Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)

Across the court, Norah took Xavier's place, and instantly, the intensity of the game seemed to dial down a notch. They moved in sync, giving and taking, their exchanges fluid and exhilarating.

It had been ages since Norah last played, and facing Xavier, she was all in, her focus razor-sharp. She didn't want to give him any reason to underestimate her.

Xavier, on the other hand, found his attention wandering as he watched the vibrant young woman across from him leap and dash. Her youthful exuberance, especially under the sun, with her expressions so bright and captivating, seemed to infect him, reminding him of his own younger days.

His youth hadn't been all sunshine, though. From teenage rebellion to the fierce struggles of young adulthood, and then a period of listlessness, he felt like he'd missed out on a significant chunk of life.

Yet, in Norah, he saw a glimmer of what he'd lost.

Henson returned and settled into a chair to watch them play, snapping a photo with his phone.

They played until nearly noon before heading home together for lunch.

Norah's phone was buzzing with unread messages, several from Larry expressing how happy he was to see her and how much he enjoyed their teamwork today...

He'd even sent a photo of himself behind the wheel of his Ferrari, saying he was on his way home.

Norah couldn't help but laugh, clicking through to delete him from her contacts.

Suddenly, Henson chimed in, "Sis, stop chatting with that Larry and keep your eyes on the road!"

"I" Norah began, but was cut off as Xavier glanced back at her with a nonchalant look and strode ahead.

Norah glared at Henson. "What are you playing at?"

Henson just smiled, offering no reply.

As they reached the crossroads where they'd part ways, Henson asked, "Mr. Hanson, can I come over for some shooting practice this afternoon?"

Xavier replied, "I've got to head out this afternoon. Let's make it tomorrow."

Norah almost blurted out where he was headed but held back.

"I'll see you tomorrow then!" Henson said cheerily.

"Sure," Xavier responded with a light smile, casting another glance at Norah before heading towards the Hanson residence.

"Stop staring and let's go!" Henson nudged Norah.

Flustered, Norah quickly followed. "Why did you have to say that? How could I even entertain Larry?"

Henson

gave

her a look of

exasperated affection. "Flirting iszan art. You need to let him know you're interested, but also that you're in demand. It'll make him pay more attention to you!"

Norah laughed. "Oh, and you're an expert in love now?"

Henson coolly replied, "Everything in the world follows the same principles. Understand one thing, and you've unlocked them all."

He shrugged. "But what do I know? You wouldn't get it."

Norah slung an arm around his shoulder. "I get it, I do. You're just looking out for me."

Henson scoffed as if offended but

but couldn't hide his smirk. "If only you were half as smart as Estelle, you'd have had Gonzalez wrapped around your finger by now!"

"Hey, no low blows!" Norah protested lightly.

Henson, playing the wise beyond his years card, conceded, "Well, at least you know yourself. That's not nothing."

Laughing off the banter, Norah pushed him playfully as they headed home.

"Check your phone. Sent you a pic!"

Henson had sent the photo he took of Norah and Xavier playing. Xavier was in mid-swing, looking

effortlessly cool, and Norah, focused intently on him.

Norah's eyes sparkled with joy. "Thanks!" she said, giving Henson a grateful pat.

*

Back at the Hanson home, Mr. Hanson greeted Xavier with a gentle, loving smile. "Tired, huh? Head on up and get some rest."