If Only (GxG)

Chapter 12 Navigation

I brush some damp strands of hair away from my face, avoiding her optimistic gaze. "Look, I respect the fact that you're passionate, but I don't really do soccer. Or basketball, or volleyball, or—well, you get the picture."

Charlotte folds her arms, still refusing to be disheartened. "See, that's the thing: you have this insane morning workout routine. You're basically training like a serious athlete already—but all by yourself." She holds up a bright flyer—no doubt the schedule for the soccer team's training. "If you want to try a group dynamic, at least give us a chance. We practice after school a couple days a week. It's good fun—and, full disclosure, we could definitely use someone with your tenacity."

I can't help a tiny snort at the word "fun." For me, running is fun; fighting for a ball with a pack of aggressive players isn't. Still, Charlotte's unwavering optimism makes me feel a bit guilty.

"I'm... flattered," I say slowly, reaching for my towel to dab at the sweat on my neck, "but I'm not exactly the best with team strategies, let alone all that footwork."

She lifts one shoulder in a casual shrug. "We can teach you the ins and outs—Amy picked it up super fast. You're fast, and you've got endurance, which is half the battle. You can learn how to dribble and pass."

I raise an eyebrow and gesture at the flyer. "That's all scheduled for after school, right?"

Charlotte nods. "Yup. Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus occasional match days. I know you like your solitude," she adds with a slight grin, "but sometimes trying something different is worth it. I promise not to pester you endlessly—just wanted you to know you'd be more than welcome."

With a sigh, I accept the flyer, scanning the printed practice times. "I appreciate it, I really do. It's just... not my comfort zone."

She offers me a sympathetic look. "I get it. But my door's open if you change your mind. Everyone on the team thinks you'd be a natural."

I manage a tiny smile. "Thanks. I'll keep it in mind, I guess."

Charlotte's face brightens, as though that small concession was all the encouragement she needed. "Great! Didn't mean to interrupt your workout, by the way." Her gaze flicks over my still-sweaty form, and she laughs lightly. "I'll leave you to it, then."

She turns for the door, but I feel a pang of remorse at brushing her off so many times. "Hey— Charlotte?"

She glances back. "Yeah?"

"I appreciate you not giving up on me," I say, fiddling with the corner of the flyer. "Maybe one of these days I'll, uh, surprise you and show up to a practice."

Her grin broadens, and she salutes playfully. "I'll look forward to the shock on everyone's faces. Have a good morning, Alison."

With that, she slips out of the heavy gym doors. Once she's gone, I exhale and glance down at the schedule, feeling the usual swirl of guilt and relief.

『 °*• ❀ •*°』

Biology is my first class of the day, and I settle between Ross and Amy while our teacher drones on about mitochondria.
It's painfully dull, but I know I have to pay attention if I plan to improve on that dismal 65% I got last month.

Just recalling the big red numbers on my test paper makes me grit my teeth—not happening again.

When the bell rings, ending the session, the three of us funnel into the hallway on our way to Maths. As soon as we're clear of the classroom door, Ross clears his throat. Both Amy and I glance over at him, eyebrows raised expectantly.