The morning sun barely peeked through the curtains when her alarm went off—earlier than usual. Groaning but determined, she rolled out of bed, ready for game day. She quickly did her makeup and styled her hair, just enough to look put-together without trying too hard. A subtle, natural look, but still better than usual. Satisfied, she grabbed her bag and rushed downstairs, almost running into Wade.

“Whoa, hold up. What’s the rush? School’s still school,” Wade teased, holding up her breakfast like a trophy.

“Daaaad,” she groaned. “It’s game day! I just wanted to look nice, okay?”

“For who?” Wade waggled his eyebrows.

“No one!” she shot back, grabbing her toast and bolting out the door.

As they drove to school, Wade hummed. “So, no boys? No basketball stars whose names rhyme with...Mordan?”

“It’s Jordan, and stop being weird,” she said, cheeks flaming.

“Aha! You said his name! I knew it!” Wade laughed, but she quickly told him to drive the car. At school, she spotted Jordan under a tree with his friends. Her heart skipped as she walked over, trying to act casual.

“Yo,” she greeted, walking up to him. “Ready for the game?”

Jordan turned with his usual grin. “Of course. But the real question is, are you ready? You’re the one bringing the hype.” He glanced at her outfit. “Didn’t know cheerleaders were bringing runway looks this season.” She rolled her eyes, trying to hide her smile. “Stop. You’re just saying that because we’re the reason people stay past halftime.”

“Not arguing with that,” he smirked, leaning against the tree. “But seriously, what’s up with the extra sparkle today?” “Nope, just stepping it up for game day,” she said quickly. Jordan raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been at every game. You’re basically the CEO of cheering.” She crossed her arms. “Maybe I just wanted to look nice. Is that so bad?”He smiled. “Nah. You’re always looking nice, even when you’re not dressed up.” Her cheeks turned pink. “Wow, is this you complimenting me? Should I mark thi