baigepueckers

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my girl in bright lights ⭐️⭐️

w 34th st and 7th ave, nyc !

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love love love pt 2, thank u for ur service queen 👑

Of course 🫡

Any ideas send them my way

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good morning america 😩

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AAAAAAAAAAAA pt 2 was everything i was hoping for and more, literally the best nika x reader piece ive ever read 😭 ty ty ty omg looking forward to your next fic 🫶

You’re too sweet!! Thank you so much for your support! ❤️❤️

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Nika Mühl X Reader

Number Ten Part 2

You took a deep breath before pushing open the door to Tim’s, the low hum of conversation spilling out into the cool night air. The dimly lit bar was packed a mix of college students filling the space, but your eyes were already searching for one person.

You clutched your phone tightly rereading Nika’s text one more time… Front left corner. Can’t wait to see you ❤️. Her words echoed in your mind with a source of comfort and the reason butterflies were swirling in your stomach. Meeting Nika was one thing, but meeting her team? You weren’t sure if your nerves could handle it.

You told yourself to breathe. Nika had made you feel safe, seen, and wanted in ways you hadn’t felt in a long time.

You spotted her almost immediately. Even in the crowded bar she stood out…her broad smile and effortless energy drawing you in like a magnet. She was mid laugh leaning against the table where her teammates sat but the moment she caught sight of you, her entire demeanor shifted.

Her eyes lit up and her smile softened into something just for you. She straightened up… already moving toward you completely ignoring the playful protests from her teammates behind her.

“Y/N” she greeted, her voice warm and filled with that familiar accent. “I was starting to think you got cold feet.”

You laughed nervously…shrugging as she closed the distance between you. “I almost did.”

“Good thing you didn’t” she said her tone low as her gaze swept over you. “You look… incredible.”

Her eyes lingered and you felt heat rise to your cheeks. She didn’t try to hide it either, the way her gaze softened as if she couldn’t quite believe you were standing in front of her.

“Thanks” you murmured, fidgeting slightly. “I feel a little overdressed compared to the team though.”

She chuckled, shaking her head. “Trust me, they don’t matter. Tonight I only care about you.”

Her words made your heart stutter and before you could respond Nika reached out, her hand finding yours with an ease that felt so natural. Her touch was warm and steady, in a way that melted away some of your nerves.

“Come on” she said her thumb brushing lightly over your knuckles. “I’ll introduce you, but don’t worry…they’re going to love you.”

You let her lead you toward the table, the chatter of the Uconn basketball team growing louder as you approached. They were an intimidating group…athletic, confident, and clearly close…but the way Nika stayed close to you and her hand never leaving yours made you feel braver.

“This is Y/N” Nika announced, her voice filled with pride as she glanced back at you. “The one I haven’t shut up about.”

Her teammates erupted into a chorus of teasing remarks and knowing laughs and you felt your cheeks burn. Nika just grinned clearly unfazed, and leaned in closer to murmur “Don’t let them get to you. They’re just teasing assholes.”

You laughed softly finding her playful reassurance oddly comforting.

As the night went on you found yourself relaxing more and more. Nika made sure of it, never straying far from your side her hand often brushing against yours or settling on your back in a gesture that felt protective and affectionate.

Whenever you laughed at something that KK or Paige said or joined in on the banter, Nika would watch you with a look that made your heart flutter. It was as if she couldn’t quite believe you were here, as if every smile or laugh you gave was something she wanted to memorize.

As the night went on Nika eventually got up to grab another round of drinks for the you both, leaving you with her teammates. You watched her retreat to the bar, her effortless confidence making it hard to look away.

“Is she always like that?” you asked, gesturing toward her as she leaned against the counter.

“Like what?” Azzi asked.

“Charming, smooth, completely confident?”

Azzi laughed, nodding in agreement. “Oh, absolutely. She’s the worst” She joked her tone was full of affection.

Your smile widened but the moment was interrupted when a man approached your table uninvited.

“Hey” he said, his gaze fixed on you. “Mind if I join you?”

You blinked, caught off guard. “Uh, actually…”

“Come on” he interrupted, flashing a grin that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “It’s just one drink.”

You glanced toward the bar, your chest tightening. Nika was still waiting for the bartender her back turned to the table.

“I’m here with someone” you said firmly.

The man didn’t seem to care, his grin widening. “They don’t seem to be paying much attention.”

