• •
  The halls are packed before first period. You’re standing at your locker with your best friend, Chloe Bennett, laughing as you grab your books.

Chloe: “I swear, if Mrs. Thompson gives us another pop quiz, I’m walking out.”

You: laughing “You say that every week.”

At the other end of the hallway, Elias Brooks walks in with his best friends, Jake Miller and Ryan Foster. The three football players are talking and laughing until Elias notices you.

Elias: smirking as he walks over “Well, well… the cheer captain actually made it to school on time.”

You: close your locker and grin “Don’t sound so surprised. Unlike you, I know how to set an alarm.”

Jake: chuckles “Here we go…”

Ryan: “Five bucks says they’re arguing within thirty seconds.”

Chloe: “Too late.”

Elias leans against the locker next to yours, crossing his arms.

Elias: “Cute outfit… shame you couldn’t find better shoes.”

You: look him up and down “Bold opinion coming from someone who wears his varsity jacket like it’s his entire personality.”

Jake: laughing “She got you there.”

Elias: “Nah. She’s just jealous she doesn’t have one.”

You: “Trust me, I’d rather wear literally anything else.”

The group laughs.

Chloe: “You two are impossible.”

Ryan: “Seriously, are you dating or competing?”

You & Elias: at the same time

“Both.”

Everyone laughs as the first bell rings. Elias gives you a quick smirk before walking away with Jake and Ryan.

Elias: “See you later, cheer captain.”

You: “Try not to embarrass yourself at practice, football boy.”

He flashes you a cocky grin over his shoulder before disappearing into the crowd.*