Aria's POV

The bleachers were cold against my legs, but I barely noticed. My book sat open in my lap, but the words blurred as my gaze drifted—again—toward the field. Jack moved across the grass like he owned it, every step confident and sure, his easy swagger making it impossible not to stare. The sunlight caught the sweat on his skin, and I found myself gawking like a total idiot.

I told myself I was just admiring from a distance—like I always had. But deep down, I knew better. This wasn't just some high school crush anymore. Somewhere along the way, my feelings had shifted, grown into something deeper. And that scared the shit out of me.

Before I could look away, Jack glanced in my direction. Our eyes locked, and the slow, smug grin that spread across his face made my heart flip. He knew.

Shit, he knows I've been staring.

Heat rushed to my face, and I ducked my head, pretending to focus on my book like it held the secrets to the universe. My heart thudded painfully in my chest, each beat louder than the last.

The sharp blast of a whistle ended practice, but I stayed frozen in place, willing the blush on my cheeks to disappear.

I didn't even hear him approach until he was right in front of me.

"Whatcha reading?" Jack's voice startled me out of my thoughts, and I let out a small yelp, nearly dropping my book.

"Jack!" I clutched my chest, glaring at him. "Jesus, you scared the crap out of me."

He grinned, completely unbothered. "Didn't mean to scare you, babygirl." His gaze dropped to the book in my hands. "So... what are you reading?"

I scrambled to pick it up, hugging the book to my chest like it might save me. "Just... a romance novel."

Jack's grin widened, amusement flickering in his hazel eyes. "A romance, huh? I should've guessed." He leaned in, close enough that my pulse kicked into overdrive. "It's cute how into them you get. Adorable, even."

The heat in my cheeks deepened, but before I could stop myself, the words spilled out. "I love my little romance novels. I guess I'm just a hopeless romantic." I paused, but the floodgates had opened, and the words kept coming. "Reality love? It fucking sucks. I just want someone to be romantic, you know? But that's not how it works. Love's a joke. It's why I don't believe in it."

Jack's grin dimmed as I kept talking, his expression softening.

"In books, love feels... possible," I admitted, my voice quieter now. "Even if I know it's not real." I hesitated, chewing on my lip. "Look at my parents—they don't even pretend to love or pay attention to me. They forget they even have a kid. Their version of love? It's gone. Makes it easier not to expect anything, you know? It hurts less if you don't believe in it."

The silence between us stretched, heavier than I expected. Jack's playful grin faded entirely as he studied me, his hazel eyes darker, more thoughtful. It was like he was seeing right through me—and not just the version I showed everyone else.

My heart fluttered, panic rising in its wake. Shit. I said too much, didn't I?

But instead of pulling away, Jack leaned closer, that familiar spark of mischief returning to his gaze. "So..." His voice dropped just enough to send a shiver down my spine. "You hungry?"

I opened my mouth to say no, but my stomach betrayed me with a loud growl.

Jack's laughter rumbled through him, warm and easy. "Not hungry, huh?" He smirked, leaning in even closer. "Your stomach just called you out, babygirl."

I groaned, covering my face with my hands. "That's so fucking embarrassing."

Jack chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. "Come on. Let me buy you something at The Cozy Corner. I'll even get you that iced pumpkin chai latte you love."

The way he said it—so casual, like he knew me better than I knew myself—made my heart ache in the best way.

"You're impossible," I muttered, standing up and clutching my book like it was a lifeline.

Jack followed, his grin never fading. "And you love it."

The bell above the door chimed softly as we stepped into The Cozy Corner, the familiar scent of cinnamon and coffee wrapping around me. Jack nudged me with his shoulder, his grin playful. "Go grab our table, babygirl. I'll get the drinks."

I rolled my eyes but didn't argue, heading toward the spot by the window we always sat at. Our table. The thought felt strange—but good. Like spending time with Jack was becoming part of my routine now.

I sat down, watching Jack lean casually against the counter, chatting with the barista like he belonged here. It was so easy to pretend in moments like this—like the whispers and rumors didn't exist, and it was just us.

