Chapter 1

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Jade

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Jade

They say your parents are supposed to protect you. Keep you safe. Teach you how to spot danger before it gets too close.

But what happens when the person you trusted most is the one who ruins everything?

If I'd known then what I know now, maybe I would've done things differently. Maybe I wouldn't have been so eager to prove I didn't need him—or his rules. Maybe I wouldn't have been so reckless. But it's hard to see the cracks when everything looks perfect on the surface.

I thought I had it all figured out back then.

I thought he had it all figured out.

The truth? I had no idea what I was walking into.

The sun hung high in the sky, warming my back as I stood in front of my new apartment. I couldn't believe the day had finally come. I was a sophomore now, and the thrill of returning to school after a long summer filled me with excitement. I took a deep breath, letting the smell of freshly cut grass and the faint sound of distant laughter from the campus fill my senses.

"Okay, Jade! Let's get these boxes inside!" my dad called, his voice full of authority, but I could hear the underlying excitement in it, too. I turned to see him and my mom hauling my things from the car. They had already made several trips, and I felt a pang of guilt watching them work so hard just to help me settle in.

"Thanks, Dad! I really appreciate it!" I smiled, trying to match his enthusiasm. As the head coach of the men's lacrosse team, he always had a busy schedule, but he had promised he'd make time for me today. He was my dad first, coach second, and that was something I cherished.

"Just remember, you're on your best behavior while I'm around," he joked, raising an eyebrow as he turned back to the car. "Those lacrosse players are nothing but trouble. I know all their dirty little secrets, so don't even think about dating one of them."

I laughed, shaking my head. My dad was always so serious about that. "I know, Dad! No lacrosse players. I promise." But I couldn't help but roll my eyes. I had heard the horror stories—my dad made sure I was aware of what went on behind the scenes. I appreciated his protectiveness, but I was determined to carve my own path.

My mom chimed in, placing a hand on my shoulder. "You're going to do great this year, Jade. I know it. Just focus on your studies and enjoy being with your friends." She glanced at my dad, who was busy stacking boxes. "And don't worry, we'll be just an hour away if you need us."

As we unloaded the car, I felt a mix of excitement and bittersweet nostalgia. I would miss spending time with my parents, especially since they seemed to enjoy being together so much. They were always affectionate, always in sync, and I admired that about them. Their relationship was something I aspired to have one day.

Once we got everything inside, I took a moment to look around my new space. It was small but cozy, with bright walls and big windows that let in plenty of light. I could already picture how I'd decorate it, hanging up photos of friends and memories from last year. The thought made my heart race.

The Coaches Daughter || Callum Turner Where stories live. Discover now