𝐒𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐒 𝐅𝐋𝐘 || 𝐂𝐀𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐊

the road not taken looks real good now

Caitlin and Lilly made their way to their favorite restaurant, a cozy spot just off campus where they could relax and unwind. The familiar aroma of their favorite dishes welcomed them as they settled into a booth near the window.

After placing their orders, Caitlin leaned back, her eyes fixed on Lilly with a smirk playing on her lips. Lilly noticed the look and couldn't help but smile.

"Stop looking at me like that," Lilly said, trying to sound annoyed but failing as a grin spread across her face.

Caitlin's smirk widened. "Looking at you like what?"

Lilly rolled her eyes, a playful glint in them. "You know exactly what I mean."

Caitlin leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

Lilly shook her head, laughing softly. "You're impossible."

"Maybe," Caitlin said, her eyes twinkling. "But you love it."

"Do I?" Lilly teased, raising an eyebrow.

Caitlin nodded, her tone teasing but sincere. "You do. Otherwise, you wouldn't have made that amazing block just to impress me."

Lilly laughed, reaching for her drink. "Impress you? I did it to win the game, Clark."

"Sure, sure," Caitlin replied, a playful challenge in her eyes. "But admit it, a tiny part of you did it because you knew I'd be watching."

Lilly pretended to think about it, tapping her chin. "Maybe a tiny part."

Caitlin grinned triumphantly. "Knew it."

Their food arrived, and they dug in.

"So," Caitlin said after a moment, looking at Lilly with a softer expression, "seriously, you were amazing out there. I'm really proud of you."

Lilly felt a warmth spread through her at Caitlin's words. "Thanks, Cait."

Caitlin reached across the table, taking Lilly's hand. "We make a pretty good team, don't we?"

Lilly squeezed her hand, smiling. "The best."

They continued their meal, the conversation flowing easily as they talked about the game, their teammates, and their plans for the season. The playful teasing was ever-present, but there was an underlying sense of affection and mutual admiration that made every word meaningful.

As they continued their meal at the restaurant, the playful atmosphere between Caitlin and Lilly remained vibrant. Caitlin twirled her fork, looking at Lilly with that familiar teasing glint in her eyes.

"So, what do you think of Iowa so far?" Caitlin asked, her tone casual but genuinely curious.Lilly paused, thinking for a moment. "Honestly? I love it. The team, the school, everything. It's been amazing so far."

Caitlin smiled, satisfied with the answer. "I knew you'd fit right in. But I have to ask, how does it feel being the second-best player on the team?"

Lilly scoffed, rolling her eyes dramatically. "Oh, please. Second-best? I think you've got that backwards, Clark."

Caitlin laughed, shaking her head. "You keep telling yourself that. But seriously, you've been killing it. I'm glad you're here."