Madry

Chapter 1

Cameron was the first to break the silence with a curious inquiry. "So, what club are you joining?"

We were both entering freshman year, and in our school, it was mandatory for students to participate in extracurricular clubs to earn additional credits. Given our shared history in sports-related clubs during middle school, it seemed only natural for us to continue that trend in high school. I knew Cameron would undoubtedly gravitate towards the football club.

"Obviously, soccer," I replied as we halted in front of the registration table.

Interested participants were required to fill in their name, student ID, and contact number on the registration sheet posted on the bulletin board. Without much thought, I jotted down my information. My attention, however, was soon captivated by a towering athlete perusing the list of names – mostly female ones, I noted.

"Cornelia Casterwill, any takers?" one of them quipped, eliciting smirks and chuckles from his companions.

"You guys are disgusting. Find someone your own age to hook up with," I retorted, rolling my eyes.

"Little Miss Freshie has some spirit, huh?" one of them taunted. "I'm twice your size. Need a lesson?"

Before I could react, Cameron intervened, forcefully pushing the jock away from me.

"Cameron, let's just ignore them," I said, tugging his arm as we moved away from the gathering crowd.

I locked eyes with another football player, his brown eyes, tanned skin, and sandy blonde hair making him an unmistakable member of their group. Like his friends, he proudly sported his varsity jacket.

"If only you could use your magic to give them migraines," Cameron mumbled as we retreated.

I covered his mouth quickly, knowing Cameron's inability to modulate his voice around non-supernatural. In our town, supernatural beings like us were required to maintain a low profile, per an agreement between the Mayor and the Alpha. We couldn't afford to draw attention.

"And to think they'll be my mentors in football," Cameron complained. "Thank goodness we have each other and a few familiar faces."

Weeks passed, and I successfully made the soccer team. The seniors were impressed with my skills, given my soccer background in middle school. Coach Choi had high expectations, and soon I became part of the soccer clique. I was invited to lunch, post-practice outings to McDonald's, and even karaoke sessions.

I was flattered, but the attention was overwhelming. I had grown accustomed to isolating myself due to insecurities, so this newfound popularity felt foreign. Suddenly, people noticed me, and I was labelled as 'popular'.

Every Wednesday, my grandmother, Lori Bennett, took us to The Tavern. She met her friends there, while Cameron and I played pool – our weekly ritual. Lori's friends, as she put it, were 'mature,' so we usually kept to ourselves.

During one game, I noticed a familiar pair of brown eyes. It was the same jock from school, his varsity jacket, dressed casually in a khaki sweater. He looked enticing, which wasn't surprising since he was of legal drinking age.

Cameron was engrossed in the game and remained oblivious to my distraction. I sat alone, feeling somewhat awkward. I considered joining Lori, but her mature friends were not exactly my crowd. Letting out a sigh, I suddenly felt someone's presence in front of me.

The tall jock leaned in, hands in his jean pockets, and smiled. My heart raced, and I awkwardly rested my palm on the table behind me.

"You're the freshman from soccer, right?" he inquired in a husky voice.

"Uh-huh," I nodded.

"I'm the Captain of the boys' football team."

"Okay," I replied hesitantly.

"My name is Kurt Madry," he introduced himself, displaying a dimple and making my heart flutter. "What's your name?"

"Cornelia Casterwill."

"I know. I watched your soccer try-outs. You're a hot player," he complimented casually.

I was taken aback by his frankness. How could someone say that without sounding like a creep? My teammates had mentioned they watched us play, but was he watching me specifically? I decided not to overthink it.

"On behalf of my friend Samuel, I apologize for his behaviour. He has a tendency to approach girls for flings. But none have defied him like you did. It's driving him mad," Kurt explained with a chuckle.

As charming as he seemed, I reminded myself that he was a senior, and I was better than falling for someone so much older.

"Shall I buy you a drink? What's your favorite?" he asked.

"Chamomile tea," I replied.

"You too? I love chamomile tea."

My fingers began to shake, and I grew anxious. I wished Cameron would return soon so I could use him as an excuse to leave. Just as I felt my phone vibrate, indicating a new message, I took it out and froze.

Cameron: 'I saw a jock trying to hit on you. I'll be outside ;)'

I couldn't help but curse my meddling cousin.