Chapter 7

Greg felt put out that he had spent twenty-two dollars on a case of beer for people he didn’t know. He opened a cooler that was on the floor of the kitchen. He opened it, and started to put the cans of beer into the cooler.

“Simmons! Is that you?”

Greg was halfway done stowing the beer. He stood up straight, and looked for who called his name.

“I am glad that you could make it. Thanks for bringing the reinforcements.”

Scott walked up to Greg and shook his hand, and pulled Greg in for a half-hug.

“Thanks for inviting me, Scott. It is good to see you. It must have been a long time since I was in Thomas Mill. Who are these people?”

“They’re seniors at TM High. I figured most of the girls are legal now, and they should get acclimated to the college lifestyle.”

“Are Mike and Clayton stopping by later? Greg asked, referring to two friends from high school.

“Nah. Clayton’s parents took him on some cruise. Mike’s taking summer classes at Stanford. It’s just you and me from the old gang.”

“Well, it is good to see you. Let’s toast the occasion.”

Greg handed Scott a beer, and grabbed one of his own. They popped them open, and tapped the cans against one another.

“To homecomings, Scott said.

They each poured half a can of beer into their mouths.

“By the way, Simmons. You’re sister is here.”

“Kristy’s here?”

“Yeah, she wanted me to tell you that you should find her when you got here.”

“That’s odd.”

“I think she was kind of buzzed. I have to tell you though, and don’t get offended at this, but she was looking good.”

“Yeah, I know. She’s fucking hot. You’ve told me a million times. And, no, I am not setting you up with her. She is still dating Shane.”

“I just like to get you riled up. You know I would never try anything with her.”

“Okay, well, I better go find her.”

Greg and Scott slammed the remainder of their beers. Greg grabbed a fresh one, and walked out onto the patio.