The ball flew high, and Jaz jumped over Kai, tipping it back to Nash with a loud smack that cut through the cheering crowd.
Nash caught it smoothly at half‑court and moved immediately forward. The arena was loud, fans on their feet shouting "Blaze!" and "Boom!" The whole place felt electric, like the game could still swing either way.
Aiko rushed in to stop him. She blocked his path, her eyes focused, her twintails bouncing as she stayed low on her toes. Her legs shook a little, but she refused to back up.
Nash's earlier words still burned inside her. She wanted more time with him, a chance to prove herself, and maybe pull him to their side. That hope pushed her harder than ever. She played with a new fire, smiling even through the sweat.
Nash faked left quick, crossed right, and blew past her clean, her hands grabbing air as she stumbled a step, cheeks flushing but a laugh slipping out despite the miss.
