"Scholarly Hearts" When academic rivals found love

Chapter 5: The game

JENNIE'S POV

As I walked away from the cafeteria, my heart raced. The conversation with Lisa had taken a turn I didn't expect, and now I was left feeling a mix of confusion and excitement. When she asked if she could court me, I was shocked her boldness caught me off guard.

I replayed my response in my mind. Did I really mean what I said? I admired her competitive spirit and intelligence, but admitting that felt like opening a door I wasn't sure I wanted to walk through.

The awkward silence that followed our exchange lingered, and I couldn't shake the fluttering feeling in my stomach. I was relieved when Lisa brushed it off as a joke, but a part of me wondered if there was something more beneath the surface.

Why did the thought of her courting me make my heart race? I had always enjoyed our time together, but now it felt different-charged with an energy that left me both thrilled and anxious. I needed to sort through these feelings, but for now, all I could do was smile at the thought of her.

earth to you Kim jennie! she's still your rival!

I signed from the thought shaking my head.

As I stepped outside the cafeteria, lost in my thoughts about Lisa, I was suddenly interrupted by Irene and Nayeon.

"Hey, Jennie! What happened back there?" Irene asked, her eyes narrowing with curiosity.

"You look stressed."

Nayeon chimed in with a teasing grin, "Yeah, did Lisa confess her feelings? You look like you just saw a ghost!"

I felt my cheeks heat up as I tried to brush it off. "It was nothing, really."

"Nothing? You were practically glowing!" Irene teased, nudging me playfully.

I laughed nervously, trying to shake off the awkwardness. "Okay, maybe it was a little intense."

Nayeon leaned closer, eyes sparkling with mischief. "So, are you and Lisa finally going to admit your feelings for each other?"

I shook my head, a smile creeping onto my face despite the embarrassment.

"No way! And what do you mean feelings? the feeling I have towards Lisa is anger." Yes, that's all.

"Sure, keep telling yourself that," Irene said with a wink.

Their playful banter made me feel lighter, but deep down, I couldn't shake the fluttering thoughts of Lisa away.

TIME SKIPPED

The gym buzzed with excitement as students packed the bleachers, eagerly awaiting the one-on-one basketball match between Kai and Lisa. Cheers erupted as they entered the court, the atmosphere electric with anticipation.

Before the game began, Kai snatched the mic from the host, a mischievous grin on his face.

"If I win this match, I'll take Jennie out on a date!" he announced, his voice booming through the gym.

Gasps filled the air as all eyes turned to Jennie, who stood at the sidelines, her expression a mix of surprise and embarrassment.

The crowd began chanting for her to agree, and she felt a wave of pressure wash over her. Glancing at Lisa, whose expression was unexplainable-anger mixed with determination-

Jennie took a deep breath. "Okay, I will!" she shouted closing her eyes, trying to mask her own feelings.

The whistle blew, and they were off. Lisa and Kai started strong, dribbling and shooting with intensity.