Against All Odds

CHAPTER - 14

CAMERON

Practice was intense, the sound of sneakers squeaking on the polished floor and the echo of the bouncing basketballs filled the gym. I played my heart out, fueled by the secret joy. A fellow teammate, Jake clapped me on the back, his eyes filled with curiosity. "What's got you in such a good mood, Captain? You've been on fire today!"

I chuckled, keeping my little secret guarded. "Just feeling motivated, you know."

I wiped the sweat off my forehead using the back of my hand and inhaled deeply, relishing the sense of accomplishment after a satisfying practice session. Glancing around, I noticed my teammates diligently training under the guidance of our coach. Suddenly, a high-pitched voice exclaimed. "You were amazing out there!" Startled, I turned to see Lara standing so near that I nearly collided with her.

I wasn't really in the mood to interact with her. I thanked Lara politely and tried to dismiss her, hoping she would take the hint and I started walking towards the locker. But she's undeterred. She stepped closer to me, invading my personal space as she twirled a strand of her hair between her fingers. Her tone became even flirtier as she continued. "Oh, come on, don't be shy. I couldn't take my eyes off you the whole time."

I couldn't help but roll my eyes, feeling my patience dwindling even more. I took a step back, putting a good amount of distance between us. I noticed a brief hesitation in her smile, but she swiftly regained her flirty demeanor. "Don't be like that, Cam. We could have so much fun together." She winked.

I could feel irritation mounting as my voice began to show signs of frustration. "Lara, I have no interest in playing games or getting involved with someone who doesn't respect boundaries. It's best if you leave."

"You think you're so special, don't you? You're nothing more than a cocky jock. You'll regret turning me down."

Droplets of sweat clung to my skin as I made my way to the locker room ignoring Lara's intense glare. The locker room creaked open, and cool air hit me. I stripped off my jersey and jumped into the shower.

The hot water from the showerhead hits my skin and I let out a content sigh as the water cascaded over me, washing away the intensity of the game and leaving me feeling refreshed. The water pounded relentlessly against my muscles. The vision of Elle's radiant smile, brightening even the darkest corner of my mind, sent shivers down my spine. My mind wandered to an imaginary scenario, one where she was standing beside me in this steamy, hot shower.

I could almost feel the heat radiating from her body as our skin brushed together, her delicate touch calming the turmoil within me. The sound of the water hitting the tiled floor was matching the rapid beat of my heart. My hand reached out instinctively, imagining it brushing against her moist skin, tracing the contours of her face. The sensation of her luscious lips pressed against mine became almost tangible.

But reality came crashing back as soon the lukewarm water hit my back.

Stepping out of the shower, a cloud of steam trailing behind me, I caught my reflection in the foggy mirror. There was a genuine smile on my face, a stark contrast to the usual post-practice weariness.

I dried off and got dressed. I replayed all those moments in my head and I found myself smiling like a fool in the locker room.

Heading to my class, I took a seat next to Nathan at my usual desk. "Someone's in a good mood."

I reclined, my grin growing wider. I could sense myself grinning foolishly. My thoughts kept presenting me with images of Elle's long, luscious blonde hair, the way it cascaded gracefully down her shoulders, and those striking blue eyes. They have become my regular dream content.