Before you could respond a familiar voice cut through the noise.

“She’s with me.”

Nika was back.

Her tone was calm, but there was an unmistakable edge to it as she stepped between you and the man. She wasn’t smiling, her usually playful expression replaced with something far more serious.

The man held up his hands in mock surrender. “Relax…I was just talking to her.”

“Well, now you’re not” Nika said her voice steady and cold. “So move along.”

For a moment it looked like the man might argue but one glance at Nika’s stance… her height, her broad shoulders, the way her gaze dared him to test her…and he thought better of it. With a mumbled excuse he turned and disappeared into the crowd.

Once he was gone, Nika turned to you, her expression softening instantly. “You okay?”

You nodded, though your heart was still racing…not from the man’s attention, but from the way Nika had handled it. There was something so steady, so protective in the way she had come to your side that it made you feel both reassured and slightly breathless.

“Yeah,” you said softly. “Thanks.”

Nika’s jaw relaxed, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. “No one bothers you while I’m here” she said, her voice low but full of meaning.

She slid back into her seat next to you angling her body so it was as though she was shielding you from the rest of the bar. Her hand found your knee, her fingers brushing against possessively.

“Did he say anything stupid?” she asked her tone light now though there was still an edge in her gaze.

“Not really” you admitted, smiling a little. “You scared him off before he got the chance.”

“Good” she said with a grin, leaning closer. “No one’s allowed to steal you away from me.”

Her words sent a pleasant warmth through your chest, and you couldn’t help but laugh softly. “You’re a little over the top, you know that?”

“Maybe” she said, her grin widening as her fingers laced with yours under the table. “But I can’t help myself.”

The rest of the team didn’t press you for details about what had happened though you noticed a couple of them exchanging glances with Nika.

As the night wound down, the bar grew quieter and the team was thinning out as they began to head home. You and Nika were nestled in the corner of the booth, her arm was draped along the back of your seat.

Her teammates had all filtered out by now, each offering warm goodbyes and a few playful winks in Nika’s direction that made her roll her eyes but smile. By now it was just the two of you, the conversation flowing easily yet laced with the kind of nervous energy that made every glance and smile feel heavy with meaning.

When the bartender called for last call Nika looked at you, her smile soft and almost shy. “Do you, um… do you want to keep hanging out?”

You hesitated for a moment not because you didn’t want to, but because your pulse was thrumming with the realization that this felt like more than just a casual offer. “Where would we go?”

Her fingers brushed the edge of the table as she spoke her voice quieter now. “My place? We could… I don’t know, talk more. No pressure, though.”

Her gaze flickered to yours full of vulnerability that made your chest ache. It was clear she was trying to tread carefully, not wanting to push too hard or risk scaring you off.

“I’d like that” you said, your voice soft.

Her whole face lit up at your answer and she let out a small, relieved laugh. She stood slipping on her jacket before offering you your own. “Here, sweets” she murmured, holding it out for you. When you slid your arms into the sleeves, her hands lingered lightly on your shoulders for a moment before she stepped back.

The walk to her apartment was quiet but not awkward. Nika kept her hands shoved into her pockets, but as you both turned onto a quieter street her hand brushed yours. The small touch sent a thrill through you, and when she tentatively reached for your hand you gave it to her without hesitation.

She exhaled softly glancing over at you with a bashful smile. For the rest of the walk, you held onto each other, the silence between you filled with the sound of your footsteps and the faint hum of the city around you.

When you reached her apartment she paused at the door, turning to face you. “I just…before we go up I want to make sure you’re comfortable. If you change your mind at any point that’s totally fine.”

Her sincerity was disarming, and it made you feel safer than you expected. “I’m comfortable, Nika” you said softly.

She smiled, opening the door and leading you inside. Her apartment was cozy, with little touches that spoke to her personality…books piled neatly on the coffee table, a framed UConn jersey on the wall, and a pair of sneakers kicked off haphazardly by the door.

“It’s not much” she said, rubbing the back of her neck. “But it’s home.”

You glanced around, taking in the warmth of the space, before looking back at her. “It’s perfect.”

Her cheeks flushed faintly and she gestured toward the couch. “Make yourself comfortable. I’ll get us some water.”

As she disappeared into the kitchen you sank into the couch, your fingers fidgeting slightly with the edge of your sleeve. The reality of being here in her space, felt both exhilarating and nerve wracking.

