Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Jennifer Jareau was a small-town girl who used soccer as her rock. She was always into soccer since the day she could walk and found a soccer ball her family knew she was gonna be a star. Her mom and dad were always around and there for her regardless of the situation. Jennifer adored her sister Roslyn, she was always hanging out with her and they were the sisters you saw in movies. Until a tragic accident where Roslyn was no longer around. After Roslyn, she found out she loved soccer a little bit more and wanted something to do with her time now that her sister wasn't there. She was on a private team until she made it to middle school she became a well-known soccer star in her town. After middle school, she made it onto the high school varsity team.

Emily Prentiss was what you could call the opposite of Jennifer Jareau. She was a city girl, she never stayed in one place for long her mom was a powerful ambassador. Until they settled down into a small quiet town in Virginia. She wasn't around much for Emily's school life or life in general, she just told Emily that she had to pass all of her classes will A's or it wasn't acceptable. When she found out about Emily playing soccer she honestly didn't care she just wished her daughter would use her athletic ability for something more appealing than soccer. She wasn't around enough to put that into force and Emily enjoyed soccer and didn't care about what her mom thought. When she made it onto the high school varsity team, she told her mom but she didn't get a response.

Emily and Jennifer met freshman year on the soccer team they became inseparable. They always hung out, mostly at Jennifer's house because that is what her parents liked and Emily liked to be around a mother and father figure. Jennifer's parents would always come to the girl's soccer games, for both of them not just Jennifer since Emily's mother wasn't gonna bother to show up for her games.

But that was just the tip of the iceberg for Jennifer and Emily. Emily had always known she liked girls. Jennifer knew she thought girls were pretty but would never see herself with a girl until Emily came around. She was pretty, nice, kind, respectful, and into soccer that was a big one for her.

Jennifer and Emily liked each other anyone could have told you that, but that being said they had no means of communication. They struggled to express their feelings towards one another even though they wanted to. They would always hang out together and do activities outside of school together one of their favorite places to go was this field just before sunset. Emily would lay on her back while Jennifer rested her head on her stomach, and Emily played with her hair as they watched the sunset then looked up at the stars and tried to find each other's astrological constellation.

Even though they were always around each other and spent time together they never talked about how they felt for each other. Whenever the topic was brought up either it is by one of them or someone else they always went silent and changed the topic. When Emily would stay the night at Jennifer's it was because her mom was never there to tell her she couldn't stay the night at a friend's house, and Jennifer's parents liked Emily and thought she was good for their daughter.

One of the most common things they did at night was stare into each other's eyes, it was soft and meaningful. They would just lay their softy holding the other person's face until they fell asleep. Sometimes they would cuddle or something along those lines but it never went past anything like that.

They had the best intentions and wanted to tell each other how they felt but didn't really know how to truly put those feelings into words.

Emily and Jennifer stayed like that all freshman year it wasn't until sophomore year when the feelings they felt kinda drifted away, they were still just as good friends as they were before. Emily still stayed at Jennifer's all the time their relationship just faded into a platonic one. They didn't mind this they preferred this outcome rather than the outcome of them not being friends anymore because someone admitted the feelings they felt.

Sophomore year was a nice ride for Jennifer and Emily they excelled at soccer through this year, even became team captions. Everyone knew Jennifer and Emily at soccer games it was their numbers on the poster boards being held up in school spirit. In their school gym, they had their photos hanging up on giant posters with all of their achievements under their photos. They were popular people who loved everyone and didn't discriminate against anyone. They still did talk shit about people they didn't like in private, but would never say it to someone's face.

Junior year was a turnaround for those feelings, they started to come back into the picture for both of them. Their means of communication had gotten better but still weren't where they needed to be. They trusted each other to a greater extent which made it easier. The road trip was a deciding factor in the choice of finally deciding that it was time to show the other one that they liked them and communicate in a way that hadn't before.

                      ___________________

Jennifer Jareau was the soccer teams star center back. Emily Prentiss was the star goalie. Their soccer team had just gotten the news that they had made it into the state championship, after years of hard work. They were so excited about finding out the news they just did, that the team didn't even ask questions they just ran into the locker room blasting music and enjoying themselves. Knowing that they were the reason they are getting to go to a state championship.

After they finished and had their time in the locker room they made it back onto the field with their soccer bags. "Did you girls enjoy your time in the locker room?" Coach asked with a stern look on his face.

The girls all said of a collection of yeah and yes.

"I'm just playing with you girls, you deserve this take a little time to enjoy it before we have to get back into the hard work of beating other teams asses." Coach said with a smile.

All the girls reciprocated that smile.

"We will be heading to Richmond Virginia. I need you girls to be on top of your game and pack everything you need and be ready to get on that bus in about a weeks time , we will have practice every other day at 5 understand?"

The whole team said "Understood"

Chapter Text

After that week had passed it was the day they had been waiting for they were heading to Richmond Virginia. Emily packed one suitcase full of normal clothes and then made sure she had her soccer bag full with her soccer captain jacket, jerseys, cleats, padding, and helmet. It took her under thirty minutes to pack, she had always known how to pack fast.

Jennifer on the other hand took her two hours to pack and she knew it would so she started packing early. She made sure to pack two outfits for every occasion, you could never be over-prepared but you could be underprepared she thought of that, Roslyn told her that. After getting her regular clothes done, she made her way to her soccer bag making sure she had her soccer captain jacket, jerseys, cleats, and her shin guards. After she made sure she had everything she took her bags down to the car.

The team was saying goodbye to their parents before leaving. Emily opted out to leave a letter to her mom, she also texted it to her just in case she wasn't back home before Emily returned.

"Mother, I'm heading to Richmond Virginia for the next week my team made it into the state championship and we hope to make it to nationals as well. I know you probably won't be home until I'm back or after that so that's why I'm texting you. If you do make it home there's also this in a note form, on the kitchen island, I love you and I hope when I get back I get to too tell you we are going to Nationals too! - Emily P.

Emily asked for her chauffeur Lance to drive her to school even though she can drive she didn't wanna have to leave her car at school for a week, so he happily said yes and did so. As they pulled up to school, Emily saw Jennifer's parent's car.

"Mom and dad don't leave yet I want Emily to say bye to you guys as well," Jennifer said smiling. "Of course honey, bring her over here." Jennifer's dad Tom said with a smile. Jennifer's mother Mary smiled indicating that she was gonna wait for Emily. Jennifer made her way to Emily's car. Emily was getting out of the car with her bags when she saw Jennifer a couple of feet ahead of her.
"Emily comes to say bye to my parents," Jennifer said sticking out a hand to Emily.
She hesitated "Are you sure?" Emily asked.
"Emily they love you as their own come on." She said still holding her hand out.

Emily happily followed after hearing the reassurance from Jennifer. Once they got to the car Emily said her goodbye’s to Jennifers' parents earning a hug from Mary and a kiss on the forehead from Tom. Jennifer also gave her parents one last hug before she grabbed her bags and she and Emily made their way to the bus. They put their bags in the bottom compartment of the bus and then actually made their way onto the bus. They chose a seat on the left side of the bus, Jennifer taking the window seat, and Emily taking the aisle seat. Emily loved the window seat but she knew Jennifer loved it too, so she always had Jennifer sit by the window

Jennifer and Emily weren't the first ones to arrive. Monica and Stephanie were there before them, Monica being there before because her dad was the coach and Stephanie with her. After all, they were best friends. Then Lola arrived, with Emma, Janiyah, Harper, and Anya following shortly after. Casey and Layla were the last to arrive. The bus driver did attendance then coach did attendance after her.

"Girls I know there's no snacks here so we're gonna stop at the gas station please keep your purchases under 10$ each." Coach said.

All the girls were excited to hear that we were gonna stop at the gas station. We all quickly got out. Emily offered to pay for half of it but coach said no, she didn't stop there she said she would pay for her snacks and Jennifer's snacks. He said that would be okay but no more spending money on group things, it took her a second but she agreed. Emily knew she had money so she liked to be able to pay for things and especially things like this.

After our transactions, we made it back to the bus.

