Sparks of Rivalry

The cultural festival was over, but the buzz it left behind still lingered. Students were still talking about the dance performance, and even my name came up more often than ever before. It felt like I had finally broken out of the background — but I knew the real game was just beginning.

"Isagi! May!" Kaito called out, running up to us in the hallway. "You guys heard the news?"

"What news?" I asked.

"A school-wide competition! They're holding an inter-class event — sports, academics, and creative arts all rolled into one. It's the biggest thing of the year!"

May's eyes lit up. "That sounds amazing! Are you going to join, Isagi?"

"Of course," I said without hesitation. This was the perfect chance to stand out even more — and maybe spend more time with her.

But my excitement was short-lived.

"I hope you're ready," Rin's voice cut in as he approached, his usual confident smirk in place. "Because I plan on winning every category."

"Oh, is that so?" I shot back. "Guess you'll finally have some competition."

He laughed. "We'll see about that."

The competition kicked off with the sports events, and the school was practically a battlefield. I signed up for basketball, and to no one's surprise, so did Rin.

During the first game, the tension was palpable. Every time I scored, Rin answered right back. The crowd was loving it, and May's cheers only made me push harder.

With the final seconds ticking down, the score was tied. Rin had the ball, but I wasn't about to let him have the last word.

I stole the ball and sprinted down the court, the crowd roaring. With a last-second shot, the ball sailed through the hoop just as the buzzer sounded.

We won.

As my teammates lifted me up in celebration, my eyes found May's — and the pride shining in them made every effort worth it.

But the competition was far from over. Next up was the academic challenge, and Rin was ready to reclaim his throne.

"Enjoy your little victory," he said, his eyes gleaming. "Because in this arena, you won't stand a chance."

"Don't count me out just yet," I replied, ready for whatever came next.

The stakes were getting higher — and I wasn't backing down.