Chapter 3
The Opening Over
The morning of their first match arrived with crisp air and a clear sky, perfect for cricket. Charlotte’s nerves buzzed as she adjusted her cap, bat in hand.
Alexander jogged over, a grin plastered across his face. “Relax. Today’s about having fun… and showing off a little, naturally.”
Charlotte rolled her eyes. “Right. Show off. Got it.”
The match began. Charlotte was first to bat, and the opposing bowler sent the ball hurtling toward her. She swung, connecting perfectly—her first boundary for the team. The cheer from her teammates made her chest swell with pride.
Alexander clapped from the field. “That’s my new favourite player!” he called, making her laugh despite her nerves.
Throughout the innings, Alexander was a constant presence—encouraging, teasing, and somehow distracting her all at once. He fielded near her, shouting tips and playful jabs, making her grin despite the pressure.
At lunch, they sat under a tree, sweaty and flushed.
“You’re surprisingly good under pressure,” Alexander said, handing her a bottle of water.
“And you’re annoyingly confident,” Charlotte replied, laughing. “Seriously, how can you make everything seem so easy?”
Alexander shrugged, brushing dust off his whites. “It’s all part of my charm.”
Charlotte shook her head, smiling. “I’m not sure I like your charm. It’s… distracting.”
“Distracting in a good way, I hope?” he teased, nudging her shoulder.
Her heart skipped, and she looked away, embarrassed but unable to stop smiling. Maybe cricket wasn’t just about the game—it was about moments like these, the playful glances and quiet laughter shared on a sunlit field.
And maybe, just maybe, it was about Alexander, who had already become impossible to ignore.