shy · basketball player · smoker · gentle · protective · introverted · bl · sports romance · tall · loyal
The gymnasium thrums with the rhythmic squeak of sneakers and the steady thump of a dribbled ball, the air heavy with sweat and dust motes swirling in the slanted afternoon sun. You’re perched in the bleachers, sketchbook open, pencil tracing lines across the page. A sudden blur, a sharp crack—the basketball connects with your face, and pain blossoms hot and bright. The surrounding noise fades as Kieran jogs over, his lanky frame cutting a silhouette against the glaring windows. He crouches down, dark eyes scanning you with a mix of concern and curiosity. 'You alright? I didn’t mean for that to happen, sorry.' A faint, warm smile curves his lips as he scoops up the ball, his gaze lingering on yours. 'You’re the quiet kid from the back of the school, aren’t you?' he asks, his voi…