It was only a few days after Caitlin and Sam had first met during the summer workouts. The early morning sun bathed the campus in a golden glow as Caitlin made her way across the quad, her mind still buzzing with thoughts of her recent encounter with Sam. The intensity of the workouts, combined with the excitement of starting a new year, had kept her thoughts swirling nonstop.

As she approached the student union, Caitlin spotted Sam sitting on a bench, headphones in, seemingly lost in her own world. Caitlin hesitated for a moment, unsure if she should interrupt. But Sam glanced up and spotted her, breaking into a warm smile that made Caitlin's decision for her.

"Hey, Caitlin!" Sam called out, removing her headphones. "Fancy seeing you here."

Caitlin grinned and walked over. "Small campus. You heading to practice?"

"Just finished, actually." Sam replied, stretching her arms above her head. "How about you? Surviving the workouts?"

"Barely," Caitlin laughed, feeling a bit more at ease. "This year feels different than last year, like we have to prove ourselves or something."

Sam nodded, understanding in her eyes. "Tell me about it. I remember feeling the same way last year."

They talked for a while, sharing stories about their respective sports and the pressures they felt as athletes. Caitlin found herself opening up about her nerves and excitement, something she didn't often do with people she'd just met. But Sam had a way of making her feel comfortable, like they'd known each other for much longer.

As they chatted, Sam invited Caitlin to a volleyball game that weekend. "It'll be a fun break from all the basketball craziness. Plus, we could use the extra cheering."

"I'd love that," Caitlin replied, genuinely excited. "I'll see you there, but I better see you at our season opener."

Sam agreed, and they parted with the promise of supporting each other's teams. Caitlin walked away feeling lighter, grateful for the unexpected friendship forming between them.

Later that day, Caitlin met up with Kate Martin at the student center. They sat down with their coffees, and Caitlin couldn't help but bring up Sam.

"Hey, Kate, do you want to go to a volleyball game with me this weekend? Sam invited me."

Kate raised an eyebrow, a playful smile on her lips. "Sam, huh? You two seem to be hitting it off."

Caitlin shrugged, trying to play it cool. "She's just really easy to talk to. I think you'd like her."

Kate nodded, taking a sip of her drink. "Sure, I'm in. It sounds fun. Plus, I want to see what all this Sam hype is about."

They laughed, and Caitlin felt a surge of happiness knowing she'd have Kate by her side. Having her best friend there made everything feel more familiar and less daunting.

As the week went on, Caitlin felt the excitement build for the upcoming volleyball game. She was eager to support Sam and share the experience with Kate. The anticipation was a welcome distraction from the pressures of basketball, allowing her to focus on building new friendships and strengthening old ones.

-----

Back in Indiana, Caitlin reflected on that first real conversation with Sam as she adjusted to life with the Fever. Her first week had been a whirlwind of emotions, from the excitement of her debut to the challenges of adapting to the professional level.

The Fever had lost three games in a row, and the pressure was mounting. Caitlin had scored 20 points in her debut but struggled with turnovers, a pattern that had continued throughout the week. She was determined to improve, spending extra hours in the gym refining her skills and analyzing game footage.

During practice, Caitlin found solace in her teammates, who were supportive and encouraging. Aliyah Boston, the team's standout center, took Caitlin under her wing, offering advice and sharing her experiences as a second-year player.

"You've got the talent, Caitlin," Aliyah said one afternoon as they cooled down after a grueling practice. "Just be patient with yourself. The transition is tough, but you're handling it well."

Nalyssa Smith, another teammate, chimed in, "Yeah, don't be too hard on yourself. We've all been there. You're going to do great things."

The camaraderie within the team was a relief for Caitlin. She felt a growing bond with her teammates, including Lexie Hull and Katie Lou Samuelson, who both offered tips on balancing the demands of the league with personal life.

After a particularly tough game against the New York Liberty, Caitlin decided to call Kate Martin, her former Iowa teammate who was now playing for the Las Vegas Aces. She had just played a great game against the Sparks. The two had always been close, and Caitlin knew Kate would understand what she was going through.

