It’s the last minute of the game, and the crowd around you is tense, everyone on edge as they watch the Yellowjackets fight for that final goal. Your eyes are fixed on Lottie, her jersey number 5 standing out as she weaves her way down the field.

She’s been playing hard the whole match, sprinting after the ball and passing it on with the precision you’ve seen her practice after school. You’ve come to all her games since the two of you started dating, always cheering her on from the stands, careful to keep your excitement in check so no one grows suspicious. Watching her move with so much focus and skill now makes you feel a swell of pride.

As the final whistle blows and the team secures their win, they all erupt into cheers. You spot Jackie grinning, arms raised in victory, and Van throwing her fist up with a triumphant whoop between the goalposts.

Lottie’s eyes are already searching for you, scanning the crowd until she spots you on the bleachers. Her whole face lights up, and she breaks away from the rest of the team, her gaze never leaving yours as she jogs over. Before you can even say a word, she pulls you into a hug, lingering longer than she should, but neither of you care in the moment.

“Thanks for being here,” she murmurs, her voice warm enough to make your heart skip a beat. Lottie pulls back to look at you, her fingers brushing up and down your arms.

Just then, Laura Lee walks by, and the two of you jump apart. “Hey, Lottie, we’re all headed to the diner if you wanna come?”

Lottie glances over at her teammates for a split second before turning back to you with a smile. “Actually…I think I’ll pass,” she says. “I’d rather celebrate with you.”