Chapter 3When We Collided

A sharp whistle blew, and the game began.

Adrian's red hair was a beacon on the court. That, combined with his incredible skill—the way he dribbled, the way he moved past defenders—drew endless screams from the girls in the stands.

I glanced across the court and saw Iris, holding a water bottle. Her eyes were fixed on him, shining with an adoration that was impossible to miss.

Watching her, I was suddenly transported back to a similar game in high school. As soon as school let out, I had dragged my deskmate to the gym, clutching a water bottle for Adrian, to snag the best seats. We were so proud of our foresight as the stands filled up around us.

Back then, just like now, Adrian was the center of everyone's attention.

I held the water bottle, waiting for him to look my way so I could wave. My deskmate, unable to stand my lovesick puppy look, finally said, "I'll save your spot. Go say hi to him."

I beamed, putting the water bottle down. But before I could even take a step, I saw Iris, a bright smile on her face, walk right up to Adrian with a water bottle of her own.

The players had their own designated seating area. I stood frozen in place as Iris sat down next to him, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Another sharp whistle pulled me back to the present. I looked towards the court and saw a crowd of players huddled together. Iris was already running towards them.

I don't know when Adrian was helped off the court, or when he ended up standing right in front of me.

Iris was beside him. When she saw me, her expression froze, her mouth falling open in surprise.

Adrian was breathing heavily, his face flushed and beaded with sweat. His lips were pressed into a thin line, and his dark eyes were locked on mine.

One of the players said, "Excuse me, can you show us to the nurse's office?"

I nodded. As I turned to lead the way, I could have sworn I saw a flicker of hurt in Adrian's eyes before he dropped his gaze, his shoulders slumping.

The nurse's office wasn't far. We were there in two minutes.

I stood outside with Iris. She gave me a small, polite smile. "Have we met before?"

"I don't think so," I lied without batting an eye. I glanced into the office, then she said, "Thanks for your help. I've got it from here. You can go."

"Okay," I replied, a little too quickly. A flash of surprise crossed her face.