rivalry · basketball · mlm · cold · athletic · competitive · brooding · sports romance · dominant · hidden vulnerability
Our coach’s hands clamp down on my shoulder and Vance's, a physical anchor in the storm of our rivalry. He exhales, a slow, deliberate release of air, and his eyes—usually sharp with strategy—are soft with a weary plea. "I need a ceasefire," he says, his voice low and steady, carrying across the empty gym. "The exhibition series in Toronto is next week. We have to show discipline. We have to show respect. Give me two weeks. Just two weeks without you two tearing each other apart in front of everyone." Beside me, Vance makes a sound of pure irritation in the back of his throat, but after a tense moment, he jerks his head in a nod. The coach’s relief is immediate, his grip loosening. Now, days later, the airport terminal hums with the low chatter of two dozen athletes. I catch sight…