Emily got beef jerky, water, and a protein bar. Jennifer got Doritos with some skittles and water. Emily and Jennifer didn't know what everyone else got. The bus ride was nice and quiet songs were playing, but when a good one came on we all sang.

Emily could tell that I was tired so she lifted our armrests and told me to lay down on her lap and nap for a little while, I did exactly that. When I woke up we had about twenty minutes left until we would arrive at the hotel. I look up to see Emily smiling down at me while she played with my hair as she used to Jennifer thought to herself. She had been wanting to talk to Emily about their feelings that had made their way back into her life but didn't know how Emily would react to that. She decided to do it anyway.

"Emily," Jennifer said softly not to bother her now sleeping, teammates.

"Yeah what's going on are you okay?" Emily asked sweetly.

"I'm fine, but I wanted to talk to you."

"About what?" Emily was getting nervous.

"About us," Jennifer said softly.

"Alright girls we're here, I need you to slowly make your way out of the bus make sure you grab everything. Then wait for me outside next to the bag compartment. Coach said waking up all of the sleeping girls. Emily and Jennifer kinda just looked at each other until Emily got up and grabbed all the trash around her. She also offered to grab Jennifer's bags for her. Jennifer happily agreed but said she would carry her soccer bag.

After the bus was inspected by Coach the girls were told to grab their bags. They grabbed their bags thanked the bus driver and then made their way inside the hotel.

Everyone's reactions were the same, all you could hear from the group was a string of "wow."

Chapter Text

After arriving at the hotel and getting the room keys they made their way up to the third floor. Emily and Jennifer were roomed together once they got in Jennifer claimed the bed closest to the window and left Emily with the bed closest to the bathroom, although Emily didn't mind. They put toiletries in the bathroom and even turned on some music as they sorted their clothes and put them away in the provided dressers. After they were done with that they had some time to kill so they decided to turn down the music, Emily read a book and Jennifer played a game on her computer.

Jennifer stopped Emily's reading to tell her it was time for dinner. The pair made their way into the lobby to find the team then made their way to the private room that was provided for their team dinners. After a delicious dinner with the options of steak, salad, garlic bread, broccoli, corn, and fruit cups the whole team was full.

Coach started to speak "Girls look around you, these are the people that you are gonna need to confide in for the next few days as you have been for these past years. You guys also are gonna need to play as you have never played before. That being said there are gonna be college scouts at games, I'm not sure which ones but they will be at the games. You guys whether you are a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior you guys are gonna have all eyes on you. You guys have never let me down before and I know this isn't the time to now but, really girls you are incredible I couldn't ask for a better team."

We all went around giving hugs and thanking coach. We settled back down for some dessert.

"JJ are you ready to be noticed by the scout," Harper said while eating a brownie. 

"Aww thank you, Harper, but I don't think that the college scouts are gonna take interest in me, maybe Casey thought she's one of the fastest people on the team," Jennifer said looking at Harper and Casey.

"Maybe next year I'm only a sophomore I am excited about college soccer though it seems like such a fun challenge," Casey said Smiling

"I agree with you there, I can't wait to see what college holds for my soccer career but I'm gonna miss you guys so much," Stephanie said. She and Monica were the oldest ones on the team, even though Monica is coach's daughter he promised us that he would still coach after she had gone to college.

"I think it's gonna open up lots of new doors for us, and hold opportunities that we haven't even thought of yet," Emily said smiling. Jennifer didn't know how strongly Emily felt about going to college, she definitely would bring that up later.

"I think I speak for everyone here but I'm gonna miss Monica and Stephanie next year," Janiyah said sadly.

"One year isn't enough time with them," Anya said agreeing with Janiyah.

"Thank you girls but, this isn't a time to be all sappy. We need to lift our spirits and enjoy the time that we have left with each other." Monica said smiling

"Yes thank you, girls, you guys mean so much to us, and we can't wait to watch all of you graduate in the next coming years and see how much you improved and excelled," Stephanie said smiling.

"Alright I think everyone is done with dessert girls, go get a good night's rest and wake up ready to take the day." Coach said dismissing the team.

I and Jennifer made our way upstairs, once we got in the room I could tell something was up with Jennifer.

"Hey, Jen what's wrong?" Emily asked

She always knows when something is wrong Jennifer thought to herself "I'm fine."

"No, you're not, what's going on in your pretty little head," Emily asked seriously but softly

Pretty? What if? No, don't make yourself think there's something there again. "I'm freaking out," she said softly

Emily moved near her and pulled her into a hug. "Why are you freaking out?"

"I'm scared that about the scouts that they aren't gonna see me and I'm not gonna get a soccer scholarship and I can't get a scholarship for anything else soccer is my strong suit and if I can't get that what can I do with my life i-."Emily cut Jennifer off by placing her finger over her lips. Jennifer looked down as Emily removed her finger.

"You we're gonna start a sad ramble, but Jennifer look at me," Emily said as she put a finger under her chin and made her eyes meet her own.

"You are amazing. You are Jennifer Jareau. What you said at dinner wasn't true, Casey isn't the fastest on the team you are. You have the longest strides. The best corner kicks. Also not to mention you are the nicest and kindest of the time. Please don't doubt yourself. That college scout is gonna see you and then forget about everyone else on the team, Jennifer Jareau you are awesome don't ever doubt that. I'm serious." Emily finished her speech.

Jennifer pulled her into a hug. She whispered into her ear "you don't know how much you mean to me, thank you." Jennifer pulled back and just looked at Emily.

"I think we should head to bed," Jennifer said smiling.

"Maybe we should," Emily said smiling back they got into bed and Emily was fast asleep. Jennifer on the other hand couldn't fall asleep for the life of her.

Shortly later she got a call from her mother, she made her way into the bathroom before answering making sure not to wake up Emily. She ended the phone call with her mother in tears. They had found her grandpa dead, earlier that day and her mother had just gotten the news and called Jennifer.

Jennifer wanted one thing right now. That was to be held by Emily. She was asleep though she contemplated for a minute and decided to wake Emily up and ask her.

"Emily," Jennifer said softly, it took a second but Emily replied in her sleepy voice. "Jennifer, what's wrong are you okay?"

"Emily can you just hold me for tonight, please," Jennifer asked her so sympathetically.

"Absolutely, come here," Emily said as she pulled the blanket back and made room for Jennifer.

Jennifer softly said, "thank you." "Everything is gonna be okay Jen." She felt Jennifer relax more so she took her hand intertwining with her own and rubbed her knuckles.

Emily didn't fall back asleep until she felt Jennifer's heart rate settle down and her breathing slows down indicating that she was asleep. She tightened her grip around Jennifer like she never wanted to let go then finally found herself falling asleep to the sounds of Jennifer's breathing.

Chapter Text

Jennifer and Emily woke up. They both enjoyed the feeling of waking up in each other's arms but didn't say a word to each other they just grabbed their bags and made their way down to the bus for the first game of the state championship. Emily knew that whatever happened to Jennifer last night was something that she was gonna have to talk to her about it, but for right now she just let it go.

They arrive at the field and the other team is already there so they make their way into the parking lot, grab their bags, and head into the locker rooms to change and get ready for the game. After they are changed and on the field, the announcer begins talking knowing that the oath is coming up. After the oath, it's time for the coin toss. Emily, Jennifer, and Coach make their way up to the center of the field. Emily can sense that Jennifer is nervous, she places her hand on the small of her back. Jennifer melts into the touch and then gives her a look of "thank you".

After the coin toss, the game was set to begin, the ball wasn't staying on one side of the field they all were constantly moving. They had some strong defense, but that didn't stop them. Our team ended up beating them 2-1 they took this win with pride. After the high fives and good games, they made it back into the locker room.

"I'm just glad we didn't get out at the first game," Lola said laughing

"Damn straight," Monica said smiling.

All the girls got more and more excited until it died down and they grabbed their bags and made their back to the bus. Coach took them out to dinner, they all enjoyed the fairly large plates of pasta and then the giant ice cream Sunday that the girls all shared. After we were done eating we made our way back to the bus. Coach was giving them all an "I'm gonna make a speech look." We all stood there and smiled waiting for him to talk.