When she returned with two glasses of water she handed one to you before sitting beside you, close enough that your knees brushed. For a moment, neither of you said anything the quiet between you heavy but not uncomfortable.

“I’m glad you came tonight, Y/N” she said finally, her voice soft.

“So am I” you replied, your heart pounding as you met her gaze.

Her eyes searched yours and she hesitated before reaching out, her fingers brushing a stray strand of hair behind your ear. The touch was so gentle, it made your breath hitch.

“I haven’t felt like this in a long time” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “Like I can just… be myself with someone.”

Your chest tightened at her words, and you placed your hand over hers, letting your thumb trace lightly against her knuckles. “You’re too sweet” you said softly, your voice steady despite the rush of emotions swelling inside you.

Her lips quirked into a small smile, her gaze dropping briefly to where your hands were joined. “I was nervous about tonight” she confessed. “Not about you….I mean, I was nervous about impressing you. But… this right now? It feels easy.”

“It does, doesn’t it?” you agreed, your voice barely audible.

She leaned in slightly, her forehead nearly brushing yours. “I don’t want to mess this up, baby” she murmured, her breath warm against your skin.

“You won’t” you promised, your words coming out steadier than you expected.

The two of you sat closely on the couch, the conversation started to flow again, soft and easy. Nika asked you questions that felt genuine…about your favorite books, your dreams, and even little things like your go to coffee order. She seemed to hang on your every word, her focus so strong it made you feel like the most important person in the world.

You found yourself opening up in ways you hadn’t expected���laughing softly as you shared embarrassing stories or pausing when the moment called for something deeper. And Nika listened. Really listened. Her responses were thoughtful and her laugh…god, her laugh it lit up the entire room.

At some point the conversation turned to basketball, and she told you about her first game at UConn, the pressure she’d felt and the joy of being part of something bigger. “But you know what made it worth it?” she asked, her voice soft as she glanced at you. “Moments like this. Meeting people who make me feel like all of it.”

Your cheeks warmed at her words and for a moment, you were at a loss for how to respond. But she didn’t press, just reached for your hand again, her thumb brushing over your knuckles in a gesture that felt grounding.

Time slipped away as the two of you talked, the outside world forgotten. It wasn’t until a yawn slipped past your lips that Nika glanced at the clock and let out a soft laugh.

“It’s late” she said her tone full of surprise. “I didn’t even realize.”

You followed her gaze to the clock and blinked. It was almost 2 a.m., and your stomach flipped at the realization of how long you’d been here. “I should probably go” you murmured, but the words felt heavier than you expected.

Nika’s hand tightened slightly around yours and for a moment, she didn’t say anything. Then her gaze flickered back to yours, hesitant. “You don’t have to” she said softly.

You blinked. “What do you mean?”

She shifted her hand still holding yours, as she spoke. “I mean… stay. For the night. I don’t want you walking home this late and I’d feel better knowing you’re safe here with me.”

Her words were tentative as though she was testing the waters, but the sincerity in her tone left doubt.

“I wouldn’t want to intrude” you said softly, though your heart was racing at the thought of staying.

“You wouldn’t be, I promise” Nika assured you quickly. Her voice was calm but full of sincerity. “Really, Y/N. I’d like it if you stayed. No pressure just… if you’re comfortable.”

Her gaze searched yours and the vulnerability in her expression made your chest ache. She wasn’t pushing… she was simply offering, her intentions were clear.

After a moment you nodded. “Okay, yeah I’ll stay” you said softly.

Her smile widened and she let out a small, relieved breath. “Okay” she echoed.

She stood then, her hand slipping from yours as she moved toward the hallway. “I’ll grab you something to wear…something more comfortable than… well, this.” She gestured playfully at your current outfit and you couldn’t help but laugh.

A few minutes later, she handed you a soft, oversized sweatshirt…her sweatshirt…and a pair of shorts that looked equally cozy. “Bathroom’s just down the hall” she said, her tone light but her gaze lingering on you like she didn’t want to let you out of her sight.

When you stepped out of the bathroom wearing Nika’s clothes you felt both comfortable and giddy. The fabric was soft against your skin but it smelled distinctly like her…warm, clean, and subtly intoxicating.

Nika’s door was slightly open, you knocked lightly and peeked in she looked up from where she was sitting on the bed, scrolling on her phone. Her reaction was instant.

