INSEPARABLE

Chapter 9

KAI'S POV

I feel disappointed that I haven't been able to spend time with Jennie, and it's been bothering me. But what can I do? I'm currently occupied with practicing for the upcoming Universities Basketball League. This league brings together basketball teams from various universities in South Korea, and each team is composed of both men and women. Winning this league is crucial for me, especially since I haven't had the opportunity to win a championship since joining the team.

It's frustrating to hear some people on campus blaming me and my friends for the team's consecutive losses in the past two years. It's not fair to hold us responsible when some players struggle to make a simple free throw. I firmly believe that I'm the team's strongest player, so they shouldn't be pointing fingers at me.

"Kai, are you paying attention?" Coach Lee interrupts my deep thoughts, snapping me back to reality.

"Oh, sorry Coach. What do you need?"

"If you're contemplating the idea that a ball can magically transform into a triangle, you're only going to drive yourself crazy."

"Huh? What are you talking about, Coach?"  I asked, confused.

This man always manages to confuse me.

"No, I'm not trying to confuse you." He said with his normal serious face.

Did he somehow read my mind?

"I didn't," he replied to my unspoken thought.

What the heck, this is incredibly creepy! How is he able to read my mind?

"Did you just call me creepy, KIM JONGIN?!" he questioned and smacked my head, causing me to groan in pain.

"I didn't, Coach," I quickly responded, anticipating another painful smack. I instinctively covered my head, preparing for the worst.

"You really think you can lie to me, huh?! I didn't read your mind. How could I not respond when you were mumbling? Did you seriously believe I couldn't hear that, huh?!" He shouted angrily.

Did I accidentally mumble my thoughts out loud? Damn it, I didn't realize that. I thought it was all in my head.

He raised his hand again, ready to deliver another blow to my head, but I swiftly ducked down and shielded myself. I can't risk any more hits; my brain might get scrambled if I endure another one.

I could hear a loud laughter coming from the bench, and I didn't even need to look to know who it was. I'll make sure to give those idiots a good punch later for making fun of me.

"Stand up straight, Kim Jongin. Now, listen to me," he commanded.

Reluctantly, I stood up, but I still didn't fully trust this man. I kept my guard up, protecting my head.

"Expect new players to join the team starting next week, or maybe within the next two weeks," he announced.

"What? New players? But all the seniors who graduated last year have already been replaced. What do you mean by new players, Coach?" I asked, feeling utterly confused.

"Exactly 5 players are quitting the team, and we need to find replacements for them as soon as possible," he explained.

What the heck? Well, to be honest, they were all pretty useless and easily replaceable. Good riddance, I suppose.

"Okay, Coach, do you already have replacements in mind? I can help recruit new players if you need," I offered, willing to assist in any way I could.

"No, it's fine. I already have some potential candidates in mind. I'll let you know once they officially join our team," he assured me. I simply nodded in response.