Basketball System: Rebound of the Underdog

Kai glanced over his shoulder for the third time that day, checking to see if they were being followed. His hand tightened around Lina's, and he leaned in close, whispering as they walked. A few days had passed since Kai became a national champion, and now, he wanted to go on a date with Lina before attending the Yuze's and the others' graduation tomorrow. "You have no idea how many times I've been stopped just trying to get groceries," he muttered. He was dressed casually (better than his ratty shorts and shirt, of course), but there was no hiding his height, his distinct walk, and that aura he carried after the Nationals. Lina chuckled, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. "Well, my boyfriend is very popular now," she teased, raising an eyebrow at him. Her eyes sparkled with amusement, clearly enjoying his discomfort more than she should. "Yeah, yeah, laugh it up," Kai sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's like I can't go anywhere without someone asking for a picture or an autograph. I just wanted a quiet date, you know?" Lina's smile softened. "A quiet date with Jilin's golden boy? That's wishful thinking." Kai smirked, shaking his head. "You think it's funny now, but wait until—" He was cut off by the sound of excited voices. "Oh my God, it's Kai Guo!" Kai's shoulders sagged as he turned to see a group of girls rushing toward them. He forced a polite smile, giving Lina an apologetic look. "See what I mean?" Lina couldn't help but laugh, even as Kai took a step forward, putting on his best public face. "Hey, everyone," he greeted, his voice calm and friendly. "I'm actually on a date right now, so I'd appreciate it if—" "Can we get a photo, please? Just one!" one of the girls pleaded, holding out her phone. Kai scratched the back of his head, glancing back at Lina. "I'm really sorry, but I'm trying to spend some time with my girlfriend today," he said with a polite bow. The girls pouted but didn't seem ready to give up. "You're so cool, Kai! Just one picture, and we'll leave you alone, we promise!" Kai sighed, but Lina stepped forward. "Just take a photo with them, Kai," she smiled kindly. The girls excitedly went next to Kai while Lina snapped their pictures. As soon as they were gone, Kai exhaled, shoulders slumping. "Thanks for understanding," he muttered, squeezing Lina's hand. "I swear, it's like this everywhere now." Lina laughed and gave him a playful nudge. "Well, it's something I have to get used to, right?" Kai shot her a look. He pursed his lips before clearing his throat. "Hey, you want to go to my place instead? It's quieter there. And, you know, fewer people trying to take pictures of me." "Your place?" Lina raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "You sure your grandma won't kick me out?" Kai laughed. "Nah, she likes you more than she likes me." Lina's eyes lit up. "I'd love to go. Besides, we can save up some money! Your grandma cooks the best," she said with a grin. Kai looked at her, his heartwarming. He felt a little guilty about having to change their plans, but Lina's smile melted away his worries. "Alright, let's go before someone else recognizes me," he said, tugging her along as they made their way to his house. *** They arrived at Kai's home. The garden was full of blooming flowers, the handiwork of his grandma, who loved to spend her mornings outside. The scent of home-cooked food wafted through the open window, making Kai's stomach growl. "Grandma, I'm home!" Kai called out as he pushed open the door, holding it open for Lina. Grandma Bingbing appeared from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron. Her eyes softened when she saw Lina. "Ah, you brought the pretty girl again!" she exclaimed, moving over to give Lina a warm hug. Kai watched, feeling a bit left out. "Nice to see you too, Grandma," he said dryly, but there was a smile tugging at his lips. Grandma Bingbing patted Lina's cheek fondly. "You look thinner than the last time, dear. Have you been eating properly?" Lina blushed, laughing. "I've been alright, Grandma. Just busy with the tournament." "Busy, busy," Grandma Bingbing muttered. "Well, you're here now. I made plenty of food. Come, sit down and eat. You too, Kai, if you must," she added with a teasing smirk. Kai threw his hands up in mock defeat. "I get it, I get it. I'm the second favorite now." Grandma Bingbing shook her head. "You were never in the options." Lina giggled and tugged him over to the table. "Grandma, this looks amazing!" Kai said, practically drooling as he reached for a dumpling. His grandma swatted his hand away. "Not yet! Let Lina take the first bite. You're like a wild animal sometimes," she scolded. Kai looked offended, but Lina just laughed. "Thank you, Grandma. It looks delicious," she said, taking a bite and humming in satisfaction. Kai pouted but waited his turn, finally digging in when his grandma gave him the nod. They ate together, the room filled with the sound of laughter and clinking chopsticks. Lina leaned back in her chair, patting her stomach. "I swear, no restaurant in the city can beat your cooking, Grandma," she said, looking content. Grandma Bingbing snorted, waving her off. "Of course they can't. Those places don't know how to cook with love," she said. Lina wiped her mouth with a napkin and set it down, smiling at both of them. "Thank you so much for the meal. It was amazing." Grandma Bingbing reached across the table, patting Lina's hand. "Anytime, dear. You're always welcome here," she said warmly. Kai couldn't help but smile. He loved seeing how well his grandma and Lina got along. It made everything feel right, like a perfect balance in his hectic life. Just as they were finishing up, Grandma Bingbing leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing her face. She folded her hands in her lap and gave Kai a long glance. "So, Kai," she started, her tone casual but serious, "if you accept the invitation to play in the Global Games, does that mean you'll leave Shizi High and Lina to train?"