Chapter 8
Nash
It’s been two days since my night out with the team and my encounter with Leo. I’ve been confused and turned on, and it’s driving me crazy. Tonight, we are heading out for another away game.
I settle into my seat on the bus, the familiar hum of the engine blending with the raucous chatter of my teammates. I can't help the thrill that shoots through me when Leo approaches, phone in hand, a cocky grin plastered across his face.
He sits beside me, his legs brushing against mine. He starts a movie, holding it in his lap, and I can’t help but glance at the screen.
We don’t talk, but Leo moves his phone so I can see the movie better. It’s a kind, unspoken gesture, and I’m not sure what to think, but I go with it.
A funny part plays out, and we both erupt in laughter.
Leo’s grin widens, and for a brief moment, our eyes lock, a shared understanding blossoming amid the chaos. I know this is just the beginning of something more profound, an unraveling that beckons just beyond this fleeting moment of laughter on the bus.
“What are you girls giggling about?” Sean shouts from the row in front of us.
I know his words are meant to be a joke, but it still stings a little.
“Just thinking about your mom last night,” Leo jests, shocking me.
Sean just holds up his middle finger, and all I can do is look at Leo and smile.