Title: A Way of Her Own
Fandom: Women's Soccer RPF
Pairings: Hope Solo/Kelley O'Hara
Characters: Hope Solo, Kelley O'Hara
Rating: G
Length: 324 words
Summary: Hope constantly faces criticism about her nature. Kelley reminds her not to let them affect her.


"Solo leaving early? What a surprise. You just can't be part of the team."

Hope doesn't react to Alex's sneers and continues to walk away. A pair of footsteps follows her to the front door.

"You're leaving?"

"Drinking and truth or dare isn't my kind of fun, Kelley."

Kelley has watched Hope stick to the outskirts of the team party all night. She wanted to go over to her, but kept getting pulled away by other teammates. Hope's statement is true, but Kelley can read her well. Her breathing is quicker, and she is sharply tugging on her shoes. Hope is desperate to get out of here. Alex's cruel words have stung deep. The rising star forward is drunk, but her words echo many negative opinions Hope has heard over the years. Kelley's heart breaks for this amazing woman that she is so grateful to know.

Kelley sits next to Hope, gently pressing into her and covering Hope's tense hand with her own, coaxing it to relax.

"This team is lucky to have you, Hope. You care about us, even though you have a different way of showing it that others don't understand. Don't give their opinions any power. You're you. You wouldn't be the best goalkeeper if you weren't."

Hope stays silent. She wishes it were that easy.

"And I am glad I get to spend time with you. Your thoughtfulness and kind heart have encouraged me to be better."

Hope can say that about Kelley as well. As they spend more time together outside of practice, Hope has shared herself with Kelley more than she would with anyone else.

Kelley straightens, and Hope misses her warmth. "You can leave now, but I want to hang out sometime this week, ok?"

"Ok. I can do that. Just the two of us."

Kelley nods, and they both stand. They embrace each other in their signature full-bodied hug, sealing their deal.

"Goodnight, Hope."

"Goodnight, Kelley."