Jack returned with our drinks, sliding into the seat next to me—close enough that his leg brushed against mine under the table, sending a pleasant warmth through me.

"Here you go, pumpkin," he teased, setting my drink in front of me with a smug grin.

I groaned, but a smile tugged at my lips as I took a sip. The familiar sweet, spiced flavor hit my tongue, and I hummed in satisfaction.

Jack watched me, amusement flickering in his eyes. "You're fucking adorable," he said, his grin widening.

"Stop," I mumbled, hiding behind my cup.

"I mean it. The way you get excited over a drink? Cute as hell."

I groaned again, wishing the floor would open up and swallow me. "You're impossible."

Jack chuckled, leaning in closer. "Hey... about what you said earlier." His voice was softer now, more serious.

I sighed, staring down at my latte. "I know."

"Look at me," Jack said gently.

I hesitated but eventually lifted my gaze to meet his steady brown eyes.

"What did you mean?" he asked quietly.

I exhaled slowly. "It's easier not to believe in love," I admitted. "It hurts less that way. If you don't expect anything, you can't be disappointed."

Jack's jaw tightened, and he let out a slow breath. "I'm here, Aria. I haven't gone anywhere."

"But what if you do?" I whispered, my biggest fear slipping out before I could stop it.

Jack reached under the table, his hand finding mine. His thumb brushed over my knuckles in soothing circles. "I don't know what the future holds," he said softly. "But we don't have to figure it out right now. One step at a time, okay?"

"Baby steps?" I asked with a faint smile.

Jack grinned. "Exactly."

His words settled something inside me, easing the knot that had been tightening in my chest.

"I like you, Aria," he said quietly, his voice steady and sincere. "I've got feelings for you."

My breath caught in my throat. Holy shit. He just said it.

"I... I think I feel the same," I whispered. My voice wavered slightly, but it was the most honest thing I'd said all day. "But I'm not sure if I'm ready."

Jack smiled, warm and understanding. "That's okay. We'll take our time. No pressure—just us."

A small laugh escaped me—unexpected but genuine. "After all these years of crushing on you from afar... here I am, sitting with the most popular quarterback, admitting my feelings."

Jack rolled his eyes, though his grin remained. "You've been driving me crazy, pulling away every time I got close."

I tugged playfully at his arm. "And maybe I'll keep doing that."

Jack grinned, catching my hand before I could pull away. "Nope. Caught you, babygirl. You're stuck with me now."

Before I could respond, he leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to the curve of my neck. A spark shot through me, and I gasped, my heart hammering in my chest.

Jack smirked, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Always getting my way."

And damn it, I loved every second of it.

<>

The walk back to Jack's car was quiet, but my thoughts were anything but. Our hands brushed occasionally, sending tiny jolts through me each time. Jack, of course, looked perfectly composed, focused on the path ahead like nothing had changed. Meanwhile, I couldn't stop sneaking glances at his hand, wondering what it would feel like if... I just held it.

Instead, I focused on our shadows stretching across the pavement. I shifted my fingers subtly, lining them up so it looked like our shadows were holding hands. A soft giggle bubbled out before I could stop it. This can't be real. I'm shadow-holding hands with Jack Carter.

Before I could enjoy the moment any longer, Jack's hand slid into mine—warm, solid, and impossible to ignore. My heart skipped a beat, and I glanced up, only to find him smirking down at me, that cocky grin firmly in place.

"You could've just asked, babygirl," he teased, his thumb tracing a lazy circle over the back of my hand. "Instead of being all adorable with the shadows."

My face burned, and I groaned. "You saw that?"

Jack's grin widened, all mischievous charm. "Yeah, I saw it. You weren't paying attention, but I glanced back... caught you red-fucking-handed."

I tried to pull my hand away, but Jack held on tighter, his playful grin softening just enough to make my chest ache in the best way.

"I... I don't want to go home yet," I mumbled, staring at our joined hands, afraid to meet his gaze.

