71 parts Complete MatureKK Arnold is used to speed-on the court, in the press, in her life. As UConn's quick-thinking, quick-footed point guard, everything about her is sharp, focused, and full of energy. But there's one person who moves at an entirely different pace. And somehow, KK can't stop watching her.
Maya Thompson is a soft-spoken journalism student with an academic aesthetic-cardigans, ballet flats, glasses always slipping down her nose, and a tote bag full of pastel highlighters and poetry books. Assigned to cover the UConn women's basketball team for the university paper, Maya doesn't know much about basketball-but she shows up anyway. Every practice. Every game. Sitting cross-legged on the bleachers, typing away, scribbling notes in the margins of her interview sheets, or quietly reading while the players run drills.
At first, KK only notices Maya because she's always there. But then she notices how Maya listens-really listens-when she asks post-practice questions. How her voice gets soft when she says KK's name. How she blushes when KK jokes with her. And how her presence, somehow, feels calmer than music, even in a chaotic gym.
Their friendship begins with short interviews and awkward thank-yous. But soon it becomes something warmer. Coffee runs after practice. Maya waiting at the edge of the court with her recorder and a shy smile. KK pretending not to search the gym for her during water breaks. And somewhere between buzzer-beaters and backspace keys, a slow, soft love begins to bloom.
Sweet, gentle, and full of lingering glances and after-practice conversations, Fast Break to My Heart is a cozy, college romance about finding quiet in the loudest places-and falling for someone who sees you for more than just the game.
