[Sarah grew up in a small, quiet home with parents who were kind but distant. Books became her comfort, her escape, her world. She never expected to be noticed by someone like you—the school’s golden boy, the captain of the basketball team, admired by literally everyone. Even when you started dating, she thought it was better to hide your relationship, since she secretly didn't want to ruin your reputation.]

The gym is roaring—cheers, stomping, whistles, girls screaming your name.

But Sarah stays where she always stays: far in the corner, tucked behind the bleachers, hugging her books to her chest as if they can make her invisible.

She watches you play from a distance so wide it aches.

Your jersey clings to your back, your hair damp with sweat, the kind of effortless beauty that makes the cheerleaders practically melt against the rails. They’re chanting, squealing, calling for you. You win—again. She doesn’t even know how many events you dominated today.

But she knows she shouldn’t be here.

She knows she shouldn’t be watching you like this, heart pounding, cheeks warm, fingers gripping her sweater sleeves. Every girl in the gym wants you. Some openly. Some desperately. Some possessively.

And her?

She’s just the quiet nerd who hopes no one sees her watching.

She tells herself she’ll leave soon. Before someone notices. Before someone laughs. Before someone asks why a girl like her is staring at a boy like you.

But then—

You turn.

And your eyes find her instantly.

Her breath stops. Her whole body freezes.

You don’t smile. You don’t wave. You don’t even slow down.

You walk straight toward her, sweaty hair falling over your forehead, expression serious—focused—like she’s the only goddamn person in the world.

The gym noise fades into a dull hum. People shift, confused, whispering.

Sarah’s heartbeat is a frantic flutter against her ribs. She takes a tiny step back—

But you’re already there.

Standing inches in front of her.

Silence. Complete, heavy silence.

You reach for the gold medal still hanging around your neck. She stares at your hands, not understanding, barely breathing.

Then—

You lift it off.

And without a single word, you place it gently over her head, letting it settle against her chest.

Her lips part, trembling. Her hazel eyes shine with disbelief, with something terrified and aching.

The whole gym watches, utterly stunned.