Aria's POV

The soft light of my phone screen glowed in the early morning darkness, and I smiled, seeing the call with Jack still connected. His quiet, even breathing was the only sound on the line, a steady rhythm that felt grounding. Jack was still asleep.

A part of me didn't want to move, didn't want to break the peace of this little bubble we were in. But I had to get up.

Sliding out of bed as carefully as possible, I started my morning routine. The whole time, I could hear Jack's breathing in the background—just knowing he was still there made everything feel a little easier, like I wasn't alone. I put on my fall outfit: a cozy sweater, jeans, and a bit of light makeup. Today, I skipped the contact lenses and went for my glasses. My fingers trembled slightly as I adjusted the frames, my thoughts drifting back to Jack.

It still felt strange—being this close to someone I had admired from afar for so long. Now, here he was, tangled in my life in ways I never thought possible.

Suddenly, Jack's groggy voice crackled through the phone, still heavy with sleep. "Mornin', babygirl..."

I bit my lip, trying not to laugh. Jack Carter—star quarterback, the smooth-talking, confident golden boy—sounded adorably unguarded when half-asleep. Hearing him like this was something I never imagined I'd get to experience.

"Did someone wake up on the wrong side of the bed?" I teased, my voice soft but edged with mischief. "This is a side of you I never noticed from afar. I mean, I knew your habits... but not this."

Jack let out a low groan, the sound halfway between annoyance and amusement. "You think this is funny?" His voice wasn't really irritated—it had that sleepy, grumpy charm that only made me want to tease him more.

"You sound like you need coffee. Lots of it." I grinned, knowing exactly how to get under his skin. "And just because I was creeping on you from a distance doesn't mean I knew everything about you, Carter. But don't worry... I'll figure it out."

Jack huffed dramatically, and I could almost picture him rubbing his face with one hand, that familiar exasperated expression creeping onto his features. "Jesus Christ, Aria. It's too fucking early for this shit."

I laughed quietly. "Morning banter is part of the package, babe. You wanted this—you asked for it, remember?"

He snorted. "Yeah, yeah. I just didn't realize you were gonna be such a pain in the ass about it."

"Get used to it," I shot back, grinning. "This is your life now. You get two Arias—bookworm Aria from school, and this version... sarcastic, sexy, and way too awake for your liking."

Jack groaned again, but I could hear the smile in his voice. "Sexy, huh? I must be dreaming."

"You wish," I teased, biting my lip to stifle another giggle.

"I can already tell today's gonna be a long fucking day," Jack muttered, though I could tell he wasn't really complaining. "You starting shit this early... Is this payback for yesterday's teasing?"

"Maybe," I replied, a playful lilt in my voice.

He sighed, the kind of over-the-top sigh that made it impossible not to laugh. "My girlfriend is already a goddamn pain. I didn't sign up for this."

My heart flipped at the way he said my girlfriend so easily, like it was the most natural thing in the world. I tried to keep my voice steady, but a smile tugged at my lips. "Oh, you definitely signed up for this, Carter. There's no backing out now."

"You're lucky I like you enough to deal with this shit," he said, his tone softening, playful but warm, wrapping me in the kind of affection that made my chest ache.

For a moment, I just listened to him breathing on the other end, the sound comforting in ways I couldn't explain. This—whatever this was—still felt surreal. I was still wrapping my head around the fact that Jack Carter was mine.

My smile faltered slightly as reality crept in, the weight of everything settling on my shoulders. Just a few months ago, I was invisible—a girl no one noticed. And now? Now Jack was calling me "babygirl," acting like I belonged in his life. It felt amazing... and terrifying.

Because Jack had a reputation. He didn't let people in—not for long, anyway. I'd seen it happen before. Girls would fall for him, try to peel back his layers, and the second things got too real, Jack would shut them out. That was the pattern. And now, here I was, hoping—maybe foolishly—that I'd be different. That he wouldn't walk away from me, too.

I fidgeted with the hem of my sweater, my thoughts drifting to school. The gossip, the judgment. The more public our relationship became, the more exposed I'd feel. Keeping things private gave me a sense of control—made it feel less overwhelming. I wasn't ready to be everyone's topic of conversation, and I definitely wasn't ready for Brooke to turn my relationship into some kind of spectacle.