Jack didn't say a word. Instead, he guided me toward his car and, without breaking stride, lifted me effortlessly onto the hood. He stood in front of me, resting his hands on either side, close enough that his presence felt like gravity pulling me in, grounding me in place.

"What's up?" he asked softly, his gaze steady and unwavering. "Something bothering you?"

I hesitated, the words knotting in my throat. "I just... I like being with you," I admitted quietly, my voice barely above a whisper. "It's like... when I'm with you, everything feels easier. My powers stay in check. I don't feel... overwhelmed."

Jack's teasing grin faded, replaced by something softer—something that made my heart feel too big for my chest. "Tell me more."

I fidgeted with my hands, my thoughts swirling. "I've been trying to figure everything out—researching the moon pool, the full moon, all the cryptic shit Elara told me. But every time I think I understand, something else knocks me off track." I exhaled sharply, biting my lip. "And when I get stressed... things just slip out of control."

Jack nodded, his expression patient and attentive. Just having him there made it easier to keep going.

"But with you... it's different," I whispered, meeting his gaze. "You make me feel calm."

Jack's chuckle was warm, easy. "Feels pretty damn good to be needed, babygirl."

I rolled my eyes, but the smile tugging at my lips betrayed me. "Jesus, Jack. Now you're getting cocky again."

"Always," Jack shot back with a smug grin. "And don't act like you don't love it."

I giggled, the warmth between us loosening some of the tension that had been coiling tight inside me. "Maybe I should've pulled away a little more—just to drive you even crazier."

Jack shot me a mock glare, but the corners of his mouth twitched. "You know you can't push me away." His voice dropped to a low, teasing hum. "I'll just catch you again and keep you even closer."

He leaned in, brushing a stray strand of hair behind my ear, his grin deepening. "You drive me crazy, but... I fucking love crazy. And by the way, you just called me 'babe.'"

I froze for half a second, my cheeks heating as the realization hit. "Don't get used to it," I mumbled, sticking my tongue out in a half-hearted attempt to cover my embarrassment.

Jack's hazel eyes sparkled with mischief, his grin widening. "Damn, babygirl. Look at you—getting all feisty with me, huh? Throwing sarcasm like a pro."

Blushing harder, I swatted at him playfully, but Jack only laughed, catching my hand and holding it gently.

The moment stretched between us, easy and warm, wrapped in the fading light of the setting sun. Everything about this—being with Jack, sitting here under the soft glow—felt... right. Like this was exactly where I was supposed to be.

"We'll figure this shit out together," Jack said softly, his gaze steady. "If being with me makes things easier, then I'm all in."

My heart thudded in my chest, and I swallowed hard, the weight of his words settling over me in the best way.

"You mean that?" I asked quietly, my voice barely audible.

"Every fucking word," Jack murmured, his expression soft but sure. "You've got me, Aria. I'm not going anywhere."

For a moment, all I could do was stare at him, my heart racing in a way that felt terrifying and comforting all at once. And then, without thinking, I leaned forward and kissed him.

Jack's lips were warm and soft against mine—slow and deliberate, like he had all the time in the world to savor the moment. The kiss was gentle at first, a quiet promise wrapped in affection. But when I kissed him back, I felt the curve of his smile against mine—mischievous and full of that cocky confidence that always drove me crazy.

I pulled back, breathless, and Jack grinned down at me, his hazel eyes glowing with amusement. "See? Told you I'd catch you."

I laughed, rolling my eyes. "You're so full of yourself."

"And you love it," he shot back without missing a beat.

"Yeah, yeah," I muttered, shaking my head—but the warmth spreading through me was undeniable.

Jack gave my hand a gentle squeeze, his grin softening into something more sincere. "One day at a time, babygirl. We'll figure this shit out together."

And for the first time in a long time, I believed him.

I hesitated. "I don't want Eli or Brent involved. Not yet."

Jack gave a thoughtful nod. "Okay. If that's what you want, it'll just be us."

I fidgeted with my fingers again, nerves making my stomach twist. "Jack?"

