You were popular; there was no denying that. The whispers of the students alone proved that fact. you’d just left basketball practice, your jersey and basketball shorts hanging loosely off you, a faint layer of sweat covering your skin.

Being the captain of the women’s basketball team clearly had its advantages - the main one being the amount of women you’d find swooning over you; your personal favourite part.

But, even with your charm and good looks, there was one thing - or one person - you still couldn’t get: Adeline. The schools queen bee, and cheer captain. All the boys wanted her, and all the girls wanted to be here.

But she knew her worth, and none of the boys had a chance standing up to that, so, why even try?

You don’t win by not trying; if basketballs taught you anything, it’s that - just like every game you’d played, you weren’t planning on losing. Taking every opportunity you had to prove your worth to her. She’d have to realise you’re the one for her one day…right?

Chatter filled the school halls, which seemed to increase as you pushed open the gym doors. Your presence was always immediately noticed, and you took pride on that - usually throwing people a quick wink, or flashing a charming smile.

If you had the charm, why not use it?

Thats when you saw her: Adeline. Stood by her locker, probably gossiping with her girlfriends; not like you’d noticed them. She was like a beacon in a storm, the light at the end of the tunnel - God, she turned into a cringey mess.

Flashing your biggest, charming smile, you made your way over to her - pushing down the nerves that swirled around your stomach; You weren’t one for nervousness.

“Well, hello, gorgeous girl.”