"Hey, Kate," Caitlin said when Kate picked up. "You played a nice game tonight."

"Thank you," Kate's voice was warm and supportive. "I saw some of your games, you're doing good too. It's early days, it's going to be hard. How are you holding up?"

Caitlin sighed, leaning back against the wall of her apartment. "I don't want to talk about me, let's talk about you. I mean that block! You should've seen me going crazy when I saw the replay!"

Kate laughed. "It was a pretty good block, wasn't it? It's weird though celebrating those moments with my new team. Don't get me wrong, I love them, but I just miss you and the girls sometimes."

"You're telling me, but you know we are always cheering you on. Even if you are the enemy now." Caitlin replied, with a smirk. "You're adjusting to your team well?"

"It's intimidating, but also motivating," Kate said, while laughing at Caitlin's enemy comment. "A'ja has really been like a big sister to me, helping me find my feet. They push me to be better."

"Seriously Caitlin, how are you holding up? I see everything being said and I'm sure you see it too." Kate asked, wanting to make sure her best friend is doing okay.

"It's hard. The team and I are still learning how to play together, I'm trying to be patient but you know I hate losing." Caitlin says, looking at the floor avoiding looking at Kate.

Kate coughs trying to get Caitlin to look at the screen, "You'll get there Caitlin, don't be hard on yourself. Just drown out all the noise like we did at Iowa. And don't forget to lean on your teammates. They're there for you, just like we were at Iowa." she says seeing the tiredness in Caitlin's eyes as she finally makes eye contact.

They talked for a while longer, sharing stories about their new teams and the challenges they faced. Before they ended the call, Kate brought up Sam. "Have you heard from Sam lately?"

Caitlin hesitated, remembering the unexpected text she'd received. "Yeah, she texted after my first game. It was nice to hear from her."

Kate's voice softened. "You two always had something special. Maybe you should reach out more. It might help having someone like her to talk to."

Caitlin considered this, knowing Kate was right. The connection she had with Sam was unique, and maybe it was time to explore it more.

-----

As the week progressed, Caitlin faced a series of challenges both on and off the court. The Fever played games against the Connecticut Sun and the Seattle Storm, both ending in narrow losses. Caitlin continued to struggle with turnovers but showed flashes of brilliance with her shooting and playmaking.

Finally, they faced the Los Angeles Sparks. Caitlin was determined to make an impact. The game was intense, with both teams fighting hard. Caitlin played aggressively, pushing past her earlier mistakes and getting her first WNBA double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds and also had 8 assist. Her performance helped secure a thrilling 78-73 victory for the Fever, marking their first win of the season .

In interviews, Caitlin remained optimistic despite the setbacks, acknowledging the learning curve she was experiencing. "It's all part of the process," she said in a post-game press conference. "I'm just focusing on improving and helping my team in any way I can."

Her positive attitude resonated with fans and media alike, who were eager to see how she would develop over the season.

After the Fever's first victory against the Sparks, Caitlin felt a mix of relief and exhilaration. As she settled onto her couch, her phone buzzed with a familiar notification. It was a message from Sam, congratulating her on the win.

"Hey superstar! Congrats on the win!"

Caitlin grinned at the message, her heart skipping a beat. She texted back, "Thanks, Sam! Can we chat for a bit? I'd love to hear your voice."

A few moments later, Sam's name flashed on her screen. Caitlin picked up, trying to ignore the flutter in her stomach as she heard Sam's familiar voice.

"Hey, Caitlin! How's the WNBA treating you?" Sam's voice was light, but there was a warmth that Caitlin found comforting.

"It's been a wild ride," Caitlin admitted, laughing softly. "I'm learning a lot, but it's definitely tough. I miss the simplicity of college sometimes. And having you around."

Sam hesitated, a hint of playful flirtation in her voice. "I miss those days too. Especially having you all to myself."

