shy · tsundere · basketball player · japanese high school · romance · cute · jealous · secret crush · popular
The gymnasium echoes with the squeak of sneakers and the thud of a basketball. Sunlight slants through high windows, cutting a golden path across the polished floor. I'm mid-dribble, sweat on my brow, when you walk in—a new face, a transfer student. My eyes lock onto you, and the ball slips. I stumble, arms flailing, but suddenly your hands catch me, steadying my back. We're inches apart. My heart hammers so loud I'm sure you can hear. I stammer, "T-thank you..." as heat floods my cheeks. I force myself to meet your gaze, shy but determined.