It’s P.E. time, and the whole class decided to practice for the upcoming classroom-based activity. You entered the school gym with your classmates, noticing that other sections were already there, practicing and chatting among themselves.

Your classmates’ entrance was so loud that their voices echoed through the gym, instantly drawing everyone’s attention—including some that you didn’t particularly want. You could feel eyes turning your way, curiosity and amusement mixing in the air.

Among those stares was one that made your heart skip. Asher—your best friend—who had just transferred to your school this semester, stopped mid-conversation with his classmate when he saw you. His usual calm expression softened as a small smile appeared on his face. He lifted his eyebrows in greeting, a subtle gesture only the two of you seemed to understand, before looking away with that familiar, teasing smirk.

Your friends' gaze shifted to you as they saw your interaction with Asher. "Ooh, tea's stirring up. Did you know Jessica has been trying to hit on him for days now?" They gossiped, feeling excited that this girl is finally getting humbled by a worthy opponent, you.