Like You Mean It

Hayden Cross knows exactly what he wants. Back from a summer marching DCI, he's craving a well-deserved national win for his band. The Lovell High Marching Knights have been consistently second place in the region since his freshman year, losing by fractions of points to the ever-annoying Merrimack Valley Fightin' Titans. This year they are determined to win, even if it means breaking a few small, insignificant rules. So, Hayden and a few other section leaders sneak into Valley's first home game to spy on their band. It was all going to plan....until they got spotted five minutes in and left Hayden to fend for himself against some really angry Titans.

Cameron Miller just wanted a normal year. Fresh off a summer DCI tour with the most annoying percussionist he's ever met, he's ready to enjoy and excel in the Class 1 marching band he loves dearly. He really should have just let the trumpets knock Hayden's lights out. Instead, he dismounted his drum, jumped into Hayden's arms, and kissed him. It was the first thing he thought of, don't blame him! But it was enough to get the band off Hayden's back and gave Valley an in to spy on Lovell, at least according to Cam's brother.

But when a fake relationship turns too real, will Cam and Hayden let their fears tear them apart? Or will they find their own true meaning despite their uncertain beginning? Grab your instrument, don't forget your dot sheet, and play like you mean it as romance and rivalry go head to head in the 2022-23 marching season!

Warning to readers, "Like You Mean It" contains discussions of transphobia, mental health struggles, and swearing. Read with caution.