In some cases the important thing is not that you win a battle. It is that you fought a battle.

“How are you doing?” Kevin prodded his younger sister’s shoulder. “You holding up?”

“I’m alright.” Her eyes sought Seamus.

“I’m sorry you didn’t win tonight.” The other boy spoke quietly.

Lucy shook her head. “It’s okay.”

“You’re allowed to be upset, Lu.” Kevin said seriously. “She fouled you and threatened you and the refs turned a blind eye. You can be angry about it.”

Lucy shrugged. “It’s okay. I took care of it. No rampage or weekend bender would really help. I lost the game but important thing is that I fought. She’ll remember that, believe me.”

Kevin grinned. “You were pretty crazy, I’ll give you that much.”

“I know.” Lucy sighed but did not settle back into the seat, instead she slid to the edge of it. “There’s something else.”

“What?” Seamus jumped alert. “She did more?”

“No. No.” Lucy looked from her brother to his best friend and back. “Nothing to do with Carlisle.” She hesitated. “I’m feeling so good right now. So full of confidence. Like I could conquer the world.”

“Do it, sis.” Kevin urged.

Lucy grinned. Her insides were quickly turning to mush. If she didn’t make her move now then she knew she never would. She took three steps toward Seamus until she stood just inches from him, so close that she could feel the warmth of his body.

“Lu?” He sounded nervous.

She brushed one hand along his jaw before kissing him briefly and tenderly on his mouth.

Kevin stared as Lucy pulled away but Seamus reached for her and leaned into her letting his lips brush hers before pressing his forehead against hers.

“What the hell?”

Lucy turned to face Kevin. “This is one battle I will fight until I win.”

Kevin’s shock was clearly written on his face as he stepped between the two of them. “You’ve been shagging my sister behind my back?”

Lucy didn’t give Seamus the time to refute the accusation; instead she wedged her tiny frame between the men. “Talk to me, Kevin. Me!”

“Lucy! I know all about your crush on Seam. God! Who doesn’t know? But I thought you were smart enough to steer clear of him.”

“Lu!” It was Seamus talking now. His voice was low and quiet, his eyes wide and dark. “Is it true?”

“Is what true?” Lucy pushed her brother away so that she could see Seamus’ face before Kevin towered in front of her again.

“Do you?” Seamus struggled for words but caught a glimpse of her puzzled expression as Kevin waved his arms frantically between them. “That kiss just now? And the other night.”

“No! No! No!” Kevin pushed Seamus away by driving his shoulder into the other young mans side. “You never told me you were into her!”

“Of course not!” Seamus finally pushed back, his hands braced against Kevin’s shoulders. “She’s your sister. I didn’t think I had a chance in the world.” Then he trained his eyes on Lucy. “Do you want me?”

“Want?” Kevin glowered. “That’s too far! Don’t touch my sister.”

Seamus shrugged and dropped his hold on Kevin neatly sidestepping him as he stumbled forward.

Lucy took his hands. “I need you.”

“I never knew.” He couldn’t stop staring into her eyes. “Me?”

Her face blushed vividly. “Of course, you.”