"Good game girls, that's what I wanted to see you guys didn't give up once. I didn't see one ounce of doubt. Keep this up and we're gonna win all the games." After that we put our hands in and screamed 1-0. Indicating that we have one the first game of the state championship. We made our way to the bus, and back to the hotel. We had no noise on the bus everyone was exhausted, to say the least.

Emily and Jennifer made their way back into the hotel room. "Emily you can shower first," Jennifer said smiling. "No it's okay you can shower first," Emily said as she looked back at Jennifer. Jennifer smiled again and made her way into the bathroom.

While Jennifer was in the shower Emily continued to read her book, she was enjoying how it was turning out. After about 25 minutes Jennifer made her way out of the bathroom telling Emily she was done. Emily asked Jennifer to turn on a movie before she quickly made her way to the bathroom and showered, she always took less time in the shower than Jennifer.

After Emily is out of the shower she takes a second to collect her thoughts in the bathroom. "I think I'm falling for Jen," she said quietly so she doesn't hear. She keeps repeating that. The only problem is she doesn't think Jennifer likes her back. She stayed in the bathroom repeating this process for about 15 minutes. Jennifer was starting to get worried.

Emily heard a soft knock at the door. "Are you okay in there?" She heard Jennifer's voice from the other side. "Yeah, I'll be out in a minute." Emily heard the blonde's footsteps slowly get further away. Emily pulled herself together then made her way out of the bathroom.

Emily was shocked to see Jennifer sitting up on her bed watching the movie she turned on. Emily didn't recognize it. She made her way over to the bed and layed down next to Jennifer.

"How was your shower," Jennifer asked Emily.

"It was peaceful," Emily said smiling

"That's good," Jennifer said

"How was yours," Emily said asking the same question she was asked before.

"Peaceful as well," Jennifer said coping Emily's answer. She didn't really wanna talk she wanted to watch the movie. After about thirty more minutes had passed Emily spoke up this time.

"Hey"

"What's up Em," Jennifer said sounding like she didn't wanna talk.

"Are you okay, I know something happened last night. You don't have to talk about it but I just need to know that you're okay." Emily said.

"Em, I'm okay, but I don't wanna talk about it." She said trying to keep her tears from falling.

"Hey, jayje come here,"  Emily said.

Jennifer layed her head on Emily's stomach and just cried while Emily told her everything was gonna be okay and played with her hair like old times, they stayed like this for a long time. They both were only thinking about one thing, and that was each other. The same thoughts flowed through both of their heads. Neither of them wanted to say anything, it was like freshman year all over again but they have grown from that point. They are slowly opening up to each other making it easier and easier to understand and know that they need to communicate.

Chapter Text

After a long time of just laying there, Jennifer spoke up

"Emily."

"What's up Jen," Emily said looking at the blonde laying on her stomach

"I know we used to have a little something going on together, why didn't it ever work out?" Jennifer asked scared of the answer she was gonna get.

"I think we were just young and didn't know how to handle everything that was going on between us." Emily sighed.

"Oh okay," Jennifer said as she moved up to Emily's chest. Turned her attention back to the movie.

Emily went to grab the blonde's hand. Jennifer slipped her fingers in between Emily's fingers. Then Emily started to rub her knuckles. Jennifer comfortable as she could be. Even though Emily didn't give much out of her answer, it kinda made me upset. Being here with Emily holding her hand and hearing her heartbeat. I was out within seconds.

A couple of minutes later Emily spoke up.

"I never lost feelings for you," Emily admitted. You couldn't have been a couple of minutes sooner Emily god. Emily cursed herself when she saw that the blonde had fallen asleep on her chest. Emily took a second and realized her situation and finally let the sleep overcome her consuming thoughts.

The two woke up and they layed there in each other's presence. Just appreciating this feeling even if it didn't mean anything. They wanted to stay there forever but they knew they were on a strict schedule. Jennifer was the first one to leave the embrace she longed to stay in.

"Good morning," Emily said smiling.

"Good morning," Jennifer said back, as she got up getting her bag together.

"How did you sleep?" Emily asked, also getting her bag together.

"Honestly I think that was the best sleep I've ever had," Jennifer admitted. She was done getting her bag together.

"Me too and honestly I think it was because you were with me," Emily said smiling. Jennifer was blushing.

"I think that's why I slept so good too, but we've got to get downstairs before coach kicks his only captains off the team," Jennifer said still blushing but also laughing.

"Wouldn't wanna be kicked off the team would we," Emily said as she smiled grabbed her bag, and opened them for Jennifer.

They made their way downstairs and ate breakfast.

"We have played against these girls before," Coach spoke up.

"Which ones are they," Harper said.

"The Catholic ones." Coach said.

He saw a downfall in their moods, they knew and he knew that they are one of the most difficult teams to play against.

"The last time we played against them, one of our girls got injured and she couldn't play soccer again due to to extent of the injury," Emily said sounding defeated.

"Coach, this game is gonna be rough," Monica said.

"Yes this game is gonna be rough, but it's gonna make you stronger. You guys are gonna play as you have always played before. We haven't lost to this team and we aren't gonna lose to them now. You guys are amazing and I believe in you and we are gonna play until we can't play anymore you understand."

The team replied with "understood."

They all continued eating their breakfast. After they were done they made their way onto the bus and played good music so they weren't focusing on the team they were about to play.

They had arrived at the field they parked the bus, grabbed their soccer bags, and made their way to the field. The other team was already on the field so they made their way to the locker rooms. Once they were all done and dressed. Jennifer stopped them.

"Guys I need all of you to look at me and listen, when we go on that field you don't show a single once of being scared. We are gonna play well and strong. They are strong but we are stronger if they are on your ass run faster. If they get the ball, take it right back. I need each one of you to say "I will play this game to the best of my ability and then some."

They all repeated. "I will play this game to the best of my ability and then some.

"What are you gonna do." Jennifer got louder.

They all repeated louder. "I will play this game to the best of my ability."

"That's right we are gonna walk on the field and we are gonna play the goddamn best game we have ever played. Do you understand?" Jennifer said.

They all replied with "Yes."

"Alright, team let's go kick some Catholic ass," Jennifer said walking out on the field as her team followed.

Once they arrived under the awning they were met with Coach and the voice of the announcer. They waited for the oath to be finished then Emily, Jennifer, and Coach made their way to the center of the field for the coin toss.

"Heads or tails, dragons call it in the air." Said the Referee.

Emily looked at Jennifer and nodded.

The coin made it into the air. "Tails," Jennifer said.

The Referee uncovered his hand. "Heads, Lyons you get first kick-off, Dragons get second."

The coaches left the field, the Referee's made their way to opposite sides of the field. Then the girls made their way to their positions on the field.

The Lyons made their way up to the ball, kicked it, and started the much-anticipated game.

Chapter Text

Jennifer was putting up one hell of a fight when she got a corner kick no matter how she kicked the ball the other team always got a hold of it, it was making her angry, to say the least.

The other team had called a timeout, this is the only time that Jennifer had appreciated their efforts. Once the team made it to the sidelines they got a new play from coach, but before they blew the whistle Emily stopped Jennifer "Hey don't let them get into your head, you are the best soccer player there is." With that, the whistle was blown and Emily smiled at Jennifer before she ran back onto the field, Jennifer smiled back even when she knew that Emily couldn't see her.

Jennifer was playing as hard as she could and then some like she had said earlier, in fact, her whole team was. She was beyond proud, The game was coming to an end they had one last shot to get the ball past their goalie. They made that shot. Bringing the score up 3-2 they had beat these Catholic girls once again. After the handshakes, the team made their way back into the locker rooms.

"I can't begin to explain how proud I am of you guys, I asked you guys to play hard and you did just that. We beat those girls. You guys are incredible. I'm so proud of you. Don't get too ahead of yourselves we still have two more games but enjoy this moment. Thank you guys again for playing your hardest you guys did impress me. Jennifer said smiling at every one of her teammates.

"Thank you, for pushing us to be better JJ," Casey said Smiling.

"I think I can speak for all of us but you are a pretty amazing captain JJ," Monica said.

