Elizabeth Shadd and Jasmine Rose had developed a routine, both at school and home, practicing with the help of other students. Over time, they became more artistic and skilled in their field, slowly shedding their initial clumsiness.
Nick Putian started noticing the girls, but in a quiet, flirtatious, and somewhat secretive manner. Perhaps he feared Tiffy, his senior girlfriend, but that didn't stop him from flirting with both Shadd and Jasmine.
"I see you girls have really been perfecting your skills," Nick complimented them during a break in practice, standing with one foot crossed over the other, addressing the two as they rested in the arena. "From humble beginnings to real proficiency. Impressive."
"We believed in ourselves. It's really paying off in the long run," Jasmine responded, nodding confidently and glancing between Nick and Shadd.
Shadd nodded in agreement and added, "At first we failed, but we learn by failing forward."
Nick, clearly impressed, encouraged them. "Practice makes perfect. Keep motivating each other—you'll reach greater heights. Maybe even lead the team one day. I really admire your zeal and determination."
"Thank you!" the girls replied in unison, though there was an air of caution in their tone.
"I'd love to take you girls out sometime. Just as a little encouragement," Nick added, his voice laced with flirtation.
The girls looked at each other for a brief, silent moment before Jasmine spoke up, "We wouldn't mind… as long as it doesn't cause trouble with your relationship with Tiffy. Honestly, she kind of scares us. Being a senior and all…"
Nick laughed it off. "Don't worry about Tiffy. I can handle her. Just don't tell her anything and everything will be fine."
"You sure about that?" Shadd asked, clearly skeptical, furrowing her brows.
"I'm sure. Hanging out with you two should be a thrill. Especially since you're freshmen. Ever had an experience like that?"
"No," they both responded.
"Well then, this is your golden chance. Hanging out with someone of my status around here," Nick said with a smirk.
After a moment's pause, both girls nodded in agreement. "No, we won't mind."
"We're totally fine with that."
"Great! This Saturday evening at Pizza Inn. We'll share some pizzas and Coke. It'll be fun—I promise."
"We'll be there!" Jasmine assured him.
"Gotta run! See you on Saturday!" Nick said with a grin, winking at them as he walked away.
---
"That was unexpected!" Jasmine exclaimed. "Nick—the school star—asking us, freshmen, out on a date!"
"It's weird. I can't believe he noticed us so fast," Shadd said nervously. "I hope this doesn't cause problems with Tiffy."
"Relax! We'll take selfies with him! That's what matters," Jasmine giggled.
"And then what? Post them? You know what'll happen if Tiffy finds out. Rumors spread like wildfire around this school," Shadd warned.
"Strategic timing. We'll post them after they graduate," Jasmine suggested, only half-joking.
"Fine… as long as it doesn't mess up their relationship. Just saying."
"Okay! I can't wait for Saturday!"
Later that evening, Shadd joined her brother Lawrence as he practiced basketball in the backyard.
"Lawrence Junior! I see you're working hard!"
"Yeah, the tournaments are near. We might face your school soon. Not sure who you'll be cheering for," he said, dribbling the ball.
"I won't betray my school or my blood… but my heart will probably root for you," she replied, arms folded, smiling sideways.
"I was just kidding," Lawrence chuckled. "I know you got my back, sis."
"By the way… can I ask you something?"
"Shoot."
"How does it feel being a basketball star? I mean, with all the attention, social media fame, and everything?"
"Feels great, honestly. But you've got to be careful. Stick with one girl to avoid drama. I'm dating Faith—the cheerleading captain. As for social media, yeah, I've got tons of followers, but I don't let it distract me. Fame is cool, but focus is key."
"Well, I'm proud to have a famous brother."
"How often do you and Faith go on dates?"
"Once a week, usually. Most of the time at Pizza Inn."
"Pizza Inn?" Shadd echoed, surprised.
"Why are you so shocked?" he asked, stopping to look at her.
"O-oh, no reason. Sorry. Continue practicing," Shadd said quickly, walking back inside.
