The typical calm, cool, and collected basketball player I’ve come to expect is nowhere to be found at the moment. He stays as close to the sideline as possible while Connor shoots his free throws. Ryan watches the court but speaks to me over his shoulder. “Are you okay?” “Yes,” I quickly blurt out. Because I am and that was a far bigger scene than it needed to be. “I’m fine. I’m sorry.” “Don’t apologize. You’re not hurt?” “No.” “Promise me.” “I promise.” Ocean eyes sweep up my body, taking me in as if he’s double checking that I really am okay. I am, it just scared me a little. Finally,
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