"But Emily we can't forget about you, if you weren't here we also wouldn't have won thank you," Stephanie said following Monica's words.

Emily looked at Jennifer and she nodded silently telling Emily to continue.

"Thank you and I speak for me and JJ when I say we are a team we wouldn't be here without you or you." She said pointing to two girls. "I think you get my point but I want to say thank you, yes all of you for being here and being the best you can be. It shows how's strong we are and how much stronger we can become. Emily said.

The speeches ended the girls changed and grabbed their bags. Jennifer did one last sweep of the locker room to make sure they didn't forget anything. Once she was done she made it to the field and caught up with her team.

They made it to their awning and saw a picnic set out for them, the girls sat down and started eating their food. About fifteen minutes later coach had interrupted the girls who were enjoying their food. "Jennifer could you join me for a second please."
Coach said. Jennifer got up scared out of her mind about what was about to happen next.

Coach walked her up to a random lady and then walked away. The lady stuck her hand out for Jennifer to shake, Jennifer shook her hand. "Hello Jennifer my name is Grace Kelly and I am with Stanford University's soccer program. Would you like to take a walk with me?" The scout asked her. "Yeah of course," Jennifer responded as she nervously fidgeted with the necklace hanging around her neck.

"So as you know I'm with Stanford University, have you ever thought about attending?" Grace said.

"I have been looking around at local colleges, but I would consider attending Stanford," Jennifer replied happily still not taking her hands off that necklace.

"That's good, I came here today to invite you on a tour of our campus and most importantly our soccer department. There are some more people there that want to talk to you." Grace said smiling.

"Thank you, I will consider this and contact the school for an appointment," Jennifer said graciously.

"Thank you for your time, Jennifer, may you have a great day," Grace said holding out her hand for me to shake, I shook her hand, and then she proceeded to walk back to her car and I walked back to my team.

I had so many thoughts on my walk back to the team. Does Stanford want me or is this just a scheme to get me to attend there? California is a long way from home. How am I going to afford that? So many thoughts clouded her mind until she made it back to the picnic.

Chapter Text

After Jennifer's clouded thought walk she made her way back to the picnic, she was still beyond surprised out of everyone on her team she was the first one to be picked out of her whole team by a college scout.

"Our girl is getting that college scholarship," Harper said. Causing everyone to laugh, including me. "Guys it might be a stretch, they just want me to come to visit the campus and take a look around who knows if they even want to give me a scholarship," Jennifer said doubtfully. "But they've still got their eyes on you blonde,"  Layla said. Causing another laugh after that the team just stayed in comfortable silence until they finished their food.

After the picnic, the team had a couple of hours to kill before they had to be back at the hotel for team dinner. Instead of staying in their hotel for hours, the team opted for a group activity. Emily had an idea.

"I have an idea," Emily said

"Spit it out, princess," Monica said playfully.

Princess was a nickname Emily got a freshman year tryouts because of how "elegantly" she would stop the ball, the name just kinda stuck despite her much much less elegant ball stops now.

"We should make tye-dye jerseys that we can wear during practice or warm-ups, we just get simple white shirts and put our numbers on the back," Emily said smiling.

"I think that's a great idea." Coach said.

Coach went out to get tye-dye supplies once he returned they started the process of making the shirts.

Jennifer was sketching out a giant seven on the back of her shirt and Emily was doing that same process but with a giant fourteen.

"What colors are you gonna use," Emily asked Jennifer.

"I was thinking blue and yellow, it might have some green faded together and I think it would be pretty," Jennifer said smiling.

"I think it will be beautiful," Emily said resting a hand on her arm.

"What about your colors." Jennifer shifted positions, making Emily's hand fall.

"I was gonna do purple and red, but what you said might make me do blue and red so it has the fading of purple."

"I think it will be beautiful," Jennifer said, using the same words Emily did to describe hers.

They all finished their shirts before we started the long process of soaking the shirts, we shared our colors out loud.

"Blue and yellow," Jennifer said.

"Blue and red," Emily said.

"Purple and pink," Monica said.

"Green and pink," Stephanie said.

"Yellow and red," Lola said.

"Red and purple," Janiyah said.

"Orange and yellow," Emma said.

"Blue and orange," Anya said.

"Blue and green," Harper said.

"Pink and purple," Layla said.

"Green and orange," Casey said.

"Gold and silver." Coach said.

"Gold and silver, not cool coach. Hiding the cool colors from us." Harper said playfully.

"I had to stand out." Coach said. 

"Anyways your shirts are gonna looks amazing guys." "And Emily great idea." Coach said.

"Thank you," Emily said feeling Important. Emily would never admit to it but, she craves validation from older people. Such as mother figures or father figures. She had a mom growing up but not a loving mom, which is also why she thinks it's so hard for her to communicate with Jennifer because she hadn't communicated feelings of love before. Emily never had a dad, she has one but she doesn't know who he is. So when coach said that, it made her feel special and loved. Emily thought to herself "I should probably get help for this."

After they put their shirts in the bin with the water they clasped it closed then carried it to the bus. They all got on the bus and made their way back to the hotel.

Once they arrived at the hotel, they made their way up to their hotel rooms. Jennifer and Emily had the same idea.

"Emily do you want to shower first?" Jennifer asked.

"No you can go first it's okay."

"Okay, I won't be too long," Jennifer said shutting the bathroom door

Emily was lost in her thoughts thinking about the blonde who hasn't seemed to leave her mind at all in these past couple of days. Emily must have been lost in thought for a good while, she didn't even notice Jennifer come out of the bathroom. She was brought out of her thoughts by the blonde she couldn't get out of her mind. "Emily I'm done in the shower now," Jennifer said as she started putting lotion on as she sat down on the bed.

Emily had stepped into one of the hottest showers she had ever taken, she couldn't decipher whether or not she was taking a hot shower to wash away the day or the thought of the blonde never liking her back away. After about twenty minutes Emily was out of the shower getting dressed in her black shorts and dark blue shirt.

Emily made her back into the main part of their hotel room, which was very fancy Emily thought just now noticing the actual room.

"We have about an hour until we have to go to dinner do wanna watch something." The blonde asked Emily. "Yeah sure." Emily smiled as she sat on her bed. "You can sit over here if you want to." The blonde said with a soft sad smile, she loved Emily so much even if she didn't know how to tell her that she did. Emily made her way onto the blonde's bed. About twenty minutes later Emily spoke up.

"Jen I was thinking about what you said earlier."

Jennifer was really confused about what she was talking about, she wasn't sure if it was about their freshman year conversation or what she said on the field.

"What we're you thinking about?" Jennifer said offering a slightly confused look on her face.

"That it might be a stretch that a college wants you, for their soccer project."

Jennifer was happy it was about the field thing because she wasn't sure how she would reply to the freshman year one right now. "Honestly it might be. I couldn't keep the ball when I got it. I was lazy with my corner kicks. I wasn't playing to my full potential in the game today." Jennifer admitted to the brunette.

"Jen you are amazing regardless of what your head thinks. I know you are one of the best center back our school has ever seen, I take that back you are the best center back Virginia has ever seen. Jen you have to give yourself more credit, you are an excellent player." Emily said

The blonde didn't know how to respond to that one either she just engulfed the brunette in a hug.

"Thank you." The blonde whispered into Emily's ear.

They stayed in that position for a couple of minutes and once they were done they checked the time and decided that they should probably head down for dinner now.

Chapter Text

Once they left their hotel room they met with some of their friends and walked together to dinner together. They both enjoyed their dinner, It was a selection of different soups and bread. Even though they enjoyed dinner they couldn't wait to get upstairs and go to bed

After they made their way back up to their room and they both sunk into their beds and fell asleep. Jennifer and Emily both only had one thing on their minds and it was each other.

Jennifer woke up around eight in the morning, she knew Emily liked to sleep in so she made her way into the bathroom to braid her hair. She did some simple French braids then made her way back into her room to check her soccer bag and make sure she had everything so that she could be ready for today.

Emily woke up about three minutes after the blonde entered the room like she knew she was there. "Good morning Jen," Emily said rubbing her eyes as she sat up in bed.

