Chapter Text
At the beginning of every tournament, the tournament referee attempts to introduce the opposing teams to one another.
Now one of the teams was a duo of two young women, Yelena and Ava. Both ladies tend to keep to themselves at the start of every tournament, and outside of the tennis world
Except, they’ve known each other since childhood, so over time they had forged an unique bond. Both of them coming from wealthy families had gone to private school, and shockingly they ended up in the same gym class.
It was a harsh winter when Ava had been enrolled in Yelena's school. Like the cold temper of December, so was Ava. Most of the time she kept to herself; except for when she was in gym that was where she outshined herself.
One day in gym, the teacher partnered both girls, and soon enough they became a pair. Yelena would bring her over to her house, she’d introduce her older sister Natalia. And from then on they were inseparable.
“Ava, wake up.” Ava jolts up from the bed, almost as if she were ready to take off. “Get ready, there’s breakfast in the lobby.” Yelena walks away before Ava can even tell her good morning, or how did you sleep.
Both girls were close, yet sometimes they could be so distant. It’s almost as if Ava tried to keep her at a safe distance.
Unlike Yelena, she always somehow felt everything so deeply. If she saw a stray on the street, she would break down into tears. Knowing she couldn't help the poor animal.
She hasn't changed, even after everything.
Nonetheless, Ava went off to take a shower. She preferred her showers hot, like the type that would leave her skin red.
As Yelena waited, she spent her time on her phone. Whether it is for: reading texts, looking at old pictures, or doomscrolling.
Shortly, Ava had come out of the bathroom, and as she opened the door Yelena could see the steam coming out. Her damp hair stuck onto her bare shoulders. Walking into her room, she shouted “I’ll be ready in five.”
“Okay,” and as soon as Yelena replied, she went back to her phone.
And so after five minutes, Ava stood leaning into the doorframe looking at Yelena. Somehow, hoping she could read her mind.
“Is everything okay with your parents?”
Yelena, took a deep breath and responded, “they signed the papers, finally divorced,” her tone laced with a dry laugh.
Ava thought about how she could try to comfort her, and make sure everything's okay.
Regardless, all she could say is “I’m sorry.” And then she just leaves the room. Like she must as well as had left Yelena in her own sorrow.