"Yeah?" Jack leaned in slightly, his gaze locked on mine, the gleam in his eyes pure trouble.

I took a deep breath. "Can we... I mean, can we be boyfriend and girlfriend... but just between us?" My voice came out softer than I wanted. "Not tell anyone at school."

Jack's grin spread slowly, mischievous and knowing. "So you really do want me all to yourself, huh?" He arched a brow. "Damn, babygirl, you're fucking spoiled for my attention, aren't you?"

My face burned with embarrassment, and I groaned, hiding behind my hands. "Maybe... maybe I do want your attention. Just for myself," I mumbled, peeking through my fingers.

Jack's warm laugh made my heart do a little flip, and he gently pried my hands away. "Oh yeah, I'm definitely sensing some jealousy here." His grin widened, teasing but soft. "Someone likes being spoiled, huh?"

I shot him a playful glare, but it was impossible not to smile when he looked at me like that.

He winked, that cocky little grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Don't worry, babygirl—you've got all of me. Affection, attention—everything. And all you had to do was ask."

For a moment, the air between us felt light, easy. But then Jack's expression shifted, the humor dimming into something serious. "I get it, though. I know Brooke and all the bullshit at school... it gets to you."

I nodded, biting my lip. "It's just... sometimes it feels like I'll lose control. Like one day, I'm gonna snap and do something stupid, and everyone will think I'm... some kind of freak."

Jack's jaw clenched, his playful demeanor gone in an instant. "Hey." His voice was low but firm, cutting through my self-doubt. "You're not a fucking freak, Aria. Not even close."

His gaze locked on mine as he reached out, tilting my chin up so I couldn't look away. "I know it's hard when people like Brooke get in your head. I hate that I let her fuck with you like that."

His voice softened, but I could feel the quiet intensity beneath it. "I've got your back—always. But I need you to stand your ground, too."

I swallowed hard, the weight of his words settling in my chest. Jack's thumb brushed over my cheek, and the warmth of his touch made me feel just a little more steady.

"You've got so much confidence when you vlog," he said, his voice gentle. "That version of you? I want to see more of her. Where's that Aria hiding?"

I looked down, but Jack tipped my chin back up, making sure I saw the sincerity in his expression. "And just so you know... it drives me fucking crazy when you keep me at arm's length—like you think I won't like all the parts of you." His voice dropped, softer but sure. "Whether it's the girl who reads romance novels, the quiet bookworm at school, or the badass vlogger—you're beautiful. Every fucking version of you."

My chest tightened, and I blinked quickly, trying to keep the tears at bay.

Jack gave me a small smile, warm and reassuring. "You just have to believe it, too."

"I... I don't know." My voice wavered, and I hated how small it sounded. "That barrier—it feels safe. It kept me safe when I admired you from a distance, crushing on you for so long. But now... I don't know how to handle any of this."

Jack's gaze softened as his fingers traced soothing circles over my knuckles. "I get it," he murmured, his voice low and steady. "I know stepping out of what feels comfortable is fucking hard."

He gave me a smile that made my heart race and calm all at once. "But listen, you don't have to figure it all out today. Just start by trusting yourself, step by step. I've got you, okay? I'm right here with you."

The tension in my chest loosened, just a little. Jack wasn't asking me to change overnight—he was just asking me to try.

His voice dropped again, low and deliberate. "Because one day, I want to see you standing on the sidelines, head held high, telling those assholes exactly who you are. No hesitation. No fear." His grin returned, mischievous but laced with a promise. "And when you do, I'll be the one shouting from the stands, 'That's my fucking babygirl!' No one messes with you. Fuck them."

I bit my lip, trying to hide my smile, but it slipped through anyway. Jack pinched my nose playfully, making me laugh despite myself.

"See?" he teased, his grin widening. "One day at a time, babygirl. We'll figure this shit out together."

Still smiling, I pulled out my phone, feeling a sudden burst of bravery. "Babe, I want to show you off on my Instagram."

Jack raised an eyebrow, his grin sharpening. "Wait—you have an Instagram? And I didn't find it? The fuck?"

