The Assistant Coach (BOOK 1: OMEN KING SERIES)

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Kohl Warren

We finish up practice and head to the showers, all of us covered in sweat and sand. I quickly rinse off and wrap a towel around my waist, taking a moment to observe the locker room.

The guys are all chatting and laughing, a rare sight for our typically stoic group. Even Ant, who usually keeps to himself, is engaging with the freshmen, even if it's to tell the freshman to fuck off. It's clear that Leia has changed the dynamic even if the other guys won't admit it.

"I just needed a breather," Miller mutters as he pulls on his shirt.

I can't help but chuckle at the memory of Leia scolding Miller. It was a sight to behold. While everyone was concerned for her well-being, she was more focused on calling out Miller for slacking off.

"She didn't even check on herself after crashing into that pole," Ronald quips, his laughter infectious enough to make Owen join in.

"Are you boys decent?" Coach Johnson's voice booms through the locker room, and we all assure him we are.

Leia enters the locker room, standing tall and confident despite the sea of half-naked guys. My eyes scan her from head to toe, making sure she isn't injured or in pain, thankfully she seems completely fine.

The redhead beside her seems jittery, unsure of how to handle Owen's shirtless body. Leia's eyes briefly meet mine before darting away, a hint of discomfort in her expression.

I can't seem to shake off the memory of that kiss. Funny how alcohol only seems to erase the forgettable moments. But when I desperately want to forget something, alcohol doesn't do shit to make that happen.

"You guys need to shape up, even if you've got abs. If you can't run twenty times back and forth in the sand, then you're not as fit as you think," Leia earns a chorus of groans from the guys.

At least they're not hurling insults at Leia like usual, so I count that as progress.

Kateb, always quick-witted, fires back, "Why don't you join us next time and see how fit you are?"

I immediately retract my previous statement about progress as it seems to have left the building the moment those words entered my mind.

However, instead of the usual snarky comeback, Leia surprises us all by bursting into laughter. The guys are left staring in a mix of fear and confusion

Without missing a beat, Leia declares, "Fair point. I'll run with you punks next time."

The guys exchange uncertain looks but I smile because I know she means it. She will own up to her word and run with us.

"Last but not least, let me introduce Ari. She's going to be the one responsible for making sure you boys don't keel over from dehydration," Leia announces with a grand gesture, stepping aside to reveal a timid-looking Ari who nervously waves at us.

"Sounds good," They all chime in unison, causing Leia to shoot them all death glares.

"Keep your grubby little fingers to yourself punks," her eyes narrow in disapproval.

As Leia heads to the locker room doors with red head Ari in tow, I feel a chill run down my spine as Leia turns her head and smiles at me.

That smile of hers, it seemed to reach out and touch something deep inside of me. But why? It was just a simple, friendly gesture.

Was it because she thought I was avoiding her? Or maybe the smile was her way of letting me know that the kiss was water under the bridge?

Or maybe she fell in love with me?