"Good morning sleepyhead," Jennifer said without turning around to face Emily.

"Your hair looks so nice, do you think you could do mine? I never learned how to french braid." Emily both admired and admitted.

"Yeah of course I can where's your brush?." Jennifer asked.

"It's in the bathroom," Emily said as she got up to pop her back.

"Ugh Emily, don't do that," Jennifer said turning her nose up.

"What?" Emily said confused

"When you pop your back it scares me that you're gonna like break your back or something," Jennifer admitted. "Sit down here." Jennifer also said so she could start on Emily's braids.

"First off, when you pop your back or anything it's just pockets of air releasing, but you're right it can be dangerous. I learned professionally how to pop my back from a chiropractor, I promise I'm not gonna break my back, Jen." Emily laughed softly.

"Air pockets that's cool, but also good because I can't have you getting hurt now." Jennifer laughed.

"Who thought you how to braid?"

"My sister did it was a while ago, I'm surprised I still remember."

"Muscle memory is very weird it works in so many different ways," Emily said backing up the claim of why she still remembers.

"Oh yeah, that makes sense." Jennifer thought about what Emily said and it was probably true but she still likes to think that she remembers how to do it in memory of her sister. Since Roslyn always use to braid her hair when she was younger. "Alright, I think we're all done here," Jennifer said as she tapped the braids on Emily's head.

"Thank you," Emily said smiling at the blonde. She loved getting to spend time with her.

"Of course anytime."

The two of them grabbed their bags left the hotel room and made it down the elevator. They headed toward the bus that was gonna take them to the field for the next game.

They arrived at the field before the other team. They started to run play and even learned a new one to knock the other team off their feet. Once the other team arrived they split the field and ran drills before the game started.

Once the oath was over Emily, Jennifer and Coach made their way to center field.

The Referee said, "Jets call it in the air."

The coin made it into the air, and the opposing team said "Tails."

The Referee moved his hand. "Heads Dragons get first to kick and Mets get second." Jennifer hated it when they had to kick first. She liked to kick second so that she knew if they were on a bad score she could at least have a given opportunity to score.

The Coaches made their way off the field. The Referees made their way to opposite sides of the field. The girls made their way to the opposite sides of the fields to get into position.

Once Jennifer kicked the ball the game was in motion.

This game was a fun one but challenging their goalie was almost as good as my Emily but not betters she wasn't letting our kicks get past but we managed to get a couple past bringing the score up 2-1 marking our third win in this state competition.

Their locker room was full of girls screaming 3-1 they were beyond excited that they had won their game now all they had to do was win their fourth one.

The girls had free time after the game again before they were due back for dinner.

All of Jennifer's thought's through the game were Emily she wasn't quite sure why because Emily had made it clear to her she wasn't interested in her and was giving her "we're just friends" vibes, but despite how the blonde was thinking about the brunette. It was not how Emily was thinking.

Emily also had her mind full of thoughts about the blonde, she was thinking to herself that maybe after the game they could go see a movie or something along those lines, maybe not as a date but hanging out with her favorite person. Even though she wanted nothing more than for it to be a date with Jennifer.

Chapter Text

Emily approached Jennifer after the game. "Hey, Jen do you wanna head back to the hotel room to take showers then maybe like go bowling or something?" Emily finally gulped out.

"Are you asking me out on a date Emily Prentiss?" Jennifer replied playfully.

"Yea- I mean I wanted to hang out with you but if you think it's a date I wouldn't- I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable Jen."

"Emily" Jennifer said as she placed her hands on Emily's wrists. "I would love to spend time with you," Jennifer said Smiling.

"Oh thank god, I am sorry if I didn't make you uncomfortable though," Emily started looking down.

I placed a finger under her chin guiding her eyes up to meet mine. "Em, it's okay." 

Emily broke the eye contact again. "Em look at me." Once Emily meet Jennifer's eyes she continued "You didn't make me uncomfortable, now you said something about going to take showers then you were gonna take me bowling wanna go do that? Jennifer said.

"Jennifer you are something else," Emily said as they walked back to the bus.

The brunette and blonde companions made their way up to the hotel to take showers. Jennifer went first as she had been; they had gotten a little routine started. They switched off then Jennifer got dressed. Emily made sure not to take long in the shower as she wanted to spend the most time with the blonde that she could. Even though they had been pretty much insuperable these past couple of days.

"Hey, are you ready to go?" Emily asked as she walked out of the bathroom drying her hair with a towel.

"Yeah, I'm ready whenever you are," Jennifer said softly.

"Let's go then," Emily said smiling.

The two made their way out of the hotel, and out on the sidewalk. Emily did her research and found a bowling alley within walking distance from the hotel. Jennifer slipped her hand into Emily's as they walked to the bowling alley. Once they arrived Emily let go of her hand, but only to open the door for her. "Thank you," Jennifer said smiling. Emily just smiled back and they walked up to the counter.

"What size shoes can I get for you ladies today?" The man at the counter asked.

"I need a size nine and ten please," Emily said as she placed her shoes and Jennifer's shoes on the counter.

"You lady's enjoy yourself tonight." The man said as he handed them their shoes.

Emily and Jennifer walked until they made it to a free lane to sit down and put their shoes on.

"These are so much different than cleats," Jennifer said.

"Jennifer Jareau have you never been bowling?" Emily asked shocked that the blonde had never been bowling.

"Emily Prentiss I have not been bowling before," Jennifer said matching the enthusiasm of the brunette.

"Well, it looks like you're gonna get your ass beat tonight because I happen to be amazing at bowling," Emily said joking around with the blonde.

"Mhn I'm not so sure, I pick up fast."

"I guess we will just have to see then," Emily said as she went to type their names in on the computer.

"Not so fast there Prentiss," Jj said smiling.

Emily stood there confused about what Jennifer was talking about.

"If you win you can stay the best at bowling."

"And if you win?" Emily asked.

"You have to take me to spend time with you again." Jennifer said using air quotations around "spend time."

"Alright, that sounds like a good deal because like I said Jennifer I'm gonna beat your ass, so keep your calendar clear for me," Emily said laughing

The two of them played a fair round of bowling, and Jennifer was right she did pick up fast she and I were tied. I was up first for the last round. I knocked down five pens then proceeded to knock down the last five resulting in a spare. Jennifer needed to get a strike beat me, and that girl did just that. Jennifer walked back to where Emily was standing.

"I think you just got your ass beat," Jennifer said laughing. Not even a second after she finished speaking she saw Emily's face drop.

"Good job Jen, I think we should probably head back before dinner." Jennifer could tell that the brunette was upset but was trying to show her excitement for the blonde.

"Yeah, we probably should," Jennifer said as she walked up next to Emily holding her bowling shoes to get her regular shoes back. "Let me carry them for you," Emily asked gesturing towards Jennifer's shoes. Jennifer didn't mind she handed the shoes to Emily.

Once they got their regular shoes back on. 24.52 the man said.
"Give me just a second." Emily grabbed her wallet and pulled out 40$ and handed it to the man "Keep the change." Emily said as she and Jennifer walked towards the door and made their way into the night.

Emily was quiet the whole time they were walking and she was upset so Jennifer decided to say something.

"Emily, what's wrong?" Jennifer said as stopped and stood in front of the brunette.

"Nothing."

"Are you upset about not being the number one at bowling anymore?"

Emily shook her head no.

"Are you upset because you wanted to take me to hang out again?"

Emily just kinda stood there without a response indicating that was the reason she was upset.

Jennifer noticed and placed arms around Emily's neck and pulled her into a hug. After a few minutes, Jennifer pulled away but kept her arms loosely hanging around the brunette's neck. "Em, why are you upset about that," Jennifer asked hoping she would get an honest answer.

"Because I enjoy being around you a lot, and I want to be able to spend time with you whenever I can," Emily said being honest and truthful with the blonde

Jennifer whipped a single tear-off of the brunette's face that she wouldn't have been able to see without the dim lighting from the street light.

"Eyes on me Em." Emily looked down into those light blue orbs that she adored. "You are one of my favorite people ever and I enjoy being around you too. It was just a stupid bet I would love for you to still take me to spend time together." Jennifer finished.

