Chapter 26
A few days later, after trying out more bonding activities—going on morning runs together, baking, and even playing charades and co-op video games—we’re back on the courts and meeting with Anthony.
He has us starting with some warm-up drills again, same as last time which we execute perfectly.
And yet when Anthony brings a partner on the court and we begin the match, our communication is still off.
Even though we establish early on who’s covering what area of the court, we still step on each other’s toes.
At the end of practice, Anthony pulls us aside.
“I see the improvements, you two are talking more. You’re just not quite there yet.
Keep doing what you’re doing, practice more and try not to play as many ground strokes.
Don’t be afraid to move away from the baseline and come closer to the net.
Work on your volleys for next time, alright? ”
Both of us nod, deflated once more.
“Maybe I’m not cut out for doubles,” I mumble, wiping my face and packing up my equipment.
“Of course you are,” Maggie says hotly. I look up, startled at the fire in her voice. “You can do anything you put your mind to. We’re going to conquer this and we’re going to win that damn exhibition game. Especially against Elena,” she mutters.
“I appreciate the support, but I don’t know, maybe I should give up the idea of doubles.”
“Absolutely not,” she says, walking up and placing her hands on my slumped shoulders.
“You’re doing just fine. I’m the one fucking up the most and messing up.
But after the exhibition, you’re going to find a better partner and you’re going to ace this.
Mark my words,” she says, getting a determined look on her face.
I can’t help but believe her that everything will turn out just fine.
“What if I don’t want another partner?” I blurt out, immediately clamping my mouth shut.
“What do you mean?” she says, brushing her thumbs over my collarbone.
I swallow and close my eyes, letting my forehead press against hers. “What if I only want to play with you?” I ask quietly.
Maggie inhales sharply and her hands tighten their hold on me. “Rowan…” she says, trailing off.
I open my eyes and pull back. I’m asking too much of her. And it’s not the right question anyway. What I really want to ask is if she’ll be mine. No more hiding, no more list. Just us. Together.
“Sorry, I shouldn’t have asked that. I know it’s not what you want,” I say, putting some distance between us and grabbing my bag.
I bite the inside of my cheek to keep myself from saying more.
From justifying that—to me, playing doubles with her is the same as spending the rest of our lives together.
But if we can’t even figure out how to play together for a charity game, then what hope do I have left?
I swallow against the sinking hole in my chest and back away. “I’ll meet you at the car after showering.”