Her eyes widened slightly as they roamed over you taking in the sight of her clothes on your frame. A slow lopsided grin spread across her face, making your cheeks heat up. “Wow” she said softly setting her phone down.

“What?” you asked, shifting under her gaze.

She shook her head, her grin turning into a smirk as she leaned back on her hands. “You look hot” she admitted, her tone casual but her eyes saying something else entirely. “Really hot. Like, too hot for my old sweatshirt.”

You laughed nervously, tugging at the hem of the sweatshirt. “It’s comfy. And it smells like you.” The words escaped before you could stop them and your face burned.

Nika’s expression softened, her smirk turning into a tender smile. “That’s a good thing, right?” she asked her voice quieter now.

You nodded, your heart fluttering in your chest. “Yeah…It’s a really good.”

She stood, closing the small distance between you and leaning her shoulder against the doorframe her eyes never leaving yours. “You know” she said softly, a playful edge creeping into her voice. “I think I might need to make you your own collection of Nika approved loungewear. You’re making this look unfairly good.”

You rolled your eyes, though you couldn’t hide your smile. “Stopppp” you muttered, brushing past her into the room.

Nika giggled before her demeanor changed “So” she said hesitating slightly, her hands fidgeting. “The couch is all set up but… if you’d rather not sleep out there alone, you can… um…” Her voice trailed off her cheeks coloring faintly.

You blinked, your heart stuttering as you realized what she was suggesting. “Are you sure?”

She nodded quickly her smile a little nervous but genuine. “Yeah, I’m sure. I just thought…I mean, it’s totally up to you, but…” She exhaled softly, giving you a tentative look. “I’d like it if you stayed with me.”

Your chest tightened at her words and despite the nerves bubbling up inside you, you found yourself nodding. “Okay, I’ll stay with you.” you said, your voice barely above a whisper.

You slid under the covers, your heart pounding as Nika joined you, the mattress dipping slightly under her weight. She turned to face you her expression shy and warmth. “You okay?” she asked softly, her voice low in the already quiet room.

You nodded though your breath hitched as her knee brushed against yours under the blanket. “Yeah, I’m perfect” you murmured.

For a moment neither of you said anything…then as if drawn by some force, Nika reached out, her fingers brushing lightly against yours.

Her touch was tentative, but you didn’t pull away…instead you shifted closer, your knees brushing again as your breath mingled in the small space between you.

“Y/N” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Yeah?”

Her eyes softened, and she gave you a small nervous smile. “Can I…”

Before she could finish, you nodded your heart racing as you leaned in just enough to close the space between you.

Her lips met yours gently at first, the kiss soft. But as your hand moved to rest against her cheek, she deepened it slightly her confidence growing as she tilted her head to capture your lips more fully.

When you finally pulled back, your forehead rested against hers, both of you breathing softly in the quiet of the room.

“I’ve wanted to do that all night.” she admitted her voice so soft it sent a shiver down your spine.

You smiled your heart swelling as you looked into her eyes. “Me too, baby ” you whispered.

Her lips curved into a grin, and she let out a soft laugh her thumb brushing lightly over the back of your hand. “Guess we’ve got that out of the way now.” she teased gently.

You laughed softly feeling a warmth settle in your chest as you nestled closer to her, your head resting on her shoulder. As her arm wrapped around you, pulling you close and you allowed yourself to breathe her in… the steady rise and fall of her chest grounding you.

In the quiet of the room with Nika’s heartbeat against your ear, you smiled to yourself. Feeling giddy and impossibly lucky, if someone had told you that putting on a shirt with Mühl printed across the back would end with you in her arms, you wouldn’t have believed it.

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I need part twoooooooooooooooo

it’s in the workssss

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oh yeah a part 2 pls 🙏🙏

on my way 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

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Stop her dimples 🧎‍♀️🧎‍♀️

HI DIMP DIMP 🥹

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I second the person who asked for a pt 2 to the Nika fic, all I want for christmas is that 🤭

lol i didn’t know we wanted a part 2 that bad!!

i’m loving the feedback

[baigepueckers]

WAAAAAIT ok i know you just posted that nika fic but. is there anyway you were planning on a part two or 🥺 the ending is perfect as is but i kinda wanna see what happens at tim’s 🙈 amazing piece btw, i was getting butterflies the whole way through 😩

haha thank you!! I wasn’t planning on it… but if we really want it i’ll seeee 😊

[baigepueckers]

Nika Mühl X Reader

Number Ten

You sit hunched over your laptop in the cozy corner of the small on campus coffee shop, the warm scent of roasting beans and cinnamon swirling around you. You’ve been nursing your coffee for over an hour, absentmindedly sipping between typing out a super frustrating homework assignment. Wearing your friend’s oversized UConn shirt with “Muhl” and the number 10 on the back, you barely give it a second thought as you rub your tired eyes. To you it’s just another comfortable piece of clothing, the worn fabric a perfect match for your lazy study day.

