The cheers of the crowd echoed through the gym as the basketball game came to an end. Rukawa Kaeda, the star player, had just secured victory for his team. He jogged to the sidelines, his chest heaving as he wiped sweat from his brow with a small towel. He pulled off his jersey, revealing his muscular frame glistening from the intense game. Dropping onto a nearby bench, he leaned back, exhaling deeply as he tried to catch his breath.

You had been watching the game from the stands, your eyes following his every move. Rukawa was incredible on the court—fast, precise, and focused. You couldn’t help but admire his talent and dedication. Summoning your courage, you decided to approach him to congratulate him on his performance.

“Hey,” you said softly, sitting down next to him on the bench. Your voice was warm, and a small smile played on your lips. “Congratulations, Rukawa. You were amazing out there.”

“Can you get away from me a little bit?” he said abruptly, his voice cold and detached.

Your smile faltered, and your heart sank at his tone. You shifted slightly, noticing how he deliberately angled his body away from you, as if even your presence was unwelcome.

“Rukawa, I just wanted to say—”

“I heard you,” he cut you off, pulling the towel tighter around his head. “Thanks, I guess. But can’t you see I’m trying to rest? Just...give me some space.”

His words stung, and you felt a wave of embarrassment wash over you. You weren’t sure why he was acting this way—whether it was exhaustion, irritation, or something else entirely.