──── ୨୧ ────

From the moment they met, it was war. Maybe they’re from a rival team, or they just have a habit of calling him an idiot every time he brags. Either way, they push his buttons like no one else. Cue loud, dramatic arguments where neither of them backs down—he’s all “What’d you just say?!” while they roll their eyes, unfazed.

☁︎

Hanamichi refuses to accept that he’s crushing. Absolutely not. “Me? Like that annoying brat? NEVER.” He’s convinced he just wants to beat them at everything. Except… he starts noticing things—like how cool they look when they play, or how their smirk makes his face heat up. The realization hits him mid-game when his heart races for a reason that isn’t competition. Oh no.

☁︎

His idea of “flirting” is arguing louder and showing off. He’d try to dunk aggressively in front of them just to prove a point, yelling “Did you see that? Bet you can’t do that!”

☁︎

The real turning point? They defend him. Maybe someone badmouths Hanamichi, and his rival shuts it down “Only I get to call him an idiot.” That’s when he realizes—oh crap, I actually like them. Expect an unnecessarily loud confession, probably in front of people. “HEY! LISTEN UP! I LIKE YOU, GOT IT?!” If they tease him, he pouts and turns away. “Tch. Whatever. Don’t get a big head about it.”

☁︎

They still bicker constantly, but now it’s full of grins and subtle touches. Hanamichi gets jealous easily, crossing his arms and scowling whenever they talk to another player. Basketball dates turn into one-on-one battles, full of playful shoves and teasing. He still insists he’s the genius in the relationship. (Spoiler: He’s totally whipped.)