☆ New Star ☆ - Emily Engstler

New Starts

(I promise it gets better just get to chapter 2)

Beep Beep Beep

I roll over, swatting at my overly obnoxious alarm, determined not to give in to the temptation of hitting snooze. The sight of the fresh jersey on my dresser grabs my attention, a vivid reminder that today marks the beginning of my WNBA career. As I make my way to the bathroom, I feel a flutter of excitement mingled with nerves coursing through me.

Today should be a day of boundless joy, yet an inexplicable sense of apprehension gnaws at me. Despite knowing that I've earned this opportunity through relentless hard work, doubt still manages to creep in.

Shaking off the negativity, I step out of the shower, the cool air a refreshing contrast against my warm skin. Meeting my reflection in the mirror, I offer myself a silent pep talk, affirming my belief in my abilities. Slipping into my new uniform, I take a moment to appreciate the weight of the fabric, the embroidered logo a symbol of my journey to this point. Layering on a sweatshirt and sweatpants for added warmth. I gather my hair into a ponytail, braiding the still-damp strands. Opting for minimal makeup, I curl my lashes, deciding it's enough to face the day ahead. With a final check of my gym bag, I head to the kitchen, only to realize I've yet to stock up on groceries for my new apartment.

Deciding to grab breakfast at a nearby coffee shop, I slip into my car, the cold leather sending shivers down my spine. As I dial my best friend Paige, the heater provides some welcome warmth.

"Are you ready for your first day, champ?" Paige's voice rings with excitement.

"Paige, please, not 'champ' again," I chuckle, Azzi's playful protest echoing in the background. "But yes, I think I'm as ready as I'll ever be, nerves and all."

"You've got this, Ivy," Paige assures me. "You were chosen for a reason. Believe in yourself."

"Thanks, Paige. I needed that. Anyway, I'm grabbing breakfast now. I'll fill you in later. Bye!"

Stepping into the cafe, I'm momentarily distracted by a figure rushing past me, leaving behind a tantalizing trail of lavender and musk. Though I try to catch a glimpse, they disappear before I can identify them, dressed in a bright red sweatshirt.

Ordering a lavender matcha latte, I savor the lingering scent as I sip the smooth concoction, thoughts drifting to the day ahead.

Back on the road, the closer I get to the stadium, the more adrenaline courses through my veins. Parking near the entrance, I grab my latte and gym bag, snapping a quick photo for my Instagram story with the caption "First Day."

Entering the locker room, I locate my name on a plaque, setting down my belongings. Glancing at my watch, I realize I'm early, using the extra time to warm up. With my AirPods in, I stretch, focusing on calming my nerves. Jumping jacks, planks, and a quick cardio session later, I hear the chime of my 10:00 AM alarm.

As I make my way to the gym, I whisper a silent prayer, steeling myself for what lies ahead.

Pushing open the gym doors, I'm met with a sea of faces, suddenly feeling the weight of expectations. "There's our new star player!" the coach exclaims, a grin spreading across their face.

An:
Ahhhh lmk how you guys liked this chapter!
Also lmk if you like chapters this long or if I should make them shorter/ longer.

Lots of love,
S