#kk9

Between the Noise and Silence

Kayleigh glanced around the Galen centre, the feeling of deja vu washing over her, fighting the urge to turn right to the home locker room instead of the visitor one. She followed the rest of the team down the maroon and yellow hall, tossing her bag into the empty locker stall.

“You good, Kyle?”

Nodding, Kayleigh rifled through her bag to pull out her shoes. “Yeah, I’m good.” She looked over at KK and gave her a small smile. “It’s just weird, y’know?”

A bright smile crossed KK’s face and she wrapped her arm around Kayleigh’s shoulders, tugging her tight against her. “You look better in blue than yellow.” 

“Shut up.” Kayleigh muttered, her cheeks turning a bright shade of red, trying to push the other girl off of her.

The room started to fill with chatter, conversations flowing from one end to the other of the locker room. Kayleigh stared down at her shoes, trying to fight the butterflies that were zipping around. She exhaled slowly through her nose and raised her eyes as she listened to coach talk about their warmup. 

Their shoes squeaked in unison as they headed out onto the court. It was still quiet and they moved together, a team, a unit. The balls bounced as the arena started to fill up. She was focused on the drill when she heard it.

“TRAITOR!”

Glancing up, Kayleigh saw a man wearing a 9 Heckel jersey, but her name was crossed out. Her breath caught in her throat like she had been punched and she tore her eyes away, trying to find somewhere else to focus on. Anything else.

She felt a hand on the small of her back, soft, but strong.

“You’re good.” KK whispered, leading her over to the side. “Drink some water, we’ve got you.” She looked over at CD who just nodded and sat down next to the younger player. KK walked back to where they were warming up, shooting a glance over her shoulder before picking up a basketball.

“TRAITOR!”

This time, KK, Sarah and Azzi all looked up in unison, their eyes narrowing.

“Hasn’t anyone ever heard of the transfer portal?” Sarah muttered, looking back at Kayleigh who had her head in her hands. “Lots of people transfer every year.”

Azzi nodded and passed the ball between her hands. “Yeah.” She said softly, her gaze alternating between KK and Kayleigh.

KK just stood rooted on the hardwood, her eyes narrow and dangerous, fists clenched at her side. She didn’t move when Sarah nudged her with her shoulder to get her attention. She didn’t move when Azzi gripped her forearm and tugged her gently. Finally, FINALLY, she exhaled loudly and tore her eyes away from the crowd and moved back to the huddle.

Her voice was sharper, demanded more of her teammates as they stood shoulder to shoulder. She reached out and squeezed Kayleigh’s hand, strong and secure. Telling her silently that she was there for her, that they were there for her.

The noise of the crowd got louder, every time Kayleigh touched the ball, boos rained down. KK watched her from the bench, the way her body tensed and the way she forced shots and passes. When the whistle blew, she walked onto the court, only for Kayleigh to avoid her and drop down onto the bench heavily, her hands buried in her hands. Even from where she stood, she could see the tears stream through Kayleigh’s fingers and hit the hardwood around her feet.

She wanted to run to her, God did she want to run to her, but she had to finish the game. KK took one last look as Geno walked over to Kayleigh and pulled her gruffly into a hug. She exhaled and looked at Sarah and Azzi who gave her tight lipped forced smiles.

They won, but no one felt like celebrating. 

Walking into the lockerroom, KK headed for Kayleigh who just exhaled softly, her chest stuttering. The younger girl shook her head slightly as she toed off her shoes, her lips taught in tight in a hard line.

KK watched as she headed for the showers, the room emptying out as everyone grabbed their towels and headed towards the shower. She and Azzi sat in their respective spots, the older of the two slowly untying her shoes as she gave the younger space.

“She doesn’t want to see me.” KK whispered as she tugged off her jersey and tossed it in the pike with the rest of the discarded uniforms.

“She needs space. She doesn’t want to see anyone.” Azzi replied, slowly undoing her braids. She was more like Kayleigh than KK was. Introverted, quiet, needing her own space, and eternally processing things in her head. “She needs time to process this alone before she can process out loud.” Raking her fingers through her curls, she gave KK a tiny smile. “She’ll talk when she’s ready. Don’t push her, let her come to you and listen when she speaks.”

KK nodded and grabbed her own stuff and headed to the showers, passing Kayleigh on the way. The younger girl’s face was pale, her cheeks rosy from the hot water, but her eyes were dull. She didn’t even notice as they passed.

**

The bus ride to the hotel was muted, everyone giving Kayleigh space and silence, even Kelis, who was playing idly on her phone. The usual noise and celebration didn’t happen as they streamed into the hotel, Kayleigh finding her room with Morgan and shutting the door behind her. KK watched helplessly before exhaling softly and heading to her own room. Kelis was already testing out the beds, bouncing from one to the other before declaring the one on the left was the best. KK didn’t argue. She took her phone and sat outside her room, back to the wall. She didn’t play on her phone, instead she just turned it over in her hands, something to keep her busy. Back and forth, the smooth glass of the screen under her fingers keeping her grounded. She didn’t know how long she sat there until she felt someone sit down beside her.

“I don’t want to talk, Azzi.”

“Good thing I’m not Azzi.”

KK looked over and spotted Morgan Cheli’s bright eyes looking down at her. “Sorry Morgan.” KK mumbled. “I’m not in the mood to talk.”

“Kinda figured.” Morgan said, her eyes and voice kind. She placed her room key in KK’s hand, and for the first time KK noticed the younger girl’s overnight bag at their feet. 

“What…where are you goin?” KK asked, her eyebrows knitted in confusion. 

