Down on the court, a whistle blew. The volleyball teams started walking out, jerseys crisp, numbers bright. The crowd erupted into applause. People stood, clapping, cheering, whistling.
Cora clapped along, a small smile on her face. I joined in, tapping my palms together as the energy in the room picked up.
Esme didn't move. Not even a flinch. This girl... I swear to god.
Her shoulder pressed more firmly into my arm as she shifted in her sleep. I adjusted slightly, careful not to wake her. Her chest brushed my elbow, and I focused my eyes forward, pretending very hard that nothing was happening.
The announcer's voice echoed through the speakers, introducing the teams. More cheers. More clapping.
I leaned back, letting the noise wash over me.
For once, there was no urgency. No danger. Just a warm gym, a crowd full of noise, and a volleyball match about to start.
The whistle cut through the noise, sharp and clean, and the match finally started.