---
That night, lying in bed, Shadd stared at the ceiling.
"What if Lawrence spots me with Nick and Jasmine at Pizza Inn? It's my first date—I don't want interference, but I don't want to change Lawrence's plans either. Maybe I can subtly suggest a new venue? But that depends on Faith's preferences too… ugh! This could really damage my reputation if the cheer captains talk. Still… it's worth a try."
She went back to the backyard.
"Hey Lawrence, can I ask you something?"
"Sure."
"About this weekend… any chance you could take Faith somewhere else? Like Chicken Inn? Or maybe a garden park?"
Lawrence raised a brow, curious. "Why?"
"No big reason, just a suggestion."
"Faith loves Pizza Inn. I can't really ask her to change plans without a good reason. Is there something you're not telling me?"
"No, no. Nothing. Never mind. I need to get to bed anyway. Don't want to deal with 'late night early rise' drama at school."
---
The next day, Shadd rushed to Jasmine before class started.
"Jasmine, we have a problem."
"What's wrong?"
"Lawrence and Faith usually go to Pizza Inn. They could spot us."
"And? What's the big deal?" Jasmine asked, chewing and gesturing.
"Faith is a cheer captain. All the captains in the region know each other. If she sees us, it's only a matter of time before Tiffy hears about it."
"Oh… that's a problem. Did you try convincing Lawrence to change venues?"
"I did. But no luck. Faith is set on Pizza Inn."
"Yikes. How about we wear caps and hoodies—just let our ponytails show?"
"That's brilliant! High five!" They clapped hands just as the teacher entered, and quickly composed themselves.
---
Saturday arrived after a long week of tiring practice. The girls hadn't gotten the chance to speak with Nick again due to Tiffy's constant presence. They didn't even have his contact info., so they went to Pizza Inn in caps and sweaters, blending in.
"What if he doesn't show?" Shadd worried aloud.
"We'll wait an hour. If he doesn't come, we leave."
"And order something in the meantime. We can't just sit here."
"I got you."
Shadd ordered a pizza and two Cokes.
While eating, Jasmine scrolled through social media.
"I found Nick's account and messaged him," she said suddenly.
"You're relentless," Shadd laughed.
"Journalism is my hobby. Maybe a career."
"Still, we're leaving in an hour if he doesn't reply,we leave here! Deal?!"
"Deal!"
Suddenly, Jasmine spotted him. "Look! Nick just arrived!"
The girls waved. Nick joined them, apologizing.
"Sorry I'm late. Jasmine's DM helped. I totally forgot about today—Tiffy's been all over me lately. Lots of schoolwork and captain duties. But I'm here. Better late than never. By the way… what's with the caps?"
There was a pause before Shadd answered, "Just trying a new style. Looks good, right?"
"If the cap fits, wear it," Nick joked, smiling. "Don't worry about the bill—I've got it. Let me grab my order."
"I'll be right back—bathroom," Shadd said quickly.
---
At the sink, she washed her hands—until a voice startled her.
"Shadd, is that you?"
She froze.
"I work here—I'm Faith the chef!"
Shadd bowed her head lower under her cap.
"I think you're mistaken…"
"Shadd! I saw your face! Shadd!"
Panic-stricken, Shadd fled the washroom. "Jasmine, we have to go. Now."
"What? What's happening?"
"No time! I'll explain later!" She dragged Jasmine out.
Nick tried stopping them. "Wait! We haven't even—"
But it was too late.
---
Outside, Jasmine stopped walking suddenly after walking hastily for a while.
"Okay! I'm not taking another step until you tell me what just happened!"
Shadd sighed. "Faith works there. As a chef. She saw me—recognized me in the mirror. I panicked. Just imagine if she identified us clearly."
"Oh wow. That was close. We almost got exposed. Poor Nick… that must've been humiliating."
"He'll be fine. He should just stick with Tiffy. We don't want to cause more problems."
"Still… I hope he understands," Jasmine said as they walked home together, reflecting on the dramatic turn of events.