After the game.

A few people had stayed behind but now it was just Tom and the court. He wasn't wearing a top and his pale, peachy skin glistened with the sweat of excercise, his hair sticking to his face. He was exhausted, grabbing his water bottle, throwing his head back and drinking most of it in one go. He wiped his forehead before picking up the ball once more.

Jeremiah always watched the games and the practices, always. He was more reliable to be there than some of the players, but he only watched, never joined in. Even after everyone else had, left, Jeremiah hadn't, he had stayed, watching Tom, able to still feel the softness of his lips from when he had kissed the older boy. He pushed the memory out of his mind, him leaning in and kissing Tom, and then pulling back and leaving before Tom had been able to do anything. Why had he done that? And also, since that a few days ago, why had he been avoiding Tom? Not giving him a chance to talk to him or say anything? But even though he couldn't think of a reason, he knew there must be one, as he couldn't take his eyes of the tall, beautiful guy.

Tom was glistening, glittering with the salty perspiration that layered his skin like silver dust.

He stretched, his muscles flexing.

Jeremiah just watched, not moving, not making a sound.

Tom began to dribble the basketball.

Jeremiah had his eyes locked on him, taking in everything about him.

Tom paused, looked over at Jeremiah and smiled, waving at him.

Jeremiah, after a moment, gave a small wave back.

Tom gestured for Jeremiah to come to him, to play one on one.

Jeremiah shook his head, going to leave.

Tom's eyes widened and he jogged over. "Sorry. You don't have to leave..."

Jeremiah stopped and turned to him.

"I just wondered if you wanted to play?"

"Thank you for asking, but I do not play."

"Ah. Well, I apologise..."

Jeremiah shook his head, "Do not. It is fine."

"Uh...you can always stay and keep me company?"

Jeremiah paused and then nodded, "If you do not mind."

"I am suggesting it...am I not?"

Jeremiah nodded.

Tom nodded.

Jeremiah's eyes flickered away from him.

Tom turned back to play.

Jeremiah didn't look back to him. At least he didn't seem to hate him.

Tom threw the ball, watching it neatly go into the basket.