𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬

22

I'm shooting hoops when Kenny comes across me dribbling. "What made you make that chick leave so hurriedly?"

I shoot the ball, and it swishes into the net. "None of your fucking business, Morgan," I say, my jaw clenching.

Yesterday, I messed up and gave in to my desire for Alina. She's intoxicating—her long, brown hair cascading down her shoulders, those deep brown eyes that seem to pierce through your soul, and that infectious laugh that makes your heart race.

I'm disgusted with myself. I know now she'll be etched in my mind for months, just like when we went to the beach—her moans, the way her eyes fluttered. Fuck. The intensity of it all is overwhelming, and I can't shake the feeling that I've crossed a line I can't come back from.

"Whoa there," Kenny says, chuckling as I keep shooting. Practice just ended, but I need some time to clear my mind. Kenny waves goodbye and exits the court, heading out of the stadium.

I finish shooting hoops and hear my phone buzz. Lena's name flashes on the screen, and I roll my eyes before answering, "Hello?"

"Hey baby, I'm clear to come to class today!" she exclaims, her voice brimming with excitement. Since Alina punched her, Lena's nose has been all messed up and broken. I've been steering clear of Alina, and I ignored her today in class, sitting right up front. We haven't touched the project at all.

After seeing Alina come, I knew I was a goner. I had to leave that room immediately. The disappointment and shame in her eyes were like daggers to my heart.

I rushed to the hallway bathroom, splashing water on my face, trying to wash away the overwhelming emotions. Her soft footsteps echoed down the stairs, each step a reminder of my mistake.

When I finally returned to my room, the emptiness hit me like a tidal wave, amplifying the regret and guilt that consumed me.

"Baby?" Lena asks on the phone, pulling me out of my trance. "Oh yeah, that's great," I lied, trying to sound enthusiastic. "I knew you would be happy," she says, unaware of my inner turmoil. I grit my teeth, feeling the weight of my deception. "Yeah, great. I gotta go. Bye," I say, hanging up quickly.

I pack up my basketball bag, the familiar routine providing a sense of normalcy as I make my way to leave.

The evening casts a long shadow as I step outside, the air filled with the soft glow of lightning bugs flitting about, preparing to cocoon as fall approaches.

The cool breeze carries a hint of the changing season, rustling the leaves gently.

I make my way to my truck, the gravel crunching under my feet, feeling the weight of the day slowly lift with each step.

The boys are all at Jayde's Diner, but I decline the offer of going.

I need a quiet night to gather my thoughts.

The idea of sitting in the bustling diner, surrounded by laughter and chatter, feels overwhelming right now.

Instead, I crave the peace and solitude of my own space, where I can let my mind wander and sort through everything that's been weighing on me.

Making it home, I collapse into my bed and let out a deep sigh.

God, I miss my family, especially my twin brothers. I send them a quick text, telling them how much I miss them and how I can't wait for Thanksgiving.

A pang of longing hits me as I shoot my parents a text too.

We don't call; the texts will have to do for now.

A ring on my phone interrupts me as I hop on Instagram. The video of me punching Liam is still blowing up with comments like, "Damn, that girl is lucky" or "Woah, I need a man like that." A ghost of a smile makes its way onto my face.

I can't help but think about Alina. Her captivating eyes and the way she effortlessly lights up a room make my heart race. Avoiding her will be hard, especially since every stolen glance and accidental touch sends sparks flying between us. But I know I need to stay strong and focused, even if my emotions are all over the place.

4 days later

We still haven't started the project and Lena is cooped up by my side. God, it's getting annoying. "Lena, give me some space," I say, agitated. She quickly departs from my side, her partner sitting beside her, doing all the work on their project. The one I really need to start. I sigh, walking up the auditorium stairs and next to Alina. She has her laptop out, typing as she bites her lip in concentration.

"Alina," I say. She slowly looks up at me, clearly irritated.

"We need to talk, for real this time," I say. She sighs and nods.

"Yes, we do," she says. Nobody is around us, so no one can hear us.

"I made a mistake, and I totally shouldn't have jumped on you and had an orgasm," she says vividly. I nod slowly, feeling the weight of her words.

"It's fine," I say, sitting next to her. "How about we work and talk somewhere like a coffee shop?" I suggest.

"Sure, like Starbucks?" she asks.

I nod. "Yeah, like Starbucks."

She sighs. "I still hate you."

I chuckle, looking into her deep brown eyes coated with her long lashes. "I know you do."

The class ends as everyone ushers out.

"So, tomorrow? We don't have class," she says.

I nod and smile. She doesn't return it.

...

This is very short but a new chapter might be posted on Wednesday or Thursday, and i'll make it long!