CAMERON
Practice was intense, the sound of sneakers squeaking on the polished floor and the echo of the bouncing basketballs filled the gym. I played my heart out, fueled by the secret joy. A fellow teammate, Jake clapped me on the back, his eyes filled with curiosity. "What's got you in such a good mood, Captain? You've been on fire today!"
I chuckled, keeping my little secret guarded. "Just feeling motivated, you know."
I wiped the sweat off my forehead using the back of my hand and inhaled deeply, relishing the sense of accomplishment after a satisfying practice session. Glancing around, I noticed my teammates diligently training under the guidance of our coach. Suddenly, a high-pitched voice exclaimed. "You were amazing out there!" Startled, I turned to see Lara standing so near that I nearly collided with her.
I wasn't really in the mood to interact with her. I thanked Lara politely and tried to dismiss her, hoping she would take the hint and I started walking towards the locker. But she's undeterred. She stepped closer to me, invading my personal space as she twirled a strand of her hair between her fingers. Her tone became even flirtier as she continued. "Oh, come on, don't be shy. I couldn't take my eyes off you the whole time."
I couldn't help but roll my eyes, feeling my patience dwindling even more. I took a step back, putting a good amount of distance between us. I noticed a brief hesitation in her smile, but she swiftly regained her flirty demeanor. "Don't be like that, Cam. We could have so much fun together." She winked.
I could feel irritation mounting as my voice began to show signs of frustration. "Lara, I have no interest in playing games or getting involved with someone who doesn't respect boundaries. It's best if you leave."
"You think you're so special, don't you? You're nothing more than a cocky jock. You'll regret turning me down."
Droplets of sweat clung to my skin as I made my way to the locker room ignoring Lara's intense glare. The locker room creaked open, and cool air hit me. I stripped off my jersey and jumped into the shower.
The hot water from the showerhead hits my skin and I let out a content sigh as the water cascaded over me, washing away the intensity of the game and leaving me feeling refreshed. The water pounded relentlessly against my muscles. The vision of Elle's radiant smile, brightening even the darkest corner of my mind, sent shivers down my spine. My mind wandered to an imaginary scenario, one where she was standing beside me in this steamy, hot shower.
I could almost feel the heat radiating from her body as our skin brushed together, her delicate touch calming the turmoil within me. The sound of the water hitting the tiled floor was matching the rapid beat of my heart. My hand reached out instinctively, imagining it brushing against her moist skin, tracing the contours of her face. The sensation of her luscious lips pressed against mine became almost tangible.
But reality came crashing back as soon the lukewarm water hit my back.
Stepping out of the shower, a cloud of steam trailing behind me, I caught my reflection in the foggy mirror. There was a genuine smile on my face, a stark contrast to the usual post-practice weariness.
I dried off and got dressed. I replayed all those moments in my head and I found myself smiling like a fool in the locker room.
Heading to my class, I took a seat next to Nathan at my usual desk. "Someone's in a good mood."
I reclined, my grin growing wider. I could sense myself grinning foolishly. My thoughts kept presenting me with images of Elle's long, luscious blonde hair, the way it cascaded gracefully down her shoulders, and those striking blue eyes. They have become my regular dream content.
She was a solid five feet but an eleven out of ten.
My emotions were getting the best of me. Every time I see her, my heart races, and it feels like my knees are about to buckle.
"Earth to Cam!"
I blinked, snapping back to reality. Nathan chuckled. "Must be some serious day dream." He nudged my shoulder, and had a cunning smirk on his face. I know he is fully aware of the direction my mind wandered. I shake my head slightly, trying to focus on the conversation at hand, but it's futile. Every word Nathan speaks feels like a background noise.
"Cam, you've got that stupid grin again. What's up with you?"
I shrugged. "Nothing, just thinking about stuff."
Nathan playfully nudged me, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "It's her, right?" I let out a resigned sigh, finally unable to hide the truth from my best friend any longer. My cheeks flushed crimson, and I found myself unable to wipe the smile off my face or stop blushing throughout the day. People around me couldn't help but wonder why I was grinning like a fool from the moment my day started.
"Love has turned you into a big soft teddy bear, my man." Nathan playfully taunted me. He shot me a mockingly disgusted glance, clearly joking around.
"You've got that James dean look in your eyes."
I chuckled nervously, scratching my head. "Cut it out. It's not like that."
"Oh, come on, Mr. Tough guy. You're practically glowing. It's written all over your blushing face."
I couldn't help but blush again. I bent my head, trying to hide the smile that was impossible to contain. "You should ask her out. Take her on a date." Nathan whispered in my ears.
I frantically shook my head. "No, Nathan, I couldn't possibly. What if she rejects me?"
Nathan burst into laughter, slapping me on the back. "Cam, you've got to take risks if you want to win the jackpot. Besides, you're a total catch. I'm sure she'll say yes."
"Funny thing is Nate, I've already asked her out."
Nathan's eyes widened in surprise. "Seriously He screamed. "I can't believe it. Did she say yes?"
I held up a hand, sheepishly. "Well, not exactly. We made a deal, you see. If I win the upcoming basketball match, she has to go out with."
"And if you don't?"
"It's a win or lose situation."
Nathan said enthusiastically. "You're going to win that match, no doubt about it! Then Elle won't be able to say no to a date with the famous Cameron Smith."
I couldn't help but chuckle at Nathan's enthusiasm. "But you know the first match of the season is always the hardest. We're up against our toughest rivals."
