November New Hope Crossover: Part 2 of 4

Part 2

It feels great to be in the water. I’m lucky Coach was here early before everyone shows up. No witnesses so I can finally just go all out, no holding back or restricting myself. I can finally work out some of this frustration and clear my head to keep myself together in front of the team. It’s always awkward when Ash tells them to do something and people look over right at me just after. It’s almost like they’re waiting on me to give them permission. 

I hate being in the spotlight.

Another four laps at 70% should burn up the rest of this tension.

Wait.

Who’s that?

Damn. I wonder how long he’s been here?

I cut down into the water and give myself a quick dolphin kick, embracing the current as I cut through it. I make good time and breach the surface, somewhat irritated by the interruption. I’m not ready for people yet.

Wrapping my arms around the edge of the pool, I wipe the water from my face and look upwards, following the dark brown legs stretched out before me.

It only takes me a second before I breathe out half of my aggression. This dark skinned dude is kinda cute. I stuff my attitude and turn on the charm.

“Can I help you?” I try not to smile but it creeps in anyway. I never could keep a straight face when I like somebody.

“Hey mate, hope I’m not interrupting you. Coach asked me to meet the captain here early this morning. I'm new here and was hoping to try out for the team.”

“You’re good, I was almost done anyway.” I smile, his strong British accent like music to my ears.

“So do I just get in and swim for you? Sorry, I don’t know how this works,” he chuckles nervously, and I instantly feel my body temperature rise.

“Oh, I’m not the team captain… that’s actually my roommate, Max,” I reply, overly accustomed to people treating me like I’m running the ship around here.

“Sorry mate, I just assumed… you were like a torpedo out there,” he says through a toothy grin. “I’m Eyal, by the way. It’s nice to meet you.”

“Mikhail,” I smile back, offering my fist for a quick bump. “Max is probably still back in our room sleeping. You can come back with me if you want, otherwise he’ll probably forget or blow it off.”

“Yeah that’d be sweet. The sooner I can get signed up the better.”