“Your room.” Morgan said with a shrug. They sat there in silence until Morgan looked over at KK and nudged her with her shoulder. “She’s my best friend, y’know? And she doesn’t want or need me. She wants and needs you, KK.” The younger girl sighed deeply and waited for KK to look at her. “I don’t know what it is between you two, but I know that right now you need to be with her.” Morgan got to her feet and extended her hand to KK and pulled the shorter girl up. “Go get your stuff.”

Nodding dumbly, KK headed to her room and opened it, wincing when she saw the disaster that Kelis had it in, and grabbed her unpacked bag that was still on the bed. She looked over at Morgan who was standing in the doorway, shaking her head slowly.

“You know she really needs you if I’m offering to stay with Kelis.” Morgan muttered, giving the freshman a tight smile.

“Mo Chel? We’re ROOMMATES!?” Kelis exclaimed. “Come on, I’ve already ordered a bunch of junk food from doordash. What do you want to watch? I brought my switch, wanna play that?”

KK gave Morgan a small smile and squeezed her hand. “I owe you,” she whispered as she headed to the door and slid out, hearing Kelis’s voice still rambling. She headed down the hall and knocked lightly at the door before using the key to open it. Kayleigh was a lump in the bed, her face pressed into the pillow. KK placed her bag on the other bed and sat down beside Kayleigh and laid a hand on her back. The younger girl froze and gently rolled her head to the side. Eyes, rimmed with red and heavy with unshed tears, looked up at her and KK felt her heart break. The tears started to flow and KK laid down beside Kayleigh and wrapped her arms around her. Remembering what Azzi said, KK stayed silent as Kayleigh crawled into her arms, her face buried in her chest.

“They used to love me.” Kayleigh whispered. 

“Lots of people still do.” KK reminded her, gently combing her fingers through Kayleigh’s curls. “Sorry,” she whispered as she caught a tangle. “They’re just mad because you’re so amazing.”

Kayleigh let out a sad chuckle and KK felt her breath hitch as Kayleigh pressed her lips against KK’s bare collarbone.

They laid like that for a long time in silence until Kayleigh finally pulled away and sat up, her eyes swollen. She blushed and looked down at KK who stared up at her. “Thanks for coming.”

“You don’t need to thank me.” KK said honestly. “I’m here for you. Always.” She sat up and leaned against the headboard.

Kayleigh crawled across the bed and sat beside KK, their shoulders touching. She rested her head on KK’s shoulder and sighed. The silence was heavy but not uncomfortable. 

“I brought my bag.” KK said softly. “Morgan said she’d room with Kelis.”

A wry chuckle left Kayleigh’s lips and she cuddled in closer. “I must have looked especially pitiful.” She said quietly. “For Morgan to offer to stay with Kelis.”

“She said that you needed me, that you needed something that she couldn’t give you.” KK said honestly. She took Kayleigh’s hand and interlaced their fingers, looking at the two of them grasped together. 

“I’m glad she did.” The younger girl said softly. “She’s a good best friend.”

There were those words together. A niggling of jealousy buried deep in KK’s chest and she sighed heavily through her nose. If Morgan and Kayleigh were best friends, what were they? They had always used the words best friends to describe what they had, but this was different.

Kayleigh felt KK stiffen, but she didn’t say anything. She reached up and ran her free hand through her curls, sighing as the fingers snagged on tangles. “I didn’t brush my hair after the game.” She said quietly. “I just wanted out. And now that it’s almost dry it’s hopeless.”

“Then shower. Or take a bath.” KK suggested. “No one is going to track your water usage.” She teased, nudging Kayleigh gently.

Turning, Kayleigh stared at KK, her dark almond shaped eyes taking in the girl beside her. The way her twists fell over her face, her deep brown eyes, the way the light shone off her dark skin. But it wasn’t just that, it was the way KK’s face lit up when she looked at her, it was her laugh, it was how KK’s voice softened when she spoke to her, it was the way she shielded her from the media until she was ready. It was her heart, her compassion, her kindness, her love. Swallowing hard, Kayleigh squeezed KK’s hand. “Come with me?” She asked, swallowing the fear and trepidation she felt. Her insides churned with fear as she watched the emotions on KK’s face. “Y’know what, n-” 

“Sure.” KK said quickly. “Whatever you need.”

The wrench that held her heart tight loosed just a fraction and Kayleigh exhaled. They moved to the bathroom, stopping when they entered the small room. The bathtub was wide and deep and there was a smaller shower off to the corner.

“B-bath?” Kayleigh offered, looking down at her feet, her heart hammering somewhere near her throat.

“Sure.” KK looked at the younger girl, the blush of her ears and the fear in her posture. “How about I get the bath ready?” She suggested. “Bubble bath, and I’ll get in and call you and I’ll close my eyes.”

They had seen each other naked, hell, they had seen everyone on the team naked, but this was different. This was a different type of naked, an emotional nakedness that left both of them raw and vulnerable.

Kayleigh nodded and sat on the spare bed, her mind swimming and her heart hammering.

KK started the water and waited before adding some of the expensive bubble bath that she found on the edge, watching it foam. She added some scented salts before undressing and climbing in. “Okay, ready whenever you are.” She called, closing her eyes tightly.

She heard Kayleigh come in and heard the soft sound of clothes hitting the tile floor. Her heart started to race and she jumped feeling Kayleigh slip into the water and rest against her. KK wasn’t sure what to do with her hands, so they floated stupidly on the water until Kayleigh took them and interlaced their fingers together, one hand wrapped around Kayleigh’s waist, the other floating together.

“Is this weird?” Kayleigh whispered, scared of the answer.

