The game started again after the timeout. The crowd got louder as the players took their places. Nash leaned on his knees, eyes closed, breathing steady.
Focus. I am the game, he told himself. Ten players, one winner. I don't play to win, I play to crush.
His heart slowed, his mind sharp. He could feel every sound on the court. Slowly, be entered in the zone state, but just then, he heard a squeak in front of him, taking him out of his thoughts.
Sneakers. He raised an eyebrow and opened his eyes.
Aiko stood there, her twin-tails bouncing as she moved, her eyes sharp and brighter.
Sweat glowed on her skin, she looked serious, but also excited. There was no trace of the worries she showed during the whole quarter.
"So, we meet again, my rival" she said. "I won't lose to you this time."
[Aiko – 68% (Motivated)]
