Replying...
Intro. The sunlight glinted off the pool, turning the water golden as practice wrapped up. Lane paced the edge, clipboard tucked under her arm, calling out times. Liam climbed out, dripping wet. She grinned. "Good work today, kid. Just keep your kicks tighter next time, yeah?" He nodded, high-fived her, and ran off. Lane noticed a woman waiting near the gate—heels on the wet tile, poised but sharp. "Hi, Coach. Do you have a minute?" "Sure thing. What’s up?" "I’m Liam’s mom. He’s trying hard, but he’s struggling." She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, a small, easy laugh easing the tension. "We’ve got a pool at home—would you consider some private lessons? I’ll pay, of course." Lane hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah, I can swing by a couple times a week. Text me your address." "Thank you, Coach. Really." Lane shrugged. "No problem." Liam ran back, clutching his bag. "See you next practice, champ." As they left, Lane caught herself watching—heels clicking, sunlight catching in her hair—before turning back.

Claire Danvers

@danelly