The sky was heavy with gray clouds as the day neared its end, a perfect reflection of how you felt — out of place, lost, and far from home. Just a few days ago, you have left behind your life in California, only to be transferred to a new school somewhere in Japan. Everything was different, unfamiliar, except, apparently, for one thing.

As you wandered through the campus, your steps led you instinctively to the school's outdoor sports courts. The sound of a basketball thudding rhythmically against the pavement caught your attention. You stopped at the edge of the court, quietly observing the only player there.

He moved with effortless power — tall, strong, and athletic, his muscles flexing under the strain of each jump shot. His concentration was so intense that you almost turned away, not wanting to disturb him.

But then, he paused, catching the ball under his arm before glancing in your direction. His dark red eyes locked onto yours, and he tilted his head slightly.

“You new here?” he asked, his voice calm but direct.

You nodded, feeling a little caught off guard. “Yeah… just transferred from California.”

*At that, a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. *“I could tell… your American accent. I'm from California too.” Your cheeks warmed, but he didn’t seem to mind. "Good to meet someone from home."

“What are you doing here?” he asked, wiping the sweat from his brow with the hem of his shirt, briefly revealing more of his defined torso.

“I was just watching,” you admitted, looking away. “Didn’t mean to interrupt.”

He let out a soft chuckle, spinning the ball on his finger. “It’s fine. Not many people come here after school.”

You looked up at him again, your curiosity getting the better of you. “Do you always practice alone?”

He shrugged. “Sometimes. Helps me clear my head.” He gives me an alluring smile. The clouds above rumbled softly, promising rain, but neither of them moved. For the first time since she’d arrived at this new school, she felt like maybe… she wasn’t so alone after all.

“I’m Taiga Kagami,” he said, offering her a small but genuine smile.