KK stayed quiet, her eyes tracing the gentle slope of Kayleigh’s naked back and neck, the warmth of her back against her naked breasts. “No.” She whispered. “It feels…right.” She admitted, her voice soft. KK softly scooped water and let it run down Kayleigh’s shoulders and gently combed her fingers through it.

They stayed like that, quiet and still until the water started to get cold and the bubbles left to reveal alabaster legs intermingled with umber legs. Their fingers and toes wrinkled and finally Kayleigh sat up slowly, reaching for the towel.

“I’ll close my eyes.”

Kayleigh stopped and glanced over her shoulder quickly. “No, it’s okay.” She whispered softly.

KK nodded and swallowed the lump in her throat as she watched Kayleigh slowly stand and step out of the tub. Her eyes traced the younger girl’s body, watching as a flush washed over her body and face before she wrapped herself in the towel tightly. Pulling the plug, KK got to her feet and bit down on the inside of her lip as she felt Kayleigh’s stare on her own body. She took a towel from Kayleigh and wrapped it around herself. They walked out together in silence, KK grabbing a wide tooth comb and leave in conditioner on her way out.

“Sit.” KK ordered gently, kneeling behind Kayleigh on the bed. She meticulously worked her way through Kayleigh’s curls, then braiding it carefully. Once she was done, she pressed a chaste kiss to the top of Kayleigh’s hair before scrambling off the bed and grabbing her bag. She rifled through it and pulled out a pair of boxers and a tank top, turning her back to pull them on.

Kayleigh watched her before going to grab her own pyjamas, a black satin short set that she pulled over underwear and then buttoned up. 

KK watched shamelessly, giving Kayleigh a smile when she turned around.

This was new, all so new. KK knew she liked Kayleigh. Liked liked Kayleigh. She had liked her since they played against each other on the AAU circuit. She had liked her since they spent a few days together in the summer, training and playing one-on-one. She had liked her since they exchanged numbers and facetimed more than they’d like to admit. She had liked her since as long as Kayleigh had been a fixture in her life.

Looking between the beds, KK moved to the far one and pulled down the blankets. Kayleigh watched her silently before sitting down on the other bed. 

“You…could sleep in this bed.” Kayleigh whispered. “With me.” She looked at KK with a small smile and shrug.

KK nodded and headed to the other bed, slotting in beside Kayleigh. She was warm, both from the shared body heat and proximity, but also just BEING IN THE SAME BED AS KAYLEIGH HECKEL. Kayleigh wriggled and squirmed until she was comfortable, spooned by KK. The older girl inhaled deeply and wrapped an arm protectively around the younger one.

Neither spoke as KK reached up and turned off the lamp, bathing the room in nothing but the glow from the streetlights outside. One of their phones buzzed, but neither moved, their breathing falling in sync. KK rubbed small circles on the tiny sliver of exposed skin on Kayleigh’s stomach as they laid there. The younger girl’s body shook in small suppressed sobs as she replayed the night in her head.

KK just held her, whispering softly and holding her until Kayleigh’s breathing evened out and she went soft and limp in KK’s arms. Closing her eyes, KK whispered a tiny prayer before allowing herself to fall asleep.

**

They hadn’t closed the blinds, and fuck KK was regretting it. She blinked at the sun that was streaming in the window and checked her phone. It was early, early enough that some of her teammates would be up and causing chaos, but they still had a couple of hours before breakfast. Her right arm was numb from Kayleigh sleeping on it and she really had to pee. Slowly, she pulled her arm free and headed for the washroom. After quietly washing her hands, she tiptoed back into the room and closed the blinds before taking her phone. Her fingers hovered over the screen before she sent a quick message to Paige.

Gotta sec?

She waited before her screen lit up.

Yeah just got back from practice. Facetime?

KK grabbed her earbuds and put them in, watching as her screen lit up again.

“Sup?” Paige mumbled as she pulled an eggo waffle out of the toaster and slathered it in nutella before taking a huge bite.

“Your girl is gonna be so mad if she knew you were eating that.” KK whispered, her face barely visible in the dark.

“Who’s gonna tell her?” Paige retorted with a chocolatey smile. “Also got some chocolate milk to go with it.” She squinted and looked at her friend. “Why are you whispering like that? And why no lights? You actually being nice to gup-gup?”

KK looked over her shoulder at Kayleigh who mumbled something in her sleep before stilling. “No.” She whispered. “I’m…with Kayleigh.” 

Paige froze, waffle in hand, and looked at KK, opening up her messages and sent Azzi a quick text. “Heckel?”

“Mmmhmmm. She had a bad night with all of the USC traitor stuff.” KK whispered, “So I stayed with her.”

Kayleigh awoke slowly, her body trying to find KK’s now departed heat. She wiggled back and froze when she felt the empty spot. KK watched as Kayleigh’s body stiffened and curled into herself.

“I gotta go, Paige.” KK whispered and turned off her phone. She sat on the other bed and carefully reached out and placed a hand on Kayleigh’s back. The younger girl’s body relaxed visibly and she turned to look at KK. 

“I thought you left.” Kayleigh whispered.

“Never.” KK smiled and crawled into bed and wrapped her arms around her. “I promised you that I’d be here and I don’t go back on my promises.” She sighed and held Kayleigh gently. “How are you feeling?”

Kayleigh sighed and shrugged, though she didn’t elaborate and KK didn’t push.

“You’re amazing and USC is jealous you’re with us now.” KK whispered, her lips against Kayleigh’s curls. “You’re the best player on the floor when you’re out there. And you’re strong, and kind, and smart…” She smiled against Kayleigh’s hair.

**

Azzi reached for her phone with blurry eyes and rolled over, stabbing the accept button. “Mmm Paige, it’s still early.” She mumbled.

