Something Like Spring (Something Like, #4)

by Jay Bell

When Jason returned home with Emma in tow, they found Ben and Tim sitting on the back patio. Samson was prowling the yard, occasionally pouncing on what he saw in the grass. Chinchilla followed along behind, head cocked with interest as she watched the cat hunt. As charming as the scene was, Jason dreaded reporting how the youth group had gone. When Ben turned around, face eager for news, Jason made an excuse to return inside and stood in the kitchen. When enough time had passed that he was sure Emma had told them everything, Jason went back outside. “Maybe you’ll have better luck next time,” Ben said. “I’m not planning on going back.” Jason sat cross-legged on the concrete. Emma plopped down next to him. “There’s no point.” “Could be different guys there next time,” Tim said. “Exactly,” Ben agreed. “Someone new or maybe a person who doesn’t attend every single meeting.” “Maybe,” Jason said noncommittally. “He doesn’t need a new guy,” Emma said. “He likes William. Don’t you think he should go for it, Uncle Ben? Surely you of all people think he should!” Ben looked puzzled. “What do you mean?” “I mean how you met Tim. Have you told him that story yet?” Ben smiled. “I was out rollerblading after school one day, and I was never a good skater—” “No, how you really met Tim. Like the first time you saw him.” “Oh.” Ben said. “In the hallway, right?” Tim asked. “At school.” “No,” Emma said. “Way before then. Tim was out jogging—” “It really doesn’t matter,” Ben said quickly. Tim s...