𝐒𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐒 𝐅𝐋𝐘 || 𝐂𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐊

ready for it?

With the last box safely inside, Caitlin grabbed Lilly's hand, a playful smile on her face. "Come on, I can't wait to show you our dorm."

Lilly's heart raced as they walked down the hallway, their fingers intertwined. Caitlin led her to a door near the end of the corridor and stopped, turning to Lilly with a grin.

"Ready?" Caitlin asked, a twinkle of excitement in her eyes.

"Ready," Lilly replied, her own excitement bubbling over.

Caitlin unlocked the door and pushed it open, revealing a cozy, well-lit space. The room was already partially decorated, with Caitlin's belongings adding a personal touch to the otherwise standard dorm furniture.

"I did some decorating," Caitlin said, pulling Lilly inside. "But I left plenty of space for you to make it your own."

Lilly looked around, taking in the warm, inviting atmosphere. There were posters of basketball legends on the walls, a string of fairy lights hanging above the beds, and a few framed photos of Caitlin's family and friends. On one side of the room were Caitlin's neatly organized books and a bulletin board filled with notes and reminders.

"This is amazing," Lilly said, her voice filled with awe. "You've really made it feel like home."

Caitlin smiled, a bit shyly. "I wanted it to feel welcoming for you. Come on, I'll show you around."

She led Lilly to one side of the room where a bed was neatly made with a soft, gray comforter. 

"This is your side," Caitlin said. "I figured you could put up your own posters and stuff. There's plenty of space for your books and anything else you brought."

Lilly nodded, already imagining how she'd arrange her things. "Thanks, Caitlin. This is perfect."

Caitlin walked over to the window, pulling back the curtains to reveal a view of the campus. "And check this out. We've got a pretty great view, don't you think?"

Lilly joined her at the window, looking out at the bustling campus below. "It's beautiful," she said softly. "I can't believe we're really here."

Caitlin turned to face her, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Believe it, pretty girl"

Lilly felt a rush of gratitude and happiness. She looked around the room once more, feeling a sense of belonging. "Thank you, Caitlin. For everything."

Caitlin shrugged, her smile turning playful. "Hey, what are friends for? Plus, I couldn't let you live anywhere else. I need my favorite person close by."

Lilly blushed, her heart swelling with affection. "I'm really glad we're doing this together."

"Me too," Caitlin said, her voice softening. She reached out and took Lilly's hand again, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Now, let's get you settled in"

Lilly smiled, feeling a wave of excitement for the future. With Caitlin by her side, she knew this new chapter at Iowa would be unforgettable. After getting Lilly settled into their dorm, Caitlin grabbed her hand again, her excitement evident. "Come on, I want to show you around campus. There's so much to see!"

Lilly smiled, her heart fluttering as Caitlin led her out of the dorm and onto the bustling campus. They walked hand in hand, Caitlin pointing out various buildings and landmarks, sharing stories and memories from her time at Iowa so far.

"And here's the gym," Caitlin said as they approached a large, modern building. "You're going to love it."

They walked inside, the familiar scent of polished wood and the echo of basketballs bouncing instantly making Lilly feel at home. Caitlin led her through the hallways, finally stopping in front of a large door. She pushed it open, revealing the spacious practice court where several players were already warming up.

"Hey, everyone!" Caitlin called out, drawing the attention of her teammates. "I want you to meet someone special."

The players looked over, smiling and waving. Coach Bluder, who was overseeing the practice, approached with a welcoming smile.

"Coach, this is Lilly," Caitlin said proudly. "Lilly, this is Coach Bluder."

"Welcome, Lilly," Coach Bluder said warmly, extending her hand. "We're thrilled to have you join us."

"Thank you, Coach. I'm really excited to be here," Lilly replied, shaking her hand.

Caitlin then turned to her teammates. "Everyone, this is Lilly. She's going to be a great addition to our team."

A tall girl with a friendly smile stepped forward. "Hey, I'm Kate. It's great to meet you, Lilly."

"Nice to meet you, Kate," Lilly said, returning the smile.

Next, a girl with an infectious grin introduced herself. "I'm Jada. Can't wait to see you in action on the court."

"Thanks, Jada. I'm looking forward to it too," Lilly replied.

Two more players, Gabbie and Monika, stepped up together. "I'm Gabbie, and this is Monika. Welcome to the team, Lilly!"

"Thanks, Gabbie. Thanks, Monika," Lilly said, feeling warmly welcomed.

Finally, a girl with bright eyes and blonde hair walked up  "I'm Kylie. We've heard a lot about you. Caitlin talks about you all the time."

Lilly felt her cheeks heat up slightly. "All good things, I hope."

Kylie laughed. "Only the best."Coach Bluder clapped her hands, drawing everyone's attention. "Alright, ladies, let's get back to practice. Lilly, feel free to join in or watch today. We're happy to have you here."