INTIMACY IS A GAME

Author POV: Cruz ran his hand through his damp hair as he walked with his teammates toward the bar. The atmosphere buzzed with the lively chatter of patrons, and as they entered, the smell of beer and fried food swirled around them. They ordered drinks and settled into their chairs, engaging in light banter and laughter. In the midst of the noise, Cruz overheard a couple of guys talking about Mia—how she had just beaten Dylan in a race and humiliated him in front of everyone. A smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. Cruz POV: I couldn’t help but admire Mia’s fierce spirit. She had a knack for pettiness, but it suited her well. Dylan had disrespected her, and she had made sure to turn the tables, flaunting her victory. The thought of her in that moment made my chest tighten with a mix of admiration and something deeper. "Hey Cruz, when does your contract with Mia end exactly?" one of my teammates asked, catching me off guard. My heart raced at the thought, but I quickly masked my reaction. “In two weeks, why?” I shot back, trying to sound nonchalant. “Nothing, just thought you should tell her how you feel. Two weeks will fly by!” I shot him a glare, but he was right. It was a ticking clock, and if I didn’t confess my feelings soon, I might lose my chance. “I get it, Cruz; you’re scared. But I’m pretty sure she loves you—or at least likes you too. There’s nothing to lose!” His words echoed in my mind. He was right; I had nothing to lose but my chance at happiness. Yet, every time I tried to express my feelings to Mia, the words lodged in my throat, refusing to come out. “Yeah, I’m planning to, don’t worry!” I said, though doubt lingered. Mia had always steered clear of relationships, and I wondered if I could break through her wall.