The gym buzzed with energy, the bleachers packed with students chanting and cheering. Brooklyn wasn't usually the type to watch basketball games, but Amanda had dragged her along, insisting they needed "school spirit."
"You're welcome," Amanda said smugly as they found seats near the front. "Besides, you need a distraction. And watching Bryant in his natural habitat? Consider it research."
Brooklyn gave her a sharp look. "Amanda—"
"Shh. Game's starting," Amanda whispered, eyes already glued to the court.
The whistle blew, and the players burst into motion. Brooklyn tried to focus on the game itself, but her eyes betrayed her, finding Bryant instantly. He moved with effortless confidence, every pass and shot drawing cheers from the crowd.
When he scored the first basket, his gaze flicked briefly toward the stands. For a split second, Brooklyn swore his eyes met hers. Her stomach fluttered traitorously.
"Girl, you're smiling," Amanda teased under her breath.
"I am not," Brooklyn said quickly, adjusting in her seat.
Before Amanda could tease her further, a voice from behind interrupted.
"Didn't know you liked basketball, Brooklyn."
She turned to see Mani sliding into the row behind them, flashing his easy grin.
Brooklyn blinked. "Mani? What are you doing here?"
"Came to watch the game, same as you. But now I've got better company." His eyes lingered on her, warm and intense.
Amanda leaned closer to Brooklyn and muttered, "This is about to get messy."
On the court, Bryant made another clean shot, the crowd erupting. When the cheers died down, Brooklyn glanced back to find Bryant looking in their direction again. This time, his eyes narrowed slightly as they landed on Mani sitting behind her.
The tension wrapped around her like invisible strings, pulling her in two directions. She clapped politely for the game, but her heart wasn't in it.
Because deep down, she already knew — she wasn't just watching basketball. She was caught in the middle of a rivalry that was quickly becoming personal.