Scattering Lilac Ashes

Chapter Sixty-Seven

Upon coming home from the debate, armed with several muffins and packets of Smiths chips, Lila noticed a text message from Asher.

Thanks Lila. I feel a lot better, but I think I need to let it all out still. Dunno how, but thanks, it read.

You're welcome, Lila replied. She sent a second message that read, I just told you the truth, though

I know, Asher replied instantaneously. I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight

Goodnight

Sure enough, Saturday morning practice seemed to be a very effective outlet for Asher to let off his residual steam. He jogged over upon spotting her in her hockey uniform and wielding her hockey stick on Jacoval.

"Hey," he grinned, bouncing on his feet as he stood before her.

"Hey," Lila returned his grin with her own. "I see you're in high spirits."

"It's amazing what physical exercise can do," Asher confirmed, still bouncing. "I've run a couple laps this morning already."

"Did you get here early?"

"I always get here early," Asher shrugged. "Got nothing else to do in the morning."

Mr Kovac barked at Asher to get back to his side of the oval and he seemed reluctant to do so. Before he left, he asked whether he'd be going to Lila's straight after practice.

"I'd assumed so," Lila nodded. "But if you want to, you can go home first."

"Nah," Asher shook his head. "I need all the time I can get."

"Alright," Lila smiled.

"Wagner," growled Mr Kovac, beginning to stomp towards Asher.

"See ya later!" Asher called as he sprinted back to his section of the oval, rushing past Mr Kovac like the lashing wind.

Today, practice was focused on fixing up form and mistakes made in the last match. Their second match would be next week - an away game over at Sandy Lakes. Having beaten Sandy Lakes last game, Lila was cautious to be too optimistic about their chances next week. Sandy Lakes was sure to want revenge, after all.

Lila was about to trudge off the oval at the end of her gruelling practice when a sweaty, pink Theo called out to her.

"Hey," he said, a barely perceptible smile on his face. He caught up to her, panting slightly.

"Hi Theo," Lila replied curiously.

"How was practice?"

"It was good," Lila nodded. "Looks like you worked hard."

"I work hard all the time," Theo laughed. "Got any plans for the weekend?"

"Yeah, pretty busy since it's exam week. You?"

Theo glanced at his hands before shoving them in his pockets. "Studying, mainly. But I was wonder-"

"Hey Lila, you ready to go?" Asher interrupted their conversation, his eyes narrowed. Lila hadn't noticed his approach, which unsettled her slightly. Asher stood a metre or so back from Theo, his hands on his hips, his prior good mood suddenly vanishing into a serious expression.

"Yeah," Lila replied, turning towards the carpark. "Clare's already here. See you later, Theo."

Theo gave her a half-hearted wave. "See you on Tuesday."

"What was Theo talking to you about?" Asher asked stiffly once they had walked out of earshot of Theo. Lila shrugged.

"Seemed like small talk."