Quarterback Dare

15

The stadium was buzzing with excitement as the crowd gathered for the big game. It was one of the most anticipated matches of the season other than the Super Bowl, and the energy was electric. I stood by the sidelines, that Annalise helped me find. It was a last-minute decision to dress up and surprise Hayden and I could feel the nervous anticipation bubbling up inside me.

The cheerleader outfit fit snugly, the pleated skirt swaying as I moved, and the team's colors boldly displayed across my chest with a letterman jacket. I adjusted my updo and down hairstyle. I scanned the field for Annalise and Skylar. They had matching letterman jackets except Annalise's said Mrs. Byron while Skylar's said, Mrs. Hill.

Annalise and Skylar gave me a reassuring smile. "You look great Lily." They said. "Haden will love it," Annalise added, winking.

"I hope so," I replied, taking a deep breath. "I just want to show that I'm here for him, no matter what."

The game started with a loud whistle. The crowd erupted into cheers. Annalise and I sat with the cheerleaders and she got her pom-poms out and we started shaking them chanting the cheers with the cheerleaders. Despite my initial nerves, I started to get into the rhythm, the excitement of the game fueling my enthusiasm.

As Hayden and Myles worked together they were incredible. They accomplished amazing skills

Hayden passed his sharp movement precise to Myles. Every time he glanced my way, I made sure to cheer even louder, Annalise would do the same when Myles would glance her way. We hoped it would give them the extra boost they needed.

The first half of the game was intense, with both teams scoring points and the tension building.

During a break in the game, Hayden jogged where we were sitting, a look of surprise and delight crossing his face when he saw me in my cheerleading outfit. "Lily, you look—you look stunning." He said, breathless.

I blushed, feeling a rush of warmth. "I'll always be your cheerleader, sir—"

Before I could finish my sentence Hayden picked me up and his hands were on my waist. I put my legs around his waist. I wrapped my arms around his neck. Hayden's lips go to my ear and says softly, "You'll always be my cheerleader."

As his gaze was on me I grabbed his jersey and our lips met. His lips were hungry like he was longing for something. We suddenly heard, "Okay, okay. Let's go win this Hayd."

Hayden put me down and put his helmet on. He ran out back out to the field. As the progressed, the tension mounted. With just minutes left in the final quarter, the score was tied. The opposing team had possession of the ball, and our defense was holding strong. Hayden called for a blitz, determined to stop their advance.

The snap came, and the opposing quarterback dropped back to pass. Hayden charred forward, dodging blockers with a fierce determination. He was closing in on the quarterback when suddenly, one of their offensive linemen hit him from the side. Hayden went down hard, his body crumpling to the ground.

The breath caught in my throat, my heart skipping a beat. "Hayden!" I screamed, rushing to the edge of the field.

The crowd fell silent, the cheers turning to murmurs of concern. The referees blew their whistles, stopping the game as the medical team ran onto the field. Myles and coach Ford ran to him and I watched in horror as they surrounded Hayden, my heart pounded in my chest.

Annalise grabbed my hand, her grip tight. "He'll be okay, Lily. He's tough."

I nodded, trying to believe her words. But seeing Hayden motionless, filled me with dread. The medical team helped him sit up, and I saw him wince in pain, clutching his side.