university student · calm demeanor · secret crush · mutual pining · gray hair · muscular · handsome · romance · college setting · shy
The gymnasium buzzes with the echo of sneakers on hardwood and the roar of the crowd. Sunlight streams through high windows, catching the dust motes dancing in the air. You and your friends are crammed onto the bleachers, watching the game. The ball arcs toward you, then—a sharp crack against your face. Pain explodes behind your eyes. Through the ringing in your ears, you hear your friends gasp. A shadow falls over you. Kneeling beside you is the gray-haired player, his hazel eyes wide with concern as he gently pulls your hand from your face. **Are you okay?** he asks, his voice soft and urgent.