miranbajrami59

"The Light Between Us"
In a town full of memories, the past is never really gone.

When 15-year-old Ryan Whitmore moves to Rosehill with his mom, he’s not just starting over—he’s running from everything he used to be. But small towns have long shadows, and Ryan quickly finds himself caught in something bigger than he expected. A girl who feels too familiar. A team he wasn’t supposed to lead. A truth that could ruin everything.

Between cheerleading tryouts, basketball tournaments, and late-night talks under the stars, Ryan, Anna, Ben, and Savannah are just trying to figure it all out. But secrets have a way of showing up—especially when you're finally starting to feel at home.

Basketball isn’t just a game here.
It’s where friendships are tested, futures are shaped, and second chances are earned.

THe Light Between us

The gym echoed with the rhythmic sound of clapping, sneakers bouncing, and the sharp voice of the cheer captain, Madison.

"One more time! Sharper this time, ladies—and focus on the timing!"

Anna caught her breath, adjusting her ponytail as she and Savannah fell back into formation. Her legs ached slightly from the repeated run-throughs, but she was used to pushing through. And with Savannah grinning beside her, everything felt lighter.

As they hit the final pose again, Madison clapped. "Better! That's what I want to see!"

Savannah whispered to Anna, "She gives compliments like they cost money."

Anna giggled, then straightened up as Madison gathered everyone in a circle.

"So, here's the deal," Madison began, flipping her clipboard. "Next week, the basketball team is playing in the Fall Bracket Tournament. Coach Daniels confirmed it this morning."

Excited chatter bubbled through the group.

"That means we're performing at all the games. Home or away," Madison added. "We're not just cheerleaders—we're their energy. Their motivation. That court is ours too, in a different way. Got it?"

The team nodded, some more enthusiastic than others.

Savannah leaned toward Anna and whispered, "They'll need more than motivation if Carter keeps sulking."

Anna smirked, thinking of how Carter had been brooding ever since the 2v2 game. "Well, at least Ryan and Ben are holding their own."

At the mention of Ryan's name, a girl on the far end—Lexi—rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. Anna noticed. Again.

Ever since the first week of practice, Lexi had had it out for her. Subtle jabs. Backhanded compliments. The occasional eye roll when Anna got praise. Today was no different.

"You seem pretty excited about Ryan," Lexi said, not bothering to lower her voice.

Savannah didn't skip a beat. "Why wouldn't she be? He's actually good."

Some of the girls laughed. Lexi shrugged, clearly not ready for a comeback.

Madison brought attention back to the group. "We'll create a chant and halftime routine by the weekend. I want sharp moves and loud voices. That means practice every day this week, even if it's short."

After dismissing everyone, Anna and Savannah walked toward the exit together, still sweaty but smiling.

"You okay?" Savannah asked softly.

Anna glanced back at Lexi, who was still glaring like she hadn't lost the argument. "Yeah. Just… people like that think they have everything figured out."

"Well, they don't. And trust me," Savannah bumped her shoulder, "you're not the only one who's noticed. Just keep doing you."

As they stepped out into the cool afternoon air, Savannah grinned. "So, what are we doing for the tournament? Face paint? Signs? Giant foam fingers?"

Anna laughed. "Let's maybe start with a banner."

"Banner it is. But I'm still voting for glitter."

Chapter forty-seven – Ready to Cheer