Same but... different (Lestappen and Carlando)

Chapter 48

Warning: Sorry, again mention of Jos' atrocities 

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POV: Max

We agreed with Daniel to go playing padel together, and even though I'm not the best player ever, I still enjoy it a lot. It's fun, helps maintaining the physical condition we have to be in, and also serves as an excuse to meet with my friend, in a relatively private space.

We've booked the court, so nobody else is there, and I actually arrive first, noticing how empty the room is. I chose to wear some shorts, because even if the weather outside isn't the warmest I know that I'll be heavily sweating in a while, so better dress accordingly.

Finally, I see the Aussie entering, already smiling so big. Is he really always this happy, and if so how the fuck does he do it? I wish I knew the answer.

— Hey mate! Looking good, how are you? He greets me, as we briefly bump fists.

— Thanks! I'm fine, not sure if I'll still be once you beat me at this but yeah, and you?

— Ha, I'm alright! But I'm not so good at it either you know, it's been a while since I last played! And I'm more used to play double as well, so yeah it'll be more fun I guess!

We chat lightly after, getting ready. It feels like we've never stopped talking, it's so nice to know that we're on good terms. I was a bit afraid, after what happened when we were on the same team, that he wouldn't want to stay friends but... he did, and that's the most important.

— Okay, who's starting?

— I'll go if you want, I say, suddenly feeling the rush of adrenaline to the thought of playing.

We hit the ball a few times, and as expected I'm a few points behind, as he already won 3 games and I only have one. Halfway through the match, we decide to have a break and I go sit over to the bench, drinking as much water as I can.

— So, he starts speaking, how's it going with your man?

I choke on my drink, splattering in shock. What did he just say? I must have misunderstood, surely.

— W-what?

— I'm not blind, not like you both, you know.

— But what are you-

— Charles. I was almost certain of it, but by the look on your face, I'm right, am I not?

Speechless, I run the nearest towel over my face, not realising what's happening. If we are this obvious, it's only a matter of time until everybody finds out, and the thought almost sends me in a panic attack.

— Hey, calm down, I'm fine with it of course!

Daniel tries to reassure me but he doesn't know what really bothers me, and I can only press my eyelids close, in an attempt to regulate the flow of emotions overflowing me right now.

— Sorry, I didn't mean... Is there a problem? He says in a low voice, looking ashamed.

— No you didn't say anything wrong, it's not you... I sigh, trying to keep calm, I just didn't expect it that suddenly, but you're... right.

Looking left and right again, I make sure no one's around, still lowering my voice to be safe.

— Do you want to talk about it? The Aussie asks, very gently.

— I don't know, yeah maybe? It's just, we have an issue with my dad, you know how he is...

— Yeah, not surprising, I see him clenching his jaw, the smile on his lips disappearing. Max, you really should-