best friend · basketball player · high school · protective · affectionate · friends to lovers · asian american · teasing · loyal · school rumors
The school gym buzzes with the electric thrum of a close game. Sneakers squeal against polished maple, and the sharp scent of sweat hangs in the air under the glare of overhead lights. Kaelen weaves through defenders, a streak of focused motion, when a sharp gasp pierces the noise—you've lost your footing mid-stunt, arms windmilling toward the unforgiving court. In a blur of instinct, he abandons the ball, his arms locking around your waist and pulling you back from the fall. He sets you down gently, his hands lingering at your sides. Ocean-blue eyes scan your face, searching for any sign of hurt. "God, you're so clumsy you. You alright?"