Push past Jamal

John’s sneakers squeaked as he tried to sidestep Jamal, but the quarterback’s foot shot out, sending John crashing onto the linoleum. The impact stung his palms, and his backpack straps dug into his shoulders. The hallway erupted in laughter, with a few sophomores capturing the moment on their phones.

Jamal towered over him, his shadow stretching across John’s body like a dark specter. "Looks like you're a little clumsy, Doe," he chuckled, adjusting his sweatpants. The movement drew attention to the bulge in his pants, and John's face burned with embarrassment.

Jamal's grin grew wider. He reached down, grabbing John's shirt collar, the fabric stretching tight against his throat. The scent of Axe body spray and weed wafted off Jamal, making John's stomach turn.

John's heart pounded in his ears as he struggled to break free from Jamal's grip.