I laughed. "It's private. Barely any followers. I treat it like a secret diary... kind of like my vlogs."

Jack tilted his head, mock suspicion in his gaze. "So you've been hiding from me, huh?"

I grinned. "Maybe I've been checking out your stories from an anonymous account this whole time."

Jack groaned dramatically, throwing his head back. "What the fuck, Aria? You've been lurking this whole time, and I didn't even know?"

I giggled, biting my lip. "You weren't supposed to find me until I wanted you to."

Jack shook his head, grinning. "You're so fucking spoiled when it comes to me, aren't you?"

"Yeah, but you love it," I shot back, nudging him playfully.

Jack chuckled, pulling me closer until there was no space left between us. "Damn right, I do."

He leaned in slowly, his lips brushing mine—soft, unhurried, like he had all the time in the world. The kiss was gentle at first, a sweet reminder of everything we hadn't said aloud yet. But when I kissed him back, I felt the curve of his smile against mine—mischievous and full of promise, like he knew exactly what he was doing to me.

And honestly? I didn't mind one bit.

Perched on the hood of his car, the world around us melted away, the moment surreal and almost too perfect—like something ripped straight out of one of those fantasy romance novels I've devoured a million times over. And now here I was, living it—me, kissing the guy I admired from afar for years. Honestly? If I weren't me, I'd probably be swooning right now, flipping to the next chapter just to see how this plays out.

When we finally pulled away, Jack's hand lingered at my waist, his forehead resting lightly against mine. "You know," he murmured, "I'm pretty sure I'm the luckiest guy on the planet right now."

I giggled again, the happiness bubbling up inside me too strong to contain.

"Yeah?" I whispered, my heart fluttering.

"Yeah." Jack grinned, brushing his thumb across my cheek. "And I'm not letting you go, babygirl."

Jack's car rolled to a stop in front of my house, the dark windows greeting me like they always did—silent and empty. I stared at the shadowy outline of the front door, a familiar knot tightening in my chest. They were probably out again, on another business dinner or out with friends, living their lives while I tried to navigate mine.

I stayed in my seat, fidgeting with my sleeve, not ready to face the quiet. Jack noticed—of course he did. His eyes flicked toward the house, reading my hesitation like a book. Without saying a word, he slipped out of the car, rounding it to open my door.

"Come on, babygirl," he murmured, holding out his hand.

His hand was warm, solid, grounding me in the moment. I took it, grateful for the silent comfort as he helped me to my feet. We walked to the porch, hand in hand, but I still wasn't ready to go inside. I stood there, frozen, wishing I could stay with him a little longer.

Jack glanced at the door, then at me. He sighed softly, like he knew exactly what I needed. "How about this," he said, his voice low and reassuring. "I'll call you when I get home, and we can fall asleep on the phone together. That way, you won't feel alone."

His words wrapped around me like a blanket, and I nodded, biting my lip to keep the emotions from spilling over. Jack gave me one of those forehead kisses—the kind that made my heart stutter—and whispered, "Goodnight, babygirl."

He lingered at the door, his gaze steady, like he didn't want to leave me here alone. I stepped inside reluctantly, feeling the emptiness press down on me like it always did. Jack winked as he turned to leave, his grin soft in the moonlight. I watched him walk back to his car, every step feeling like it carried a promise.

The engine rumbled softly as he drove away, the taillights glowing like fading stars in the night. I stood there for a moment longer, staring into the darkness, before closing the door behind me. The house felt too quiet, too big, as I made my way upstairs to my room.

I curled under the blankets, pulling my phone close as I stared at the screen, waiting. The shadows felt heavier without Jack's presence, but the glow of the screen was a small comfort.

When his name finally lit up my phone, my heart fluttered, and for the first time that night, the silence didn't feel so suffocating.

<>

A/N: Awh, well isn't that sweet? I am fangirling too. Such a healthy relationship, but the author says with healthy relationships comes drama. Everyone loves drama and angst and suffering, right? Please vote, comment, and constructive criticism greatly appreciated.