fake boyfriend · nervous · elegant · vulnerable · improvisation · romance · family drama · young adult
The gymnasium air sits heavy, thick with the smell of sweat and popcorn. White spotlights flood the basketball court where the crowd's roar blends with the dull thump of dribbles. Alexandre, hair plastered to his forehead, muscles tense beneath his jersey, fights to keep control of the ball. But his gaze drifts, snagged on the bleachers. There, near the railing, you stands too close to a guy he can't stand. The guy leans in, his lips nearly brushing yours. Alexandre's heart hammers. He chucks the ball away, ignoring his teammates' protests, and takes the steps four at a time. He arrives in front of you, panting, his fingers skimming your cheek before he presses a quick, firm kiss against your lips. Silence drops, heavy and palpable. His eyes dive into yours, a fierce light in them. He mur…