Quarterback Dare

11

A week after the camping trip we had the Quarterback Award ball to get ready for. I texted Annalise if she wanted to pick out a dress together.

Me: Do you want to shop for our dresses together?

Annalise: Yeah. Sure. A girl's shopping trip is what I need. Myles is freaking out about this awards thing. I'm freaking out because I have never been to a ball before.

Me: Same. I'll meet you at the mall in a couple of hours.

Annalise gave me a thumbs-up. I grabbed my bag and grabbed my bike. I biked to Hayden's house. I wanted to see how he was doing. There was another motorcycle parked by his. I knocked on his door, feeling happy when he answered.

"Lily! Hey, come on in," he said, stepping aside to let me in. Callie came running to me. I chuckled and kneeled to pet her. "Hey, Callie," I said. I stood up looking up at Hayden. "I hope I'm not interrupting." Feeling the warmth of his house.

"Not at all. I was just having breakfast. Want some coffee?" He offered, leading me towards the kitchen.

"Sure, that sounds great," I said, following him.

As Hayden poured us both a cup of coffee, I took a moment to appreciate the calm and comfort of being with him. We sat at the kitchen table, the morning light filtering in through the windows.

"How have you been since the trip?" I asked, taking a sip of my coffee.

Hayden looked thoughtful before answering. "I've been good. The trip was...well, it was amazing. It gave me a lot to think about."

"Same here," I said, nodding. "I'm glad we had that time together. It really meant a lot to me.

He reached across the table and took my hand, his touch warm and reassuring. "It meant a lot to me too, Lily."

I gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "I'm looking forward to tonight."

"The Quarterback Awards," he said, with a smile. "It's going to be a special night."

"Yeah, it is. I'm excited, but also a bit nervous." I admitted. "I've never been to a ball before. What if I mess up the moves of the dances?"

"You're going to be amazing, Lily. And we'll be there together." Hayden said, his voice filled with confidence and support.

His words filled me with warmth and reassurance. "Thanks, Hayden. That means a lot."

"I just want to say, that tonight is a big night for me, and you being there means everything," Hayden continued, his eyes serious. "You've been such a big part of my life recently and I'm grateful for that."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," I said, feeling a swell of affection for him.

Just then my phone buzzed with a message from Annalise.

Annalise: I'm on my way to the mall. :)

"I should get going. Annalise is waiting for me." I said, standing up.

Hayden stood up as well, walking me to the door. "Have fun shopping. And if you need anything, let me know."

"I will. Thanks, Hayden." I said, hugging him. "Prepare to be blown away tonight."

He chuckled. "I have no doubt."

I arrived at the mall a bit later than planned, but Annalise was already waiting for me, her eyes twinkling with excitement. She greeted me with a warm hug, and we quickly fell into our usual easy conversation.