Darkson High

2.8

On the field, the tension was electric. Mike stood behind the line of scrimmage, his eyes narrowing as he took in the setup. He wasn't here to take Kyle's spot—not yet, at least. But he could feel the weight of Kyle's glare from across the field. He could almost hear the unspoken challenge in Kyle's posture, the way he hunched over, ready to explode into action. Mike wasn't backing down, though. Not today.

Kyle was in his element, orchestrating his team like a general on a battlefield. His eyes flicked to Mike between plays, a silent promise that he'd show everyone why he was the starting quarterback. He had something to prove—especially now, with Jake watching from the sidelines.

Jake stood there with his usual casual confidence, hands in his pockets, his face impassive. But his eyes followed Mike's every move, sharp and calculating. He hadn't forgotten the first day of school, when he'd cornered Kyle in the dimly lit hallway after detention, making it clear who was in charge. He'd taught Kyle a lesson that day, a lesson about boundaries—especially where Nikky was concerned. And now, here was Mike, a new player in the game, making waves. Jake wasn't sure what to make of him yet.

Nikky's voice cut through the tension, loud and encouraging from the bleachers. "You got this, Mike! Show them what you can do!"

The sound of her voice sent a rush of adrenaline through Mike's veins. He glanced over, catching sight of her leaning forward, her eyes bright with excitement. Her baggy jeans and crop top flowed easily as she moved, her hoop earrings catching the light, and her high ponytail, wrapped in a vibrant scarf, bobbed with every cheer. She looked so alive, so supportive, and it made him want to push himself even harder.

He caught her eye and saw the way she was looking at him—not just with support, but with admiration. It made his chest swell with confidence. He wasn't just some new kid anymore; he was here to prove he belonged.

Kendra exchanged a knowing look with Shanti, who had her sketchbook balanced on her knees. They shared a soft smile, a silent acknowledgment that something was happening here—something they were all a part of, whether they realized it or not. Even Oliver, ever the curious observer, leaned in closer, his eyes darting between the players and the crowd.

Back on the field, Kyle's frustration was starting to show. His play calling became sharper, more aggressive. He was pushing his team hard, trying to upstage Mike at every turn. He barked out another play, his voice cutting through the noise like a whip. His pass was a bullet, but his receiver wasn't quick enough, and the ball bounced off the turf with a dull thud.

Mike took a deep breath, keeping his expression neutral, but inside he felt a flicker of satisfaction. Kyle was trying too hard, letting his emotions get the best of him. Mike could use that.

The coach blew the whistle, signaling the next play. Mike wiped the sweat from his brow, his mind focused and clear. He called for a quick slant, his voice steady and confident. The ball snapped into his hands, and he moved with precision, his eyes darting downfield. His receiver made a clean cut, and Mike released a sharp, tight pass that sliced through the defense.

The ball landed perfectly in the receiver's hands, and he sprinted forward for a solid gain. The crowd erupted, and he could hear Nikky's voice above the rest, cheering him on with all the enthusiasm she had.

"Yes, Mike! That's it! Keep going!"

Kyle's eyes darted to Jake, who remained on the sidelines, his expression unreadable but his eyes sharp. Jake wasn't just a spectator; he was assessing the field, assessing Mike. He'd warned Kyle before—told him what would happen if he messed with Nikky. And now, as he watched Mike, he could feel that familiar itch at the back of his mind—a mixture of curiosity and caution.