Skates & Cleats

6

The first day of eighth grade dawned bright and crisp. Taylor felt a mix of excitement and nerves as she adjusted her skating-themed backpack and glanced in the mirror. It was a fresh start, and she was determined to make the most of it, especially with her upcoming competition behind her.

At school, she was greeted by familiar faces and a few new ones. The halls were buzzing with chatter about summer vacations and end-of-summer adventures. Taylor quickly spotted Abigail and rushed over.

"Did you hear about the new students? A few are from out of state," Abigail said, her eyes wide with excitement.

"Really? That's cool! Maybe I'll meet someone interesting," Taylor replied, her mind momentarily wandering to Travis and how he was back in Ohio, playing football.

As the day unfolded, Taylor navigated her classes with confidence. She was relieved to see that most of her friends were in her homeroom. After a day filled with new teachers and lessons, she returned home feeling accomplished.

---

As the weeks passed, Taylor settled into a rhythm. Practices for her skating competition intensified, and she poured her heart into perfecting her routine. However, there was always a flutter of excitement when her phone buzzed, and it was Travis.

Their texts were filled with encouragement and sweet nothings, each conversation making her heart race. Travis would share stories about his football games, and she'd update him on her skating. They felt close despite the distance.

Then, December 13th arrived, marking both the beginning of winter and Taylor's 14th birthday. She woke up to a flurry of birthday wishes from friends and family, each message bringing a smile to her face.

After breakfast, she was ready to tackle the day. "I can't believe I'm finally 14!" she exclaimed to her mom, who was busy icing a cake in the kitchen.

Later that evening, the party kicked off at her house. Friends filled the living room, laughing and enjoying games. The energy was electric, and Taylor felt overwhelmed with happiness.

As the festivities continued, her phone buzzed with a text from Travis.

**Travis:**
_"Happy Birthday, Taylor! I have a surprise for you later. Hope you're ready!"_

She grinned, feeling butterflies in her stomach. What could it be?

---

The party reached a crescendo with cake and singing, and as Taylor blew out the candles, she made a wish. But deep down, she knew what she wanted: to be with Travis.

After more games and laughter, the doorbell rang. Taylor rushed to open it, and her heart soared at the sight of Travis standing there, holding a bouquet of flowers.

"Travis!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around him. "You made it!"

"I wouldn't miss your birthday for anything," he replied, smiling widely.

As the party continued, Taylor introduced Travis to her friends, who immediately bombarded him with questions about football. He handled it with ease, cracking jokes and charming everyone.

Later that evening, as the party quieted down, Taylor and Travis found a moment alone on the porch, the night air cool against their skin.

"Thank you for coming," Taylor said, her voice soft.

"Of course. I couldn't let you celebrate without me," he replied, his eyes sparkling.

"I've been thinking about you a lot lately," she admitted, a blush creeping onto her cheeks.