The bell above the door chimes softly as Nika Mühl steps into the cafe, her tall athletic frame a commanding presence despite the casual hoodie she wears. She’s just finished up practice and is on a quick coffee run for her and Paige but as she scans the room for an open spot, her gaze falls on something unexpected.

There, tucked away in the corner is a beautiful girl. Wearing her shirt?

Nika blinks her heart skipping a beat as she takes in the sight. The number 10. Her name. You have no idea the attention you have just attracted, completely engrossed in whatever is on your laptop. Your brow is furrowed slightly in concentration and your hair falling softly around your face. The sight makes Nika’s breath catch, and she finds herself blushing at you wearing her shirt.

After ordering her and Paige’s coffees, Nika takes a deep breath wiping her palms on her sweats nervously before making her way over to your table.

“Hey” Nika says, her voice soft but just enough to catch your attention.

You glance up, your fingers freezing mid typing as you look into the eyes of the person standing before you. Tall. Athletic. Gorgeous. Your heart gives a small flutter, though you’re not entirely sure why. Maybe it’s the way her eyes sparkle when they meet yours or the warmth in her smile that makes your stomach do a little flip.

“Hi…” you reply your voice trailing off uncertainly. You glance around, unsure if the girl is talking to you or someone behind you.

Catching on Nika chuckles softly, rubbing the back of her neck. “Sorry to bother you but I couldn’t help but notice…nice shirt.”

You blink, then look down at the oversized UConn shirt you have on. “Oh this? Yeah, it’s my friend’s” you say casually tugging at the hem. “I don’t really know much about the team or the number or anything. She just gave it to me because I needed something comfy.”

Nika’s eyebrows shoot up, and she has to suppress the laugh bubbling up. She finds it both endearing and amusing. Most people would have recognized her by now, especially if they were wearing her number.

“Wait, so you don’t know anything about number ten?” Nika asks her voice teasing but gentle.

You shake your head with a small smile. “Nope, sorry. I’m kinda clueless when it comes to basketball.” You give a small apologetic shrug. “I’m just trying to survive accounting.”

Nika can’t help but laugh a warm sound that makes your heart flutter again. “Well, you’re talking to number ten.” Nika says, a playful glint in her eye. “Nika Mühl…that’s me.”

Your eyes widen your hand flying up to cover your mouth as you gasp softly. “Oh my God, you’re number ten? I’m so sorry, jeez i’m so stupid! I had no idea!”

Nika grins, clearly amused by the situation. “Don’t worry, it happens”she says with a lighthearted shrug. “But it’s kind of cute, honestly.”

Your face flushes a deep shade of red, and you bite your lip, laughing at yourself. “Well, now I feel like an idiot.”

“No no, don’t” Nika says quickly, her tone softening. She leans in a little closer, her voice lowering as if she’s sharing a secret. “Actually I like that you didn’t know. It’s… refreshing.”

You blink…your heart doing that strange little thing again. The way Nika’s brown eyes soften as they hold your gaze makes your pulse quicken. You can feel the butterflies in your stomach start to flutter. Nika is… charming. And really, really beautiful.

“Thanks, I guess…” you mumble shyly, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. “Still feel kind of embarrassed, though.”

“Well…” Nika says, her grin turning a little more playful. “I have a way for you to make it up to me.”

You tilt your head, intrigued. “Oh?”

Nika leans against the table her voice dropping into a playful tone. “How about you come to our next game? I can get you a ticket..court side. Maybe then you’ll learn something about the team.” she teases, her eyes sparkling with that same warmth.

You blink caught off guard by the offer. “Wait, seriously? You’d do that?”

“Of course” Nika says, her smile widening. “I’d love to see you there. And who knows” she adds, her gaze softening again. “maybe you’ll become a fan of number ten after all.”

