Page 91 of A Game as Old as Time

What!?

“From me?”

Bridgette lowered her voice.

“You are so pretty, and you always look so amazing. And tonight, that dress and your hair. I mean, it just means a lot coming from someone like you.”

Wow.

Hailey was struggling to respond.

“Well, thank you. That means a lot, but you really do look amazing, Bridgette.”

Another song started to play, and the dance floor in front of them began to fill up.

“You know…” Bridgette seemed to be building up courage before she continued. “I wasn’t the most welcoming when I first met you.”

Not really.

Hailey glanced at the floor, thinking about the first few interactions they’d had.

“But I’m glad I got to know you. I’m glad your family moved here.”

Oh, wow.

Hailey exhaled. The bass of the song rocked the wood of the basketball court under her heels.

“Bridgette.” Hailey leaned over the table. “I never apologized to you for taking the lead. I should have spoken with you first, I just---”

“Please, Hailey.” Bridgette threw her head back, flicking her wrist. “That part was made for you. I have learned so much from watching you. And, to be honest,” she chuckled softly, “I was petrified to play that part.”

Me too.

Hailey let out a nervous laugh.

“I mean, all the lines and the dancing. And that dress!”

Right.

Hailey shifted in her seat and adjusted her own dress.

“But I know you will be great. Plus,” Bridgette’s eyes moved to Emilio, who was approaching the table, “you will have all of us with you on the stage.”

The bulky linebacker smiled and puffed out his chest. His suit was practically painted onto his muscular body.

“Excuse me.” He extended his large hand to Bridgette. “Can I please steal this beautiful senorita for a dance?”

Hailey bowed gracefully.

“Senorita.” He stuck out his arm, and Bridgette instantly grabbed it.

In seconds, they were out on the gym floor. More of the football players and musical cast began to join them, and Hailey could not help but grin as she watched the entire group together.

You will have all of us.

She repeated Bridgette’s words and pushed a strand of hair back from her face.

“I have to admit.” Gunner’s voice made her jump. “It’s still weird seeing Emilio with Bridgette. I wouldn’t have put those two together.”

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