Hearts Intertwined

Chapter Twenty-Three

As I zip up my backpack, the last remnants of my English class linger in my mind. The discussions about themes and characters swirl around like the autumn leaves outside. I can't help but smile at the thought of Hayden. Just as I'm about to head out, my phone buzzes. It's a message from him asking if I want a ride home. My heart skips a beat. Yes, I reply quickly, feeling a rush of excitement.

Moments later, another message pops up: "I'm outside your class." I can already feel the anticipation bubbling inside me. I grab my things, my fingers trembling slightly as I push the door open and step into the hallway. The chatter of students fills the air, but my focus is solely on Hayden.

As I exit the building, I spot him leaning effortlessly against the wall. He's wearing a crisp white shirt that hugs his frame just right, paired with grey sweatpants that accentuate his athletic build. His Nike Air Forces complete the look, and I can't help but admire how good he looks. It's like time slows down, and all I can see is him.

I approach him, my heart racing. He's talking to Carson and Lucas Rodriguez, his hockey teammate, but the moment he sees me, a smile spreads across his face. It's infectious, and I can't help but smile back.

As I reach them, Hayden wraps his arm around my back, pulling me in closer to him. The warmth of his body against mine sends a thrill through me. He begins to rub my back gently, his fingers moving up and down in a soothing rhythm. He leans in slightly, his breath warm against my ear as he whispers something funny about the game, making me giggle. The way he leans against the wall, relaxed yet confident, makes my heart flutter. I can't help but admire the way his hair falls slightly over his forehead, and the way his eyes light up when he talks about hockey. It's a side of him that I love—passionate and full of life.

Carson, with his signature grin, leans against the wall too. "Well, well, if it isn't the most stunning lady in the room," he teases, his playful tone making me roll my eyes. "You know, if I had a nickel for every time I saw you looking this good..."

"Yeah, you'd be broke, Carson," I shoot back, laughing.

"Touché," he concedes, raising his hands in mock surrender

They go back to discussing strategies and plays and I find myself lost in my thoughts. Hayden occasionally glances down at me, his expression softening, and I can't help but feel cherished.

"Ophelia, did you catch that goal?" Lucas asks, pulling me back into the conversation. I shake my head, feeling a bit out of the loop. Hayden chuckles softly, his arm tightening around me as he explains the play in detail, his enthusiasm evident. I lean into him, feeling secure and happy. The way he talks about hockey is captivating, but the way he holds me makes everything else irrelevant. I can't remember a time when I felt this content, just being close to him.

Eventually, the conversation shifts to their upcoming matches, and I find myself hanging on every word. I love hearing about their camaraderie, the way they support each other on and off the ice. It's a glimpse into a world that's both foreign and exciting to me.

As they wrap up their discussion, Hayden's hand continues its gentle caress on my back. I can't help but lean into him more, wanting to soak up every moment. The laughter and banter between the guys make me feel included, and I cherish this feeling of belonging.

Lucas quickly glances at his watch before cursing. "Shit, I've got to head out, guys. Duty calls," he says with a hint of regret in his voice.

"Don't be a stranger, Rodriguez!" Carson calls out, waving as he makes his way to the door.

The rest of us watch him leave, the laughter fading into a comfortable silence. The door clicks shut and I feel Hayden lean down, his lips brushing against mine. I tilt my head up, meeting him halfway, the kiss soft yet electric. "Ready to go?" he asks, his voice low and warm, sending butterflies fluttering in my stomach.