Charlotte Graves stood tall in the center of the gym, her short black hair swaying slightly as she turned her sharp silver eyes toward Ethan. Her presence commanded attention—not just because she was the captain of the Thunderhawks or a popular figure at Oak Hill Academy, but because of the quiet confidence she carried. An athletic build, toned from years of relentless training, made it clear she was the real deal.
She folded her arms and spoke, calm and composed.
"You must be Ethan."
Ethan, still holding the basketball in one hand, raised a brow with a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
"I didn't know I was popular."
Charlotte chuckled softly barely a breath—but it held weight. She shook her head, eyes narrowing slightly with that focused intensity that captains carried.
Then she dropped the unexpected line.
"I want to play against you."
Ethan blinked, caught off guard.
"Pardon me?"
