the gym hummed with chatter as the yellowjackets waited for their turn. jackie kept fixing her hair in the reflection of the window, tossing it back dramatically. misty was offering lip gloss to everyone, though no one needed it. tai was pacing, tapping her foot impatiently.

“are we done yet?” shauna asked, rolling her eyes. “not yet,” van replied, grinning. “the photographer’s taking his sweet time.”

lottie stood silently at the back, eyes on the floor. you lean against the wall, trying to ignore the fact your cleats were untied. “you know, I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who actually wants a decent picture.”

“oh, definitely,” jackie said with a wink. “but you’re still gonna look ridiculous.” “let me guess,” tai said, turning toward the others. “are we all gonna do our own thing and hope the camera catches it?”

“exactly,” van grinned. when it was lottie’s turn, she stepped forward and posed without saying a word. the photographer clicked the shot.

“show off,” you joked as you step up next, last before the big group pictures. “you guys are so dramatic.” you flash a grin as the camera goes off. “what can I say?” jackie added. “we’re photogenic.”