"Come on, you've got this. You're the captain after all."
The teacher walked into the classroom and spoke monotonously about various subjects, but I couldn't find the motivation to pay attention. I was completely absorbed in planning our perfect first date.
I firmly believed that we could win the upcoming match. The great bond between my teammates and me was evident in how well we worked together on the court. But I couldn't shake off a constant feeling of unease, hinting that maybe our efforts weren't enough.
The stakes were high and I'm willing to take this risk.
I considered various ideas, but none of them feel quite right. A cliché movie night filled with popcorns and cuddles? Too predictable. A romantic dinner at a fancy restaurant? Too formal. I want something that reflects who we are, something unique to the connection we share.
None of the ideas seemed to capture what I wanted.
***
I parked my car outside and stepped inside. I kicked off my shoes and wearily sank into the couch. Feeling sticky and tired from practice earlier, I decided to freshen up before choosing an outfit. I hurriedly jumped into the shower. The warm water cascaded down my tired body.
Once I was clean, I reached for my towel, drying myself and wrapped it around my waist. My reflection in the foggy bathroom mirror caught my eye, and I ruffled my damp hair with my fingers. I shaped my hair into a casual yet stylish look. It took a few tries to get it right, but eventually, I was satisfied with my results.
I walked over to my closet and I, settled on a crisp button-down shirt paired with dark jeans and a sleek black blazer. I grabbed the car keys and the gift from the table and headed towards my car.
The sun was setting, casting an orange glow on the horizon. I set the maps towards my aunt Maria's house, which was almost an hour away. I was very excited to meet my favorite cousin.
Aunt Maria, my mom's sister, and Layne, my cousin, hold a special place in my heart. They were there for me without hesitation when I went through the toughest period of my life. Meanwhile, my dad was too busy having a fling with other women while my mom rested in her death bed.
Although I may come across as arrogant at times, there was something special about the bond I had with Layne and Aunt Maria. It was a connection that went beyond the distant relationship I had with my dad's family.
Finally reaching my destination, I parked my car. Stepping out on the familiar paved driveway, I adjusted my jacket and rang the doorbell.
The door swung open and I walked inside to see the place packed with her friends and family. It was Layne's sweet sixteen. Making my way through the crowd, I greeted each relative with a smile and a hug.
"Cam!" Aunt Maria pulled me into a warm hug. "How are you, my boy?"
She was a tall, elegant women with warm and compassionate eyes that sparkled with affection every time she saw me. I greeted her back, pulling her into a tight hug. She has been like a second mother to me, especially after mom passed away.
"I'm fine. How are you?"
"A little older." We all chuckled.
"If it isn't my least favorite cousin." I twirled around, a big grin appearing on my face. Playful banter and teasing were always present in my relationship with Layne. From the very start, we connected in a way that was different from my other cousins.
"Layne!" I called out, grinning widely as I turned around. "Look at you, all grown up!"
"About time you showed up. I was starting to think you got lost in the parking lot." She patted my shoulder. I chuckled, rolling my eyes. "Nah, just taking my time to make a grand entrance."
Our banters were something that kept me sane during my hard times. The more we teased, the louder the laughter around us grew.
"Remember that time when you tried to skateboard down the hill and ended up in a bush." Layne teased.
I chuckled, shaking my head. "Oh, come on. That was one time, and it was small bush."
The memories flooded back, and we found ourselves recalling the countless fond memories and mischiefs we'd done growing up. We laughed and teased, it felt good to reunite with my family.
"Yeah, sure, tell that to the scratch on your arm." She pointed towards my left arm.
"Layne, darling, it's time for cake-cutting."
"Coming." Layne screamed. "Come-on loser."
Layne excitedly sliced through her birthday cake, causing the room to erupted in cheers and applauses, surrounded by her friends and family. I stood beside her, clutching the small bag close to me. One by one, her friends presented her with gifts, each one bringing a look of surprise and joy to her face. Once all her friends had finished giving their presents, my grandma approached Layne, holding a large gift wrapped in red paper. It was huge.
Layne wasted no time in tearing off the wrapping, revealing a massive photo frame that contained a picture of all of us. The photo was taken during our visit to the zoo, when I was ten years old and Layne was around six or seven. It was a special day, as each family member was present for dinner that day. I loved that day. Mom was present too.
Then, it was my turn. I handed her the bag. She pulled out the gift and tore open the gifting paper, revealing the novel.
Her face lit up, and she turned towards me with a surprised look. "Cam, how did you know?" She exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. "This is exactly the one I've been wanting to read." I couldn't help but smile at her reaction.
"I'm damn sure that this wasn't your idea."
"No, it was my idea."
"Stop taking credits for others' ideas. Spill!" Layne slightly nudged my shoulder.
"My friend suggested this book."
"Is your friend a girl?" Layne leaned forward.
I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I should reveal the truth. But then, meeting her curious gaze, I found myself opening up about Elle. "Come on, Cam." She screamed.
"Fine, fine! There's this girl... she's smart, and fun, and beautiful. She's got these big blue eyes and this hair and her smile, ahhh!" I started blushing intensely. I couldn't help but smile like a high-schooler who just won over his crush.
"Aww." Layne's eyes sparkled. "You've got it bad, Cuz." I couldn't help but smile, realizing that Layne was right. Maybe I did have it bad for Elle, and there was no denying the way my heart raced whenever she was around.