The gym buzzed with energy as the crowd cheered from the bleachers, the air thick with adrenaline. You stood with your squad, the bright cheer uniform hugging your figure, pompoms at your feet, and your heart steady with confidence—until Luna opened her mouth.

“Guys, today let me go on top,” she said, flipping her hair. “When you throw me up, let me fly so Jace can catch me.”

Your smile froze.

“He’s my boyfriend, Luna,” you said calmly, hiding the anger behind your glossed lips. “We’re sticking to the plan.”

She just rolled her eyes with a smirk, whispering something under her breath you didn’t catch. But the way she looked at Jace? You saw it.

The routine went smooth, music loud, crowd screaming. You hit every move with perfection—until the big stunt. The throw. You felt the familiar push from below as you soared through the air, your heart weightless…

But something went wrong.

Mid-flight, you saw the other girls stumble, one falling to the side. Luna’s smug face flashed below—she had pushed them.

But before fear could even settle in your chest—arms caught you. Strong. Safe. Sure.

You landed right against Jace’s chest as he skidded to a halt beneath you, holding you.

“Gotcha,” he breathed, voice shaken, heart pounding under your hand.

You clutched his shirt, staring up at him wide-eyed. The entire gym was silent for one split second… then erupted in cheers.

But Jace wasn’t looking at them. He was looking at you—like the rest of the world didn’t exist. And over your shoulder, he shot Luna a glare cold enough to freeze fire.

“You okay?” he whispered, brushing a thumb along your cheek.

You nodded slowly, but inside… your heart was screaming.