Over the next week, Akira and Nelson's connection grew stronger, their moments together becoming the highlight of her days. The quiet conversations, the shared glances, and now, their stolen kisses—it all felt like they'd created their own little world within the high-stakes, competitive environment of Rod Wave Elite. But the more time they spent together, the more intense Nelson's protective side seemed to grow.
During a Friday evening practice, Akira's coach called for a scrimmage against a nearby high school team, inviting a few extra boys from Nelson's team to round out the roster. Akira loved the fast pace of mixed scrimmages, and tonight was no different. She felt light and focused, weaving between defenders and shooting with precision. And every time she glanced at Nelson on the other side of the court, she found him watching her with a look of pride and admiration that made her pulse quicken.
Toward the end of the scrimmage, one of the opposing players, a forward named Trey, caught Akira's eye. He was fast, determined, and clearly impressed with her skills. After one particularly tight play where Akira managed to outmaneuver him and sink a shot, he came up beside her, chuckling as he wiped sweat from his forehead.
"Dang, Akira, you're quick. Never thought I'd get schooled by you," he said with an easy grin.
Akira laughed, bumping his shoulder playfully. "Guess you underestimated me, huh?"
He shrugged, giving her an admiring look. "I'll know better next time."
Their playful exchange didn't go unnoticed. Nelson, who had been guarding another player nearby, turned sharply, his eyes darkening as he watched them. The next time Akira looked his way, she saw his clenched jaw and tense shoulders, and she knew that jealousy had flared up again.
When practice wrapped up, Nelson was at her side almost instantly, his gaze narrowing as he watched Trey walk off. "Making new friends, huh?" he muttered, his voice tight.
Akira raised an eyebrow, her tone gentle but firm. "He was just being friendly, Nelson. It's no big deal."
Nelson looked down, taking a deep breath as he tried to calm himself. "It's just... I don't like seeing other guys get close to you. I can't help it."
She placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "You don't have to worry about anyone else, Nelson. I'm here with you."
He met her gaze, a bit of the tension easing from his expression. "I know. I just... I'm not used to feeling this way. It's like I can't stand the idea of anyone else even talking to you like that."
Akira softened, squeezing his arm. "You're not going to lose me over a couple of friendly conversations. Besides," she teased, "if you keep this up, people are going to start thinking you're my bodyguard."
He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck, his expression sheepish. "Maybe I am," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "But only because I care about you."
Her heart skipped a beat at his words, and before she could second-guess herself, she leaned up and kissed him softly. The gym was empty now, the quiet space echoing with their shared breath as they pulled away.
Nelson smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Guess I'll have to work on being a little less jealous."
Akira grinned. "Or you could just keep cheering me on from the sidelines. I like having you there."
He nodded, his gaze tender. "Deal. But don't be surprised if I show up more often than you'd expect."
They left the gym together, their footsteps echoing as they stepped into the evening air. Akira couldn't help but feel a thrill at how easily they fit together, both on and off the court. And as they walked side by side, she knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they'd face them together.
