"I heard these days you're spending more time on the court," Alex said to Ken while passing the ball.
"Well, I am. Just need something to relieve the pressure," Ken replied, shooting the ball into the basket effortlessly.
"It's your stress relief—why should you drag me into it too?" Alex said annoyingly, going one-on-one against Ken.
"I thought it would be fun for us," Ken grinned, trying to block Alex's shot. But Alex slipped past him and scored.
They both walked to the bench, sitting down and wiping the sweat from their faces.
"Well, I'm sure you have no intention of joining a competition or the team. And your excuse sucks, Mr. Perfect Score," Alex said, looking at him doubtfully.
"You read minds now? Or did you study psychology too, mf?" Ken muttered annoyingly, lying down on the ground.
"Well, I know enough. Just tell me already if you want to walk out from here," Alex said, lying beside him in the opposite direction.
Their heads were now face to face.
Ken hesitated, then said, "Well, I think I like… I…"
"What the heck, man? Spit it out. Don't try to beat around the bush."
"…Well, I like a boy," Ken finally said, then quickly turned away from Alex.
"A BOY?!" Alex repeated, eyes wide.
"I know it's a big deal, but I'm sure I like him," Ken said, sitting up straight.
"What big deal? It's not— you're gay, bi, straight, whatever you want," Alex said, trying to hold his surprise.
"But this happened so fast. How long have you even known this boy? Is it someone I know? Is he into guys, or is he straight?" Alex showered Ken with questions.
Ken grabbed Alex's shoulders, shaking him. "I only know he's in our class. His name is Noel. Nothing else."
"Noel? That harmless cutie pie— I mean, that handsome boy. Whatever, bro. Don't worry, I don't like guys, I was just… trying to picture him," Alex said, chuckling.
"Well, now he's more into basketball than studies. It's easy to meet him, so I just… try to catch up."