After practice one Friday, Finn was packing up his gear when he felt a heavy pat on the shoulder. He looked up to see Elordi standing there, his usual grin a little more serious than usual. Next to him was Emily, her gaze fixed on Finn with an intensity he wasn’t used to seeing.
“So, we need to talk,” Elordi said, leaning against the locker beside him. Finn glanced between them, suddenly nervous.
Emily took a breath, crossing her arms. “Look, Finn. We’ve been watching you chase after Hanna and trying to prove you’re serious this time. But are you really?”
Finn swallowed, nodding. “I am. I don’t want to lose her again. I’ll do whatever it takes to make things right.”
Elordi exchanged a look with Emily, who gave a slight nod. “Alright, then,” Elordi said, slinging an arm around Finn’s shoulder. “Because we have a plan.”
Finn felt a spark of hope as they walked him through it. Emily suggested Finn volunteer to help with school events and committees, anything that would put him near Hanna in ways that didn’t feel forced. It would show her he was willing to step up and be a real part of her life, not just when it suited him.
Elordi grinned, his usual playful tone carrying a hint of seriousness. “And we can’t forget Marco,” he added. “There’s something about that guy that doesn’t sit right with me. We’ve been talking to a few people, and let’s just say… he’s not as squeaky-clean as he seems.”
Finn’s eyes widened, and he felt a spark of hope ignite. “You think there’s something she doesn’t know about him?”
Elordi shrugged. “Wouldn’t be the first time someone put on an act. But for now, focus on Hanna. We’ll help with the rest.”
Finn nodded, listening intently as they mapped out their ideas. For the first time, he felt like he had a real chance, not just to be near Hanna, but to show her he was committed. With Elordi and Emily by his side, he knew he wasn’t alone in this fight.
And as they parted ways that afternoon, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was going to prove himself, one way or another.