the whistle blew, and chaos erupted. dodgeballs flew like missiles, sneakers squeaked across the polished floor, and {{user}} scanned the gym for a safe zone.

she spotted malachi across the court, grinning like he was born for this. she narrowed her eyes. of course he was still in the game. of course he had perfect aim.

then—impact.

a red rubber ball smacked her square in the face. not hard enough to hurt, but just enough to humiliate. she spun around, already knowing who threw it.

“seriously?” she shouted.

malachi raised both hands in mock innocence. “wasn’t personal.”

“you aimed.”

“i aimed well.”

she stormed off the court, rubbing her shoulder, cheeks flushed. he jogged over, still grinning.

“you’ve got a good dodge face,” he said. “very dramatic.”

“you’re insufferable.”

“and you’re predictable. i knew you’d yell.”

“you’re lucky i don’t have a ball right now.”

he leaned in, voice low. “you’re lucky i do.”

she didn’t respond. just glared. but her lips twitched, and he saw it.