The campus was alive with chatter about Alex's next game. Everyone seemed to have an opinion about his chances, his skills, and the team's strategy. But for Alex, the noise only made him more determined.
On the practice field, the coach gathered the players around.
"All right, listen up!" he shouted. "This team we're facing? They're tough, disciplined, and hungry. If we don't step up, they'll walk all over us. Alex, I need you sharper than ever."
"Yes, Coach," Alex replied, his tone steady but focused.
After practice, Marcus approached Alex, tossing him a bottle of water.
"You know the pressure's on, right?" Marcus said, grinning. "All eyes are on you, champ."
"Nothing new," Alex replied, shrugging.
"Yeah, but I heard a little rumor," Marcus added, lowering his voice. "Guess who's planning to show up at the game?"
"Who?" Alex asked, already bracing himself.
"Gabriel," Marcus said, smirking. "Word is, he wants to impress Olivia by pretending he's interested in football. Classic move, don't you think?"
Alex clenched his jaw but said nothing.
"Relax, man," Marcus said, patting his shoulder. "He doesn't stand a chance. Olivia's got her eyes on you, even if she won't admit it."
---
That evening, Olivia was at the art studio, putting the final touches on a new painting. Mia walked in, carrying two cups of coffee.
"You've been here all day," Mia said, handing Olivia a cup. "Are you hiding, or just avoiding Gabriel?"
Olivia laughed, taking a sip. "He doesn't bother me. He's just… persistent."
"Persistent is putting it lightly," Mia said, rolling her eyes. "But you know, he's not the only one who's interested in you."
Olivia paused, her brush hovering over the canvas. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Oh, come on," Mia teased. "Alex. He's clearly into you. Everyone can see it."
Olivia smirked but didn't respond, her focus returning to the painting.
---
Game Day
The stands were packed, and the energy was electric. As Alex led his team onto the field, he scanned the crowd. His eyes landed on Olivia, sitting with Mia and Ethan, her fiery red hair unmistakable even from a distance. Gabriel was there too, sitting too close to Olivia for Alex's liking.
The whistle blew, and the game began. The opposing team was as tough as expected, their defense nearly impenetrable. Alex pushed himself harder with every play, his determination driving the team forward.
By the final quarter, the score was tied. With seconds left on the clock, Alex made a bold decision. He called a risky play, dodging defenders and launching the ball to Marcus, who scored the winning touchdown just as the buzzer sounded.
The stadium erupted in cheers, and Alex was swarmed by his teammates. As the crowd celebrated, his eyes instinctively sought Olivia. She was clapping, a proud smile on her face, but she was also talking to Gabriel.
---
After the game, Alex headed to the parking lot, where he found Olivia leaning against her car.
"Nice game, champ," she said, her voice teasing but warm.
"Thanks," Alex replied, his expression softening. "I saw you in the stands."
"Of course you did," Olivia said with a grin. "You always know where I am, don't you?"
"Maybe," Alex admitted, stepping closer. "And I couldn't help but notice your… company."
"Jealous?" Olivia asked, tilting her head.
"Should I be?" Alex countered, his tone light but curious.
Olivia smiled, stepping closer until they were only inches apart. "Not unless you give me a reason to be."
Alex's heart raced, but he kept his composure. "You're impossible, you know that?"
"And yet, here you are," Olivia replied, her voice softer now.
Before either of them could say more, Mia honked from across the parking lot. "Olivia! Let's go!"
Olivia sighed, stepping back. "Saved by the bell," she teased.
"Again," Alex said, watching her walk away.