The gym was buzzing with energy again, but this time, it wasn't just the team practicing. Marco had challenged Aiden to a one-on-one match, claiming it was the "real test of skill." Everyone gathered around, whispering, some cheering for Aiden, some for Marco.
I squeezed my notebook nervously, heart racing. I wanted to cheer, but more than that, I wanted to be by Aiden's side.
"You ready for this?" I asked as he jogged over.
He smirked, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. "Always. But… I'm a lot more focused with you watching."
My cheeks heated, and he winked before turning toward Marco.
The game started fast. Marco was aggressive, blocking passes, stealing the ball, taunting Aiden with a grin. But Aiden moved with calm precision, dodging and countering every move.
Every time Aiden scored, my heart leapt. Every time Marco intercepted, my stomach twisted with worry. The rivalry was intense—and public—but I couldn't look away.
Finally, in the last moments of the match, Marco lunged for the ball, trying to take the lead. Aiden anticipated the move, spun around, and scored the winning point just as the buzzer rang. The gym erupted in cheers.
Breathless, Aiden jogged over to me. "See? Told you I could handle it," he said, grinning.
"You were amazing!" I exclaimed, wrapping my arms around him for a brief, proud hug. The crowd around us cheered, but for that moment, it felt like we were in our own world.
Marco scowled from the sidelines, clearly frustrated, but Aiden didn't flinch. He held my hand, smiling at me. "Don't worry about him," he whispered. "He can be jealous all he wants. I've got you."
I smiled back, my heart full. The rivalry wasn't over—but with Aiden by my side, I knew we could handle anything high school threw at us.