The spotlight from above caught his eyes, making them twinkle like stars in the night sky.

He radiated a captivating presence.

After their performance, the players offered a bow to the audience before exiting the stage.

As the competition pressed on, the audience’s energy soared, many still enthralled by Neal’s astonishing gaming skills that had shattered expectations.

Out of nowhere, a tap on her shoulder sent a shock through Bonita.

Turning around, she saw Fernanda and let out a breath of relief.

“What are you staring at?” Fernanda asked, pretending not to know.

“Um, just watching the contest,” Bonita stammered, her large eyes flicking away nervously as she felt Fernanda’s probing stare.

Fernanda’s eyes landed on the banner Bonita held, adorned with Neal’s name in vibrant pink, shouting support.

A memory flashed in Fernanda’s mind about recent chatter among friends suggesting Neal seemed distracted, possibly by romantic feelings.

Was Bonita in on this secret?

Fernanda remembered Bonita’s early confession of feelings to Neal, followed by what seemed like disinterest.

It had been ages since Fernanda witnessed any voluntary interaction between Bonita and Neal, their encounters marked by polite distance. Now it seemed that Bonita had not moved on from her feelings for Neal.

“Listen, Fernanda, I need to step out. We can catch up later, okay?” Bonita hurriedly exclaimed, rushing off as though escaping.

Once outside, she pressed her back against the wall, peering around to ensure privacy before she drew out her phone.

The gentle spring breeze replaced winter’s chill, softly kissing her face. With the noise of the venue now a distant murmur, only the occasional honk of cars broke the silence.

Breaking the silence, Bonita concentrated on Neal’s message displayed on her screen.

Lately, their exchanges had become more frequent and natural, the initial awkwardness giving way to a genuine connection.

Neal had just asked her about his performance, apparently looking for praise from her.

Bonita felt a mix of emotions—there was sweetness and timidity, but mostly, her heart seemed to bubble with a fizzy, pink delight. She typed on the screen and sent it.

“You are really amazing.”

Biting her lip, she followed up with another message, asking, “How did you know I was here?”

“Surely, you would show up. It’s obvious,” Neal replied quickly.

Bonita could almost hear his voice, casual yet filled with certainty.

He was sure she would be there.

While Bonita was figuring out what to reply next, a hesitant voice interrupted her thoughts.

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