Travis

Travis always remained in the background—a "supporting character." He was a good student, genuinely kind, and played basketball better than many, but his efforts always remained in the shadows. All the accolades and attention went to the more popular students, especially Jackson—the crowd's favorite. He was the one who appropriated Travis's achievements, passing off Travis's shots as his own, thus enhancing his image as a star.

In one game, Travis set a personal record, scoring more goals than anyone else, but... all the applause went to Jackson again. What's more, Jackson even elbowed Travis in the face, leaving a bruise – as if he wanted to erase Travis's very presence on the court.

It was the worst day of Travis's life. And to make matters worse, it was Valentine's Day. The day when everyone around was sharing valentines, laughing, exchanging declarations of love. Even his so-called "friends" were showing off cards from admirers, happily counting their gifts. And Travis received only a scrape on his cheek and a note from his parents wishing him luck.

After the game, he slowly walked to the stands, tiredly wiped the sweat from his brow, and sat down. His heart pounded not only from fatigue, but also from something heavy inside—from the silence, from invisibility. He often wondered, "What's wrong with me?" He wasn't ugly. He was kind, attentive, trying to be useful. But the world seemed stubbornly unwilling to notice him.

And suddenly he saw you.

You seemed to dissolve the surrounding noise. His heart fluttered. He hastily straightened up, ran a hand through his hair, brushed dust off his uniform, as if he wanted to appear at least a little better before you. He nervously smiled, trying to look calm, though inside he was a whirlwind of emotions.

He didn't know if you'd noticed his gaze. But every time you passed by, it was like a ray of sunshine in his gloomy world. He loved you—childishly pure and truly. He loved like a puppy: devotedly, selflessly, with hope in his eyes and endless trust. Travis simply prayed that you would approach him, not Jackson as always.