I Promise

Chapter 3

“Dude, I have no idea who that is.” Spencer replies, throwing the football across the beach to Grant, who catches it easily. I trace my finger in the white sand, the glorious sun beating down on my bare back. I don't say anything as the sounds of the football being thrown stop. “Look man, I'm sorry. I don't know who Kay Springer is.”

            I look up at Spencer who stands a yard away from me, his chest drenched with sweat, his blue swimming trunks dry. “Dude, it's fine. It was just a question.” I lie easily. I know in my head that asking them about Kay was not just a question. I had hoped for an answer of some sort. I strive to know more about her, why she was at that party. None of my questions are getting me anywhere.

            I stand up abruptly and toss my head to the side in one swift motion, moving my hair out of my face. I stare out at the almost empty water. Being a Friday afternoon, I expected many people to be here. I trudge through the hot sand and make my way to the edge of the water. The sparkling blue roars to life as a small wave crashes against the soggy beach. Without hesitation, I step into the ocean and wade out farther. I flip on to my back when the water touches my shoulders and float aimlessly in the ocean, allowing the waves to slowly pull me this way and that.

            Ever since Monday when I sent that friend request, Kay has been on my mind. On Wednesday, when she accepted it, I was overcome with joy. How is that even possible? I searched through all of her pictures and her bio, finding out her favorite books, movies and songs. I thought about messaging her, but ultimately decided against it.

            “What is with that girl?” I mumble to myself.           

            “What's with you, man?” Grant asks, wading in the water next to me. I stand up and look at him. I hadn't expected anybody to hear my comment.

            “Nothing, I'm fine.” I run my wet hands through my damp hair, blowing out air through my puckered lips. Grant shakes his head as Spencer approaches us. I don't know if Spencer heard our conversation, but if he did, he doesn't press any further.

            “Hey, what time is it?” I ask Spencer.

            “Almost 4. I checked my phone before I got in.” He replies.

            “I wonder why coach didn't make us practice today.” Grant says.

            “Maybe he wants us to rest up for the game tonight.” I counter.

            Spencer sighs and flips onto his back, floating much like I had been moments before he entered the water. I run my hand over the top of the water, tracing unknown pictures into the blue. We all stand there, moments passing by slowly, words not surfacing on the tip of our lips. I allow my thoughts to wonder gently to Kay, memorizing the color of her hair and the deep green of her eyes. There is something more about her, something I want, no, need to know. If only I had the courage to ask her like I do with every other girl.

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            “Boys, what do you think you're doing out there!” Coach shouts, grabbing Grant by his helmet and pushing him away swiftly. “We are down by thirteen points! Get your head in the damn game!”

            I stand to the right of the coach, leaning against a green locker. The rest of the team kneels around us, sweat dripping from their damp hair, mouths open, panting slightly. We are losing to Bailey High School, our rivals and nobody knows what to do, except me.