adore her

Eddies Pov

I'm sitting there waiting for Dustin and Mike to show up empty handed. Why else would they be stalling. When both doors open and this goddess in a band tee and docs walks through the door. Shes got this fluffy curly hair. She looks super shy but her stature gives her the most confident walk I've ever seen in Indiana. I'm speechless. I'm just staring. I collect myself and talk.

The games going and man this girl is the most badass player ive come across. I mean she knows what she's talking about. You wouldn't expect it. Behind those doe eyes is some serious carnage. Shes got this magnetic field around her that just pulls you right in.

During a break Mike pulls me aside when yn is in the bathroom.
"Look man. I know how you are with girls. Not her. Shes been through enough and doesn't need you do wreck her all over again"
I was so caught off guard. What does he mean 'I know how you are with girls'. I take great pride in respecting women. Consent is key. And so on. "What are you talking about"

"Oh come on you've been bickering all night. Flirty bickering. It's obvious something is happening and I'm telling you now. Back. Off"

"What do you mean ill wreck her all over again?"

"Last summer.. she went through some shit. We all did. But she took the big hit. Her best friend died. And her parents are barely there anymore. She can't take any more loss. She pretends she has it all together. Honestly it's sad to see her try so hard to be normal-"

She walks in right then putting on a smile. Mike gives me a firm stare and goes to his seat. I ignore the back off part but I can't get what else he said out of my head. This ball of sunshine right here? I'd never have guessed shes going through it. And her parents?? How could they neglect her after her loss? Right then I felt this overwhelming urge to protect. I would do anything, anything, to protect this girl.

I turn towards her, bend down, and stretch my arms in her direction
"All rise for Gwyneth Berdara, queen of the underworld" I say in a deep English accent.

Everyone rises and bows. She giggles and takes a seat.