As Tim and Lucy's relationship deepened, Angela began to notice a change in Tim. He seemed lighter, more at ease, even when they weren't on the football field. Angela was happy for her friend, glad that he had found someone who made him smile. But she was also protective of Tim, knowing how fragile he could be under his tough exterior.
One evening, after practice, Angela pulled Tim aside. They sat on the bleachers, the setting sun casting long shadows across the field.
"So, you and Lucy seem pretty close," Angela said, her tone casual but her eyes sharp.
Tim nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, she's...she's great."
Angela raised an eyebrow, noticing the way Tim's expression softened at the mention of Lucy. "I'm glad you've got someone like her in your life, Tim. But you know you can talk to me too, right? About anything?"
Tim sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I know, Ange. It's just...it's hard to talk about."
Angela's gaze softened. "I get it. But you don't have to go through this alone. We're your friends, Tim. We're here for you."
Tim looked down at the ground, his voice barely above a whisper. "I know. It's just...my dad's been getting worse. The drinking, the anger. It's like he's looking for any excuse to take it out on me."
Angela's heart clenched at Tim's words. She had always known that Tim's home life was rough, but hearing him say it out loud made it all the more real. "I'm so sorry, Tim," she said softly. "You don't deserve that. No one does."
Tim shrugged, his face a mask of resignation. "It is what it is. I just try to stay out of his way as much as I can."
Angela reached out and squeezed Tim's shoulder. "You know, if you ever need a place to crash, my door's always open. And I'm sure Lucy's is too."
Tim nodded, grateful for the offer but unsure if he would ever take them up on it. "Thanks, Ange. I'll keep that in mind."
Angela looked at him for a long moment before speaking again. "You've got people who care about you, Tim. Don't forget that."
