Page 87 of The Backup

I smile, enjoying the playful back-and-forth, but something shifts in my chest. As much as I want to enjoy the moment, the weight of reality starts to press on me.

I can’t help but think that this is where our paths are diverging. Asher is talking about coaching, about finding a way to stay connected to the sport he loves. And me? Well, I’m preparing to dive into a whole new world. A different city, different plans, different future.

We’re standing at a crossroads, both of us with different dreams and goals, and suddenly, the thought of what comes next feels a lot heavier than the light banter we’ve been sharing. I try to push the feeling aside, but it lingers, settling uncomfortably in the pit of my stomach.

I glance at Asher, still smiling, still so easy with me. But even with the playful energy around the table, something in me knows that the future is never as simple as it feels right now.

twenty-seven

. . .

Sloane

The MCAT feels like a marathon.By the time I finally walk out of the testing center, my brain is fried, my shoulders ache, and I can barely remember what day it is.

Did I do well? Did I bomb it? I honestly don’t know. All I know is that it’s over, and for now, that’s enough.

I check my phone as I step outside, scrolling through a flood of texts from Jacklyn, Brian, and a couple of friends wishing me luck. My heart skips when I see one from Asher:

Asher: I’m sure you crushed it. Can’t wait to see you later.

A small smile tugs at my lips as I type back.

Me: Thanks. Need a nap first, though. Today was brutal.

As I walk toward the coffee shop nearby, my phone tucked in my pocket, I hear his voice before I see him. He’s standing near the corner with a couple of his teammates, leaning againstthe wall with that easy, cocky posture that somehow makes him stand out in any crowd.

“Man, she’s been good for you lately,” one of them says, clapping him on the back.

“She’s more than good for me,” Asher replies, laughing softly. “She’s my good luck charm. Can’t lose with her around.”

I freeze, the words hitting me like a punch to the gut.Good luck charm.

Is that all I am to him?

I duck out of sight before he can see me, my mind racing as I replay his words over and over. The warmth I’d felt earlier—the flutter of excitement at the thought of seeing him tonight—evaporates, replaced by a sinking feeling I can’t shake.

Back at the apartment, Jacklyn is waiting with takeout and a bottle of wine.

“So,” she says, plopping onto the couch as I dig into my noodles. “How do you think it went?”

I shrug, swirling my fork in the sauce. “Honestly? I have no idea. Some parts felt good, but others…” I trail off, shaking my head. “I guess I’ll just have to wait and see.”

“You’re going to kill it,” she says confidently, raising her glass. “You always do.”

I smile, but it feels hollow. My mind is still stuck on what Asher said earlier, and I hate how much it’s bothering me.

My phone buzzes on the counter, and I know without looking who it is.

Asher: Hey. Come over?

I stare at the screen, my stomach twisting as a dozen conflicting emotions war inside me. Finally, I grab my phone and head to my room, dialing his number.

“Hey,” he answers almost immediately, his voice warm and familiar.

“Hey,” I say softly, sitting on the edge of my bed. “So…I’ve been thinking.”

“Uh-oh,” he says lightly, but there’s an edge of concern in his tone. “What’s up?”

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