Jack's voice pulled me back, snapping me out of my thoughts. "Hey. You know what today is, right?"

"Game day," I replied, already knowing where this was going.

"Exactly." I could hear the grin in his voice. "So that means you'll be there cheering me on, right?"

"Nah. I thought about skipping it, actually. You know, take a day off from being your girlfriend," I teased, biting back a laugh.

Jack chuckled, that low, amused sound that made my heart race. "Yeah, right. Like you could skip it, babe. I know you too well." There was a playful pause before he added, "And... you could always wear my jersey."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Nice try, Carter. Just because I agreed to this whole 'boyfriend-girlfriend' thing doesn't mean the whole school needs to know. We keep this between us, remember?"

Jack sighed, though I could tell he was still smiling. "Awh, damn. I really wanted to see you in my jersey. You'd look so fucking cute in it, I probably wouldn't even be able to focus on the game."

I laughed again, the thought of Jack getting distracted on the field making me grin. Before I could respond, his voice softened, the teasing giving way to something more genuine.

"I'm just messing with you, babygirl. I know this is new for you. And I know the spotlight isn't your thing. I won't push you into anything you're not ready for."

The sincerity in his voice made my heart clench. Jack wasn't just saying it to make me feel better—he meant it.

"I appreciate that, Jack." My voice was quieter now, more tender.

"No problem." He was silent for a second before adding, "But you can't blame me for trying."

I giggled softly. "Of course not. You'll try anything, huh?"

"When it comes to you? Absolutely." His tone was playful, but I could feel the sincerity behind it.

My stomach fluttered, but before I could respond, Jack added, "I'll pick you up in a bit, okay? Gotta get ready."

"Okay," I whispered, smiling to myself.

And for the first time in a while, everything felt... okay.

The call clicked off, and for a moment, I just stood there, staring at my phone. This feels too good to be real. A part of me still wonders if this is temporary—if someone like Jack Carter really stays.

I sighed, brushing off the thought as I turned to look out the window. There was a strange stillness in the air, like the world was holding its breath. It made me think of the moon pool, of the full moon coming closer, and the way my powers always felt a little more... alive during this time. The air felt heavier, more charged. I wondered if Jack noticed it too, or if it was just me sensing the magic creeping closer.

Whatever it was, I pushed the feeling away, focusing instead on the warmth Jack's voice had left behind. Maybe he's right. Maybe I do need to let myself relax a little more, take things one day at a time.

As I grabbed my bag and headed out, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of Jack picking me up for school. For the first time in a long time, things didn't feel so lonely anymore.

Jack pulled into the school parking lot, turning toward the far edge, away from the usual crowd of students. The engine hummed softly as he parked in a quieter spot where no one would notice me getting out. He gave me that playful, knowing grin, like he was in on a secret only we shared.

"Just enough time for you to slip out without making a scene, babygirl," Jack said, his voice low and smooth.

A warmth bloomed in my chest. Jack knew me—really knew me. It wasn't just about avoiding attention; he understood that being around too many eyes made me want to crawl back into my shell.

I smiled, grabbing my bag, ready to open the door, but Jack's hand wrapped around my wrist, gentle yet firm. I turned to him, startled, just as he leaned in. His lips brushed against mine, soft but deliberate, sending a flutter through my chest. It wasn't just a kiss—it was him reminding me he was here, that he saw me.

When he pulled back, his grin widened, full of mischief. "Just a little confidence boost, babygirl." He winked, his hand slipping from mine as he sat back.

The air outside was cool as I stepped out of the car, the door clicking shut behind me. My heart felt light, a little giddy, like something out of one of my romance novels. Jack Carter, the guy I admired from afar, was now... mine. Or maybe I was his? Either way, the thought made me smile to myself as I slung my bag over my shoulder and headed toward the school entrance.

Inside, the fluorescent lights buzzed faintly above as I made my way down the hall toward my locker. Just as I rounded the corner, I spotted Eli leaning against the metal door, arms crossed, his football jersey bright under the lights.

"So, what's got you all smiley this morning?" he asked, his eyes glinting with amusement.

