The Assistant Coach (BOOK 1: OMEN KING SERIES)

|𝟹𝟾|

Leia Welsh

I've been running on fumes for the past two nights, surviving on caffeine and stress. I aced two tests today, much to my own surprise.

Ari keeps telling me to relax and take it easy, but who has time for that when I'm juggling too much? I can't tell if Warren is intentionally avoiding me or if I've been so wrapped up in my own world that I haven't noticed him for the past week.

He used to pester me constantly, but lately, it's like we're strangers. It's a strange feeling.

As I wander aimlessly around the campus, trying to find my way back to my dorm, everything seems to blur together. I collapse by a small water fountain, my head spinning with exhaustion.

I bury my face in my hands, trying to shake off the sleep that threatens to consume me.

The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the courtyard, creating a peaceful atmosphere that contradicts the chaos in my mind. I can hear the faint sound of laughter and

chatter from other students, but it all feels distant and muffled, like I'm in a dream.

"Did you lose weight?" Warren's voice breaks through my thoughts, his tone laced with concern. I lift my gaze, peering at him through my fingers.

There he stands, looming over me with that familiar blank expression. His appearance is as striking as ever - the black sweatshirt hugging his toned frame, the blue jeans that fit him just right, his messy black hair falling across his forehead in that effortlessly sexy way. And those bright blue eyes, sparkling in the sunlight.

Handsome as sin, that's for sure. I can't help but wonder if I'm dreaming.

"I've been on a diet," I reply with a casual shrug.

Why do I lie? I don't know.

I lean back against the bench, taking in the sight of Warren as he drops his backpack and settles in beside me. The campus is alive with activity, students milling about as they head to their next classes.

Thank goodness I just finished my last class. I don't think I could have stayed awake for another minute in there. Hell, I can barely keep my eyes open right now.

"You look like a hot mess," he observes, his eyes taking in my disheveled appearance. I can't help but roll my eyes in response.

"Thanks for stating the obvious, Warren," I retort, sarcasm dripping from every word.

I feel like I haven't slept in days, and the exhaustion is

weighing me down like a ton of bricks. I might as well be high on sleep deprivation at this point.

Warren's concern is evident as he continues to study me. "You okay angel- Leia?" he asks, genuine worry etched on his face. I don't miss the slip up, but I let out a weary sigh, too tired to ask.

"I'm tired, Warren. T-I-R-E-D," I spell out, emphasizing each letter for dramatic effect. The bags under my eyes probably rival a pandas at this point.

"Then go back to your dorm," he suggests, and for a moment, I consider it. But then a wave of laziness washes over me, and I decide against it.

Instead, I prop my legs up on the bench and rest my head on his lap. The look of surprise on his face is priceless, and I can't help but chuckle at his reaction.

Maybe it's the lack of sleep or maybe it's just the comfort of his presence, but I find myself not wanting to leave this spot.

The bright orangish sky stretches out endlessly above us, and for once, I feel a sense of peace amidst the chaos of my aching body.