Fragile

Chapter 2 - Number Swap

"I should get back to Riggs before he destroys something over there." She chuckled and so did I.

"Of course. He's a good kid."

"Mostly." She smirked. "ADHD boys aren't for the weak."

"I'm sure you're rather strong then."

Evelyn's lips tugged up slightly. "Goodbye, Leah."

"Goodbye, Evelyn."

As I walked back toward Beth, I couldn't help the small, inexplicable smile tugging at my lips.

Georgia decided to go see some of the girls, leaving me alone. Maybe it's a good time to text her.

Leah: Hey, hope I'm not bothering you.

I didn't hear back for a while, and I started second-guessing sending the message at all. But then, my phone buzzed.

Evelyn: Not at all. Sorry, just got Riggs to bed. How's your night?

Leah: Quiet. Georgia abandoned me for some of the other girls.

Evelyn: Poor you. Left all alone in a fancy hotel room. Must be tough.

Leah: Hey, it's Leah—hope you don't mind me texting. Just wanted to say it was really nice seeing you today.

Evelyn: Hey! No, of course not. It was nice seeing you too. And Riggs hasn't stopped talking about your autograph. He made me buy him a frame for it.

Leah: That's adorable. Hope he doesn't get too attached.

Evelyn: Haha, good luck with that. He's already calling it his "good luck charm."

Leah: Guess I'll have to win every game now. No pressure or anything.

Evelyn: None at all. Just the hopes and dreams of a six-year-old riding on your shoulders.

Leah: Brilliant. Exactly the kind of motivation I need.

Evelyn: I feel like you're the kind of person who thrives under pressure.

Leah: Something like that. Comes with the job, I guess. But enough about me. What about you? What's your day been like?

Evelyn: Long. Work, classes, then trying to convince Riggs that bedtime exists.

Leah: Sounds exhausting.

Evelyn: It is. But he makes it worth it.

Leah: I can tell. You're a good mum.

Evelyn: That's sweet of you to say. I try.

Leah: You more than try.

Evelyn: ...Okay, don't be nice, or I might actually start liking you.

Leah: Would that be so bad? 😉

Evelyn: Maybe. You're a professional athlete. I'm a very busy, very tired nursing student. Not exactly the easiest match.

Leah: Nah, I've played harder games.

Evelyn: You're impossible.

Leah: But charming?

Evelyn: Debatable.

Leah: Ouch. Alright, before my ego takes a fatal hit—do you want to get coffee or something in a few days? No pressure, just... I'd like to see you again.