The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the empty basketball court as Kimi settled onto the weathered bench, her eyes fixed on the figure moving with fluid grace across the asphalt. Kolton had traded his usual athletic wear for a simple gray t-shirt and dark jeans, but the intensity in his movements remained unchanged. Each dribble, each pivot spoke of barely contained energy.
The dying light painted the sky in brilliant shades of crimson and violet, the golden rays catching the sweat glistening on Kolton's skin as he moved. Kimi found herself mesmerized, her pulse quickening as she watched him line up his shot from the free throw line.
The ball sailed through the net with a satisfying swish, and before she could stop herself, Kimi was on her feet, applauding. The sound echoed across the quiet court.
Kolton turned toward her, that familiar cocky grin spreading across his features as he jogged over to retrieve the ball.
