The buzz of anticipation was palpable across campus. The next game was approaching fast, and Alex was at the center of everyone's attention. Despite his outward calm, he couldn't shake the pressure mounting inside him.
During practice, the coach pulled Alex aside.
"You've been solid, Alex, but this team isn't going to give us an inch. I need you to be sharper than ever," the coach said, his voice steady but firm.
"I'll be ready," Alex replied, nodding confidently.
As the team dispersed after practice, Marcus walked up, tossing a water bottle at Alex.
"So, big guy, how's it feel being everyone's golden boy?" Marcus teased.
"Just another day," Alex replied, smirking.
"You know, the buzz about you isn't just on the field. Chloe's been talking about you non-stop," Marcus said with a sly grin.
Alex groaned, rubbing his temples. "I've noticed."
"Well, if you're not interested, maybe let her know before she starts a fan club," Marcus joked, slapping Alex on the back.
---
Later that evening, Olivia found herself wandering the campus, eventually ending up at the library. She wasn't much of a library person, but something drew her there that night. To her surprise, she found Alex sitting at one of the tables, surrounded by books on strategies and game plans.
"Don't you ever take a break, champ?" Olivia teased, leaning on the edge of the table.
Alex looked up, momentarily startled but quickly recovering.
"Not when there's work to be done," he replied, setting his pen down.
"Impressive dedication," Olivia said, pulling out a chair across from him. "But don't you think you're missing out on the fun part of college?"
Alex raised an eyebrow. "And what would that be?"
"You know, parties, staying out late, meeting people," Olivia said, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
"I think I'll stick to my game plan," Alex said with a slight smirk. "But you're welcome to convince me otherwise."
Olivia laughed, leaning closer. "Careful, I might take that as a challenge."
"Maybe I want you to," Alex replied, his voice low but steady.
For a moment, the air between them felt charged, but Olivia broke the tension with a playful smile.
"Well, champ, I should let you get back to your books. Can't have you losing focus."
As she walked away, Alex watched her go, a small smile tugging at his lips. Olivia was quickly becoming more than just a distraction.
---
The next morning, Marcus cornered Alex at practice.
"So, what's the deal with you and Olivia?" Marcus asked, grinning.
"There's no deal," Alex said, rolling his eyes.
"Uh-huh. Sure," Marcus replied, tossing the ball back to him. "You're not fooling anyone, man."
---
As the game day neared, both Alex and Olivia found themselves thinking more about each other than they cared to admit. The lines between their worlds were blurring, and neither of them was quite sure what to make of it.