In the basketball circles of Alnewgo University, Flynn was a name spoken with awe. Rumor had it that his coach regarded him as a future top-tier professional player, pinning high hopes on his career.
Walking beside him, however, was none other than Phoebe Bailey, a name that could outshine even Flynn's brilliance.
Phoebe's presence drew the crowd's attention effortlessly. Wherever she went, she became the center of focus, even more radiant than during her stunning performance at the freshman gala.
As they walked, Flynn eagerly explained various basketball strategies and game details to Phoebe. His overly attentive body language betrayed a fan-like admiration, almost as if he was putting her on a pedestal.
Surprisingly, Phoebe appeared genuinely interested. It was said that even back in high school, she had enjoyed watching boys pour their energy into basketball games.
Flynn saw this as his golden opportunity to impress her with his skills during today's match.
Watching Phoebe approach, Samuel's jaw practically hit the floor.
"Wow, Phoebe looks even more gorgeous now! If only I could talk to her for just a moment."
Ronnie snorted derisively.
"You? Why don't you take a good look at yourself first? What makes you think a goddess like her would even glance at a toad like you?"
Samuel ignored Ronnie's mockery and turned to Luca.
"Luca, you're the only one I know who could possibly match up to someone like Phoebe. Why don't you try pursuing her? If she ends up with some rich jerk, it'll shatter my entire worldview. I'd probably go insane!"
Samuel had no disillusions about his place in the world. He knew he and Phoebe belonged to entirely different universes, never destined to cross.
Even so, deep down, he hoped Phoebe would end up with someone like Luca, a true talent, rather than being dragged down by someone unworthy.
To Samuel, the union of Phoebe and Luca felt like the end of an era, akin to a legendary duo vanishing from the stage of history.
But now? This unexpected encounter found him on the sidelines, reduced to watching over the water cooler—a far cry from the image he had envisioned for himself.
As Jack debated whether to approach Phoebe and say hello, Samuel patted him on the shoulder, snapping him out of his thoughts.
"Jack, you're staring like you've been hypnotized. Forget it, man. Girls like her are way out of our league. Just let it go."
Jack smiled faintly and replied, "I'm not thinking about her like that."
Samuel didn't believe him, continuing his monologue.
"Come on, there's no shame in liking her. Even Luca admits she's out of his league. But let's be realistic—some girls are just untouchable for us. They're like stars, inspiring us to keep moving forward but never within reach, right?"
Jack's expression remained calm as he said evenly, "I don't think so. At the very least, having a conversation with her shouldn't be a problem."
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