The tension in the gymnasium was palpable as the practice match between the Obsidian Guard and Crimson Hawks reached its final minutes. From my spot in the bleachers, I could see everything unfold in crystal clarity—the sweat-slicked players, the determined expressions, and most notably, the brewing storm between Rhys Knight and Liam Thorne.
Liam was playing exceptionally well today, his movements fluid and precise as he maneuvered around Rhys's defense. Beside me, Seraphina nudged my shoulder.
"Liam keeps looking over here," she whispered with a knowing smile.
I pretended not to notice, but she was right. Each time Liam scored, his eyes sought mine in the crowd. And each time I cheered for him, Rhys's jaw clenched tighter.
The ball bounced off the rim and rolled toward the bleachers where I sat. Something about having it so close to me—while Rhys stared with that predatory gaze—made my heart hammer. Before I could think better of it, I jumped down and grabbed it.
