Young But Real (5 YA Short Stories)

The Date

"You have a game today?" I stare with wide eyes at the basketball stadium in front of us while Finn parks the car.

"Yup."

"Surprise Selena! No. I will not go in there. I'll wait here or go home." I cross my arms in front of my chest.

"Come on." His hand reaches out after opening the passenger door. I ignore him. "Eloise and Archer are waiting for you."

"They're here?"

"Yup, inside. Come out or I'll carry you."

I stomp as soon as I get out of the car. Finn hugs me from behind and kisses my cheek.

"I want to prove to you that you're not a distraction."

"I won't cheer and just sit there quietly."

"Yeah, right," he says, chuckling as we walk towards the stadium.

"Selena, over here!" Eloise shouts and waves frantically to catch my attention.

"See you later, baby." He kisses me softly and I blush at his PDA.

"Good luck," I say breathlessly, making him smirks and I go to where my friends are.

"Hi bitches!" I say, rolling my eyes.

"Don't be mad. We support this love team," Archer teases while giving me a bag of my favorite corn chips —Tostitos Mild Cheddar — and a bottle of water.

"You came prepared. Thanks."

"Peace offering," he smirks.

The game starts and I keep munching my snacks to keep my mouth occupied. However, the game is getting more personal fouls and I can't help but shout 'hey' whenever Finn stumbles backwards or falls on the floor. He is about to shoot the ball when a defensive player taps his arm, making the ball circle the ring.

"W T F!" I shout loudly, feeling my adrenaline rushing through my body.

The referee calls for the foul, at the same time the ball gets into the basket.

"Yes!" The crowd on our side hoots.

Our team earns two free throws and I am jumping and shouting on the bench to cheer for Finn.

"He made it! That's my boyfriend!"

Eloise drags my wrist to make me sit and Finn winks at me when the game resumes. I'm grinning and I know my throat will be painful tomorrow. My friends are shaking their heads in amusement. The game ends with the victory on our side.

As soon as Finn emerges from the changing room, I jump into him and he laughs softly while adjusting his hold on me.

"Hi girlfriend."

We kiss briefly until someone clears his throat. I bury my face in his chest to hide my embarrassment as soon as my feet touch the ground.

"I'm sorry for my behavior last time Selena."

I turn around to see James, scratching his head and looking apologetic and sincere.

"We're good." I smile and look at the other players.

"Congratulations for winning the game," says Eloise.

Most of the players respond with thanks while others just smirk.

"Where are we going after this?" I whisper at Finn.

"I'm starving so lunch with your friends and later, an outdoor cinema?"

"You have pillows and blankets too?"

"Uh-huh! I know you like watching movies in an open space."

"How did...did you spy on me?"