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The team crowds around Sebastian, slapping him on the back and hugging each other.

Gemma tugs at my arm. “Come on, let’s go congratulate him.”

I nod, but my feet are like lead as we make our way through cheering fans.

It’s chaotic, but Gemma forges ahead, leading us towards the locker room entrance, where most of the players have gathered. What will I even do when I meet him? Kiss him?

Just then, a strong hand yanks me aside by my waist.

Chapter 18

Lilian

My back hits the cold wall as Sebastian cages me in with his arms on each side of my head. We’re in a shadowy corner, hidden from view.

“Fancy seeing you here, princess. I didn’t realize I had a personal cheerleader.”

“I—we came to congratulate you. On the win.”

“So?” He raises a brow.

“Congratulations.” I fumble with the hem of my skirt.

“Couldn’t have done it without my good luck charm. I’m glad you came to watch me.” Sebastian cups my cheek, his thumb caressing my skin.

“Well, you were on the field.” I avert my gaze.

Sebastian chuckles. “You sure seemed focused on me.”

Of course, I’d been watching him—how could I not? The way his muscles rippled under his jersey with each throw.

“You were really good out there tonight.” I tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. “I mean, I don’t understand much about football, but you seemed to be doing all the right things.”

Sebastian’s lips curve into a smirk. “Thanks, princess. I’m glad you enjoyed the show.”

I nod, my eyes darting to the bruise forming on his jaw. “Are you okay? From when Jason tackled you, I mean. It looked painful.”

“I’ve had worse.” He shrugs, his hands shifting down my arms, leaving goosebumps in their wake. “But you know, I think you could make it better.”

“Oh?” My breath hitches as he leans closer.

“Yeah. A kiss right here,” he taps his forehead, “and here,” then his cheek, “and maybe even here.” His thumb brushes over my bottom lip.

“Sebastian.” My gaze drops to his lips. It’s tempting, so tempting, to kiss him. “We can’t do this.”

“Why not? Is it because of Jason?”

“No, no. Jason and I are just friends. Like Gemma and I are friends.” I take a deep breath, steeling myself. “And that’s why I can’t mess around with you. Gemma’s my friend, and you’re her brother.”

Sebastian scoffs, running a hand through his hair. “So? What’s that got to do with us?”

“Everything! I can’t risk losing Gemma’s friendship over this, over whatever this is between us.” I gesture vaguely in the space between our bodies.

“And what exactly is this between us, Lil?” He steps closer again, his gaze intense.

I lower my head. That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? The one I’ve been asking myself ever since that night in his room. The electricity, the undeniable pull, the way my body reacts to his every touch—it’s unlike anything I’ve ever felt before. But is it worth jeopardizing my friendship with Gemma? My first real friend I ever had.

“I don’t know, but we can’t.”

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