I bit my lip, trying to suppress the heat creeping up my neck. "Nothing," I muttered, fiddling with my lock.

Eli chuckled, not buying it for a second. "Yeah, sure. Nothing. You know Jack ditched me and Brent yesterday after practice, right? Canceled all our plans last minute." His grin widened knowingly. "Something tells me you know why."

The blush burned hotter as I buried my face in my locker, pretending to search for something.

Just as I grabbed my notebook, I felt a hard shove from behind, sending me stumbling forward. My notebook slipped from my hands and clattered to the floor. Before I could catch myself, Eli's arm shot out, steadying me.

"What the hell?" Eli muttered, his sharp gaze locking on the culprit.

Of course, it was Brooke. She stood a few feet away, her arms crossed and a smug smile plastered across her face, as if she'd won some invisible game. Her eyes flicked over me with disdain before she turned and sauntered away, her laughter lingering in the air like a bad taste.

Before I could say anything, Jack appeared—fast and deliberate, like he'd seen everything from a distance. His eyes darkened as he glanced between me, Eli, and Brooke's retreating figure. His jaw tightened, a flicker of something dangerous passing over his expression.

Jack clapped Eli on the shoulder, giving him a nod. "Thanks, man. I've got it from here."

Eli smirked, his gaze shifting between us. "All yours, bro." There was no tension—just the kind of trust that made me feel like I was finally part of something bigger.

Jack slid his arm around my waist, pulling me close as we walked down the hall. His grip was steady, grounding me, but not suffocating. It felt... safe.

As we passed clusters of students, the whispers followed like a low hum in the background.

"Still with her?"

"Didn't think she'd last this long."

Each word felt like a tiny jab, but Jack didn't falter. If anything, his hold on me tightened, as if he was silently telling the world, She's with me. Deal with it.

You okay?" Jack murmured, leaning in just enough that his voice was for my ears only.

I nodded, though my chest felt tight from the morning's events. "Yeah," I whispered, not entirely believing it myself.

Jack's thumb brushed over the back of my hand in a soothing gesture. "Ignore them, babygirl. They don't matter. You've got me—and I've got you."

His words settled something deep inside me, the kind of reassurance I didn't know I needed until now.

We reached the next hallway, and Jack guided me toward a quieter corner, away from prying eyes. His hand lingered on mine for a moment longer than necessary before he let go.

I glanced up at him, my heart still racing from the shove, the whispers, and the overwhelming reality of being with someone like Jack in a world that didn't think I belonged here. But Jack made me feel like I did—like I belonged at his side.

And maybe, just maybe, that was enough.

The library was quiet—a sanctuary from the chaos outside its walls. Here, I didn't have to deal with the gossip that buzzed around me like a swarm of bees. Whispers about Jack and me, questions about how I'd "caught" him, and cruel remarks trying to write me off as just another phase. They didn't see me as a person—just a footnote in Jack's story.

The noise outside threatened to drag me back into that invisible place where I used to live—safe, distant, unnoticed. Part of me wanted to retreat back there, where it was easier to breathe. But Jack... Jack made it impossible to stay hidden, and I wasn't sure if I liked it or not.

I settled at a table in the corner, tucked away from prying eyes. The smooth wood was cool beneath my fingers as I traced the edge, trying to slow my thoughts. The rumors were exhausting. And keeping my powers in check felt like holding back a tidal wave, especially when emotions got tangled up in the mix. Being with Jack made it easier to stay grounded, but it also stirred something else—something that felt equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

My phone buzzed, pulling me from my thoughts.

Jack: Babygirl, did you really sneak off to the library? Miss me already? 😂

I rolled my eyes, though a small smile tugged at the corners of my lips. Jack's playful energy always found a way to ground me, even when everything felt heavy.

Me: I'm enjoying the peace without your annoying ass. It's nice. 😌

His reply came fast.

Jack: You're full of shit. You know you miss me.

I bit my lip, trying to hold back a laugh. Jack always knew exactly how to pull me out of my own head, even if it meant being a cocky asshole about it.

Me: Okay, maybe I miss you a little. But only because I want hugs and kisses. ☹️

There was a pause, and then my phone buzzed again.

