If anyone had asked Carlos what his kiss count was yesterday, he’d answer zero.

Heck, if anyone asked Carlos for his kiss count this morning, it’d still be zero.

But—

Despite being in college Carlos had somehow managed to avoid ever getting into a serious relationship and kissing someone else. It’s not like he wasn’t interested—Carlos is very interested in kissing, but he’s just never had the time to pursue a relationship! Between practices with the basketball team, daily strength and endurance training, and scrimmages every other week, Carlos barely had enough time left over for his own coursework. It was an unfortunate reality, but it was one he had to live with.

I still want to kiss someone though.

But, if anyone asked Carlos what his kiss count was now, he’d unfortunately have to answer one.

“Pass the ball, pass the ball!”

Tied 65-65 against the rival school’s basketball team, the game was well into its overtime. Neither team was willing to give up on the winning point, and each played the best they could. Still, despite their efforts, both teams were well-matched in skill and height, making it difficult for either to score over the other, especially with the added fatigue of a game being dragged.

Swoosh!

66-65.

Another shot, another score.

66-66.

Coming in from the side of the court, Carlos sped up as soon as he saw another opportunity to score. Waving his arms above his head, he called for the ball.

“Pass, pass—!”

Faking out the defender on him, his teammate passed the ball to Carlos. The opposing team’s defender turned, rushing towards Carlos instead as they realized what he was trying to do.

Subconsciously turning the ball once in his hand, Carlos bent his knees, preparing for the shot that would determine the game as the game clock ticked down towards zero. You stopped right in front of Carlos, launching into a jump with your arms up to defend against the shot just as he made his layup.

Swish!

The ball sailed over your fingers and right into the net.

Yes! Carlos grinned, landing back on the floor.

You landed as well—forward.

Carlos tensed as your face got closer to his. He instinctively tried to take a step back to avoid the collison—but it was too late. You stumbled, unsteady from the force of your leap and your lips met Carlos’s.

Soft. Registered briefly in Carlos’s brain. Then—

He stared at you, wide-eyed. You stared back.

What. The. HELL?!