Chapter 4
Fielding and Flirtation
The following evening, the women’s team gathered for a practice session under the golden glow of the setting sun. Charlotte arrived early, hoping to get some extra batting practice in before everyone else showed up.
“Thought I’d find you here,” Alexander said, jogging up with his bag slung over his shoulder. “Practising alone, or plotting to steal all the wickets?”
Charlotte smirked. “Maybe a bit of both. You?”
“I’m here to make sure no one outshines me,” he replied, tossing her a ball. “Just kidding—I’m here to help. Probably.”
They spent the next hour running drills together—fielding, catching, and batting. Every time Charlotte stumbled or missed a ball, Alexander was there with an encouraging word or a teasing grin.
“You missed that one,” he said after a particularly tricky catch.
“I did not,” Charlotte argued, rolling her eyes.
“You did,” he replied, nudging her lightly with his shoulder. “But it’s okay. Everyone has their off days. Except me, of course.”
She laughed, shaking her head. “I’m beginning to think you enjoy making me laugh more than actually practising.”
“Guilty,” he admitted, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “But if it helps, I think you’re improving.”
Charlotte felt a flutter in her chest. “Thanks… I think.”
As the practice continued, their banter became easier, more natural. Alexander’s teasing was never cruel, and Charlotte found herself enjoying every moment—every shared laugh, every competitive challenge, every quiet glance.
By the time practice ended, the sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the field in warm shades of pink and gold.
“Race you to the pavilion,” Alexander said suddenly, sprinting ahead.
Charlotte chased after him, laughing and breathless, her heart light. Even in the middle of cricket drills, she realized that being with Alexander felt different—fun, easy, and… a little thrilling.
And as they reached the pavilion, both laughing and slightly out of breath, Charlotte knew that their connection was only just beginning.