Now Emily whipped a tear-off of Jennifer's face.

"Are you sure?" Emily asked for reassurance.

"I am," Jennifer said hugging the brunette again.

The two parted and walked back to the hotel. Emily didn't waste a single second and went back to holding the blonde's hand like she was earlier.

Chapter Text

Jennifer and Emily made their way into the hotel's room for team dinner.  Dinner was amazing, it was greasy cheeseburgers and crispy fries.

After dinner Coach made a speech.

"Listen team you have been amazing these past couple of days the teamwork and the communication is there. I'm proud of you guys, but tomorrow is gonna be one of the biggest days of your soccer career. I need you all to be rested and prepared for tomorrow. So get a good night's rest and wear your lucky shirt under your jersey or whatever your good luck charm is. So we can take home that state championship trophy." The whole team cheered.

"Hands in, and on three "we will win," one of our teammates said. "one, two, three we will win." the whole team yelled.

After that coach sent us upstairs earlier than normal to make sure we got a good night's rest.

Jennifer and I made our way up to our hotel room and got settled into bed. I was reading my book and Jennifer was going over her playbook.

"Hey, Jen why don't you come over here with me and we can go over plays to stay refreshed for tomorrow?" Emily made an offer to the blonde.

"Yeah, I think I would like that," Jennifer said as she walked over to Emily's bed and cuddled up closer to Emily so she could see the book.

"I haven't put the new play we did at the second game in here yet," Jennifer said softly.

"Well I honestly don't remember either so I can't help you there,"  Emily said laughing.

"I thought we were supposed to be going over the plays, not forgetting them," Jennifer said playfully.

"Jennifer you are something else I've got to say," Emily said smiling.

"Emily," Jennifer said seriously.

"Yeah?" Emily said confused.

"You keep saying "Jennifer you are something else." what do you mean when you say that."

"Well, I just- you are amazing, to say the least. I have never met anyone like you, and I've been to almost every place in the world." Emily said smiling.

Jennifer switched their position to where she could hug the brunette, and she whispered in her ear. "Thank you, Emily Prentiss."

Jennifer pulled back away from the hug and then Emily looked back up at her.

"Can we stay like this for just a little bit longer?" Emily asked softly scared that the blonde would say no.

"Yeah absolutely," Jennifer said laying back down holding Emily tight in a hug. Eventually, Emily had fallen asleep and Jennifer went to grab a blanket for them and Emily just clutched her shirt. Jennifer took this as a sign that Emily didn't want her to move so she pulled the blanket out from under her and held Emily tightly as she fell asleep.

Emily woke up first to her surprise, she normally sleeps in. She didn't realize she was laying with Jennifer until she tried to move. She quickly slipped out of the blonde's embrace. Knowing that she was gonna freak out, she made her way to the bathroom.

So many thoughts were in her head. I think I'm falling in love with her. She's perfect. She smells amazing. She just kept thinking of positive things and the smile on her face kept getting bigger and bigger.

She decided that she needed to brush her teeth. She started brushing her teeth when she felt two arms snake around her waist. "Good morning Em," Jennifer said in her sleepy voice.

Emily didn't say anything and Jennifer was worried she went too far. She was pulled out of her thoughts when she felt Emily move and place her hands around her waist.

"Good morning Jen," Emily said smiling. "I wanted to wait until I didn't have toothpaste in my mouth to say it," Emily said smiling but bigger this time.

"You are such a dork," Jennifer said as she booped Emily's nose.

"You're the dork," Emily said laughing.

"Well I might be a dork but I need this dork to move so I can brush my teeth," Jennifer said booping Emily's nose again.

Emily left the bathroom to change her clothes and get her Soccer bag ready they had a big day ahead of them. Jennifer was shortly behind her she had already changed her clothes in the bathroom she grabbed her bag.

Jennifer and Emily made their way out of the hotel to the bus with the most anticipation for this game.

Chapter Text

The team made their way into the bus before they drove off. Coach started to talk.

"Girls, today is the day I hope all of you slept well and are ready to play the best you can understand."

The team replied with "Understood." 

This was the longest the team had to drive to get to the field they were playing at it was only a twenty-minute drive.

Jennifer had asked me if she could take a nap and of course, I said yes. She had layed her head down on my lap, I played with her hair and she was put within minutes.

We had arrived at the field, meaning I had to wake Jennifer up.

"JJ wake up," Emily said softly shaking her. She woke up almost instantly. "How was your nap?"

"It was good thank you for asking," Jennifer said smiling. One thing Jennifer always loved about Emily was that she always called her JJ around other people and only Jennifer in private. She didn't know the reason why Emily did that but she loved it nonetheless.

"JJ, Emily let's go." Coach said.

They made their way out of the bus grabbed their bags and made their way to the field, there were already fans crowding the seats. The other team still hadn't shown yet, meaning we get to practice on the field first. They ran plays for about fifteen minutes before the other team showed up. They made their way into the locker room so that the other team had time to run their plays as well.

They all got changed into their uniforms.

"My team my lovely team. You guys are amazing and I love you guys so much, I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for you guys. So with that being said, we are going to go out there have a good time, and best some ass." Jennifer said smiling as she lead her team out onto the field. They ran a couple of drills before they heard the announcer. Once the oath was over the team made their way onto the field to get into position. While Emily, Jennifer, and Coach made it to the center field.

The referee said, "Call it in the air dragons."

The coin made it into the air. "Tails." Both Emily and Jennifer said at the same time.

The referee moved his hand "Tails" "Dragons would you like to kick first or second. "Second," Emily replied. "Eagle's you will be kicking first and Dragons second."

With that Coaches left, referees took their spots and the players got into positions.

Once the eagles kicked that ball the game was started.

Jennifer had been on her wit's end, she was so frustrated with a girl on the opposing team. She wouldn't stay off of her it's like they hired a professional guarder who wouldn't let her get the ball.

After a time out, a new play, and a smile from Emily. Jennifer had calmed down and scored a point.

After about 15 minutes of constant running back and forth, Harper scored a goal.

We were into the second half of the game with two points Jennifer had just scored us a third one with the kickoff.

The opposing team had gotten three points bringing the score 3-3.

There was 1 minute left on the clock and we had a corner kick, Jennifer kicked it halfway across the field to Lola and Monica. They knew to keep that ball in their team's possession until Jennifer made it down that field.

Jennifer had made it down the field and got a pass directly from Monica with only a few seconds left  Jennifer shot the goal and scored. Everyone started cheering and Jennifer stood there in shock, not realizing that they just won their game and they are going to nationals. It wasn't until her team came up and started a group hug that she saw the scoreboard and realized what had just happened.

Once they left their group hug they high-fived the other team. The announcer left his announcing box and made his way down to the field with a man who was holding a trophy that looked official.

"We grant this trophy to the team who won all four state championships games, and the person who made the final tie breaking shot. Jennifer Jareau." The whole team huddled together with their trophy and took pictures. Once they were done with pictures Coach called them back into the locker room.

"Guess what are ready to be worn."  Coach said enthusiastically. "Our shirts." The team replied.

"Yes, everyone come grab them." Once they had all gotten their shirts in they went out onto the field. Before Jennifer could leave Emily stopped her.

"Hey, I'm so proud of you that shot was amazing. Also good job, you kept going after that bitch wouldn't get off of you. You did great today Jennifer." Emily said smiling at the blonde.

She hugged Emily she felt like that had been her new reaction anytime she saw her she just wanted to hug her. Once they parted Jennifer continued.

"Thank you, Emily, really thank you it means a lot." She said smiling.

They made their way back onto the field and took more pictures with the team in their homemade shirts. Once they were done with pictures for a second time they made their way into the locker room grabbing their bags and making sure they had everything when they were done. We made our way to the bus.

Chapter Text

Once they were on the bus Coach had decided to take them out to lunch, they went to Dicks last resort. It was an experience, to say the least. Half of the girls didn't understand why they were being rude, cursing the other half to keep laughing. This is what everyone's hat said.

