The basketball soared toward Declan, speeding through the air. It seemed certain to hit his back; however, just before impact, he reached out and effortlessly caught it.

Turning to face Ewan’s provocation, Declan charged toward the basketball hoop, accepting the challenge. The Yorhine University crowd hushed, holding its breath as the heartthrobs of the basketball team faced off.

Ewan immediately blocked Declan’s path, attempting to steal the ball. With a quick feint, however, Declan skillfully dodged him. Ewan lunged again, but this time, Declan jumped, holding the ball close to his chest. His black T-shirt rode up slightly, revealing his lean waist and toned abs. With a sharp movement, he dunked the ball with one hand—swift and clean. He had beaten Ewan.

Wow!

The girls in the crowd erupted.

“Declan is so hot!” “Ewan’s been captain, but it seems like he only led because Declan never played.” “Declan is literally on fire!”

Declan landed smoothly, catching his breath. He grabbed his black jacket from the floor and walked away without looking back.

Hailey, rooted to the spot, watched his retreating figure. His power—whether in a fight or on the court—was evident in every movement. Awed and slightly afraid, she couldn't look away. Like the other female students, she was seeing Declan play basketball for the first time. Her heart raced. “Declan, wait for me!” she called, hurrying after him.

Ewan remained frozen, shocked. He hadn’t expected to be beaten. Declan’s moves had left him feeling powerless, facing a true adversary. He had been thoroughly outplayed.

“Ewan, it’s just one game,” Melody said softly, trying to comfort him. “It doesn’t mean anything. Don’t overthink it.”

Ewan’s face darkened. Without a word, he shoved Melody aside and stormed off. Melody stumbled back, almost falling.

Just then, a clear voice rang out. “Melody, are you alright?”

Melody looked up to see Celine, watching with an amused expression. Many other students were looking, whispering and pointing. She had gone from the center of attention to a side character in Hailey’s drama. What was supposed to be a grand public confession had become a joke.

Melody, usually the queen bee at Yorhine University, faced public humiliation for the first time. Frustration welled up, and she ran off, her eyes red.

“Melody!” Carly called after her.

What had happened? How had everything gone so wrong?

Carly glared at Celine, her anger boiling. “Celine, this is all your fault. Why do you always have to go against me?”

She raised her hand to slap Celine, but a large, strong hand grabbed her wrist before she could connect.