Page 8 of In Too Deep

“Awww, I was having fun with the guys. They were hot and showing off,” she coos.

“We need to concentrate on the heats, not the heat around the pool.”

Caro pouts. “You’re no fun.”

I walk us over to Tuck, who’s setting up our stuff now that Kyle has disappeared.

“Tuck, we’re here,” I call.

He turns and beams. “Good, and on time, too. Lacy must have gotten you out of bed, Caro, right?” he teases.

I giggle as Caro crosses her arms and scoffs.

“Actually, I got MissSleeping Beautyout of her bed this morning, Tuck. I think you’ll find I’m the committed one here today. Lacy’s too busy checking out the boys. I tried to stop her, but she’s a dog on heat. Can’t stop her from dry-humping shit.”

Tuck shakes his head as I slap her arm. “You’re a bitch.”

She wrinkles her nose. “You love me.”

“Mmm…”

“Okay, well, now you ladies have had your fun, it’s time for some serious talk. There’s a lot of veterans racing at the trials, but there’s always room for new up-and-comers. Kyle is keeping his eyes open for fresh talent, and I told him about you both, so give your all this week.”

“You mean the sexy Kyle Watley will be watching out for… moi?” Caro gushes.

Tuck guffaws. “Yes! So do your best.”

“Yes, coach!”

While Caro and Tuck chat, I’m distracted. Caro isn’t far off the mark. Iamlike a dog on heat. Because that guy from before, well… he’s standing over there setting up, and I can’t tear my eyes away. There’s something about him—he’s a magnet for my eyes, and I just can’t break the connection.

“Lacy, earth to Lacy?”

I snap my head back around to face Tuck and Caro. “Huh, what?”

Tuck frowns, turning from me to the guy and then back to me. “Eye on the prize only, Miss LaBelle!”

I try to rein in my racing heart and breathing.

“A ticket to Melbourne.”

“Good. Don’t forget it. Don’t get distracted. This is too important, Lacy.”

I push away the thought of his hands running up my thighs. “Yes, coach. I’m focused. I promise.”

“Glad to hear it. Now, go get changed.”

“Okay.”

Caro links her arm with mine, and we head to the changing rooms, where we begin our preparations for the meet. The room is abuzz with swimmers from all corners of Australia. We change quickly. There’s a special address coming up soon, and we all have to be there before the first heat starts. We rush out of the change rooms and down to the marshalling area. There, we file in and squish together for the welcome address.

Caro and I link our arms. There’s no one else I’d rather have by my side.

A bunch of people speak. It’s as boring as shit, then finally, Kyle Watley steps onto the small dais. Caro and I snap back to reality.

“Hi everyone, I’d like to officially welcome you to the Australian Olympic qualifying trials. We’re all here for one reason and one reason only… a ticket to Melbourne. To get that ticket, you have to not only give it your all this week but also put your best foot forward in all aspects. Respect the sport. Respect your country. Respect your teammates. Do Australia proud. Strive for your ticket to Melbourne. Show the world what world-class swimmers look like!”

We all cheer. Pride washes over me. I can’t believe that I’m even here with these amazing swimmers. I was in this position four years ago when I was sixteen. Back then, I was too young, and the stress was too much. But now I’m in my prime. I can take on anything.

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