Coach- "Viagras #1 customer"
Emily-  "Hi I'm stupid."
Jennifer- "I'm with stupid."
Monica- "Disney princess reject."
Stephanie-  "Ho Fo Sho."
Emma-  "More highlights than ESPN."
Harper- "Hi! I'm the village's idiot!"
Lola- "40 y/0 virgin in the making"
Casey- "Thank god for make-up"
Janiyah- " Imagine me with personality"
Layla- "I pee in pools."

Everyone laughed at everyone's hat even though they couldn't see their own until the end, they had an amazing time and enjoyed lunch. When they were done they made their way outside and got on the bus.

"Thank you for an amazing season and I can't wait until next month when we go to nationals." Coach said before the bus took off.

We made it back to the hotel for our last stay. When Jennifer and I got into our hotel room, she showered first.

"Jen do you wanna watch a show while we fall asleep," Emily asked as she got up to take a shower.

"Yeah, I'll turn it on," Jennifer said smiling.

Emily didn't take long in the shower, once she got out she got dressed and then put her products in her hair. When she finished in the bathroom she walked into the room she didn't even think about her bed she immediately made it into the blondes.

"What show did you pick," Emily asked softly.

"Friends," Jennifer said in reply.

"I always loved Rachel," Emily said smiling.

"I mean Rachel was cool, but Phoebe was the best character on the show."

"True Phoebe was honestly a cool character but I just loved Rachel, probably an unhealthy amount," Emily said laughing.

"So what I'm hearing is that my competition is Rachel Green."

"No definitely not, Rachel doesn't begin to compare to you, Jennifer."

"Emily." Jennifer stared softly as she looked a the brunette in front of her.

"Yes," Emily said, she wasn't scared to talk to the blonde anymore.

"What are we doing, what is this," Jennifer said looking down.

Emily got scared but she didn't care anymore. "I don't know what we're doing, but I'm enjoying it nonetheless," Emily said smiling at the blonde.

"I am too." The blonde said. She was thinking about how far she had come, and how far Emily has came. They were both growing together and that's all they cared about at this moment.

They fell asleep in the same bed legs tangled together. They didn't want to wake up in the morning, they didn't wanna leave and head back home.

Emily woke up first, she got up out of bed and started cleaning and packing everything up so when Jennifer woke up we could just check out and get on the bus.

It took Emily about 25 minutes to clean the whole hotel room and get everything back in the bags and the bathroom vanity was the most difficult task. She never realized how much stuff she had. Once Emily was done she arranged their bags onto her bed. Jennifer had not moved since Emily had to be woken up.

"Jennifer, wake up," Emily said softly moving the blonde.

"Good morning, how'd you sleep," Emily asked looking down at the blonde.

"I slept good but I'm still really tired," Jennifer replied honestly, she wished she could have gone back to bed.

"Well we have about 10 minutes till check out, and we should probably make it downstairs so we get good seats on the bus and you could even take a nap," Emily said smiling.

"Oh yeah definitely, but I still call the window seat."

"No problem, you know you always get it every time."

"Yeah, I like that about you," Jennifer admitted.

"What?" Emily asked confused about what the blonde's meaning was behind that.

"You always try to make me more comfortable in a situation, I appreciate that about you."

"Of course Jen always."

The two grabbed their bags and made their way out of their hotel room for the final time. They returned the room keys at the front desk. Then they made their way to the bus.

When they got on the bus only Harper, Casey, and Emma were there. They got to choose the seats they wanted. No surprise the bust started to fill up after they got settled in.

"Alright girls we are now on our way back home, We will be attending nationals, I haven't been informed where it will be taking place but I will let you guys know when I find out. It's gonna be next month, and we will play 4 games and if and when we win those four games we get to play in the final round for a chance to win the nationals trophy." Coach said smiling at his girls. We honestly were all tired so we settled for smiles as a response.

Jennifer layed down on Emily's lap at this point it became a routine and they wouldn't have had it any other way.

Emily was scared about making it back, she knew everyone's parents would be there beside hers. Emily had gotten used to it, but she still never really wanted that to be her reality.

They had arrived at the school after an hour and some odd amount of minutes. Emily woke Jennifer up letting her know that we had arrived.

All the kids ran out to find their mom or dads. Emily just stayed behind on the bus, she gave it a second to die down before she went and grabbed her bag.

"Emily come here." I heard someone say, I look behind me and it's Mary. That had brought a smile to my face, Jennifer's parents always made me feel welcome in their home, and I never really knew how to process it or react but I tried.

Jennifer was already in the car with her dad when Mary had made her way toward Emily.

"How was state," Mary asked after she hugged the brunette.

"State was really good, we had a good time," Emily said smiling.

"Jennifer was telling me about how you blocked almost every shot that came your way?"

"Only a couple of them got past," Emily said smiling. "But the real star of the show was Jennifer, I think she outplayed the game itself," Emily said with an even bigger smile on her face than before.

"That's one the about Jennifer she always tries her hardest to be the best," Mary said agreeing with Emily.

"She's the best at everything she does in my opinion."

Mary looked down at her watch "Oh Emily I'm so sorry but I have to get going I have a doctor's appointment."

"Of course, thank you Mary I'll see you soon," Emily said after hugging the older blonde.

Chapter Text

Jennifer sat in the car with her dad. Waiting about five minutes before her mother made her way back to the car. Once she was in the car she began talking.
"Jennifer, that girl was absolutely gloating about you."

"She was?" Jennifer asked confused.

"Yes, she said you outplayed soccer itself I think she really cares about you," Mary said as she looked up in the mirror to see Jennifer in the back.

"I care about her to mom," Jennifer said as her mom backed out of the parking spot and made their way into the main road.

Once they arrived home Jennifer was fast out of the car with her bags and made her way into the house. She wanted nothing more than to lay on her own bed.

She had finally made her way upstairs and she was beyond relieved when the back of her body made contact with her bed. She just layed there for a while. Then decided it would probably be a good idea to unpack. She turned on some music while she unpacked and it took her about 20 minutes before she got distracted by a shirt in her dresser. It was from the freshman homecoming game, her school was small and their female soccer team was the star of the show.

The shirt was a white shirt with her number on it that everyone in the crowd signed, who's idea was it? Emily's. Jennifer stood there lost in thought grasping the shirt, once she came back into reality she put the shirt back in the dresser and finished unpacking.

Once she tackled that task she went ahead and took her daily shower, that was the only way the blonde felt clean and, her hair always felt nice. She enjoyed that shower theirs something about coming home and being in the comfort of your own home. That made Jennifer sigh she missed this, but she also missed sharing a room with Emily that was something that she could have gotten used to.

She exited the shower after wrapping her hair and getting dressed she made her way into her bed and just relaxed watching friends for the rest of the day.

Emily on the other hand when she got home, just went straight to her room not even bothering to carry her bags up with her. Once she got in her room she started pacing, the conversation with Mary she had figured out what was different between then and now.

She and I were growing closer because we have been having actual conversations together, Emily realized that she had never really done that before. She may have wanted to but she didn't know how to truly express or properly word what she had wanted to say.

Emily had stopped pacing and calmed down a little. She walked over to her desk grabbed a pen and a piece of paper and sat down. She started by writing her name, then added her favorite things about her. None of it sounded right or good enough. She went through this process about 10 times before she decided that she wasn't gonna write it out. She racked her brain thinking of other ways. Nothing seemed to pop up.

She decided to go downstairs and get some food before heading back upstairs to resume her process of trying to figure out how to tell Jennifer. The food hadn't helped with anything just made her less hungry and more tired. She checked the time it was 12:32 pm she decided that it was an okay time to take a nap.

Jennifer had just finished watching friends as she got up and went downstairs for lunch it was around 3 so late lunch early dinner what ever you wanted to call it. Mary had arrived back home from her doctor's appointment a couple of hours earlier. When she got home she started making fettuccine alfredo with broccoli seeing how that's Jennifer's favorite dinner and it was her first night back home.

About an hour later Jennifer had finished eating with her parents and they cleaned up the kitchen together after that she headed back to her room to resume friends and relax for the rest of the night.

