In the end, it's only us - Kate Martin

10. Special Yet Not So Special Night

Time skip

March 24, 2023; Climate Pledge Arena; Seattle, Washington

Chapter 10.

Narrative + Instagram

Olivia's POV;

I'm at the edge of my seat as I take the photos, currently Iowa is against Colorado and it's such a close game. The second quarter just ended now with the score being 39-40.

Halftime just began as the girls head to the locker. I stay out here with Drew as we continue taking photos, this time of Iowa fans.

"When are you and Kate gonna date? Like seriously, I've seen the way you two look at each other." Drew says as I just look at him with a 'are you serious face'.

"Drew you know we aren't like that," I explain to him as I fix the settings of the camera in my hand, "either way it wouldn't happen."

"And why not? She'll treat you right." Drew says, desperate for me to finally give in to my feelings. Over the past few months my feelings have only gotten stronger no matter how many times I've tried to shut them down or deny it.

"Because I won't let her. I can't. Not after these dumb relationships I've had, it's not worth it." Kate is different, I knew that since I first met her. But that doesn't mean anything. At least yet.

She'll end up breaking my heart, these walls have been constructed already and I can't let her break them. Nothing can happen between us, nothing.

"At least give her one chance, I know she likes you. It's pretty obvious that you also like her back." Drew pleads, setting aside his camera for now.

"I don't know Drew, I've already had bad relationships I don't need another failed." I say once again, this time my voice a little stern to let him know I'm done talking about this.

"Alright fine, but just think about it yea? She follows you around like some lost puppy." He grins as he thinks about it as I just shake my head at him.

"Just shut up and take your photos." He mumbles a 'yes' as he picks up his camera once again to take photos of the crowds.

Halftime is finally over as the girls head back to the court and some to the bench. Catching my eye I see Kate looking in the crowd over at my direction.

She catches my eye and gives me a warm smile, smiling back to her I raise my camera to capture a photo of that. Kate runs back to the court, taking her position.

"Just friends my ass." Drew mutters next to me as I give him a slight shove, mumbling a 'shut up'

Once the game is finished, the crowd roars in excitement as Iowa wins 87-77. Poor Colorado.

The girls celebrate with each other as they win the Sweet 16, now going to head to Elite Eight. We head down to the court as we take pictures of the girls celebrating as well as the crowd.

Once we finish taking the photos we set it down for a moment or congratulate the girls on their win, hugging them. Drew gives me a slight shove and before I protest he moves his head towards a direction.

Following to where he pointed to, I see Kate. Walking over to her she catches a glimpse of me, now walking towards me.

She embraced me as I quickly accept it. Wrapping my arms around her back, I hold her to me.

"Good job, you did amazing!" I say into her ear, a bit louder than usual since the arena is still a bit loud. Feeling her hands on my waist she leans into my ear.