Quarterback Dare

19

 The sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow across Hayden's living room. I was sipping my coffee, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Today was the big interview, and Hayden had insisted I be a part of it.

Hayden walked into the room, looking effortlessly handsome in his tailored suit. He smiled at me, his eyes filled with affection. "Ready for today?" he asked, sitting down beside me.

I nodded, trying to keep my nerves in check. "Yeah, I think so. It's just... a lot."

He reached out and took my hand, his touch reassuring. "You'll be great. Just be yourself."

As we finished our breakfast, Hayden glanced at me, his expression turning serious. "Lily, there's something I need to tell you after the interview. Something important."

I looked at him, my heart skipping a beat. "What is it?"

He shook his head. "Let's focus on the interview first. We'll talk after, I promise."

The interview started smoothly, with the reporter asking Hayden about his career, his recent successes, and his plans. I tried to stay calm, answering questions about our relationship and how we met.

"And Lily," the reporter turned to me, "how has it been supporting Hayden through his career? It must be quite a journey."

I smiled, glancing at Hayden. "It's been incredible. Hayden's dedication and passion for what he does are inspiring. I'm just happy to be a part of his life."

The reporter nodded, satisfied with the response. "And Hayden, any plans we should know about? Anything exciting on the horizon?"

Hayden looked at me, his eyes softening. "Yes. There are some important things I need to discuss, but they're personal and I'd prefer to keep them private for now."

The interview wrapped up, and the crew started packing up their equipment. I could feel Hayden's tension, and my curiosity was piqued. What was he going to tell me?

As soon as the door closed behind the last crew member, Hayden took my hand, leading me to the couch. He sat down beside me, his expression serious.

"Lily, there's something I need to tell you," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Remember the car accident? The one that put you in a coma?"

I nodded slowly, memories of that terrifying night flooding back. "Yes, of course. How could I forget?"

He took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving mine. "I was the one who saved you. I pulled you out of that burning car."

For a moment, the world seemed to tilt. I stared at him, my mind racing to process his words. "You... you were there?"

He nodded, his eyes filled with an emotion I couldn't quite place. "Yes. I was driving by and saw the crash. I couldn't just leave you there. I had to do something."

Tears welled up in my eyes, a mix of gratitude and shock overwhelming me. "Hayden, I... I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything," he said softly, brushing a tear from my cheek. "I just needed you to know the truth."

I took a shaky breath, trying to steady my emotions. "Thank you. For everything."

He smiled, but there was a hint of nervousness in his eyes. "There's more, Lily. I've been wanting to tell you something else."

"What is it?" I asked, my heart pounding in my chest.

He took both of my hands in his, his gaze intense. "Lily, I'm in love with you. I've been falling for you since the moment we met. And I couldn't keep it to myself any longer."

My breath caught in my throat. The room seemed to spin, and I felt a wave of overwhelming emotions crash over me. "Hayden, I... this is a lot to take in."

He nodded, his expression understanding. "I know. And I don't expect you to have an answer right now. I just needed you to know how I feel."

I looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and love reflected there. But I also felt a surge of confusion and fear. "I need some time to think," I said quietly.

"Of course," he said, his voice gentle. "Take all the time you need."

I stood up, feeling the need to move, to clear my head. "I think I need to stay with Annalise and Myles for a bit. Just to sort everything out."

Hayden's face fell slightly, but he nodded. "Whatever you need, Lily. I'll be here when you're ready."

A few hours after the intense conversation I packed a few bags for a few days. I made sure to pack a few of Hayden's hoodies. I need to feel his warmth. When we walked to the Byron's, Annalise and Myles were waiting for me. I hugged Annalise. "Are...are you okay?"    

I nodded, feeling the weight of the day's revelations pressing down on me. "Yeah, I just... I need some time to think."

Myles gave Hayden a sympathetic look. "We'll take care of her, man. Don't worry."

Hayden nodded, his eyes never leaving mine. "I know you will."

I looked back at Hayden who was looking at me somberly. I dropped my bags on the Byrons and ran into Hayden's arms, whimpering. I felt complete, comfort, but sadness. I grabbed onto his shoulder.

I looked at Hayden with a tear floating through my eyes. "Wait for me, please. Give me three days." I said softly. 

Hayden's nose met mine. He looks at me softly. "Lil, I have the Superbowl." He hands me something. "This is the ticket for the VIP box seats. You'll sit with Annalise and Skylar. I hope to see my Princess there." Hayden said softly. 

I sat on the couch, a cup of tea in my hands, as Annalise sat down beside me. "So, what happened?" she asked gently.

I took a deep breath, recounting the day's events. "He told me he was the one who saved me from the accident. And then... he told me he's in love with me."

Annalise's eyes widened. "Wow. That's a lot to take in."

"Yeah," I said, my voice trembling slightly. "I just... I don't know what to do."

Annalise put a comforting arm around me. "Take your time. No one is rushing you. Just figure out what you want and what makes you happy."

I nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. "Thank you, Annalise. I needed this."

She smiled. "That's what friends are for."

As I sat there, surrounded by the warmth and support of friends, I began to sort through my emotions. I knew it would take time, but I also knew I needed to figure out my path forward—with or without Hayden.