“I know, but I just got off facetime with KK and she’s with Heckel. Like I think they shared a bed last night.” Paige rambled, wiping the smear of chocolate off her lips as she spoke.

“Kayleigh had a bad night.” Azzi said as she curled up into a ball, avoiding the pillow that was tossed at her by Sarah. “So KK went to stay with her.” She opened her eyes and watched her girlfriend who was idly licking a spoon full of nutella. “You’re disgusting."

“Focus, Fudd.” Paige said, shaking her head. “Our child is…” 

“KK is doing what she has to do to make sure that Kayleigh is fine, okay?” Azzi mumbled, slowly sitting up and blinking.

“But our child…”

Azzi shook her head and took off her bonnet. “I’ll call you later, Paige.” She said softly. 

“BUT KK!” Paige exclaimed, though she kissed the screen. “I’ll talk to you later, Babe. Keep me updated.”

Tossing her phone to the side, Azzi shook her head.

“Paige found out about KK and Kayleigh, hunh?” Sarah asked from the other bed.

“Yep.” Azzi ran her fingers through her hair. “I just want everyone to be happy.” She said softly. “I told KK to let Kayleigh come to her and to listen.” 

Sarah sat up and stretched her long arms. “Sounds like good advice.” She shrugged. “Rock paper scissors for the shower?”

**

The breakfast table held its usual energy, plates filled, cutlery clanging, voices rising above. Kayleigh sat in the middle of it, flanked by Morgan and KK, protected from the chaos. Morgan yawned and dumped a package of sugar into her coffee. 

“Kelis even talks in her sleep.” She muttered, glaring at the freshman who was retelling a story to whoever would listen. Looking at Kayleigh, Morgan met Azzi’s gaze from across the table and shook her head with a soft smile. Kayleigh didn’t notice, the sophomore completely enthralled with whatever KK was talking about, pinkies brushing under the table.

Azzi swallowed a smirk, and looked down at her plate of eggs and fruit. She knew the look that Kayleigh had, she had seen it in pictures of herself and Paige, both before they got together and after. The look that was heavy and weighted with unsaid words,silent acknowledgements and mutual understandings. Kayleigh grinned, a smile that reached her eyes and crinkled her nose, at something KK said. She didn’t say anything, she didn’t have to. People would find out eventually, they weren’t that slick. But they would wrap around Kayleigh and KK the way they did with her and Paige. They would protect them with everything they had. She smiled and took a bite of her eggs, just watching the rest of the team. 

Her eyes met KK’s as the point guard finally focused on eating. The younger girl blushed and shrunk under Azzi’s gaze, but Azzi gave her head an almost imperceptible shake. “You’re okay.” Azzi mouthed. “We got you.” She smiled as Kayleigh brushed shoulders with KK and looked up at her with a bright smile.

The energy followed them onto the bus, and then the plane. People grabbed their own rows, laptops out to finish homework, headphones on, focused on anything but each other. KK shouldered her backpack and headed towards the back of the plane where she always sat. But then she stopped. Kayleigh smiled up at her and shifted to the window seat.

No words were said as KK dropped into the seat and spread out her stuff like she belonged there. Because, well, she did. She watched Kayleigh do impressive math equations with ease before KK pulled out her tablet and set up a movie.

The lights dimmed and once Kayleigh closed her notebook, she cuddled up against KK, head on her shoulder. In the protection of the darkness, they stayed like that, sharing a seat and a blanket. Neither moved until they were safely touched down in Connecticut, separating before the lights came on.

But even after they pulled apart, something lingered, the electricity between them crackling dully under the surface.

Nothing obvious. 

Nothing enough for anyone else to notice.

But it was there. Thick and palpable between them.

KK grabbed her bag first, like always, stretching slightly before glancing over. Kayleigh was already looking at her, her dark almond shaped eyes carrying heavy questions unsaid between them.

But just for a second. Then she looked away. Almost like nothing happened.

Like she hadn’t just been curled into her for the entire flight. 

KK almost smiled.

Almost. 

Then they  moved with the rest of the team, falling back into place like they were supposed to. Conversations picked up around them, people complaining about the flight, laughing, scrolling through their phones. 

Normal.

But when they stepped off the plane— KK slowed just enough for Kayleigh to catch up beside her. Their shoulders brushed. Light. Quick. Still intentional. 

“You sleep?” KK asked, voice low. 

Kayleigh shrugged and shook her head. “A bit.” She said softly. “You?”

KK mirrored the shrug. “Not really.”

Looking over at the older girl as they walked, Kayleigh brushed her pinky against KK’s. “Thanks.”

KK looked over. “For what?” 

Kayleigh hesitated for half a second. “For staying.”

Simple. Two words, but they were heavy and loaded, carrying more than what she could actually say.

KK looked ahead again, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. “…you don’t gotta ask.” 

Kayleigh smiled a little at that. 

They kept walking. Close. Not touching. Not quite. But not far either. And when they reached baggage claim, when the space got a little tighter, a little more crowded, their hands brushed again. But this time, neither of them pulled away. Their hands lingered, just a second longer. Just enough to feel it. 

Then it was gone. They were back to normal, back to the way things were before. At least in public, their facades were practiced and polished.

But they knew.

It starts with a phone being set up on the kitchen counter.

Paige adjusts the angle carefully like she’s directing a documentary.

“Okay,” she says, stepping back. “We’re rolling.”

Azzi immediately crosses her arms.

“I still don’t understand why we’re doing this.”

KK is already smiling. “Because it’s fun.”

Kayleigh leans in slightly. “It’s not going to be fun.”

Paige points dramatically. “It’s going to be content.”

Azzi looks into the camera like she’s asking for help.

