Random Shots

Miss Marcos [2] long ud ⚠️

The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm, golden hue over the university grounds. The late afternoon air was thick with the sounds of students milling about, wrapping up their day as the evening began to take hold. Inside the open covered court, the girls' volleyball team was still deep in practice, their shouts echoing through the space as they perfected their plays. Among them, Ace Severino stood out—her athleticism, sharp instincts, and undeniable leadership marked her as a force to be reckoned with.

On the sidelines, a group of professors had gathered to watch the practice, including Imee Marcos. She stood with her arms crossed, her eyes narrowed as she observed Ace with a mix of pride and something else she couldn't quite place. The warm breeze fluttered through her hair, and she could feel the tension in her shoulders as she tried to focus on the game, though her thoughts kept drifting back to their earlier encounter in the classroom.

Beside her, a young professor named Tricia was chatting with one of their colleagues. Tricia had joined the faculty recently and had quickly made a name for herself as a supportive and enthusiastic member of the staff. As the ball spiked perfectly into the opposing court, Tricia let out a whistle, clapping her hands in admiration.

"Wow, Ace is really something else!" Tricia exclaimed, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "She’s got such a natural talent and work ethic. The team’s lucky to have her."

Imee’s jaw tightened at the compliment, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. She turned her gaze back to the court, watching as Ace effortlessly directed the play, her movements sharp and precise. The other professor’s words echoed in her mind, and she couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy, an emotion she rarely allowed herself to entertain.

As the practice continued, Ace seemed to notice Imee’s presence more keenly. She played with extra fervor, occasionally stealing glances toward the sidelines, where Imee stood. And each time she did, there was a mischievous glint in her eyes, as if she knew exactly what was going on in Imee’s mind.

Finally, after a particularly intense rally, the coach blew the whistle, signaling a short break. The players dispersed, some heading for water bottles, others for a quick breather. Ace, however, made a beeline for the sidelines, her eyes locked on Imee.

“Miss Marcos,” Ace called out as she approached, her voice carrying that same teasing tone Imee was beginning to find both infuriating and captivating.

Imee’s eyes narrowed as Ace came closer, her heart betraying her calm exterior with a quickened beat. “Ace,” she acknowledged, her voice steady but laced with an undercurrent of something she couldn’t quite suppress.

Ace grinned, wiping a bit of sweat from her forehead with the back of her hand. “I couldn’t help but notice you watching me out there. Enjoying the show?”

Imee huffed softly, trying to maintain her composure. “I’m here to observe the team, Ace. Not just you.”, She somehow lied of course, she wasn't the type of a person who is invested in sports.

“Oh, I know,” Ace replied, her smile widening as she took a step closer, lowering her voice so only Imee could hear. “But you looked a little... distracted earlier. Something on your mind, Miss Marcos?”

Before Imee could respond, Tricia joined them, oblivious to the tension between the two. “Ace, you were fantastic out there!” Tricia exclaimed, completely unaware of how her words were affecting Imee. “You’re such an asset to the team. We’re all so impressed.”

Imee’s hand tightened around the strap of her bag, her expression hardening. Ace, noticing the subtle shift, turned her attention back to Imee, her grin turning almost predatory. “Well, I’m just doing my best. But it’s always nice to have some... encouragement.” Ace’s eyes flicked pointedly towards Tricia, then back to Imee, the challenge clear in her gaze.