Jack: Damn, you really are spoiled, huh? I'll give you all the hugs and kisses after the game. But you owe me, babygirl. This kind of emotional labor isn't free. 😉

I snorted, earning a glare from the librarian across the room. My fingers flew over the keyboard.

Me: You can't charge me for shit. I didn't ask to date a football player with a giant ego.

Jack: Too late. You got stuck with me. And now you gotta deal with all this ego.

I rolled my eyes so hard I was surprised they didn't get stuck.

Me: Jesus Christ, how are you even real?

Jack: I ask myself the same thing every day, baby. Blessed and highly favored.

Despite myself, I laughed quietly, my heart feeling lighter than it had all day. Jack had this way of making everything feel a little less suffocating, even when my brain was working overtime to convince me otherwise.

Me: Fine, you win. I'll admit it—I'm totally spoiled.

Jack: Damn right you are. But don't worry, I like spoiling the shit out of you. I got you.

The words hit me harder than I expected. Jack wasn't just teasing—there was something in his tone, even through text, that felt steady. Reassuring. Like he knew exactly what I needed, even when I didn't know it myself.

Me: You're annoying.

Jack: And you love it.

I shook my head, smiling like an idiot. I hated how easily Jack could get under my skin and make me feel... okay. But maybe I didn't hate it that much after all.

Me: See you after the game, QB. Bring your A-game—and the hugs.

Jack: Oh, you know I'll bring it. And those kisses? They're gonna be the best damn part of your night.

Me: You're so fucking full of yourself.

Jack: And you love that too, don't lie.

I bit my lip, fighting back another grin. The worst part was—he wasn't wrong.

His words sent a warmth through me, easing the tension knotted tight in my chest. Jack Carter—the same boy I'd admired from afar for what felt like forever—was now part of my world in ways I never thought possible. It still felt surreal, like a dream I didn't want to wake from, but one I was scared might disappear if I held on too tightly.

Being with Jack made things easier, even when everything else felt impossible. He saw me—really saw me—and somehow, that made all the difference.

But that comfort didn't last long.

I opened TikTok, hoping the familiar scroll would distract me. For a while, it did—until a video stopped me cold.

A blurry clip of a girl diving into the water... and transforming.

My heart stuttered, a weight dropping into my stomach. I stared at the shimmering tail flicking under the water before the video abruptly cut off.

The comments came fast—some claiming it was fake, others insisting it was photoshopped or CGI. A few praised the "edit," calling it the best mermaid clip they'd ever seen. But my gut twisted with certainty.

This wasn't an edit.

It was real.

And the girl... Something about her tugged at the edges of my mind, like a dream I couldn't quite remember. I scrolled through the comments, desperate for a clue, but all I found were arguments over special effects.

The memory itched, just out of reach—like knowing the words to a song but forgetting the melody.

My hands twitched, and before I realized it, water droplets beaded on my palms. The air felt thick, like a storm gathering inside me. I wiped the water away quickly, glancing around to make sure no one had noticed.

I needed to calm the fuck down.

My phone buzzed in my lap. Jack.

Jack: Hey, you good?

He always knew. Somehow, even through a screen, Jack could tell when something was off with me. It was fucking weird how well he could read me, but comforting too, in a way I hadn't realized I needed.

Me: Yeah, I'm fine. Just... overwhelmed, I guess.

There was a pause. Then another message appeared.

Jack: Liar.

A tired smile tugged at my lips. Jack always called me out when I was bullshitting—but not in a way that felt heavy or invasive. Just... steady. Like he knew exactly how to lighten the load without me asking.

Jack: It's game day, babygirl. I need that energy you gave me this morning. Where the fuck is it hiding? I'm gonna need it when game time hits.

I rolled my eyes, a laugh slipping out despite myself.

Me: And now who's spoiled?

Jack: There's a difference, babe. I need energy to win. No energy, no affection after the game. Rules are rules.

Me: You're so full of shit, Carter.

Jack: No affection. Final offer.

I snorted, biting my lip to hold back more laughter. He was such an asshole sometimes, and the worst part was that he knew it.

