In between- Spoke x oc!Fem

XVI

It's been a little over a month since the tournament, and life has settled into a new routine. The intensity of those days on the court has faded into the background, replaced by the everyday hustle of school, volleyball practice, and an increasingly busy social life. Yet, in the quiet moments between classes or during late-night study sessions, I often find myself reflecting on how much things have changed.

Walking through the crowded hallways of my high school, I can feel the difference in how people treat me. I've always been friendly with everyone, but now there's a certain recognition in their eyes—a nod to my success on the volleyball court and, more subtly, online. The win at the tournament propelled me into a new level of popularity, but I'm determined to stay grounded, to stay the same approachable, kind-hearted person I've always been.

It's a typical Tuesday morning, and I'm making my way to English class. The bell has just rung, and I'm weaving through the stream of students. I wave at a few familiar faces along the way, exchanging quick hellos and smiles. As I turn the corner, I spot Sarah and Lily waiting for me by their lockers.

"Hey, superstar!" Sarah greets me with a grin, holding out her hand for a high-five. "Ready to ace another day?"

I laugh, smacking her hand. "Always. What about you guys? Do you guys have plans for today?"

Lily shrugs as she grabs her books. "Just the usual—classes, practice later, and probably some procrastination on that history project we're supposed to be working on."

"Don't remind me," Sarah groans. "I haven't even started."

I smile at their banter as we walk together toward the classroom. The three of us have been close for years, but the past month has brought us even closer. They supported me through the tournament, and now we're sharing in my growing success at school.

As we settle into our seats, the teacher begins to go over the day's lesson, but my thoughts drift. My phone buzzes in my bag, and I discreetly pull it out to check the screen. It's a message from Spoke on iMessage, and just seeing his name makes me smile.

Spoken there:

HII AVSSS

how's school?

Boring as usual?

I quickly type a reply under my desk.

Avs????? :

YES OMG

English class right now, but I'm ready for practice later.

What about you? Streaming today?

His response comes almost instantly.

Spoke:

Yup, but later tonight.

Got some new strats to test out.

Wish you could join!

Avery:
You know I would if I could

. Maybe later this week? We need to catch up on everything.

Spoke:
Definitely.

It's been too long since our last all-nighter.

I chuckle quietly to myself, already looking forward to our next gaming session. Despite the distance and our busy schedules, Spoke and I have stayed as close as ever. Our friendship has only deepened over the past month, with constant texts, memes, and the occasional late-night stream keeping us connected.