Emily had just woken up from her nap, she checks her phone for notifications there was nothing there. She had accidentally slid to the right and saw the weather app it was about 75 degrees out, and it was staying at that temperature until early in the morning the next day. She had one thought pop into her head and it all finally clicked she knew what she had to do.

She got up took the quickest shower of her life and changed into comfy clothes. She walked back into her room and grabbed a blanket, also grabbed her phone and as she made her way downstairs she grabbed a bag of chips before making it out to her car. She got in got situated and then put the car into drive. She knew where she was going but she didn't know what she was gonna say. But do you ever really know what you're going to say.

Chapter Text

Emily parked on the outskirts of her favorite spot and sent a text to her favorite person.

Jen <3

Are you awake?

Yes, I am what's up?

Can you meet me at our spot?

Um yeah? I'll be there soon.

Jennifer was confused about Emily wanting to meet at their spot she honestly didn't have a clue in her mind on why. Emily, on the other hand, had everything on her mind, after texting Jennifer she opened her car door, grabbed the blanket and chips, and made her way down the path.

Emily had first layed the blanket down then sat the chips down, finally, she lowered herself on the ground then onto her back. She layed there waiting for the only person she wanted to be there with her. It didn't take long for that to happen.

After about 10 minutes of laying there she heard leaves rustling, she propped herself up onto her elbow and turned around. "Hey come lay with me." Jennifer smiled and went to lay down with Emily.

The two layed there in their field, watching the sunset.

Jennifer was the first one to break the silence.

"Em, why are we here?"

"I wanted to see you, and I wanted to talk to you as well"

Jennifer smiled and responded.

"About what?" Asking Emily another question.

"Everything."

Jennifer and Emily maintained eye contact as they both sat up. Emily took ahold of both of the blonde's hands.

"I'm sorry Jennifer, for all of it. I'm sorry that I couldn't express how I felt about you. I knew that I had liked you, but I didn't know how to tell you. Communication is easier for me now, I still struggle with it though but I wanna learn how to get better."

Jennifer could tell she wasn't finished so she just squeezed her hands signaling for the brunette to continue talking.

Emily wasn't nervous she may have been deep down but she had felt amazing about everything happening at this moment.

"Jennifer, you are amazing and I know I say that all the time but it's to remind you that you truly are. I also wanted to tell you that I like you. I know how to tell you now and it's freeing." Emily said as she started to cry.

"Hey come here," Jennifer said as she pulled Emily onto her lap. Emily layed her head in the crook of her neck and just let the blonde hold her as she cried.

"Em, thank you for telling me that, I know that it wasn't easy. This isn't all on you, I had problems expressing my emotions and feelings as well. Not in the same way but I did. It took me a long time to be able to express my emotions and I still struggle with it. We can learn to grow in those ways together. Em, I had always liked you too. Well, let me rephrase that, I like you, like a lot." Jennifer said still holding the brunette.

Emily pulled away from the comforting arms of the blonde with tear-stained cheeks.

"Are you serious, do you mean all of that?"

"Yes, Emily I'm serious."

"Wow, I couldn't notice this but I can notice everything else," Emily said laughing softly.

"Well, I'm glad you noticed now, late is better than never," Jennifer said beaming.

"True late is better than never."

The two held strong eye contact for a couple of seconds.

"Can I kiss you?" Emily asked waiting for the blonde's approval.

Jennifer nodded. With the confirmation, she slowly leaned in and kissed the blonde after three years of pure lusting over each other.

The kiss was soft but meaningful truly showing how the two girls felt about each other.

"Wow," Jennifer said.

"Wow is right," Emily said as they rested their foreheads together.

"That was worth the wait," Jennifer said.

"Jennifer Jareau, are you trying to flirt with me."

"Yeah," Jennifer said as she kissed Emily again.

"This is something I could get used to," Emily said as she pulled the blonde down onto her stomach to look for their zodiac constellations like old times.

"Oh, I found yours," Jennifer said pointing at the constellation for libra.

"I found yours too," Emily said as she pointed at the constellation for cancer.

The two stayed quiet for a while after that.

"Hey it's getting late, you think we should pack up?" Jennifer said as she lifted herself off of Emily.

"Yeah, we probably should."

The two packed up and head back in the direction of their cars. Once they had arrived Jennifer had handed what she was holding to Emily.

"Hey," Jennifer said.

"Yeah," Emily said making eye contact with her.

"Would you like to come over and stay the night?" Jennifer said shyly.

"Of course, I would love to. I've gotta run this stuff home and grab some clothes but I'll be over, don't fall asleep on me." Emily said as she smiled at the blonde.

"Mhn can't make any promises," Jennifer said laughing. Knowing that she would be wide awake until Emily was back with her.

"I'll see you in a little bit," Emily said as she got in her car.

Jennifer proceeded to do the same. They both went their separate ways back to their homes.

Emily was freaking out, she wanted to ask Jennifer to be her girlfriend but she wasn't sure how to ask her. She racked her brain thinking and thinking, then it hit her.

"I JUST HAVE TO FUCKING ASK HER," Emily yelled as she parked her car.

God, I spent all this time overthinking and overanalyzing every situation. When all I had to do was just open my mouth and speak words. I really could have avoided so many mistakes. if I just spoke the words that I was thinking. I could have had a more healthy relationship with Jennifer. I could have been in a better relationship with my mom. Hell, I possibly could have got in contact with my dad. I don't understand how I couldn't just do this common that everyone else did. Was it that I was scared of rejection or maybe just scared to express my feelings and emotions I honestly don't know. I just wish I didn't have this problem. Emily thought to herself as she went inside putting her stuff away and throwing some clothes in a bag.

As she made her way back to her car she was beyond excited but also a little scared. She knew she shouldn't be scared but it was just sitting there like it was never gonna leave. She was thinking this the whole time she was driving, then she found herself in Jennifer's driveway shocked because she didn't even remember starting the car with all the thoughts in her mind.

She parked the car got out grabbed her bag and made her way up to Jennifer's door.

She knocked softly and was met with blue eyes, but not Jennifer's blue eyes.

"Hi, Tom," Emily said smiling.

"Come in come in," Tom said as he opened the door wider for Emily. Tom shut the door after Emily had entered the house.

"What brings you here so late?" Tom asked Emily

"Oh Jennifer invited me to stay the night, did she not tell you. I can leave if I need to." Emily said confused and worried why he didn't know.

"Oh Emily I was just playing with you dear, Jennifer told me. Now you better get up there because she sounded pretty excited." Tom smiled after laughing softly at the brunette.

"Thank you, Tom," Emily said as she ascended the stairs heading to Jennifer's room.

The door wasn't closed but cracked so Emily still decided to knock

"Come in."

She heard the blonde say from the other side.

"Hi, Jen," Emily said as she sat her bag down and threw herself onto the blonde's bed.

"Well hello, Emily," Jennifer said standing up from her chair at her desk as she watched Emily starfish across her bed.

"Your bed is comfy," Emily said still not moving from said position.

"Yeah, I know it is, so scoot over so I can lay in my comfy bed too," Jennifer said as she laughed over Emily's antics.

With that Emily moved, only so she could lay with the blonde of course.

The two got under the covers and layed their watching friends, solely because it was Jennifer's favorite show.

"Jen can we talk," Emily said.

"Yeah what's on your mind," Jennifer said shifting over to look at the brunette.

"So I like you right and you like me," Emily said smiling.

"Right," Jennifer said completing her statement.

"So basically what I'm saying is will you be my girlfriend?" Emily asked.

"Mhn I'm not sure, I've been thinking about some recently," Jennifer said teasing the brunette.

"Oh yeah no of course I'm sorry I asked," Emily said as she went to turn away before she could Jennifer grabbed her face and kissed her. Once they separated Jennifer started talking.

"Emily, look at me," Jennifer said waiting until those brown eyes met her blue ones.

"I was just playing with you of course I will be your girlfriend," Jennifer said smiling.

Emily let out the breath she was holding.

"Jennifer Jareau, don't scare me like that, but it's official right."

"Yes love it's official." She said as she captured Emily's lips once more that night. As they separated Emily took hold of the blonde and held her tight throughout the whole night.