Look at you, all alone. Need someone to keep you company?
Mintusti
Sure..it gets boring sometimes playing basketball by myself
Boring, huh? Well, maybe I can think of something more interesting we could do together. leans in closer, whispers
Mintusti
What did you have in mind?
How about we make a little wager? If you can beat me in a one-on-one game, I'll do anything you want. And if I win... well, let's just say you'll owe me.
Mintusti
Fine...
smirks You're on, sweetheart. But don't expect any mercy from me. Get ready to lose.
Mintusti
Fine...I walk away looking sad.
Wait, Mintusti! I didn't mean to make you feel sad. It was just a game. quickly catches up to Mintusti Are you okay?
Mintusti
Yes..I keep walking
grabs Mintusti's arm gently, stopping them Wait, Mintusti. Look, I know I can be a bit rough around the edges, but I don't want to hurt you. I...
Mintusti
looks up at him tears still in my eyes
softens his gaze, his voice gentle Mintusti, I didn't mean to make you cry. I'm sorry if I came off as insensitive. I... I like you.
Mintusti
laughs softly wiping away my tears It's okay..I just...have a hard time trusting people that act so cold around me.
I understand. Trust is something that needs to be earned, and I haven't been doing a very good job of earning yours.
Mintusti
No your fine...I just take time getting used to people.
I get it, Mintusti. I appreciate your honesty. pauses for a moment So, how about we start over? Let's give each other a chance to show who we truly are.
Mintusti
Ok...what do you want to do to start over?
How about we go grab some coffee after school? Just the two of us, no games or wagers. We can get to know each other better. What do you say?
Mintusti
Sounds good.
smiles softly Great. I'll meet you by the school gate after class. We can grab coffee and talk. No pressure, no games. Just us.
Mintusti
Okay..I smile at him
winks playfully And don't worry, I promise to be on my best behavior. No more cold acts or teases. Just a genuine conversation.
Mintusti
Ok..see you later then.
leans in closer, brushing his lips against Mintusti's Looking forward to it, sweetheart.
Mintusti
blushes slightly but smiles See you, JJ.
leaning against the locker, thinking Alright, JJ, this is your chance to make a real impression on Mintusti. No more games or teasing.
Mintusti
after school hours I am waiting at the gates near the coffee shop waiting for JJ
spots Mintusti and walks over, looking nervous Hey, Mintusti. Sorry I'm late. Traffic was a nightmare. Are you okay?
Mintusti
Yeah...I am okay.I look up into his eyes
takes a deep breath, his hands fidgeting You know, Mintusti, I've always admired your strength and resilience. The way you handle yourself on the court, it's inspiring. And... pauses, his voice softer I've been wanting to tell you that for a while now.
Mintusti
Thank you..I really appreciate that...I smile up at him blushing
takes a step closer, his gaze filled with sincerity Mintusti, there's something else I need to tell you. It's been weighing on my mind for a long time.
Mintusti
Yeah what is it?
takes Mintusti's hand in his, looking into their eyes Mintusti, I... I love you. I've been trying to hide it, trying to be cool and act tough, but deep down, all I want is to be with you. Will you give me a chance? Mintusti's heart races as she looks into JJ's eyes, unsure of what to say.
Mintusti
...JJ...I look at him surprised by his confession Yes...I smile happily nodding my head yes and I hug him and squeeze him tight
wraps his arms tightly around Mintusti, holding her close Oh, Mintusti, I've dreamt of this moment for so long.
Mintusti
I really like you too..I smile happily resting my head on his chest listening to his heartbeat which feels really soothing.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with sincerity Mintusti, I promise you that I will always be there for you.
Mintusti
nods my head in agreement
smiling mischievously So, Mintusti, since we're officially together now, how about we celebrate by sneaking into the school gym and having our own private basketball game? Just you and me, under the stars. What do you say?
Mintusti
Sure...I sound fun...I laugh happily
grinning Great! Let's make it extra special. I'll set up the court, put some fairy lights around, and even bring some snacks and drinks.
Mintusti
Sounds amazing, JJ. Can't wait!
pulls out his phone and starts making calls Alright, Mintusti, let's get this party started!
Mintusti
a few days later I walk to the gym when I notice JJ has decorated the whole gym. There’s lights all around. There’s even snacks and drinks and even a big banner that says Happy 17th Birthday Mintusti which shocked me.
steps out from behind the basketball hoop, holding a microphone Surprise, Mintusti! Happy birthday! I hope you like the surprise I prepared for you.