Stupidly Hot || Jackie Taylor || No crash AU || Present Time AU ||

Chapter Two || Hotel

As we step into the opulent hotel, a stark contrast to the frugality associated with school funding, I can't help but ask, "Your dad buy this too?" Lottie's affirmative nod is hardly a surprise, considering her family's affluence.

While the Coaches engage in their discussions, I drift towards a window, drawn by the scenic view outside. My eyes widen in amazement as I take in the sight of a magnificent pool area. It's a surreal moment, realizing that we have access to such luxurious amenities.

Glancing at Nat, Van, Tai, and Lottie, I beckon them over, excitement bubbling within me. "Guys," I call out, and they make their way towards me, their curiosity piqued. Nat and Van's expressions mirror my own incredulity at the sight of the pool, while Lottie and Tai share a good-natured laugh at our collective astonishment.

Amidst the chatter, Coach Scott's authoritative voice cuts through. "Alright, everyone!" he announces, effectively silencing the room.

"Each room will accommodate two people, and I want to make it clear that there will be no swapping of roommates once I finalize the assignments."

Nodding in agreement, I find myself hoping for the best as I surreptitiously cross my fingers. The prospect of rooming with one of my friends is undeniably appealing, and I can't help but feel that the odds are in my favor.

"As you'd expect, Coach Martínez and I will share a room, and his sons Travis and Javi will be roommates as well," Coach Scott informs us, setting the groundwork for the arrangements to come.

With a deliberate pause, he gazes down at the list in his hand, anticipation hanging in the air. The tension is palpable as he begins to read off the names, each one representing a pairing that will shape the course of our stay at this hotel.

"Alright, let's get to the room assignments," Coach Scott announces.

"Mari and Akilah," he proclaims, and my eyes flit to their beaming smiles. The way they share a look and reach for a key, it's clear they're both pleased with this arrangement. They walk off together, excitement evident in their steps.

"Gen and Melissa," Coach Scott continues, and I observe the two exchange glances before they also head off.

"Shauna and Taissa," he declares, and I can't help but notice the crestfallen expression on Van's face. My heart sinks a little at the sight of her disappointment; it's obvious she was hoping for a different outcome.

"Charlotte and Natalie," Coach Scott announces, and I catch the genuine happiness radiating from them. Their shared elation reinforces the idea that this pairing is a dream come true for both of them. Now I just have to hope I get paired with Van.

"Laura-Lee and Misty," he continues, and I watch as they collect their key, seemingly content with their match.

"Vanessa and Crystal," the names roll off his tongue, and I'm hit with a sense of apprehension. The implications of this pairing are unsettling, and I can't help but dread the potential dynamics.

The tension mounts as Coach Scott reaches the final pairing. "And finally," he intones, and my gaze shifts to the lone remaining girl in the room. "Y/N and Jackie."

My heart races, and I'm hit with a sudden surge of resistance. "No," I blurt out before I can stop myself. Coach Scott's brows furrow at my outburst, clearly taken aback.

His response is firm, "Yes."

Swallowing my reluctance, I take a deep breath and force myself to step forward. I reach for the keys before Jackie can, determined to take control of the situation. As I clutch the keys in my hand, I meet Jackie's gaze, and the tension between us is palpable.