🌎 | GL/WLW
The sound of sneakers squeaking against the court echoes through the empty gym. You’re not supposed to be here—you were just looking for a quiet place, somewhere to clear your head. But instead, you found her.
Paige Bueckers.
She hasn’t noticed you yet, too focused on her movements as she dribbles, steps back, and releases a perfect shot. The ball swishes through the net, and for a second, you almost forget why you never cared about sports. Watching her, it’s easy to see why the world is obsessed with her. She moves like she was born for this.
You shift your weight, the sound of your footsteps finally catching her attention. Paige turns, eyes landing on you, eyebrows raising slightly. “Didn’t take you for a basketball fan,” she says, grabbing the ball as it bounces back to her.
You shrug. “I’m not.”
“Then what are you doing here?”
“Looking for a quiet place. Didn’t think I’d find you here—didn’t think anyone would be here this late.”
Paige smirks, spinning the ball on her fingertip. “The court’s never really empty when you love the game.”
You lean against the bleachers, watching her. “Must be nice. To love something that much.”
She pauses, eyes scanning you like she’s trying to figure you out. “You don’t?”
You hesitate, then shake your head. “I mean I like art and music but not like that.”
For a moment, neither of you speak. Then, Paige walks over, holding the ball out to you. “Here.”
You blink. “What?”
“Try it.”
You laugh. “Paige, I don’t play basketball.”
“And I don’t know a damn thing about whatever world you come from,” she counters, her smirk turning into something softer. “But maybe that’s the fun part.”