Episode 8: Teasing Roman

The Oakwood University football team in the locker room after a grueling practice. The players are chatting and laughing as they change. Roman is in the locker room after football practice. Roman is trying to focus on changing, but his mind keeps drifting back to thoughts of Lily.

Alex and Ethan exchange knowing glances, having noticed Roman's distraction over the past few days. Alex decides to break the silence.

Alex: "Hey, Stone, you've been off your game lately. Got something on your mind?"

Roman shook his head, trying to brush it off.

Roman: "Just tired, that's all."

Ethan smirks and nudges Roman playfully.

Ethan: "Yeah, tired of staring at a certain new girl, maybe?"

The other teammates chuckle, and Roman shoots Ethan a glare.

Roman: "Cut it out, man."

The teasing continues as the team gathers their gear and heads out of the locker room.

Alex: "Come on, Roman, you can tell us. What's her name? Lily, right?"

Roman tries to ignore them, but the comments hit closer to home than he wants to admit.

Roman: "You guys are ridiculous."

Later, the team heads to the cafeteria for a post-practice meal. Roman finds himself scanning the room for Lily without even realizing it. His teammates notice and start whispering among themselves, exchanging sly grins.

Ethan: "Hey, Roman, it looks like your eyes are doing all the talking. She's not here today?"

Roman rolls his eyes but can't help the slight blush that creeps up his neck.

Roman: "Give it a rest, Ethan."

As Roman sits down with his food, he finds his thoughts drifting back to Lily once again. Despite the teasing, there's a truth in his teammates' words that he can't ignore. He began to realize just how much she's been occupying his thoughts.

Roman (V.O.): "Why does she affect me like this? I barely know her."

After the meal, Roman pulls Ethan aside, away from the others.

Roman: "Alright, fine. You were right. I can't stop thinking about her."

Ethan nods, not surprised in the least.

Ethan: "I figured as much. So, what are you going to do about it?"

Roman sighs, running a hand through his hair.

Roman: "I don't know. This isn't like me."

Ethan offers a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

Ethan: "Maybe that's a good thing. Maybe she's exactly what you need."

Roman contemplates Ethan's words, feeling a mix of apprehension and hope. The idea that Lily could be a positive influence in his life is both terrifying and exhilarating.

Roman (V.O.): "Maybe she is what I need. But can I let my guard down enough to find out?"

Roman standing alone on the football field, looking out into the distance. The sun sets, casting a golden glow over the field, symbolizing a new beginning. Roman takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of his decision.

Roman (V.O.): "It's time to find out."