Sophia’s POVAlexander is holding out paper, too.I meet his eyes and take a deep breath.He says again, “Rock. Paper. Scissors.”Again, we’re both holding out paper. This should be fun. But nothing seems funny. It’s like I’m fighting for my life.“Say it this time,” He utters, looking at me.With shaky hands, I put my hair behind my ears and murmur, “Rock, p-paper, scissors.”Both of us—scissors. Again.For goodness’ sake!“Rock. Paper. Scissors.”He holds out rock.And me? Paper.“You’re going first.” He declares. And silence follows.I swallow air like it might burn my lungs, slowly withdrawing my hand. Today, winning doesn’t feel like victory. He brings his hand to my left cheek, caressing and staring into my eyes with a tenderness that makes this feel doable.“Take ten.” He says softly. “I’ll wait for you over there… post those pictures, take a deep breath, and come join me. Mm?”I blink and nod.He withdraws his hand and rises from the bleacher.I shut my eyes, counting second
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