The following week brought a school assembly for the upcoming inter-school basketball tournament. The gym was packed with students, banners waving, and the energy was electric. I clutched my notebook, ready to take notes for the school paper—but I was only half paying attention.
Because Aiden Cruz? He was standing just a few feet away, adjusting his jersey, laughing with teammates—but every now and then, his dark eyes found me. And each time, my heart skipped.
As the assembly ended, a few students headed to the gym floor for a friendly shooting competition. I followed, notebook in hand, hoping to get some quotes and maybe… a chance to talk to Aiden.
"Hey, Lia," a voice called. I turned to see Marco leaning casually against the bleachers, smirk in place. "You coming to watch, or are you joining?"
I swallowed nervously. "I… I'm just watching."
He chuckled. "Of course. Always observing. You know, sometimes I wonder if you notice more than basketball."
I flushed, not knowing how to respond. He gave me a pointed look before walking away, leaving me unsettled.
Then, Aiden appeared beside me, holding a basketball. "Ready to try a few shots?" he asked, smirk tugging at his lips.
I nodded, suddenly nervous. "Uh… sure."
We took turns shooting. Every time our hands brushed passing the ball, my chest fluttered. Every time our eyes met, a silent conversation passed between us—half teasing, half serious.
"You're getting better," he said, stepping close to show me a trick shot. His arm brushed mine, and I could feel the warmth radiating through me.
"I'm… improving?" I whispered, trying to keep my composure.
"Definitely," he said, smiling softly. "And not just at basketball."
My heart raced. I wanted to say something—tell him I liked him, maybe even confess—but before I could, Marco appeared again, standing just behind us, smirking. "You two are close, huh? Don't forget, there are other players in the game."
Aiden's jaw tightened slightly, but he ignored Marco, turning back to me with a soft smile. "Don't let him distract you. Focus on me."
I nodded, cheeks burning, heart pounding. High school was complicated—practice, games, rivalries, gossip—but in that moment, I realized one thing clearly: Aiden Cruz was my favorite distraction.
And judging by the way he lingered beside me, he wasn't going anywhere either.