The Desire's Game | C.C

Chapter 15

"She was mine got cold. Now the guilt's the only thing I hold."

Caitlin's POV

The cafeteria at the University of Iowa was buzzing with the usual energy of a team riding high on a successful season. The Iowa Hawkeyes, a close-knit group of talented athletes, were enjoying a rare moment of relaxation. With a bye week ahead, the usual intensity of practice and preparation gave way to a more relaxed atmosphere, filled with laughter and camaraderie.

"Hey Cait, pass the hot sauce," Kate called out, her voice carrying over the din of chatter and clinking cutlery.

I grinned and tossed the bottle across the table, watching as she caught it effortlessly. "Great pass," she joked, winking back at me. I laughed, taking a bite of my sandwich and savoring the moment of ease.

As I chewed, Jada, our ever-curious point guard, spoke up. "Why don't we go to UConn this week?"

Her suggestion made me freeze for a split second. UConn was a powerhouse, a team we might face in the playoffs. The thought of observing them up close was both thrilling and intimidating. I quickly masked my hesitation, raising an eyebrow as I responded. "Why?"

"Don't you want to see how they play? I mean, we might face them in the playoffs this year, Cait," Jada replied, her eyes shining with excitement. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and I could see the rest of the team perking up at the idea.

"Sounds good to me. I get to see Paige Bueckers in person," Raven chimed in, dipping a french fry in ketchup. Her casual tone made it sound like we were discussing a weekend movie outing, not a potential recon mission against one of the top teams in the country.

I shot her a look, but she raised her hands in defense. "What?"

I shook my head, knowing that resisting was futile. The team had made up their minds, and I could feel the excitement building around me. Reluctantly, I gave in. "Alright, looks like we're going to UConn this week."

The remnants of our lunch sat on the table, a testament to a hearty meal and lively conversation. The team had finished eating and was now walking ahead, their voices a cheerful mix of jokes and plans for the rest of the afternoon. Kate and I lingered at the back, our pace slower and more contemplative.

Kate sipped her drink, the straw making a soft slurping sound. She glanced at me, her expression a blend of concern and curiosity. "You sure you're going to be okay with this?" she asked, her tone gentle.

I shook my head, feeling the weight of unresolved emotions pressing down on me. "I haven't spoken to Paige since then," I admitted the words tasting bitter as they left my mouth.

Kate nodded, her understanding evident in her eyes. "Well, I can't exactly blame you, Cait. Anyone would be mad in your shoes."

A flash of memories surged through my mind: the betrayal, the hurt, the silence that followed. Paige Bueckers had once been a close friend, someone I trusted implicitly. But things had changed, and the rift between us had grown wide and deep.

I nodded, my gaze drifting to Raven, who was walking a few steps ahead, her laughter ringing out as she joked with Jada. "You don't think that will happen, will you?" I asked, my voice tinged with uncertainty.

"No, I think she's different," Kate replied confidently. She gave me a playful shoulder check, a gesture of camaraderie and reassurance.

I checked her back, the laughter bubbling up despite the lingering doubt. "Thanks, Kate," I said, appreciating her steadfast support.