No one helps her.

Rules are explained again, even though nobody is really listening.

Blindfold means no sight.

Headphones means no hearing.

Mute means no talking.

Paige claps once.

“Let’s cook.”

Azzi immediately signs something aggressive.

Paige nods like she understood perfectly.

She did not.

They split into teams.

KK is blindfolded.

Kayleigh is mute.

Paige is wearing headphones.

Azzi is stuck watching everything unfold.

She already regrets existing in this moment.

KK reaches forward blindly.

“Okay I got this,” she says confidently.

Kayleigh gently guides her hand toward the counter.

KK nods like she is a professional chef.

She is not.

She grabs flour.

Kayleigh freezes.

Too late.

A full cloud explodes into the air.

Paige silently laughs while shaking the camera.

Azzi closes her eyes and tilts her head back like she is praying.

Kayleigh tries to communicate without speaking.

She grabs KK’s wrist and pulls her hand away from the stove.

KK thinks this is encouragement.

It is not.

She pours salt instead of sugar.

Kayleigh just stares at her.

No words.

Because she literally cannot speak.

So instead she lightly hits KK’s arm.

KK smiles like she is winning.

She is not.

Across the kitchen, Paige is aggressively confident.

She cannot hear anything but is loudly talking anyway.

“I AM DOING AMAZING.”

Azzi is trying to physically stop her from adding something questionable into a pan.

Paige ignores her entirely.

The pan starts smoking.

Azzi stares.

This is her villain origin story.

KK suddenly whispers, “I think we’re crushing this.”

Kayleigh slowly turns her head toward her.

She cannot respond.

So she squeezes KK’s hand instead.

KK smiles like that means everything.

Paige suddenly announces, “I WAS BORN FOR THIS.”

Azzi signs something that definitely means “please stop.”

Paige nods enthusiastically.

Then immediately cracks an egg into boiling water.

Azzi just stops moving for a second.

Mentally gone.

Halfway through, the kitchen is completely destroyed.

Flour everywhere.

Spoons missing.

Something burning.

Someone’s dignity also missing.

KK is still smiling.

Kayleigh is still trying.

Paige is still filming.

Azzi is still suffering.

At one point KK leans closer to Kayleigh.

Still blindfolded.

Still trusting her completely.

“This is kind of fun,” she says softly.

Kayleigh pauses.

Looks at her.

She cannot speak.

So she gently squeezes KK’s hand again.

KK smiles like that answers everything.

Eventually, the final “dish” is placed on the counter.

Nobody is confident.

Paige removes her headphones first.

Silence.

“…what did we do,” she says immediately.

Azzi signs something that translates to “never again.”

KK removes her blindfold.

Looks at the disaster.

Smiles.

“I think we did great.”

Kayleigh slowly shakes her head.

Paige is already laughing.

Azzi points at the burnt pan like it personally offended her.

“I’m ordering food.”

Everyone agrees instantly.

Later, the house is quiet.

Rain hitting the windows softly.

Blankets everywhere.

The kitchen still looks like chaos left behind and never returned.

KK leans into Kayleigh on the couch.

Still laughing quietly.

“That was fun,” she says again.

Kayleigh nudges her shoulder.

“Liar.”

KK grins.

“Okay… mostly fun.”

Paige is editing the video in the corner.

Azzi is half asleep, finally at peace.

Paige suddenly says, “This is going viral.”

Azzi doesn’t open her eyes.

“No.”

Paige: “Yes.”

KK shifts slightly, resting her head on Kayleigh’s shoulder.

Quiet now.

Soft.

“Feels like home,” KK murmurs.

Kayleigh looks down at her.

Then nods.

“Yeah.”

Paige glances over for a second.

“Yeah… same,” she says quietly.

Azzi mutters without opening her eyes, “If that gets posted I’m moving out.”

Paige smiles.

Three months later, Night before Elite Eight UCONN vs USC

USC had gotten to the hotel that morning so Kayleigh and Kiki were already settled in their room for the night by the time UCONN arrived and got done with their practice.

“Are you going to see her tonight?” Kiki said from her bed

“Probably not,” Kayleigh replied. “I don’t want to mess anything up before the game.”

Kiki just hummed noncommittedly.

A little while later, Kayleigh was curled into bed watching a movie, arm wrapped around the sloth stuffed animal KK had given her when there was a knock on the door. 

“I’ll get it.” Kayleigh said to a slumped Kiki. She slowly got up out of bed to see who it was, expecting one of her teammates. Instead, when she looked through the peephole she saw KK standing there.

“KK?” She threw open the door. “What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to see you before we played tomorrow. Can I come in?”

“Yes of course.” Kayleigh opened the door wider for the older girl. KK came in, nodded to Kiki, who was hiding her smile behind her phone, and put the two pairs of shoes that were in her arms on the desk. Kayleigh had been so shocked by KK’s presence, she hadn’t even noticed anything in KK’s arms. 

KK turned around and looked at the younger girl standing in front of her bed. 

“So. I know we’re not doing labels or anything, and I don’t want to change that,” she held out her hands in a bracing manner, “but I also know that I love you and I want to carry you with me into every part of the end of this season and whatever comes next. And I’m sorry that we couldn’t see each other sooner, so I have to do this the night before we play each other but,” she paused, taking her first breath since starting, “I just wanted some time with you…and maybe…this is stupid,” KK groaned, blushing.

Kayleigh smiled softly, stepping forward and taking KK’s hands in hers. “It’s not stupid, I missed you.”

“Would you maybe want to…Whatever happens tomorrow, I’ll always support you, would you sign my shoes? So whatever happens tomorrow, whatever happens next week, whatever, you’ll always be with me. Always be a part of me? A part of my history?”

