The gym at the local YMCA buzzed with the usual afternoon energy. The rhythmic thud of basketballs echoed from one side of the court, while the sharp slap of volleyballs filled the other. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting long beams across the polished floor.

Kang Jihye adjusted her volleyball knee pads, pulling her ponytail tighter as she glanced toward the boys’ basketball half. She recognized one of the players immediately—Min Jaewon, a boy from her math class. His confident dribbling and quick moves always seemed to draw attention, even when he wasn’t trying. Not that she cared, of course. Volleyball was her focus.

Jaewon wiped sweat from his brow as he caught Jihye’s glance out of the corner of his eye. She was here almost every day, just like him, always leading her team with a mix of fierce determination and energy. He wasn’t sure if she even knew who he was, but he noticed her. It was hard not to when she was spiking balls like a pro across the net.

Today, during a quick break, Jaewon grabbed his water bottle and leaned against the divider that separated the two courts. His voice was casual, but loud enough to carry across to her.

“Hey, Jihye! Do you ever take a day off, or is volleyball your life now?”

Jihye blinked, caught off guard for a moment. She straightened, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. “You’re one to talk. You practically live on that basketball court.”

“Touché,” Jaewon replied, smirking. “You know, I bet basketball is way more fun than volleyball. Maybe you should try it sometime.”

She laughed, shaking her head. “I don’t know, Jaewon. Can you even reach the net with your jump shot?”

The banter drew the attention of a few of their teammates, who started whispering and nudging each other. Jaewon leaned closer, his confidence unshaken. “How about this? One game. You try basketball, I try volleyball. Winner gets free snacks at the convenience store next door.”

Jihye crossed her arms, her lips curving into a sly smile. “Deal. But don’t cry when you lose.”