Caitlin felt a twinge of longing mixed with nostalgia. "Yeah, those were good times," she said softly. "But hey, how's the master's program going? Turning into the next top physical therapist, huh?"

Sam chuckled, shifting the conversation to safer ground. "It's intense, but I love it. I'm learning so much. It feels good knowing I'll help athletes recover and get back to doing what they love. Sort of like when you cheered me on back in the day."

Caitlin's voice took on a teasing note. "Well, you always had the best cheerleader."

They both laughed, the familiarity easing the tension. Their conversation continued, a blend of updates and reminiscences, each carefully navigating the line between friendship and something more.

Before ending the call, Sam's tone softened. "Remember, I'm just a call away. Anytime you need to talk or vent—or reminisce—I'm here."

Caitlin smiled, feeling comforted by Sam's words. "Thanks, Sam. That means a lot. Maybe next time we talk, I'll have more exciting stories to share."

As they hung up, Caitlin found herself pondering the thin line between friendship and the complexity of their relationship. Despite the uncertainty, she felt reassured by the knowledge that Sam was still an important part of her life.

-----

Caitlin and Kate arrived at the gym for Sam's volleyball game, the atmosphere electric with excitement and the buzz of anticipation. They found seats close to the court, eager to support their friend.

As the game progressed, Caitlin cheered enthusiastically, watching Sam excel on the court with a mix of admiration and pride. At a critical moment, Sam made a significant play, spiking the ball, scoring a crucial point for her team. She turned to the stands and made a heart gesture with her hands toward the section where Caitlin sat. Though not directed at Caitlin specifically, the gesture made Caitlin's heart skip a beat, and she cheered even louder.

Kate nudged Caitlin with a knowing smile. "She's really something out there. You sure she's just a friend?."

Caitlin grinned, feeling warmth spread through her. "Yeah, she's amazing. I'm really glad we came to support her, and yes she's just a friend. You know I'm not gay Kate."

"Whatever you say," Kate said holding her hands up laughing. "Whatever." Caitlin says laughing, while giving Kate a playful push.

After the game ended with a victory for Sam's team, the trio met outside the gym. Sam, still buzzing with adrenaline, suggested they grab a bite to eat.

"Hey, do you guys want to grab something to eat?" Sam asked, her eyes glancing between Caitlin and Kate.

Kate, sensing an opportunity, quickly concocted an excuse. "I'd love to, but I promised Gabby I'd help with her homework tonight. You two should go ahead."

Caitlin shot Kate a look of disbelief but quickly turned her attention back to Sam. "Yeah, I'm up for it. We can catch up a bit."

Sam smiled, seemingly pleased. "Great! There's a little café nearby that I think you'll like."

As they walked to the café, Caitlin and Sam fell into easy conversation. They talked about everything from classes and Caitlin's basketball goals to Sam's volleyball goals, sharing laughs and memories.

"I still can't believe how great you play today," Caitlin said, admiration evident in her voice. "I was definitely missing out."

Sam shrugged modestly. "It helps having good teammates and a certain someone in the crowd"

Caitlin blushed, "Well when my schedule allows it, you can count on me to be there." 

Their conversation was light, punctuated by moments of flirtation that felt very different to Caitlin yet exciting. Both seemed to be finding their footing in this renewed friendship, one that was teetering on the edge of becoming something more.

As they finished their meal, Caitlin realized how much she valued these moments with Sam. The lingering connection was undeniable, and she wondered if it might be time to explore it further.

Walking out into the cool evening air, they paused, neither wanting the night to end. "Thanks for coming to the game and for tonight," Sam said softly, her eyes meeting Caitlin's.

Caitlin smiled, feeling the warmth of Sam's gaze. "Anytime. I'm really glad we did this."

With a promise to see each other again soon, they hugged, the embrace lingering just a bit longer than necessary. As Caitlin walked away, she felt a mix of nerves and hope, knowing that whatever lay ahead with Sam, it was worth pursuing.