"You can help me".

The lunch bell chimed, signaling our break from training. Tina, Rosa, and I made our way to the bustling cafeteria, eager to grab a bite together."So, spill it. What went down earlier?" Rosa's curiosity was palpable as she sat down, her eyes fixed on me.Tina, looking slightly puzzled, joined in, "Yeah, what's the scoop?"Rosa leaned in, her voice lowered, "Vicki here got a surprise visit to the locker room courtesy of the general."Tina's eyes widened, "Seriously? What happened?""It was strange. He seemed concerned, almost like he wanted me to quit the training," I recounted, still puzzled by the encounter.Tina chuckled, breaking the tension, "Wow, drama without me? That's a first."As if on cue, Kyle and his entourage approached our table. Cindy, always the caring one, rushed to me, "Hey, are you okay?"I nodded, "Yeah, just a weird moment earlier."The guys joined us, but the atmosphere was unusually quiet. Kyle's usual friendly demeanor was replaced by a brooding silence.Jason, trying to lighten the mood, piped in, "What's with the gloomy faces? Let's eat and cheer up."Cindy nudged me, whispering, "He's probably just worried about you."I nodded, trying to ease the tension, "Yeah, he's always looking out for everyone."(My Mind Did I upset him earlier? Maybe I was too harsh.)I caught Kyle's eye, but his gaze quickly shifted away. Determined to break the ice, I spoke up, "Cindy, you said the training gets intense, right?"Cindy nodded, "Especially in the water. You need to be on top of your game.""I'm confident in my swimming skills. No worries," I said, hoping Kyle would overhear and relax.To my relief, Kyle glanced in my direction, a hint of acknowledgment in his eyes.Cindy, sensing the opportunity, prodded, "Oh, Vicki's a natural in the water. Won plenty of medals."Kyle seemed intrigued but remained silent.As the conversation lulled, Kyle abruptly stood and left the table.Cindy looked concerned, "Why's he still upset?"Jason suggested, "You should talk to him, clear the air."Rosa agreed, "Yeah, it's best to sort things out.""I guess I should," I said, excusing myself from the table.I found Kyle in his office, staring pensively out the window. Tentatively, I knocked and entered."Got a minute?" I asked.He gestured for me to continue."I want to apologize for earlier. I didn't mean to come off rude," I started, feeling a bit nervous."Was I that intimidating?" Kyle's tone softened, his eyes searching mine."It's not you, really. I just want you to know I'm serious about this training," I explained earnestly.(My Mind What am I saying? Why am I seeking his approval?)Kyle moved closer, a small smirk playing on his lips, "So, you think you can handle everything on your own?"I hesitated, taking a step back, but he caught my hand, pulling me gently towards him.

_ROSE_...