You can’t help but smile back, your heart racing a little faster now. “I’d like that…I’ll definitely come.”

Nika grins the excitement in her eyes clear as she reaches into her pocket, pulling out her phone. “Give me your number and I’ll send you all the details.”

You blush again but hand your phone over without hesitation. As Nika quickly types in her number, she hands the phone back with a smile that makes your knees feel weak.

“There..” Nika says, her voice warm and full of promise. “I’ll see you at the game, Y/N.”

With that, Nika flashes one last smile before grabbing the coffees from the counter. As she walks out of the cafe, you can’t stop the huge grin from spreading across your face. Your heart is racing, and you have to take a deep breath to calm yourself down.

What just happened?

You glance down at your phone…the contact labeled simply “Nika 💙” staring back at you.

She was definitely flirting with me, right? you think, an excitement bubbling in your chest.

As you return to your homework, all thoughts of assignments and deadlines are quickly replaced with thoughts of a certain basketball player with the number ten stitched onto her back.

You walk into Gampel Pavilion, nerves buzzing in your chest. For days you haven’t been able to focus on anything…all you can think about is this game. More specifically you can’t stop thinking about Nika. You’ve been trying to convince yourself that it’s just a casual invite that this is just a basketball game, but deep down you know you hope it’s something more.

Your mind keeps replaying the conversation at the coffee shop…the way Nika smiled at you, the subtle connection between you two that felt undeniable. Now as you weave through the crowd, you can feel the butterflies fluttering in your stomach an unfamiliar but thrilling sensation.

You finally find your seat in the front row, fingers gripping the edge nervously as you glance around the court. It doesn’t take long before you spot Nika warming up with the other players. Even in the middle of all the action, Nika stands out…the way she moves, the effortless way she handles the ball, her confidence radiating like she was born to be in the spotlight.

You try to play it cool, leaning back in your seat like any other fan enjoying the game, but your eyes keep drifting back to her. Then suddenly Nika looks up. Your eyes meet, and it feels like everything around you fades away.

She smiles at you…that same smile that made your heart flutter in the coffee shop. Before you realize it, you’re smiling back and your cheeks are heating up in spite of your attempts to stay composed.

Nika gives you a small wave, her expression soft as if to say, I’m glad you came. You quickly glance away trying to hide the warmth rushing to your face. Your heart is pounding, making it hard to focus on anything else.

As the game begins you force yourself to look around, to absorb the atmosphere but your gaze keeps finding its way back to Nika. Every time she makes a play you can’t help but watch in awe. She’s intense, competitive, and so skilled…everything you already knew but seeing her in action? It’s even more impressive in person.

What makes it harder to stay composed is that after every amazing pass, every shot Nika glances your way, her eyes twinkling with amusement like she knows exactly what she’s doing to you. It feels like there’s a silent conversation going on between you…a little game only the two of you are playing.

This is ridiculous, you think trying to calm yourself down. She’s just a basketball player, and I’m just a girl she invited to a game. But no matter how hard you try to rationalize it, that fluttery feeling in your chest tells you otherwise.

By the end of the game UConn wins easily, and the arena erupts into cheers. You stand up clapping along with the crowd, but your mind is still on Nika. As the players begin to leave the court you brace yourself, knowing she’ll come over. You don’t want to seem too eager, but as Nika walks over, her jersey clinging to her with her face glistening with sweat and adrenaline…you can feel your cool exterior slipping.

“Hey” Nika says flashing you a bright smile, her voice casual but her eyes full of something you can’t quite place. “So..what did you think? Still clueless about basketball?” Her tone is teasing but the warmth in her gaze sends a wave of heat through you.

You laugh, but it’s shaky. Trying to play it cool you shrug. “I think I’ve learned more than I expected” you say, grinning a little. “Basketball’s kinda exciting.”

Nika chuckles lingering closer, her presence close enough to make your heart race. “Kinda exciting, huh? Is that your way of saying I’ve won you over?”

You open your mouth to respond but nothing comes out at first. There’s something about the way she’s looking at you, that playful challenge in her words mixed with something deeper in her eyes and you feel completely thrown off.

“I uh…” you stammer but before you can say more, you see a shift in Nika’s expression. The teasing fades, replaced by something more sincere.

She leans in a little closer her, voice soft. “You don’t have to pretend.” she says gently, her eyes locking with yours. “I see it. I’ve seen the way you’ve been looking at me.”