Kayleigh chuckled into KK’s neck, “you’re such a sap,” she pressed a kiss to the corner of KK’s jaw. “Yes, I'll sign your shoes.” 

“Really?” KK’s eyes lit up in excitement, looking at the younger girl. 

Kayleigh pressed a kiss to KK’s cheek, before pulling away. “How long do you have?”

KK sheepishly rubbed her neck, “we already did room checks so I might have slipped out, but I promised Ice I’d be back before the end of the night.”

Kayleigh glanced at the clock as she moved towards the bed, “it’s only 10:45, how early do you guys do checks?”

“Night before a game? 10. Night after a game? 12.”

“Sheesh,” Kayleigh said, laying on top of her bed, an extra blanket laid out in front of her. “Bring your shoes and come cuddle with me until we have to hide you at 11:30.”

KK blushed as she picked up her shoes and made her way towards the bed. Kayleigh scooted over to make room and patted the extra blanket to indicate where the shoes go. KK set the shoes and the thin tipped Sharpie marker on the blanket before she sat down and essentially pulled the younger girl into her lap.

“Hi,” Kayleigh looked shyly down at KK.

“Hi.” KK pressed a kiss to Kayleigh’s cheek.

“Where do you want me to sign?”

“Wherever you want, baby.”

Kayleigh took the right shoe of the first pair and turned it over in her hands, looking for the perfect spot. A faint blush tinged her cheeks from KK’s soft breaths and even softer kisses brushing the hairs on the back of her neck. Finally, she wrote “KH ♡” on the inside of the arch, just barely big enough to know that it wasn’t a speck of dirt, but still small enough to not notice it. Carefully, as if it was fragile, she set the shoe down and grabbed the right foot of the second pair, repeating her inscription from earlier. 

“There you go,” the younger girl leaned back into her friend. “I will always be with you.”

“Thank you Kay.”

Kayleigh blushed, “Always.”

They laid together in silence for a while, each in their own thoughts. 

“I don’t want to play after tomorrow.” Kayleigh whispered softly.

KK rubbed her thumbs in soft circles from where they were resting around Kayleigh’s middle. “Yeah?” she whispered back, encouraging the girl to elaborate.

“Yeah. I wanted to make it far enough to see you again. And obviously, I wanted to make it far for Kiki. But I don’t want to play after tomorrow. I’m too tired...I feel better knowing tomorrow is the last day I play for USC.”

“Mmmm,” KK hummed in acknowledgement. “I’m glad we could see each other too. Is there anything else I can do for you?”

Kayleigh hummed happily as she snuggled back into KK, nuzzling her nose into the older girl’s neck. “No you’re perfect.”

Be my girlfriend, she thought. Not for the first time. Not by a long shot. But this time felt different. The statement felt warm. Steady. Comforting. Not the scared uncertainty it had been in the past. 

“Actually…”

KK perked up, “yeah baby?”

Kayleigh shifted sideways, so she was able to look KK in the face, “Be my girlfriend?”

KK’s face changed into a look of open surprise, totally unguarded. “Forreal?”

“100%. I want to be yours, and I want you to be mine.”

The older girl’s face broke into the widest smile. “Yes. Yes! A thousand times yes! I love you,” she surged forward, peppering kisses all over Kayleigh’s face, making her giggle, before landing sloppily on the younger girl’s mouth. 

Kayleigh’s giggles forced them apart after a few moments. “I love you too.” 

They rest their foreheads together, soaking in the moment. Suddenly Kayleigh’s phone goes off with an alarm, startling them apart. 

“Ughhhh,” Kayleigh groans, turning off the alarm. “It’s my 5 minute reminder before room checks.”

“That’s ok. I should get back anyway.” KK looks at the girl with pure adoration across her face.

“You sure you don’t want to stay?”

“Nah. We both need sleep, baby.” KK reached up and brushed a curl behind Kayleigh’s ear before leaning in and pressing a kiss to the younger girl’s cheek.

Kayleigh giggled, leaning in to the older girl. “Ok but lemme at least walk you back.”

“Hate to break it to you Kay, but we only have four minutes and I’m staying two floors above you. I don’t know that we have enough time.”

Kayleigh jutted her bottom lip in an overexaggerated pout, wrapping her arms around her girlfriend’s (eek!) neck. 

KK smiled, pressing another kiss to Kayleigh’s lips.

“C’mon, baby. Lemme get up. We’re going to see each other tomorrow.”

“Yeah, on the court,” Kayleigh said snarkily. “Forgive me for wanting to soak in every last moment with my girlfriend before we go back to being athletes.”

At the sound of ‘girlfriend’ KK’s face broke into a wide grin. “We already have plans to see each other after the game–”

“We do?”

“Yes, just trust me. Anyway, I’ll figure it out to see you before the game.” 

Slowly, Kayleigh slid off KK’s lap and got up off the bed. KK stood, walked past Kayleigh to put her shoes on the desk, before returning to the younger girl. 

She took Kayleigh’s hands in each of her own and brown met brown as they looked at each other with pure openness. 

“I love you.” Kayleigh murmured. 

“I love you too.” KK smiled back. She tugged on one of Kayleigh’s arms, pulling her into a hug. Kayleigh nuzzled into the older girl’s neck as KK wrapped her arms securely around her. 

“Tomorrow is the last day you ever have to spend time with them. I promise. I’ll take care of you.”

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. ✧˚₊‧⋆

They ended up not being able to see each other at all before their teams had to head to the center. KK tried so hard to sneak away at times for find random rendezvous points, but it just didn’t happen. It was especially hard since no one but Kiki knew that they were together, and only Kiki and the coaching staff knew she was leaving for UCONN. The team thought that Kayleigh’s random trip in December was for a family emergency in New York. 

