Crossing Paths

Chapter 8: Between Notes and Nets

**Alex's POV**

The week leading up to Kate's visit flew by in a whirlwind of basketball practices and jam sessions. The team was pushing hard, preparing for the upcoming season, and Coach was on us about staying focused. But my mind kept drifting to the music and the new connections I was forming, especially with Sam.

After one particularly grueling practice, I headed to a scheduled jam session with the band. I was tired but excited, feeling the pull of music as a release from the intensity of basketball. When I arrived at Sam's apartment, the vibe was already electric. Sam greeted me with a warm smile, and I couldn't help but notice how her eyes lingered on me just a bit longer than usual.

"Hey, baller," she teased, nudging me. "Ready to rock?"

"Always," I replied, grinning. "But seriously, I might need to start bringing a cot here. Basketball's kicking my butt."

Marcus laughed as he set up his drum kit. "You're like the Energizer Bunny, though. Keep going and going."

Zoe chimed in, tuning her bass. "We just need to make sure you don't burn out. How's the team looking?"

"Pretty solid," I said, grabbing my guitar. "Coach is pushing us hard, but we've got a good group. I'm excited for the season, but it's intense."

Sam handed me a sheet of music. "Well, tonight, we're just here to have fun. Let's try out this new song I wrote."

As we played, the room filled with music, and I felt the tension from the day melt away. It was moments like these that made me realize how much I loved being part of this group. Sam's voice was captivating, and the chemistry between all of us was undeniable. During a break, we sat down to chat, and Sam's eyes sparkled with excitement.

"By the way, there's an open mic night next week," she said, looking at all of us. "I was thinking we could perform a couple of our songs. What do you think?"

Zoe and Marcus nodded enthusiastically. I hesitated, thinking about my busy schedule and Kate's upcoming visit. "Sounds fun," I said, trying to hide my uncertainty. "I'll have to check my schedule, but I'll try to make it work."

Sam's smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered. "Cool, no pressure. Just thought it'd be a great opportunity for us."

As the night wore on, we kept playing, experimenting with different sounds. At one point, Sam and I ended up alone in the kitchen, grabbing some water. There was a charged silence between us, and she looked at me with a curious expression.

"So, is it just basketball keeping you busy?" she asked, leaning against the counter.

I felt a twinge of guilt. "And my girlfriend," I said, meeting her gaze. "Kate. She's coming to visit soon."

"Oh," Sam said, her voice softening. "That's great. She must be awesome if she's with you."

"She is," I said, smiling despite the slight awkwardness. "But things are a bit... complicated right now."

Sam nodded, her eyes understanding. "Relationships are tough. But hey, if you ever need to talk or just need a break, you know where to find me."

---

**Kate's POV**

The day before my trip to Texas was a whirlwind of last-minute packing and team meetings. Between practices, I barely had time to catch my breath, but I was looking forward to seeing Alex. Even though our recent conversations had been a bit strained, the anticipation of being together again kept me going.

That evening, as I sat on my bed with my suitcase open, my phone buzzed. It was a FaceTime call from Alex. My heart did a little flip as I answered, her face coming into view on the screen. She looked a little tired but still beautiful, her hair pulled back and a soft smile on her lips.

"Hey there," she greeted me, her voice warm and inviting. "Almost ready for your big trip?"

"Hey," I replied, feeling a rush of affection. "Yeah, just finishing up packing. It's been a crazy week."

"Tell me about it," Alex said, rolling her eyes. "Basketball's been nuts, and I've been spending a lot of time with the band."

I couldn't help but feel a little pang of jealousy, but I pushed it aside. "How's that going? You guys sound like you're having a blast."

"We are," she admitted, a hint of excitement in her voice. "It's been really fun, but also a bit overwhelming. I want to make sure I'm not neglecting you in the process."

I smiled, appreciating her honesty. "I get it. You've got a lot going on. Just as long as we make time for each other."

"Definitely," Alex agreed, her eyes softening. "I've missed you so much. I can't wait to see you."

There was a charged silence between us, and I felt the familiar pull of attraction. Even over the screen, the connection was palpable. "I've missed you too," I said softly. "It feels like forever since we've been together."

"Too long," she murmured, her voice taking on a huskier tone. "But soon. I've been thinking about all the things we can do when you're here."

"Yeah?" I asked, raising an eyebrow playfully. "Like what?"

"Well," Alex leaned closer to the screen, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "There's this open mic night the band's playing at next week. I'd love for you to come. And then maybe we can find some time just for us... you know, to catch up properly."

The way she said "properly" sent a thrill through me. "That sounds perfect," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "I'm looking forward to it."

"Me too," Alex said, her gaze lingering on mine. "We'll have the best time, I promise."

We talked a bit more about our plans, both of us feeling the excitement build. The conversation was light, flirty, and filled with an undercurrent of anticipation. As we said our goodbyes, I felt a warmth spread through me, knowing that soon we'd be together again.