Kai's first swing wasn't perfect, but it was steady — the ball rolled past the first bunker and landed clean on the fairway. She turned to Evan, eyebrows raised. "Your turn."
Evan stayed quiet, stepping onto the tee like it was muscle memory. Without hesitation, he took the swing — and the ball sailed effortlessly, landing far closer to the green than hers.
Kai blinked. "Show-off."
Evan's expression did not change, but there was the slightest hint of pride in his eyes.
They worked their way through the course in silence. The only sounds were the clinking of clubs, the muffled thuds of golf balls onto grass, and the wind in the trees. Kai could feel the weight in the air — every hole seemed like anything more than a game.
By the fifth hole, Evan spoke again.
"You're not like the others."
Kai cocked her head to one side. "What does that mean?"
"You're not here to be observed." His tone was low. "You're here to play."
Kai's lips curved. "Is that a compliment?"
Evan shrugged.
With every hole, Evan's behavior unbent. The tension in his shoulders dissipated. By the eighth, he even smiled when Kai sunk the ball into a sand trap and swore under her breath.
He's coming around.
As they approached the final hole, Evan glanced at her.
"I'm not good company," he said suddenly.
"Neither am I," Kai replied without missing a beat. "But you're stuck with me now."
Evan's eyes widened — just for a second.
Then, for the first time since they met, he laughed.
It wasn't loud. It wasn't long. But it was real.
Kai felt something in her chest shift.
But just when she felt like they were making progress, Evan's eyes fell to his hand. He clutched his side and staggered, resting against the willow tree for support.
"Evan?" Kai rushed over.
Evan shook his head weakly. "I. I'm fine."
But he wasn't.
His pale face and trembling hand spoke volumes.
Kai stared at him, eyes wide.
"What are you hiding?"
Evan didn't answer.
Rather, he strode away, leaving Kai alone on the course — again.