Gabriel

Eighteen

Jaleesa had feelings for him.

Gabriel Nichea.

And he let himself go like a fool.

What was he thinking?

It was irresponsible.

He couldn't just speak from his heart to a woman.

Especially Jaleesa.

Nothing could come out of it.

It was amazing. She was beautiful, beyond beautiful. Her vulnerability drew him in like nothing else had before.

He meant what he said.

Her authenticity was beautiful.

Nothing superficial.

Just honesty and tears.

His head was still spinning.

He could've held her closely the entire night. Listening and being captivated.

Tonight and only tonight, he'd confess to wanting something more with her.

It was all he could think of. All he could hope for.

It could happen in a perfect world where he wasn't an overprotective father and skeptic.

But the world wasn't perfect, neither was he.

Jaleesa had feelings for him and felt true remorse for what she'd done, but it wasn't enough.

"Jesus," He whispered feeling unsure.

It was what his heart wanted.

Everything felt right as he danced with Jaleesa.

And she wanted him.

Only, his life wasn't about him anymore.

He wouldn't be a fool. Not this time.

-

She was shaking in her boots.

Today was the first practice since the banquet and all she wanted to do was stay home.

She could forget about the interviews and give up.

But she didn't.

She needed to apologize to Gabriel.

Whether he listened or not, she had to try.

"Help me, Lord," She whispered looking up.

A small smile settled on her face as she thought of the positive parts of the last few days.

Seeking the Lord was fun.

It gave her a sense of fulfillment.

And even though she was terrified of facing Gabriel, she understood that the Lord was with her.

Good or bad, He had her.

Taking a deep breath, she stepped onto the field and looked around for Gabriel.

"Oh, no," She bit her lip, ignoring the butterflies in her stomach as she sighted him.

She forced herself to walk over to where he was.

"Just do it," She tried encouraging herself. "Gabriel,"

He looked up and froze as he looked at her.

"Hi," She waved briefly. "Can I talk to you?"

She was insanely nervous.

He was going to say no and throw the bat at her.

"Yes," He motioned toward the dugout and she followed him there, thankful for the privacy, just in case he yelled.