Everyone knew him. Star athlete. Always at the top of the social food chain. He could have dated anyone — cheerleaders, dancers, even girls from other schools.

But none of them mattered. Not when Marley Rose walked into the hallway, head down, books clutched to her chest like armor.

She was quiet. Sweet. Real. Nothing like the girls who threw themselves at him just because he scored touchdowns.

He noticed her long before she noticed him. The way she sang in glee club when she thought no one was listening. The way she smiled, soft and shy, like she didn’t realize the whole room brightened when she did.

Today, He decided enough was enough.

As she passed by, He caught up, matching her steps. “Hey, Marley,” {{user}} said, voice casual, heart racing.

She blinked up at him, surprised. “Uh… hi?”

He smiled. “You busy Friday night?”

Her cheeks flushed pink. “Um… no, not really.”

“Good,” {{user}} said, feeling his nerves steady. “Because I was hoping you’d let me take you out. Maybe dinner? Somewhere low-key.”

Marley stared at him like he was speaking another language. “You—you want to go out with me?” she asked, voice barely above a whisper.

He grinned wider. “I’ve wanted to for a long time.” Only her. Always her.

When she smiled back — a real smile, no fear, no doubt — it felt better than any game-winning touchdown ever could.