player [ 𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 | 𝗮𝘂 ]

four

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the park, we settled into the cozy embrace of a picnic blanket spread beneath us. Luke pulled out another bag of popcorn, grinning like a kid who had just discovered treasure.

"Okay, what should we do now?" he asked, glancing around as if waiting for inspiration to strike.

I thought for a moment and then said, "Let's go for a walk. The waterfront is really nice at this time of day, and I heard there's a new ice cream truck that just opened up nearby."

"Sounds like a plan! I could definitely go for some ice cream," he replied, already standing to pack up our belongings and extending a hand to help me up.

As we strolled along the path by the water, the cool breeze danced around us, carrying the sweet scent of salt and adventure. The sun was setting, painting the sky with streaks of pink and orange, and I felt a sense of ease settle over me.

"So, what flavors are we looking for?" Luke asked, a playful glint in his eye. "I'm betting you'll choose something super sweet and sugary."

"It's ice cream Hemmings. Everything is sweet and sugary," I shot back, smiling. "But you're right—there's something about chocolate and sprinkles that just makes everything better."

He laughed. "Alright, I'll allow it. But if they have something weird like avocado or lavender, you have to try it with me."

"I can't believe you'd put me through that," I teased. "But fine! If you try the chocolate cake flavor with me, I'll give the weird stuff a shot."

We continued walking, our banter flowing as naturally as the waves lapping at the shore. I felt a sense of connection growing between us, and it was exhilarating.

As we reached the ice cream truck, a colorful banner flapped in the breeze, proclaiming all sorts of outrageous flavors. My eyes widened in excitement. "Look at all these options! They have bubblegum cotton candy swirl! And, oh, they have a cookies-and-cream-stuffed waffle cone!"

"Okay, that sounds ridiculous and amazing. I'm in," Luke said, his enthusiasm infectious.

After ordering our cones, we stepped away from the truck, licking our treats in unison. I was savoring the rich chocolate flavor when Luke suddenly pointed at a group of his friends playing beach volleyball nearby.

"Let's go join them!" he suggested, gesturing enthusiastically.

"Are you sure? I'm terrible at volleyball," I admitted, laughing nervously.

"Don't worry! I'll carry you. Just stand there and look pretty," he teased, nudging me with his shoulder. "It'll be fun! Plus, I need someone to cheer me on."

With a reluctant smile, I agreed, and we wandered over. As we approached, I recognized a few of his friends: Calum, a tall guy with an infectious laugh; Ashton, who always had a cocky grin plastered on his face; and Michael, the jokester of the group, who was animatedly shouting encouragement to everyone.

"Hey, look who it is!" Calum called out, spotting us. "Luke and his latest conquest! You've got good taste, man."

Ashton smirked, nudging Luke. "What's this? You finally found someone who can keep up with your wild side?"

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks, unsure if I should laugh or be offended. Luke, however, seemed unfazed, rolling his eyes. "Very funny, guys. Daphne's not a conquest; we're just hanging out."

"Oh, sure," Michael chimed in with a grin. "You always say that until the next party. Just don't break her heart, Hemmings."

I caught Luke's eye, and for a moment, I saw something flicker behind his playful demeanor—a hint of frustration, maybe? "I'm not playing anyone, alright?" he said, his tone more serious than I expected.

"Whatever you say, man," Ashton replied, clearly not convinced. "Just keep it fun. You know how you are."

As they resumed their game, I felt a twinge of discomfort. Did they really think that low of him? Or of me? I glanced at Luke, who seemed determined to shake off the comments, but I could see the tension in his jaw.

"Want to play?" he asked, trying to keep the mood light.

I shrugged, deciding to brush it off. "Sure, why not? But don't blame me if I totally embarrass myself."

"Not a chance! Just remember to keep your eye on the ball," he laughed, and we joined in.

As the game progressed, I tried to focus on the fun. We laughed and dove for the ball, but I could feel the weight of my earlier thoughts creeping back. Luke was fun, but did his friends really think he was just stringing me along like he did with other girls? I didn't want to be another name on his list, but I also didn't want to lose what we had.

After a few rounds, we finally took a break, collapsing onto the sand, breathless and exhilarated. I glanced at Luke, his hair tousled and a wide grin on his face. "Okay, that was way more fun than I thought it would be."

"I'll admit it—I had a great time," I said, wiping the sweat from my brow. "But your friends seem to think I'm just another notch on your belt."

Luke's expression shifted, and I could see the conflict in his eyes. "They don't get it," he said quietly, frustration threading through his words. "I'm not looking to play with you. I really enjoy spending time with you, Daphne."

"Then let's make sure they know that," I replied, my heart racing at the sincerity in his voice.

As the sun dipped further, casting long shadows across the beach, I realized that tonight was more than just a game; it was a moment of clarity, a reminder of the bond we were building. And no matter what his friends thought, I wanted to explore where this connection could lead us.

=