Part 24

Bradin walked up to Jay's shop and hesitantly opened the door and walked in. He wasn't sure if this was the best thing to do, but Britney thought it would help. When he reached to where Erica was standing, he slowly lifted his hand and tapped her on her shoulder.

Without thinking Erica rehearsed the line she had said at least a million times. "May I help you?"

"Actually, yeah," Bradin found himself saying. "Look, yesterday my behavior was completely uncalled for. I don't want things to be like that between us"

Erica was so happy. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Are you saying you want to be friends? Because if you are, I'm all for it."

Bradin didn't know how to respond. In reality, he was only there because Britney had suggested it. "Um, I, sure. That's what I mean."

"Okay, then. How about we go surfing when I get off work?" Erica suggested.

Bradin couldn't let this continue any longer. "I have something to do with Britney. I can't make it. Maybe some other time."

"Okay. Just let me know when you want to go," Erica said. She then turned and walked off.

Just as Bradin turned around, he bumped into Sarah. "Sarah, hey. How have things been?"

"Great. I've even started dating again," Sarah said, wanting Bradin to know she was over him.

"Really? That's awesome. So, who's the lucky guy," Bradin asked. He wasn't sure if he wanted to know that, but he couldn't help but wonder.

Sarah hesitated for a moment. She knew Bradin would be frustrated when he found out. Finally, she spoke. "Cameron."

"CAMERON? He's dating my sister. And he's like, I dunno, 3 years younger than you!" Bradin yelled. He was glad she was dating again, but didn't want his sister to be hurt. "You have to break it off. Nikki is probably heartbroken," he told her.

Sarah just stood there for a moment. "I can't. I really like Cameron, and he understands me."

Bradin knew that was supposed to offend him, but right at this moment, all he could think about was how awful Nikki must feel. "I gotta go. You know, comfort my sister. Since you did steal her man and all."
--End of Part 24--