And she couldn’t wait to see where it would take them.
Chapter 13:
Subtle Signals
Practice on the village green was in full swing, but Charlotte found herself noticing Alexander more than the game. The way he adjusted his cap mid-bowl, the way he laughed at his own misthrows, even the way his eyes seemed to find hers across the pitch—it all made her heart flutter.
Alexander, of course, noticed too. He caught her glancing at him and sent a quick wink her way, making her blush and nearly miss a catch.
During a water break, he handed her a bottle with a teasing smile.“Careful, Charlotte. You’re working too hard. Can’t have my favourite batter collapsing on me.”
Charlotte rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched into a smile.“I’ll manage, thank you very much.”
Later, while practicing fielding, Alexander pretended to throw a wild ball her way. Charlotte dove dramatically to catch it, only for him to laugh and hand her the ball.“You’re way too serious sometimes,” he said.
“You’re way too infuriating sometimes,” she shot back, though the smile never left her face.
By the end of practice, both were muddy, tired, and laughing more than they had during the entire season. As they walked off together, Alexander brushed a stray strand of hair from Charlotte’s forehead.
“You know,” he said softly,“I really like spending time with you. Not just during cricket, but… like this, too.”
Charlotte’s cheeks warmed.“I like it too,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
They walked in comfortable silence, hands brushing occasionally, neither daring to make the first move but both aware of the growing tension between them. The season had brought them together, but it was these subtle signals—teasing touches, lingering looks, playful challenges—that hinted at something more.
And Charlotte knew that soon, just soon, those signals might finally become words.
Chapter 14:
Lanterns and Laughter
The village had gathered for the end-of-season celebration, lanterns hanging along the streets and stalls lining the square. Music floated through the crisp evening air, and the scent of roasted chestnuts made Charlotte’s stomach rumble.
Alexander found her near the refreshment table, holding two cups of cider.“For you,” he said, handing one over with a warm smile.
“Thanks,” Charlotte replied, smiling back.“I was just about to grab one.”
They wandered together through the square, sharing stories and laughter, stealing quiet moments away from the crowd. At one point, Alexander nudged her playfully.“Race you to the fountain!”
Charlotte laughed, and the two dashed across the cobbled street, dodging lantern posts and laughing all the way. When they reached the fountain, both were out of breath, cheeks flushed, and eyes shining.
“Truce?” Alexander asked, extending his hand.
Charlotte took it, and for a moment, the world fell away. The music, the chatter, even the lanterns seemed distant. It was just the two of them, standing together, hearts beating in sync.
“You know…” Alexander said, his voice softer now,“I’ve been meaning to tell you something.”
Charlotte’s stomach flipped.“Yes?”
He smiled, a mixture of nerves and mischief.“I… really like you, Charlotte. More than just as my cricket partner, or my friend. I’ve liked you for a while.”
Charlotte’s breath caught. She felt warmth spread through her chest and couldn’t stop the smile that broke across her face.“I like you too, Alexander,” she whispered, her voice trembling with happiness.
Alexander’s grin widened.“Finally, we can stop pretending the signals were subtle.”
Charlotte laughed, feeling lighter than she had in months.“Finally.”
As they stood by the fountain, cider in hand, laughter all around, Charlotte realized that the season had given her something far more precious than cricket victories—it had given her Alexander, and a love she never expected but now couldn’t imagine living without.
