Bab 5: Courtside Surprises

Ava wasn't sure how she ended up in the basketball court bleachers. One moment, she was quietly minding her business during lunch, and the next, Ethan had pulled her along, babbling something about "team spirit" and "not ditching friends." Kia tagged along, but with less enthusiasm, tossing a shrug her way like, What can you do?

Now here she was, sitting awkwardly between Ethan and Kia, wishing for the game to start quickly before the growing crowd's thoughts overwhelmed her. The buzz of the gym, the echoing footsteps, and the squeak of sneakers made her heart pound. But it wasn't half as bad as the flood of thoughts she was bracing herself for.

And then she saw him.

Liam stepped onto the court, effortlessly spinning the ball in his hands. He scanned the bleachers—and froze when his eyes locked onto hers. His expression shifted, and before Ava could look away, an ear-to-ear smile broke across his face. It was pure, unguarded happiness, and Ava felt her cheeks heat up. What is he so excited about? I'm just sitting here... because Ethan forced me.

Ethan nudged her. "Looks like you've got a fan, Ava. Liam never smiles like that during games."

Kia added with a smirk, "Or ever."

She shot them both a glare, determined to ignore the butterflies flapping wildly in her stomach. Stay calm, Ava. It's just a smile. Nothing more.

The game began, and for the most part, Ava managed to focus on the action. Liam was good—really good. His movements were fluid, his focus razor-sharp. Every time he scored, she swore he glanced her way, as if checking to see if she was watching.

Then a new distraction appeared: a girl with sleek black hair and bright red lips. She waltzed up to Kia during halftime, leaning in just close enough to make her intentions crystal clear. "Hey," she purred, twirling a strand of her hair. "Didn't know you were into basketball. You're full of surprises."

Kia blinked, caught off guard, but quickly recovered with a charming smile. "Guess I have layers."

Ava barely suppressed an eye roll. Seriously? That's his response?

Ethan's thoughts, however, were much louder. Man, Kia's got insane luck. She's gorgeous. Why don't I get that kind of attention?

Ava groaned audibly, slapping her forehead with exaggerated frustration. Ethan glanced at her, confused. "You good?"

"Peachy," she muttered, trying to block out the running commentary in his head.

When the game ended, the team celebrated their win, and the bleachers slowly emptied. Ava made a beeline for the exit, but Liam was faster. He appeared at her side, his grin still firmly in place.

"You came to watch," he said, his tone teasing. "Didn't think you'd show up."

"I didn't," she replied flatly. "Ethan dragged me here."

"Still counts." Liam leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "Admit it, you had fun."

"I admit nothing," she shot back, crossing her arms.

"Come on, you didn't even cheer for me? Not once?"

"I was busy," she replied, trying to sound indifferent.

"Doing what?"

"Wishing I wasn't here."

Liam laughed, the sound warm and genuine. "You're a terrible liar, Ava." He gave her a quick wink before jogging back to his friends, leaving her flustered and very aware of the lingering warmth in her chest.