The Dog Who Couldn't Catch

Jordan slouched against the backstop, watching the baseball team practice like they owned the world. Specifically, watching Chase, whose perfect swing and perfect hair and perfect laugh echoed across the field.

"You're staring again," said Maya, dropping onto the bench beside her and cracking open a Vitamin Water. "It's borderline creepy."

"I'm not staring," Jordan lied. "I'm observing. There's a difference."

"Right. Observing how his jersey fits perfectly across his shoulders while you memorize his batting average like it's gonna be on the chem final." Maya rolled her eyes. "Just talk to him already. He's not a mythological creature. He's a guy who plays baseball and somehow doesn't know he's the whole school's crush."

Jordan's dog Buster chose that moment to trot onto the field, his old hips swaying, tongue lolling like he'd just won the lottery. He'd escaped again.

"Buster!" Jordan bolted up, ready to die of embarrassment right there.

But instead of chasing the squirrel that lived near the concession stand, Buster made a beeline for Chase, who was stretching near home plate. And Chase—perfect, popular Chase—dropped to one knee and started scratching behind Buster's ears like they were old friends.

"This is your dog?" Chase called, grinning as Buster rolled onto his back for belly rubs, completely betraying Jordan's dignity. "He's awesome."

"His name is Buster," Jordan managed, feeling their face burn. "And he's supposed to be at home. Being normal."

Chase laughed, and it was somehow better in person. "Nah, normal's overrated. Hey, you coming to the game Friday? We could use some actual cheerleaders. The ones from student council are weirdly intense."

Maya choked on her Vitamin Water.

"Maybe," Jordan said, heart doing something illegal against their ribs. "If my dog doesn't kidnap you first."

"Deal." Chase winked. "Bring the dog. He's better luck than my batting glove."

As Jordan dragged Buster home, Maya smirking beside them, Jordan thought maybe sometimes the universe didn't hate you. Sometimes it just sent a confused dog to do its dirty work.

"So," Maya said. "Friday?"

"Shut up," Jordan said, grinning anyway.

Some things were worth the embarrassment.