FATED TO BE YOURS

Chapter 30: Clutch of Love

As Tee, Yuki, Jim, Kade, and Mon gathered at the firing range, excitement buzzed in the air. Sam took her place, firing rounds with precision as the others watched from behind the safety of the clear glass partition, enjoying snacks and drinks.

Mon's brow furrowed with worry as she watched Sam's every move, her concern evident in her tense expression. Tee noticed Mon's unease and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Mon," Tee said softly, "Sam's got this. She's a natural."

Mon's anxiety persisted, and she couldn't help but voice her concern to the group. "Has Sam been doing this for a while?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Jim nodded reassuringly, understanding Mon's apprehension. "Yeah, she's been coming here to release stress and unwind," she confirmed. "She's actually really good at it."

Mon's concern deepened, her worry for Sam's well-being overriding her initial apprehension. "But what about Sam's heart condition?" she pressed, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Kade shook her head, offering reassurance. "Actually, this activity has been beneficial for Sam," she explained. "It helps her release the internal turmoil she's been dealing with, clearing her mind and reducing stress."

Mon's brow furrowed as she absorbed Kade's words, a glimmer of understanding dawning in her eyes. Despite her lingering worries, she took solace in knowing that Sam had found a healthy outlet to cope with her struggles.

Tee shifted the conversation, her concern evident as she addressed Mon directly. "Hey, Mon, is everything okay between you and Sam?" she asked gently.

Mon's shoulders sagged slightly as she confessed, "Honestly, things have been a bit strained lately. Sam's been feeling like she's just my rebound, and I can tell she can't shake it off her mind."

The weight of Mon's words hung heavy in the air as the group absorbed the gravity of the situation.

"And to top it off," Mon continued, her voice trembling slightly, "last night Sam had a dream about Nop. In the dream, I said that I still loved him."

As Mon poured out her heart, she revealed another layer of her inner turmoil. "Sometimes, Sam's behavior really gets under my skin," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "But I can't stand being mad at her for long."

Jim's eyes sparkled with joy as he listened to Mon's confession. Unable to contain his enthusiasm, he interjected, "Aww, Mon, it's clear as day – you really love Sam."

Mon's cheeks flushed with a mixture of emotions – gratitude for Jim's insight and the weight of her own feelings for Sam. In that moment, surrounded by supportive friends, she found solace in knowing that her love for Sam was a beacon of light, guiding her through even the darkest of times.

Kade offered a thoughtful perspective to Mon, suggesting, "Maybe Sam's behavior is stemming from a fear of wanting something so deeply. She's not used to it, especially considering her heart condition. It's possible that she's afraid of the potential consequences, and that's causing her to feel paranoid."

Mon nodded slowly, contemplating Kade's words. It made sense – Sam's fear of losing her could be driving her actions, manifesting as doubt and insecurity. "You might be right," Mon acknowledged, a sense of understanding washing over her.

Tee interjected, curiosity piqued. "By the way, is Kirk still pursuing Sam?" she asked, her tone laced with intrigue.

Mon sighed, her irritation evident. "Yeah, he still calls her from time to time, which really gets on my nerves," she admitted.

Kade chimed in, offering reassurance with a touch of humor. "Mon, don't worry about Kirk. He's just the reason why love isn't Sam's top priority. He's persistent, I'll give him that!"

Jim nodded in agreement. "Exactly! Sam has rejected him countless times. If there was any chance, she would've given him a shot by now."

Tee jumped in, echoing the sentiment. "Mon, you've got nothing to worry about. Sam is yours."

The group erupted into laughter, their camaraderie and light-hearted banter easing the tension and reaffirming the strength of their friendship.

As Sam rejoined the group, the atmosphere lightened, and they spent quality time together, enjoying each other's company as friends.

As they made their way towards Sam's car, she couldn't help but be curious about what they had discussed while she was firing. "So, what were you all talking about?" she asked, casting a curious glance at Mon.

Mon smiled, her expression fond. "They were just reassuring me that firing is your way of releasing stress," she explained.

Sam chuckled, playfully teasing Mon. "Well, maybe from now on, I won't need to do it anymore," she joked, wrapping an arm around Mon's waist. "Because there's someone who can make me feel more relaxed."

Mon laughed, leaning into Sam's embrace as Sam's phone chimed with a message, she glanced down to read it, a smile spreading across her face. Mon couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity and jealousy, wondering who could be messaging Sam.

"Who was that?" Mon asked, unable to contain her curiosity any longer. "Was it Kirk?" she added, her jealousy evident in her tone.

Sam chuckled, shaking her head. "No, it was Jim," she replied, her smile widening. "She was just saying how happy she is that I've found someone who loves me."

Turning the tables, Sam playfully teased Mon. "So, are you still jealous of Kirk?" she asked, a twinkle of amusement in her eyes.

Mon's possessiveness flared as she confirmed her jealousy, unable to shake the unease that lingered whenever Kirk was mentioned. "How could I not be jealous?" she admitted, her tone edged with protectiveness. "Kirk has been your long-time friend, and I can't shake the feeling that your grandmother wants him for you."

Sam reached out, gently reassuring Mon. "Mon, you know I only love you," she affirmed, hoping to ease Mon's concerns.

But Mon's grip tightened, her possessive streak showing. "I know that," she replied, her voice firm. "But I can't shake the discomfort of knowing Kirk is still pursuing you. Who knows what kind of flirting he's doing through those messages? I don't want anyone else flirting with my girlfriend."

Sam couldn't help but smirk, feeling a surge of joy at the possessive display from Mon. Sensing Mon's curious gaze, Sam's smile widened as she explained, "I'm just feeling the thrill of having a possessive girlfriend."

Mon raised an eyebrow, amused by Sam's reaction. "Oh, is that so?" she teased, pretending to pout as she headed towards the car.

Not wanting Mon to misunderstand, Sam quickly chased after her, catching up and opening the car door with a grin. "Of course I want you to be possessive," Sam confirmed, sincerity shining in her eyes. "Because I belong to you, Mon."

As they settled into the car, Sam couldn't contain her excitement as she shared the news with Mon. "Guess what? I talked to your father, and he agreed that you can stay with me until tomorrow. The only condition is that I have to bring you home before 6 PM."

Mon's eyes widened in shock. "But my father insisted I come home today," she exclaimed, surprised by Sam's persuasive skills.

Proud of herself for swaying Mon's father, Sam grinned as they drove towards her house. "Well, I worked my magic," she boasted playfully, enjoying Mon's incredulous expression.

Mon couldn't help but chuckle at Sam's arrogance, feeling grateful for her partner's determination. She leaned over, hugging Sam's arm affectionately as Sam skillfully maneuvered the car towards their destination.