Me: Alright, alright. Here's your energy.
*Middle finger emoji*

Jack: Damn, that's rude as fuck. Not the energy I ordered.

I laughed quietly, drawing a sharp glare from the librarian across the room. I ducked lower in my chair, biting back a grin.

Me: Too bad. That's what you get.

Jack: You're such a brat.

Me: And you fucking love it.

Jack: Yeah, yeah. That's beside the point. I still need my good-luck kiss before the game.

I rolled my eyes again, warmth blooming in my chest. Bantering with Jack like this was easy—natural. Like we'd known each other forever, even though we were still figuring out what we were. Whatever this thing between us was, it was ours—just for us.

Me: You'll get your kiss. If you win.

Jack: Babe, I was always gonna win. You just make it more fun.

Me: God, you're impossible.

Jack: And you love it.

I shook my head, fighting the grin threatening to spread across my face. Jack was so fucking infuriating, but damn it, he wasn't wrong.

Me: You better win, Carter.

Jack: Don't worry, babe. I've got this—and I've got you too.

For a second, everything felt a little lighter. The gossip, the rumors, the fear of being exposed—it all faded, like it didn't matter as long as I had this.

As long as I had him.

Even with everything going on—especially with Brooke and the whispers—I felt better knowing he was there, grounding me in his own way.

Still, I couldn't let the ease of our conversation distract me. I needed to find a way to bring him with me to Waves and Whispers after the game. Maybe if I framed it as a chance to relax together, he'd agree. Jack could use a break too, especially after game day and I know he will be tired. And Elara... Elara might have the answers I needed about the girl in the TikTok video.

I stared at my phone, trying to figure out the best way to bring it up without making it seem like I was digging into more secrets, but maybe for now I will bring it up later tonight. 

<>

It's game day, and I'm sitting at the top of the stands, away from the noise and chaos where the popular crowd gathers. It's quieter up here, the cold wind biting at my cheeks. Being by myself feels safer—less judgment, less pressure—but there's this part of me that wishes I wasn't so good at disappearing.

I look out over the field, watching Jack command the game like he owns it. The way he moves, the way the team listens to him without question—it's effortless. And I'm up here, tucked away, wondering how I ended up as the girlfriend of someone who belongs so completely in the spotlight.

How did I end up here, pretending like I belong by his side?

My phone buzzes in my pocket, pulling me from my thoughts.

Jack: So why is my girl way up there, far from the energy?

I roll my eyes, but a smile sneaks onto my lips.

Me: I'm here, babe. Cheering you on.

I look back down at the field just in time to catch Jack smirking in my direction. His helmet is off, and even from here, I can see the mischief in his eyes. He taps his temple, then mouths, You look beautiful in that beanie.

Heat rushes to my face. I pull the collar of my hoodie higher to hide the grin spreading across my face.

It's easier when I'm on camera. Out here, everything feels raw and exposed.

I feel a chill run down my spine. When I glance toward the cheer squad, Brooke is standing there, looking straight at me. She whispers something to the two girls flanking her—Jack's ex among them—and they all laugh, the kind of laugh that makes my stomach drop. I look away, pretending I don't care, but I do. Brooke's been watching me all game, like she's waiting for the right moment to remind me I don't belong here.

The first half flies by in a blur of whistles, shouts, and cheers. Jack dominates the field, his passes sharp and precise. Brent powers through the defense, dragging tacklers with him, while Eli shuts down their plays like it's personal. Every now and then, Jack glances up at me in the stands, and each time, my heart jumps like it's trying to escape my chest.

The crowd erupts when Brent scores another touchdown, and I find myself clapping along, though I feel more like an outsider looking in.

The cheers sound distant, like they're happening to someone else.

At halftime, I pull out my phone, scrolling mindlessly to ground myself. That's when I hear the click of heels against the metal steps.

I look up—and there's Brooke, flanked by two cheerleaders. Jack's ex tilts her head, a fake smile plastered on her face.

"Oh, look—it's the shy girl. Aria," Brooke says, her voice syrupy sweet, the edges sharp enough to cut. "Didn't think you'd last this long. Guess Jack's still keeping you around, huh?"

