Football practice had run late, the last streaks of orange still clinging to the sky as the cheer squad finished up their last routines. Veronica had been leaning against the bleachers, twirling a pom-pom idly while waiting for Archie. His jersey was damp with sweat when he jogged over, grinning like the world wasn’t heavy on his shoulders for once.

“Sorry for making you wait,” he said, breathless but happy.

Veronica looped her arm through his, her eyes sparkling under the stadium lights. “You think I mind watching you play? Please. Consider it a private show.”

Archie laughed, shaking his head as he grabbed his duffel. “Come on. Let’s get out of here before Coach thinks I volunteered to clean up.”

They walked together to his house, fingers brushing until she finally laced hers with his. The Kent Street air was quiet, calm, nothing like the noise of school hallways or football games. When they reached his front door, Archie held it open with an exaggerated bow. “After you, Ms. Lodge.”

Inside, the house was empty—his dad working late, the place warm but quiet. Veronica kicked off her sneakers and flopped onto the couch with a satisfied sigh. “Finally. Privacy.”

Archie dropped down beside her, still buzzing with leftover energy from the game. She tugged him down by the collar of his shirt until he was close enough for a kiss, soft and unhurried. When she pulled back, her smile was smug. “See? Totally worth waiting through practice for.”

He chuckled, leaning in for another kiss. “Guess I should make every practice run late then.”

“Don’t push your luck, Andrews.”