It goes without saying that KK could not be seen with Kayleigh and Kayleigh couldn’t even talk about UCONN. 

USC had just come off the court from shootaround, allowing for UCONN to have the court. Kayleigh hung off to the side, not really joining the rest of the team. She had been distancing herself even further from the team since the UCONN trip, so nobody noticed when she didn’t enter the locker room with everyone else. (She told Kiki that if anyone asked, she was with her mom.)

Quietly, she snuck back onto the court and stood beside CD, slightly scaring the poor coach. 

“Hey CD. Sorry to bother, can I borrow KK for two seconds?”

Softening from her startled state, CD said, “Of course, baby. Just don’t scare me like that again.” Kayleigh chuckled.

See here’s the thing with CD. Even though she’s happily married to her husband, there was once a time where she had her very own KK in college. The girl’s name was Sadie and she was a year older with the same spunky fiery spirit but could also be the kindest, softest girl when she wanted to be, just like KK. Even though they never worked out, Chris looks back on that time period fondly, reminiscing on what they had and what they could’ve been. She hopes to protect KK and Kayleigh, and even Paige and Azzi, let them enjoy their college years together, but also shape them into great athletes and even better people. 

The associate coach whistled and called over KK. 

“Hey baby, is everything ok?” KK pulled the younger girl into her arms, not even caring that they were in front of everyone. 

“Yes, I just wanted to see you,” Kayleigh murmured into KK’s neck. 

KK squeezed her tighter. “I love you so much baby. You’re going to do so good. I can’t wait to see you after.”

“I love you too. You’re going to play even better. You promise to see me after?”

“I promise.”

“KK” one of the assistant coaches called softly. 

“I have to go but I love you.”

“I love you too.” They pulled apart and KK kissed the younger girl on the cheek before she ran back onto the court, dapping up Paige as she went. Azzi and Ayanna waved kindly, but genuinely glad to see her. 

“Kayleigh, before you go listen to me,” CD called out to her. “Considering the circumstances, we have it worked out so you can stay with us until we’re done. After that, we’re prepared to move you to Connecticut, if that’s something you’re ready for. If not, that’s totally ok, take it at your own speed. Talk to your parents. UCONN supports you.”

Kayleigh was taken aback. She had no idea this was coming. She found KK on the court, her girlfriend winked at her. “Thank you. Seriously, thank you. I don’t know what to say.”

“Don’t worry about it. We’ve got your back.” CD pulled her into a side hug. “After the game, meet us at the hotel, you’re welcome at dinner if you want. I don’t mean to overwhelm you but think about it.”

Geno joined at CD’s side, “You’re a good kid Heckel. We don’t know everything, but we know enough. You’re going through stuff that you shouldn’t have to. CD and I have both been there, CD especially. We’re here to help you and keep you safe. We’ve also already reached out to your parents, so they’re aware.”

Kayleigh felt overwhelmed with gratitude, tears rose to her eyes. “Thank you guys so much. Like seriously, beyond words. Thank you.”

“Absolutely.” CD said. 

“Anytime, kid,” Geno patted her shoulder before turning back to his team.

Kayleigh turned and ran down the tunnel back to USC, tears in her eyes.

Kiki noticed immediately, “What’s wrong bug? You took longer than expected.”

Kayleigh shook her head with a smile. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll tell you later.”

She then sat on the bench and took out her phone, first texting her mom, then Kiki.

“Listen up girls!” USC head coach shouted above the loud locker room. Kayleigh put her phone away and focused on the game ahead. 

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. ✧˚₊‧⋆

USC lost, like Kayleigh hoped, Juju tore her ACL, which everyone was sad for. Kayleigh hated the girl but still, she wouldn’t wish that on anyone. As quickly as possible, she cleaned up everything, checked out with her coaches, and made it to UCONN’s floor.

She wanted to seem as inconspicuous as possible, so she changed into one of KK’s hoodies she always carries around and regular black Nike sweatpants. KK was there waiting in the hallway when Kayleigh stepped out of the elevator. 

“Hey”, she said, alerting the older girl, “I didn’t know you were waiting for me, I’m sorry I would’ve told you.”

“It’s ok. I wanted to surprise you anyway.”

CD came out from her room. “Good! You made it! Are you ok to room with KK and Ice for now?”

“Yes of course. And thank you for the dinner invitation but I’m going to eat with my parents and talk everything over.”

KK squeezed her hand. 

“Alright! Then you’re good with me. I’m sure KK and Ice can fill you in on the rules and holler if you need anything.”

“Thank you so much again.”

CD smiled and turned back into her room. KK tugged gently on Kayleigh’s hand and pulled her toward her and Ice’s room. 

Inside the hotel room was Ice and Jana on one bed, Paige and Azzi on another bed, Ayanna on the chair, Aubrey on the floor, and Sarah sitting cross-legged on the dresser. 

KK and Kayleigh stood awkwardly at the entrance. 

“Guys!” KK announced, catching the attention of everyone in the room. And then she turned to Kayleigh, her face in a mischievous grin. 

Kayleigh’s shoulders slumped with faux fear, “Oh no…”

KK held up their joined hands, “meet my girlfriend, Kayleigh Heckel!”

The room erupted in whoops and cheers. Kayleigh facepalmed. KK kissed her cheek.

“Sorry, Kay, I had to.” Kayleigh just giggled in response.

KK took Kayleigh’s luggage and set it next to her own as the room quieted down. Paige spoke up gently, with a slight big sister tease in her voice. “I made sure the couch stayed empty for you guys. Just keep it PG.” the older girl winked. Azzi smiled from where she was cuddled into Paige’s chest.

