"You may be his world, but you're the only thing that ever felt like home to me."
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Some people never get second chances. Lilah never thought she'd get one with her brother's best friend.
She's quiet...
Guys—we reached 12.6k!!! I can't believe this. I want to sincerely thank everyone for sticking with me through this story, and I'm so glad I get to share my passion of writing with all of you! Next goal: 15k! (And I know we can reach it!!!) 💛
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Kayce is halfway out the front door when he pauses, turning back into the apartment with his helmet tucked under one arm and that annoyingly charming grin stretched across his face. He adjusts the strap of his duffel bag—full of dirt and sweat covered football gear—with his free hand.
"Last chance, Lilah." He points two fingers at his eyes, then at me. "If you're not in the student section tonight, I'm personally dragging you there next game."
His tone tells me it's not a threat. It's a promise.
I'm curled up on the couch, blanket pulled to my chin, pretending I'm the picture of someone who absolutely cannot leave the comfort of home. "I'll think about it," I lie.
Kayce huffs a small, knowing laugh. "No you won't."
I don't answer, confirming his statement, but my smirk drops when he walks over and stands in front of the TV, blocking my view. I glance up at him, but he kneels down to be at eye level with me.
"C'mon. It's been...what... two years?" His tone stays light, but something flickers behind his eyes.
A memory neither of us touches.
I flinch as quietly as I can. "Yeah. Exactly. Two years."
Natalie stands behind him, arms folded, giving him a look that says 'begentle.' She steps forward, her voice softer.
"It doesn't have to be like last time," she says, not pushing too far. "It's just a game."
I force a smile, aiming for reassuring. "I know."
But she sees through me like glass. She gives me a quiet look, full of warmth and support, and despite no words being said, I can read her message loud and clear.
I support your choice no matter what.
I give her a fraction of a nod to let her know I understand her, and as a way to say 'thank you.'
Kayce stands, shifting his helmet to his other arm as he heads back towards the door. "We're gonna win tonight. I can feel it. And I swear Lilah, it actually will be fun this time. Promise."
I glance away. The last time I went to a game with them, things were fun—until they weren't. Until the after-party. Until—
No. I shut that thought down quickly.
Kayce must sense it because the teasing drops from his voice entirely.
"Really," he adds quietly, "I hope I see you there."
