The Best You’ve Ever Had

Prologue

Layla

“Act like you love each other,” Mom and her best friend, Brandy, coo as they snap a picture. Ben, Brandy’s only child, and I stand side-by-side, awkward pre-teens in hideously festive Christmas sweaters.

“Disgusting,” I mutter under my breath, just loud enough for him to hear.

As soon as our moms turn away from us, he yanks my ponytail, prompting me to reflexively sucker punch him in the stomach. He doubles over with a dramatic groan and I stare down at him, feeling a mix of pride and concern about the trouble I might be in.

“You deserved that,” I whisper—right as our moms look back at the commotion.

“Layla, while I appreciate your fighting abilities, you need to apologize,” Mom says over her shoulder.

Ben looks up at me and winks. Thus, proving he’s not even in that much pain. He’s obviously very theatrical, but this issue is ongoing for the both of us, so our parents are nearly immune to our antics by now.

He stands, holding his stomach and trying to hide his smirk. “I’m ready for my apology.”

“I’m sorry, Benny.” I clear my voice, not out of nerves, but so he can hear me perfectly clear. Then I lean in to deliver the kill. “I’m sorry that you’re such a little fucker.”

“Layla Elizabeth Reed!” Mom yells, pinching the bridge of her nose. She doesn’t even seem the least bit surprised. I did learn my colorful language from somewhere after all.

Brandy tries to conceal her laughter, while her son’s mouth hangs open in disbelief.

It’s not the beginning, and it sure won’t be the end of our battles.