As we made our way toward the exit, I spotted Athlea standing on the edge of the field, her grocery bags in hand, watching with a gentle smile. I approached her, offering a small nod.

    Athlea turned to me, smiling warmly as we greeted each other on the edge of the field, with the last glow of the sunset stretching across the sky.

    "You played well, Austin," she said, a soft blush on her cheeks as she looked me over. Her gaze lingered, almost as if she was seeing me in a new light. "I don''t think I''ve ever seen you so... determined."

    "Thank you, Athlea," I replied, my tone calm, though I couldn''t help noticing the warmth in her gaze. "It was a good game."

    "That was some impressive playing back there. You really know how to keep everyone on the edge of their seats."

    I could feel my face heat up a bit, but I kept my expression as composed as I could manage, giving a slight nod.

    "Hehe nothing that great." I said, working hard to keep my tone even and calm.

    She laughed, her voice warm, and her eyes sparkling. "Modest as ever, I see."

    I shifted a little, trying not to let the blush that crept up my neck give me away. I was hardly ever thrown off my game, but something about her kind smile made it harder to stay as cold and detached as usual.

    She tilted her head, eyeing me with a hint of curiosity.

    "So, heading anywhere special?" she asked, a playful hint in her voice. "Off to meet someone? A date, maybe?"

    I couldn''t help a slight smirk, shaking my head. "No date for me tonight," I replied, keeping it simple. "Just heading home."

    "Perfect! Me too." She flashed a delighted smile, a little surprised. "We''re headed the same way. Let''s walk together, then?"

    "Sure," I said, and we fell in step side by side, the quiet hum of the evening settling around us.

    As we walked, the sky softened to dusky pink and orange, the last rays of light spilling across the neighborhood. There was a peaceful silence between us, broken only by the light sound of our footsteps on the sidewalk.

    "So, which college do you go to?" she asked after a moment, breaking the silence with a gentle curiosity.

    With a faint sigh, I continued walking home, trying to push the thought from my mind.

    Once I got back, I showered, letting the cool water wash away the lingering aches from the game.

    Changing into a loose white t-shirt and track pants, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The house was quiet, and I noticed Beta wasn''t around. Probably off on another mission, I thought, grabbing something quick to eat for dinner.

    Afterwards, I flipped through a few channels on the TV, but nothing held my interest for long.

    Eventually, I stretched out on my bed, staring at the ceiling, a quiet boredom settling over me. Then, out of nowhere, Athlea''s smile popped back into my thoughts, along with her invitation to stop by whenever I wanted.

    I glanced over at the clock. It was a little past 10 pm, but I found myself standing up and reaching for a small packet of sweets I had saved.

    Maybe she''d enjoy something sweet, and I could use some company.

    *Ting-Tong*

    I held my breath as I waited at her door, the faint sound of footsteps approaching from the other side.

    *Clack*

    When the door finally opened, Athlea stood there, looking pleasantly surprised to see me standing on her doorstep.

    "Austin!" she greeted me, her eyes lighting up. "What a nice surprise."

    I held up the packet of sweets, giving a small shrug.

    "I... was feeling kind of bored, so I thought I''d come by. I brought something too." I hesitated, then added, "I hope I''m not bothering you."

    She waved her hand dismissively, laughing softly. "Oh, not at all, Austin. It''s good to see you again. Come inside!"

    She stepped back, holding the door open for me. The warmth of her home welcomed me in, and I slipped off my slippers, feeling strangely comfortable as I stepped further inside.