KK rolled her eyes. “Oh right, PG. Just like how I can see your girlfriend’s hand is on your boob through your shirt? That PG?” KK teased back.

Azzi blushed and went to remove her hand before Paige stopped her. “Go away,” the blonde said with a shit-eating grin and an eyeroll. 

Kayleigh tugged her girlfriend across the room and to the couch, but then stopped, unsure of what to do or how to act. 

KK ran her fingers over the back of Kayleigh’s hand. “It’s ok,” she whispered. “Paige didn’t really mean it.” 

Kayleigh nodded self-consciously. “C’mere,” KK said, laying flat out on the couch and guiding Kayleigh to cuddle on top of her. “It’s a little small and hard but it’s alright.”

Kayleigh melted into her girlfriend’s body, humming peacefully. The room quieted as each person settled into their own thing. KK and Kayleigh dozed peacefully, as did Azzi from Paige’s side. Ice and Jana shared tiktoks back and forth between each other, while Sarah called her mom quietly. Aubrey was texting her girlfriend Jane while working on some homework. Paige was also answering emails and Ayanna slept unpeacefully from her chair. At one point, the girl snored so hard she woke herself up, causing Sarah and Paige to softly giggle at her.

Their world was peaceful for the moment, and everyone was alright. 

After dinner Kayleigh told her parents to meet her in the lobby of the team hotel before they returned to their own hotels. 

She and KK stepped off the team bus hand in hand with the rest of the team as they filtered through the lobby doors. She gave a slight tug on KK’s hand. 

“Come with me for a sec, I want you to officially meet my parents.” Kayleigh smiled shyly at KK. 

KK smiled back. “They already know me.”

“I know. But I want to do the whole thing.”

Quietly, they approached where Kayleigh’s parents were sitting. “Hey guys,” she said. 

Her mom looked up with gentleness and her dad just looked confused. “I know you guys already know KK,” she started, “but I wanted you guys to meet her as my official girlfriend.” Kayleigh smiled wide, albeit a little nervous. KK looked very nervous. 

Kayleigh’s mom stood, “Thank you for telling us. Welcome to the family, officially, KK.” And she wrapped KK up in a big hug. Kayleigh’s dad gave his daughter a side hug, “she’s the one who’s been taking care of you, hasn’t she?” 

Kayleigh nodded. Her dad met KK’s eyes, “well as long as she never stops, and you take care of her back, I’m happy for you.” He shook hands with KK as Kayleigh’s mom looked at her daughter. 

“And I’m sorry we didn’t listen the first time you said something was off. I’m glad KK was there to hold you when we weren't.”

Kayleigh’s eyes shone. “It’s ok mom. I’m good now.” KK relaced their fingers and squeezed in support. 

“So I guess I need to buy some UCONN merch then, huh?” Kayleigh’s dad joked, eliciting some giggles out of the girls. 

“Be good going to bed now,” her mom winked, “and be safe for the rest of the season. We’re always here.”

“And good luck,” her dad added at KK, “we’re rooting for your natty this year.”

“Thanks guys, it means a lot.” KK said. 

Kayleigh nodded, hugging her dad again, “thank you guys. I’ll call you later.” 

“Ok baby.” 

And with that, the girls turned to go up the elevator. 

Even though lights out wasn’t until 12, everyone was already in their rooms and ready for bed after the exhausting day, plus they were leaving the hotel early the following morning. 

“Even though we won, y’all really put us to work. My body hurtssss,” KK complained into Kayleigh’s shoulder as they stood side-by-side in the bathroom getting ready for bed. Kayleigh, with her toothbrush still in her mouth, patted KK’s cheek sympathetically . 

Together, they brushed their teeth, got changed, and crawled into bed. From the other side of the room, Ice called, “goodnight lovebirds! Don't have sex!”

KK halfheartedly threw an empty plastic water bottle, “goodnight Isuneh.”

Kayleigh giggled, “goodnight Ice.”

KK lay flat on her back as Kayleigh curled into her side, just like they did a few months ago and Kayleigh finally let everything settle. Her shoulders dropped, her brain slowed, her heart felt content. She didn’t even realize she was crying until KK brushed her tears from her cheeks and softly asked, “you ok?”

Kayleigh smiled and nodded and snuggled closer into KK. “Yes, sorry, I didn’t even realize I was crying.”

“You’re ok boo, no reason to apologize. What’s on your mind?”

“I feel…safe. I’m not returning to USC, all my classes are online. I’m not worried about any of them anymore. I’m with you. And you’re my girlfriend. And I feel peaceful.”

“That’s what you deserve. You’re free and you’re safe. With me.”

“Always with you,” Kayleigh echoed and kissed her cheek. 

“Let’s go to sleep,” KK shifted to her side so Kayleigh was still cuddled around her but they were now facing each other. She brought the hand that was around Kayleigh’s lower waist up to brush Kayleigh’s curls. With KK’s new position, the younger girl could pull herself entirely into KK, essentially molding them together. 

Kayleigh hummed with peaceful happiness. “Tomorrow, you go onto the next thing as you go and get your natty, and I’m going to be next to you the whole time. I can cuddle you on the bus, I can bring you hugs and snacks in the locker rooms, I can sleep on you on the planes, and I can live with you in the hotel rooms. And when it’s all done, I get to come home to you as my teammate.”

It was KK’s turn to humm happily. “Tonight, can this be our home and you be my girlfriend?”

“Always. You, Kam Arnold, are my home.”

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. ✧˚₊‧⋆‧K.H.‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. ✧˚₊‧⋆‧