For a week, Emma and Mandy took the longer route home from school, passing by JS Pitch. Emma's excuse was that she wanted to enjoy the scenic view, but Mandy knew better.
"You're hoping to see Jayden again, aren't you?" Mandy teased.
Emma blushed. "No, of course not."
But Mandy's knowing grin made Emma's cheeks burn.
As they walked past the pitch, Emma's eyes scanned the field, searching for a glimpse of Jayden's familiar figure. Each day, she felt a pang of disappointment when he wasn't there.
On the seventh day, Emma suggested their usual detour. Mandy raised an eyebrow.
"You're really persistent, aren't you?"
Emma shrugged. "Just enjoying the view."
As they turned onto the street adjacent to the pitch, Emma's heart skipped a beat. Jayden was standing by the field's entrance, talking to a group of kids.
"Look," Emma whispered, nudging Mandy.
Mandy followed her gaze. "Lucky you."
Emma's pulse quickened as Jayden glanced up, catching her eye. This time, he smiled.
As Jayden's eyes met Emma's, his smile grew, and Emma's heart soared.
"Ahhhh!" Emma squealed, grasping Mandy's hand tightly.
Mandy laughed. "Emma, calm down!"
But Emma wouldn't calm down. She was bouncing up and down like a rubber ball, her eyes shining.
"He noticed me! Jayden Smart noticed me!" Emma exclaimed.
Mandy chuckled. "Of course, he did. You're practically screaming his name."
Emma's grip on Mandy's hand tightened. "Shut up! This is huge!"
Jayden's smile widened, and he raised a hand in a casual wave.
Emma waved back, still squealing. "He's waving at me! Oh my god!"
Mandy laughed. "You're totally fan-girling."
Emma didn't care. She was too busy basking in Jayden's attention.
As they walked away, Emma turned to Mandy, still grinning. "Did you see that? He smiled at me!"
Mandy rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Yes, I saw. You're clearly making a lasting impression."
Emma's eyes sparkled. "I'm going to die happy now."
Mandy chuckled. "You're ridiculous."
Emma didn't mind. She was too busy replaying the moment in her head.
Emma stood by the field, her heart racing as she gathered courage. She had promised herself she'd say hello this time. Taking a deep breath, she walked toward the bench where Jayden sat, watching the kids play with a warm smile.
"Hello," Emma said softly, sitting beside him.
Jayden turned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Good day."
Emma's cheeks flushed. "Where are my manners? Good afternoon, Jayden."
Jayden chuckled. "No worries, I'm not used to formal greetings from fans."
Emma's nervousness dissipated slightly.
"I have to say, I was pretty mad you left the first day without asking for a pic or autograph" Jayden teased.
Emma's eyes widened. "I-I didn't want to bother you."
Jayden laughed. "I'm kidding! I didn't even notice you that day. But yesterday... well, you were hard to miss."
Emma's face burned. "Starstruck, I guess."
Jayden smiled kindly. "It's okay. I'm flattered."
They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, watching the kids play.
"What brings you here?" Emma asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
Jayden shrugged. "Off-season, so I have some downtime. Figured I'd give back to the community, help out with training the local kids."
Emma nodded. "That's amazing. You're really passionate about this, aren't you?"
Jaden's eyes sparkled. "Football's not just a game; it's a way to make a difference."
As they talked, Emma found herself relaxing in Jayden's presence. He was easy to talk to, and his kindness put her at ease.
"You know, I never thought I'd say this to a football star, but... you're really down-to-earth," Emma said.
Jayden grinned. "That's the best compliment I've received all week."
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and Emma realized she'd been chatting with Jayden for over an hour.