No Turning Back (Rewrite)

Chapter 26

Preparation for the state championships is one of the circles of Hell. Every year, our coach transformed into a drill sergeant and made practice into his own basketball bootcamp. My teammates and I had to report to practice every day, directly after school on weekdays and early in the morning on weekends. We couldn't leave until we were about to drop from exhaustion. By that point, the moon was usually high in the sky, and most of the world was asleep. Even on gamedays, coach demanded we arrive early to the court for extra practice time.

During the weeks leading up to the championship, my life was completely consumed by basketball. I didn't have time for anything else – even overthinking. By the time I got home every night, my brain was too tired to even attempt to form a solid thought. After my shower, I'd collapse into bed and instantly fall sleep.

The busy schedule interrupted my usual quality time with my brother and boyfriend. I rarely ever got to see them anymore. Sure, I drove Donnie to school every morning and I saw Jayden during English class, but it wasn't the same.

Thankfully, my jam-packed days made the weeks fly by. Before I knew it, the championship game was happening. Not that I paid much mind to it.

Truthfully, our opponents didn't give us much of a challenge. With our weeks of extensive training and practice, we danced around their amateur defensive plays. Their offensive plays weren't much to brag about either. Even the freshman who managed to make varsity were able to steal the ball from them. It was one of the easiest games of the season. Winning didn't even feel satisfying because of how badly we destroyed the other team.

I barely survived the post-game celebration dinner with my team. My brain completely shut down. I wasn't listening to a word of any of the cheesy toasts from our coaches or the sappy speeches from the senior players. Hell, I can't even remember what the fuck I said during mine. It must've been good from the applause I received.

I didn't expect to feel so relieved with the basketball season behind me. I could finally relax for a little while. The Lord only knew how bad college basketball would kick my ass. I figured I might as well enjoy my freedom before I had to worry about NCAA politics.

Slowly, I returned to my old routine with Donnie and Jayden. As the weather grew warmer, we were outside more often. We took walks to the local parks, played basketball on the courts, and attended the small carnivals that passed through town. Watching Donnie's giddy smile as he dragged Jayden towards a carnival ride reminded me how much I'd missed spending time with them. Jayden's own kind smile sparked more than just happiness.

Each time I looked at him, I couldn't help but to feel...warm. With every smile, laugh, kiss, and hug, the fire in my stomach gained more heat. The flames spread from my stomach to my chest, licking up almost every bit of my torso. Occasionally, the flames would drift a bit lower – but that was a different kind of warmth. One that Jayden seemed to be embracing.

While we were still respecting his chastity promise, we explored the loopholes in it. More so me than Jayden. All he had to do was sit back and let me do all the work. Not that I minded. I liked to be in control – and Jayden certainly seemed to enjoy my experience.

I was looking forward to showing him some more of my skills after the concert tonight. The giddy butterflies in my stomach bounced around during the ride to his house, tickling my ribs and maintaining the goofy smile on my face.

My boyfriend's grin matched mine as he hopped into the car.

I raised my eyebrows as he initiated a passionate kiss. Not that I was complaining. I eagerly returned the gesture, placing my hand on the back of his neck to keep him there. "Hi," I said when we finally pulled away.