Meanwhile...
The sound of shoes skidding across the shiny court floor cut through the air, accompanied by the rhythmic bounce of a basketball. Balls were scattered around as Max attempted another shot—only to miss.
Each time he failed, he grabbed another ball from the large basket and tried again. And again. And again. He had lost count of how many times he had done this, but by now, sweat had completely soaked his white shirt and dampened his hair.
"Shit!" he cursed loudly after missing yet another three-point shot. Frustrated, he clenched his fists and gritted his teeth.
"Someone’s in a terrible mood." A familiar female voice broke through the silence of the empty court.
Max turned his head toward the sound and huffed. "What did I ever do to you for you to keep tracking me down—even here?" he grumbled. "Lily, tell me, do you have a crush on me?"
"Oh, wow!" Lily clapped dramatically and let out a laugh. "Well, if that thought makes you happy, go ahead and entertain it. Just know you’re not the only one who thinks I like them. I allow people to think that, though."
"Tch." Annoyed, Max shook his head and tried to ignore her. He walked over to the bench, grabbing a small towel to wipe his face and neck. After sitting down, he leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees.
Lily tilted her head, watching him. With a smirk, she sauntered over and took a seat—just out of arm’s reach.
"Leave me alone, woman," he grumbled, still catching his breath. "As you can see, I’m not in the mood to deal with your nonsense today. Also—"
He paused and shot her a suspicious look. "Are you stalking me? How did you even know I was here?"
"Your dad told me."
"What?"
"For your information, your dad is one of the guys who thinks I like them."
"Shut up."
"Hehe, kidding." Lily chuckled and shrugged. "I knew you’d be here because Ginnie called me. And knowing you, you might’ve been drowning in vinegar."
Max’s irritation momentarily faded. He arched a brow, curiosity sparking in his eyes. "She called you? Why?"
"She always calls me. If she doesn’t, I will." She blinked and smiled innocently. "She also mentioned you were at the practice game earlier. And that you were acting... strange."
"Hah! Strange? Me? I’m not the one acting strange—she is!" He clicked his tongue, recalling the day’s events. The more he thought about how Ginnie had admired Hugo, despite the man’s foul mouth, the more it infuriated him.
Compared to him, Hugo was... terrible. The guy had awful financial habits, leaving him broke all the time. He was also a blockhead—using his brain energy only when on duty. And, because of his career, there was always a chance he wouldn’t live long.
Not that Max wished death upon Hugo, of course—he was just stating facts!
Hugo also had an embarrassingly low EQ. And yet, Ginnie had been in love with him for years? Was she a masochist?
Lily pursed her lips, suppressing a giggle. When she composed herself, she cleared her throat and focused back on him.
"Hey, Max, I’m here because I want to help, okay?" she said.
Max scowled in dismay. "Why would I need your help? Just scram."
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