve never planned a date before’.”

“There might be a shred of truth to your theory, but that’s all the more reason I want to do it differently with you. I failed to act the first time around, but not now. I’ve got all sorts of plans.”

“All right. I give. Five dates. Real dates that you plan.”

“I’m sorry, did you just forfeit something? Where’s my best friend and what have you done with her?” I knock my knee against hers playfully.

“I don’t need them to know I want something more with you. That hasn’t changed. But I want to be good for you in a way those other girls weren’t. So, if you need this then you can have it. Clear your schedule after date five though.”

Vulnerable, honest, stripped down beyond the bubbly, competitive, fun girl is this other version of Sydney few get to see. She’s terrified of letting people down, afraid of failure and being hurt, but she’s also one of the bravest people I know and loyal as hell. When she sets her mind to something, there’s no stopping her. And she would fight to the death for anyone she cares about.

“You already are good for me.”

The next morning, Datson wakes up at an ungodly hour wanting to take the boat out one last time before he heads back to the farm.

I don’t wake Sydney. We were up most of the night talking. Well, mostly talking.

The lake is still quiet and my buddy is too. I wish I knew what to say to make him feel better about talking with his family. I can’t do it for him any more than he can help me decide, so I do what I can which is drive his ass all around the lake.

We have lunch and then head back so he can get on the road. Sydney is sitting on the patio with a pair of bright green sunglasses that match the smallest bikini I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen some small ones.

My steps falter and I’m almost certain I trip over my tongue like a cartoon character.