ManyWriters

On graduation night, I gave my first time to Leonardo.
The pain was real, but so was my joy, believing my devotion had finally been seen.
But I never imagined that at the bonfire party the next day, I would hear his teammates joking with him.
That night after graduation, Leonardo took everything from me.
"Nice work, man, you finally sealed the deal with your little shadow."
And Leonardo, who had been so gentle the night before, replied with a lazy drawl.
"Jessica is the real prize. I’m just getting in some practice with Kira, don't want to fumble in front of the queen."
I said nothing, just turned and walked away.
Then, before the final deadline, I changed my college choice from Seattle to Los Angeles.

The Coast Between Us

Leonardo's party was a small, private affair for close family and friends. My arrival caused a ripple of surprise, visible on everyone's faces.


I smiled and greeted everyone, pretending nothing was wrong. But I could feel their curious glances.


I stepped onto the balcony for some air and overheard a conversation from the hallway. Some of his football buddies had cornered him.


"I thought you said Kira was still mad about the whole Jessica thing. Is she over it already?"


Leonardo let out a low chuckle. "She's just being childish. She'll come around. We've known each other our whole lives; she can't stay mad at me."


The friend sighed. "You know, Kira's a keeper. That kind of history is rare. We all envy how much she's into you."


"Childhood sweetheart versus the campus queen. Tough call, man. It's a shame to lose either... So what's the game plan?"


Chapter 8