In more ways than one, Tate understood Freya's needs even before she did. As the evening drew to a close, Tate and Freya slowly made their way back to the car, the gentle sound of the water lapping against the rocks, creating a calming backdrop. The cool night air was filled with the sound of their footsteps and the rustling of leaves. Tate opened the car door for Freya, and she slid into the passenger seat with a smile.

Once they were both settled, Tate started the engine, and glanced over at Freya. "I had a really great time tonight," he said, his voice warm and sincere. "Do you need a ride to school tomorrow?"

Freya looked at him, her eyes sparkling but then dimming slightly. "That's very sweet of you, Tate, but I think I'll be okay. I have my dad, the principal, remember?" she replied, trying to keep her tone light. In her mind, she couldn't shake the memory of Nikki's threats against her.

Tate nodded, though he sensed something was off. Tate was used to people stepping out of his life. His mother did. He was hoping Freya wouldn't become a statistic. He started to care for her, wanting to protect her like he never did before with anyone. When his mother left, it was a scar on his chest. An actual scar. A bookshelf toppled over and crushed him while she was home, not paying attention. He was nine. The last time Tate saw his mother was in Florida, starting a whole new life.

As they drove back, Tate couldn't help but think about all the people who had left him. He hoped Freya wouldn't become another name on the list. For the first time in a long while, he had a genuine desire to protect someone, to be there for them. Tate hoped that whatever was troubling her, she would feel comfortable enough to share it with him someday.

After Tate dropped her off, feeling breathless as they wished each other a good night, Freya went back inside, heading straight for Vita's room. The night was of sweet delight that adorned Freya's eyes with hearts. She was crushing hard, and she couldn't tame it.

As she lay in bed, Freya replayed the evening in her mind, smiling to herself. She knew she was falling for Tate, and the thought both excited and scared her.

"Tell me everything!" Vita exclaimed, practically bouncing with joy.

Freya laughed, her cheeks flushing. "It was amazing, Vita. We talked, we laughed, and I just... I can't stop thinking about him."

...

Nikki pressed, her jealousy evident as it grew, wearing a cozy pink hoodie and soft cotton shorts. "Where were you? You weren't with her, were you?"

Tate tried to keep his cool, which was difficult to do around her. "Yes, Nikki, I was with Freya. We were just talking and enjoying the evening. That's all."

"Why were you just talking with her?" Nikki shot back, her tone sharp.

Tate shrugged. "We were just catching up, Nikki. It's not a big deal."

Nikki's words were suffocated by a mix of anger and warning. "If it's not a big deal, then I want you to stop seeing her. I told her what would happen to her if she kept seeing you."

Tate's expression hardened. "Nikki, you can't control who I talk to. Freya and I are just friends. There's no need for threats."

"But that's not all you'll become, right?" Nikki said in disbelief, not trusting his word for it.

Tate responded, standing his ground, "At least I wouldn't be unhappy if we did get together. Nikki, did you think I wouldn't see how miserable you were with Reese before the game? You talk down about Freya and me, but take one look at who you are with. That's not the kind of relationship I want."

"Then you and that stupid girl deserve each other!" Nikki retorted. "You're going to be the reason she gets hurt!"