Her words are light, almost friendly, but there's poison beneath them. My stomach twists painfully, but I force my face to stay neutral, gripping the sleeves of my hoodie tighter to ground myself.

Brooke leans in slightly, her smile widening like she's sharing some inside joke. "I mean, you know I'm his ex, right?" She flicks her hair over her shoulder, her tone casual, but her gaze locks on mine, watching for a reaction. "So... what makes you so different, huh?"

The words hang between us, heavy with implication. A knot tightens in my chest, but I swallow it down, refusing to give her the satisfaction of seeing me crack.

"You two look cute together," Brooke adds, her voice sugar-coated, but I hear the bitterness underneath. "Just like he used to look with me." Her smile sharpens, smug and deliberate. "But, you know... Jack's not exactly the relationship type. He's, like, really good at getting bored."

My breath catches in my throat, and I feel the sting before I can push it away. Her words hit harder than I want to admit, but I don't dare show it.

I squeeze my sleeves tighter, as if the soft fabric can stop the ache building in my chest. She's just messing with me. Don't let her see you break.

Jack's ex smirks. "Don't get too comfortable. He'll drop you tomorrow. That's what he does."

I open my mouth, but nothing comes out. I feel small. Exposed. Like they've peeled back a layer I didn't know I was still hiding beneath.

A voice breaks through the tension.

"Brooke, what the fuck are you doing?"

I look up to see Eli walking toward us, his football pads still on, sweaty and annoyed. He steps between us, towering over Brooke. "You bored or something? Move along."

Brooke shrugs, smirking. "Didn't realize she needed a babysitter."

"Yeah, well, I'm here now, so fuck off."

Brooke rolls her eyes but walks away, her friends trailing after her. "See you around, Aria," she says over her shoulder, her tone dripping with amusement.

I exhale shakily, my hands still trembling inside my sleeves. Eli looks down at me, his expression softening in a way I don't expect. "You good?"

I force a nod, but my chest feels tight.

Eli studies me for a moment, then pulls out his phone. He types something quickly, glancing at me once before hitting send. I pretend not to notice, but a part of me knows exactly who he's texting.

The second half is brutal. The other team comes out swinging, but Jack and his guys are better. Stronger. Brent breaks free for another touchdown, and Eli demolishes the opposing quarterback in one clean hit, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Jack doesn't let up. Every pass is perfect, every decision on point. He's locked in, but I catch the moments when he glances up at the stands, looking for me.

The game comes down to the final play. Jack fakes the handoff to Brent, dodges two defenders, and throws a perfect spiral to the end zone. The receiver catches it just before getting tackled, and the crowd explodes.

They win.

The field erupts into chaos—players shouting, coaches cheering, fans losing their minds. Eli and Brent tackle Jack in celebration, their voices hoarse with excitement.

My phone buzzes in my pocket.

Jack: Told you, babygirl. I win for you. But since you wanted hugs and kisses after the game...

Another buzz.

Jack: We agreed on being official when we're alone. So get ready, because I can't wait to kiss my girlfriend.

I'm grinning at the screen when I hear someone behind me.

Jack's ex steps into my path, her expression venomous. "You really think this means anything?" she sneers. "Jack will drop you, just like he did with every other girl. You're just a freak, playing pretend."

That word—freak—hits like a punch. My vision blurs, and suddenly, it's too much. The noise, the crowd, the weight of everything pressing down on me.

I turn and walk out of the stadium before the tears can catch me. Keep moving, Aria. Just keep moving.

I'm halfway across the parking lot, the noise from the stadium fading behind me, when someone grabs my arm and pulls me into the shadows.

My heart jumps, and I whirl around, ready to snap—but it's Jack, still in his gear, helmet tucked under one arm. His usual grin is gone, replaced with a concerned look that makes my stomach twist.

"Hey, what's wrong?" His voice is low, steady, his brows pulling together as he studies me.

I glance away, feeling ridiculous. "It's nothing."

"Aria..." His tone is gentle but firm—one of those things Jack's annoyingly good at, asking without prying, like he's giving me the choice to talk but still making it clear he's not going anywhere.

I bite my lip, wishing I could pretend Brooke's words didn't get to me, but they're still buzzing in my head. "Brooke said some stuff. It's dumb, really, but... it got to me."

