We Are In Love In NYC

Friday

June 22, 2029

He gently placed the bouquet of daisies on the kitchen counter, his hands slightly trembling as he adjusted his tie. A whirlwind of thoughts spun through his mind, contemplating the right words to say when he saw her. He desperately wanted to avoid any awkwardness. His internal thoughts ceased abruptly as he heard footsteps descending the stairs.

"Liv's already on her way to the show; she said we can leave now," Spencer said, not lifting his gaze from his phone. Jordan knew he needed to make things right with him.

"Hey, Spence, before we go, I'm really sorry for not telling you about L.A. I got all defensive yesterday because a part of me knew I messed up by not telling you. I am truly sorry," Jordan confessed, his sincerity evident in his voice.

Spencer's expression softened, and a smile tugged at his lips. "As much as I try to deny it, I get why you didn't tell me. I probably would have tried to talk you out of it. I mean, I don't even trust myself with the decisions I make. Miami?" Spencer blurted out, and they both chuckled at his realization. "I'm sorry too, Jay."

They shared a brief but heartfelt hug with Spencer patting Jordan on the back.

"Wow, that felt good. So, you're second-guessing Miami?" Jordan inquired.

"I called the coach today and told him I won't be signing with them. Funny, he felt it's because I was signing with the Rams as well because of you," Spencer revealed.

"Are you?" Jordan asked, a mixture of curiosity and concern in his voice.

"Relax, man, I'm not about to steal your thunder," Spencer teased. "I chose the Giants instead."

"Wow, that's huge, Spence. That team definitely needs you," A flicker of realization crossed his face. It meant Spencer was staying in New York. "Wait, what actually made you choose the Giants?"

"Well, let's say our little brawl yesterday opened up my eyes, and I decided to reflect. I've been a mess these past few years, I was hurt, and I hurt people. I'm done trying to be Spen-der James. I need to be the best version of myself, starting with having that conversation with Liv," Spencer confessed, his voice tinged with determination.

"I'm really happy for you. You've come a long way. So, how do you plan on talking with Liv?" Jordan inquired, genuinely curious about his approach.

"I invited her to the arcade tomorrow. I'll let her win me in pop-a-shot to make her happy before we dive into the heavy stuff," Spencer explained, his tone filled with a mix of hope and resolution.

"Well, she told me she'll talk to you, but I'm glad you made the first move. Also, no one lets Liv win in pop-a-shot; she's a beast," Jordan was amused because none of them has ever beat her.

"Yeah, I know," Spencer looked at him and could see he was still struggling with the inevitable "You and Layla are going to be okay."

"I hope so. I'm already beginning to think the flowers are too much," Jordan said, his tone light, trying to mask his underlying apprehension.

"Nah, you're good. Maybe when she sees you tonight carrying her favourite flowers, she might decide to come with you to L.A.," Spencer attempted to lift his spirits.

"Very funny," Jordan retorted, snatching the bouquet from the counter as they made their way to the door.

*********************

The applause still echoed in her ears as she walked into the space created for her backstage, settling into the solace. The resonance of the crowd's cheer lingered, a sweet melody in her memory. With a deep breath, she closed her eyes, immersing herself once more in the symphony of sounds and emotions that had just unfolded before her.