Skates & Cleats

9

The start of freshman year had brought a whirlwind of changes for both Taylor and Travis. Despite being in different states, their bond remained as strong as ever. They texted constantly, and every time Travis's name popped up on her phone, Taylor couldn't help but smile. But now, October had arrived, and the excitement of their new high school adventures was joined by something even more special: Travis's 15th birthday.

It was a cool October day, and Taylor had flown from Nashville to Ohio for a weekend that was packed with meaning. Not only was she there for another skating competition, but she also had the chance to celebrate Travis's birthday in person. She hadn't seen him in months, and the idea of being in the same place again made her heart race.

Taylor arrived at Travis's house early in the morning on his birthday. She had made sure to bring a special gift—something she knew he'd love. The house was buzzing with life, with his parents, brother Jason, and even some friends there to help him celebrate. As soon as she knocked on the door, Travis opened it, grinning wide when he saw her.

"Happy birthday!" Taylor said, throwing her arms around him.

"I can't believe you're here," he whispered into her hair, squeezing her tight.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," Taylor replied.

They spent the morning hanging out with Travis's family, laughing and catching up. Jason, ever the teasing older brother, made a few jokes about their long-distance relationship, but Taylor and Travis just brushed them off with knowing smiles.

Later that evening, they all headed out to Taylor's competition rink. She was nervous, but having Travis there made everything feel more grounded. As the time for her performance neared, she went through her usual pre-competition routines, focusing on her program and the rhythm of the music. For this competition, Taylor had chosen "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!" by Shania Twain as her routine music. It was upbeat, empowering, and the perfect song to capture her energy.

When she stepped onto the ice, she looked up into the stands and spotted Travis and his family, front and center, watching her. His smile gave her all the confidence she needed.

The opening chords of the song echoed through the arena, and Taylor launched into her program. Every jump, every spin, every glide across the ice was flawless. The crowd cheered as she hit her final pose, and when the music ended, she glanced up to see Travis standing and clapping, his pride evident in the way he looked at her.

After her competition, they all gathered outside the rink. Taylor had done well, placing second overall, and the energy of the night was electric.

As they stood in the parking lot, Travis pulled her aside, his face lit up by the streetlights. "You were amazing out there," he said softly, taking her hand.

"Thanks," Taylor replied, her heart fluttering at his closeness.

"I've got something for you," Travis said, pulling a small box from his pocket.

"Travis, it's your birthday," Taylor protested, but he just smiled and handed her the box.

"Open it."

Inside was a delicate silver bracelet with a tiny ice skate charm dangling from it.

"Something to remind you of this weekend," Travis said, watching her reaction closely.

Taylor felt tears well up in her eyes as she threw her arms around him. "I love it," she whispered, holding him tightly. "Thank you."

That night, after the competition, they celebrated both Travis's birthday and Taylor's success with his family. The next morning, Taylor had to fly back to Nashville, but the memory of the weekend—and the bracelet on her wrist—made it easier to say goodbye.