His jaw tightens for a second, and I can see the flicker of irritation pass through his eyes. Then, just as quickly, it softens. He steps forward and wraps me in his arms, pulling me into the familiar warmth of him. The scent of grass, sweat, and faint cologne clings to him, and I sink into it, pressing my face into his chest, letting the steady thump of his heartbeat anchor me.

"Eli told me what she said," Jack murmurs, his lips brushing the top of my head. "And I don't care what Brooke thinks."

His words wrap around me, warm and solid, easing the tightness in my chest. I let out a shaky breath, the weight of it finally spilling out.

"It's just..." I start quietly. "What if she's right? What if I'm just... another girl you'll drop when you get bored?"

Jack leans back slightly, his hand tilting my chin up so I have to meet his gaze. There's no teasing, just that steady, grounding look that makes my heart ache in ways I don't fully understand.

"You're not just another girl," he says softly. "And you don't have to prove anything to me—or to anyone else. Not Brooke. Not the world. Just be you."

I blink, caught between wanting to believe him and feeling like I don't fit in his world. "I don't know if I can."

"And," Jack continues, a small grin sneaking back onto his face, "this is why I'm here. To help you get to the point where you can tell girls like Brooke to fuck off all on your own. I know you've got it in you, Aria."

I snort softly, rolling my eyes. "Yeah, well, maybe one day. Until then, you're my emotional support quarterback."

His grin widens. "Oh, so now I'm an emotional support QB? Does that come with a salary, or are you planning to pay me in kisses?"

I groan, shoving him lightly even as my cheeks heat. "You're an idiot."

"And you're still avoiding the question," he teases. "Weren't you the one begging to be spoiled with hugs and kisses last night?"

My face burns hotter, and I try to hide it by burying it in his chest. "Maybe..." I mumble, my voice muffled. "Maybe I do want your attention. Just for myself."

Jack's laugh rumbles through his chest, warm and amused. He pries my hands away from my face so I have to look at him, his grin widening. "Definitely spoiled," he says, brushing his nose against mine.

I groan, wriggling in his hold, but Jack doesn't let me go. "You're lucky I like spoiling you, babygirl."

Despite myself, a smile slips through. "You seriously think you can flirt your way out of anything, don't you?"

He grins, smug as ever. "It usually works."

I shake my head, trying and failing to suppress the grin spreading across my face. "You're insufferable."

"And yet..." Jack tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear, his fingers warm against my cheek. "Here you are, stuck with me."

I roll my eyes, but it's playful now, the knot in my chest loosening bit by bit. "I must be out of my mind."

"You're not wrong," he says with a smirk, leaning in just enough to steal a quick kiss—soft and patient, like he's got all the time in the world.

When he pulls back, he stays close, his gaze steady on mine. "See? There's my girl. The one who gives me shit and doesn't back down."

I scoff, though my heart flutters in my chest. "That's just for you. Don't get used to it around anyone else."

Jack chuckles, tightening his arms around me. "I kind of like that it's just for me."

His grin softens into something quieter, more serious, and for a moment, the noise of the world fades away. "But seriously... I've got you, Aria. And you'll get there. You just need a little time."

The steady warmth of his words settles deep, something solid and grounding. I find myself nodding. "Maybe," I whisper. "I want to get there."

Jack's grin returns, mischievous and playful as ever. "You will," he murmurs. "I'll make sure of it. But until then..." He leans in close, his lips brushing my ear. "I'm still here to spoil you. Someone's gotta cheer you up."

My heart flips, but I manage to keep my cool. "You're so full of yourself."

Jack pops the 'p' with a grin. "And you love it."

Despite everything, I laugh—a real, genuine laugh—and Jack's grin stretches wider, like my laugh is his favorite sound.

The cold air brushes against my cheeks, but I barely notice. With Jack by my side, it's easier to believe that I'll get there. That I'll learn to fight my own battles.

And maybe, just maybe, I'll stop feeling like I don't belong.

Jack pulls me in for one more kiss, his lips warm and familiar, and in that moment, the world feels a little less overwhelming.

For now, this is enough. And I'll take it.

<>

A/N: Awh, how cute!