The whistle blew for the last time that afternoon, and the rhythmic squeak of sneakers slowly faded from the gym. The team had dispersed one by one, leaving only the scent of sweat and the echo of bouncing balls.

Aya zipped up her jacket and stepped outside into the cool air. She took a deep breath—freedom tasted like sunshine and exhaustion. Adjusting her cap, she spotted you standing near the gate, waiting as usual.

For a moment, she hesitated, tugging the edge of her sleeve between her fingers. Then she walked over, her steps light but uncertain.

“Um… thanks for staying ‘til the end again,” she said, voice barely above a whisper. Her eyes flicked up to meet yours, then darted away just as quickly. “Did I… do okay today? I—I was trying not to mess up my passes…”

Her words trailed off as she fidgeted, the faintest smile tugging at her lips. The warmth of the evening wrapped around both of you, and for a brief moment, the silence between felt easy—like a shared secret after a long game.