Your heart skips a beat and you feel exposed, like she’s seeing right through the defenses you’ve tried so hard to keep up.

“I wasn’t….” you start but Nika smiles, that sweet knowing smile that makes your breath catch.

“Y/N” she whispers, her voice almost tender. “It’s okay…I’ve been looking at you the same way.”

Your heart races as her words sink in. She’s into me?

“You… you have?” you ask your voice barely above a whisper, like you’re afraid speaking louder might break this moment.

Nika nods, her gaze steady. “From the moment I saw you at the coffee shop. I couldn’t stop thinking about you. And tonight?” She chuckles softly. “You coming to watch my game… I was definitely trying to impress you the whole time.”

You blink your stomach doing flips. “You were?”

Nika nods again her smile turning a little shy. “Yeah. I felt silly..but I’m really into you, Y/N.”

The words hang between you and all you can feel is the warmth spreading through your chest, the butterflies swarming.

“So” Nika continues, stepping closer until you’re almost face-to-face, her hand brushing against yours. “a bunch of us are heading to Tim’s later…the bar down the street. You should come.” Her voice softens her eyes locking with yours. “We could hang out. Just us, if you want.”

Your heart races at the invitation. You know this isn’t just a casual ask. There’s something deeper in the way she’s looking at you, something that makes you feel weightless.

“Yeah” you say softly, your lips curving into a shy smile. “I’d like that.”

Nika’s face lights up, her grin widening. “Good, dijete..I’ll text you the details.” Her hand brushes yours as she pulls back and the simple touch sends a spark through your skin.

“Oh, and” she adds, her tone playful. “next time you’re rocking a real jersey with my name on it, so everyone knows who you’re here for.”

Heat rises in your cheeks at her words, and you laugh softly trying to keep your composure. “Oh, is that right?”

She smirks, her confidence unwavering. “That’s right, I’d love to see a pretty girl in my jersey…I think it’d look good on you.”

Your breath catches, the air between you charged but there’s no denying the way your heart flutters. “I guess we’ll just have to see if that’s true.” you reply your voice teasing but full of warmth.

Nika steps back slightly, her smile softening into something more tender. “We will, won’t we?” she says, her gaze lingering on yours for a moment longer. Then she gives your hand a quick, almost shy squeeze. “See you in a few, Y/N.”

She walks away, giving you another teasing glance. You feel a giddy flutter in your chest. Already counting down the minutes until you get to see her at Tim’s.

[baigepueckers]

HOE WHAT???

[baigepueckers]

I’m copping for sure 🤪🤪

Paige Bueckers is the first NIL athlete to design and launch a Nike Player Edition basketball sneaker. Her custom Nike G.T. Hustle 3 is crafted to elevate her game during the final season of her legendary collegiate career. Fans can snag the Nike G.T. Hustle 3 Paige Bueckers Player Edition starting December 7 on SNKRS and at select retailers.

[baigepueckers]

Hi beautiful 🥹

[baigepueckers]

now this was what gave me cuteness aggression @mygaynesshasnolimits

[baigepueckers]

how to become an apple?

also she looks sooo sleepy i love her i have butterflies🙂🌹

[baigepueckers]

Nika Mühl X Reader

Beyond the Game

The arena surrounds you like a heavy blanket. It’s a sound you’re used to a mix of cheers, whistles, and the squeak of sneakers on the court. But tonight it feels different. Heavier. More personal…maybe it’s because you’re facing the Seattle Storm and more specifically, her.

Nika.

You spot her as soon as you walk onto the court for warm ups. She’s sitting on the Storm bench, her brown hair pulled into a sharp ponytail her posture upright and alert. Her warmup jacket is loose over her shoulders, but you can still make out the slight bounce of her knee a telltale sign she’s nervous. It’s one of the little things you’ve picked up about her over the years, first as teammates and later as something more.

Your heart clenches and you force yourself to look away. You can’t afford distractions tonight.

The two of you met back at UConn, thrown together in the intensity of one of the best women’s basketball programs in the country. It didn’t take long for you to click. Nika’s fiery energy balanced out your quieter focus and her teasing always managed to get you out of your head when the pressure felt like too much. Over time, the late night study sessions and post practice hangouts turned into something deeper. You fell in love…deep and unshakable.

But love didn’t keep you on the same team. The draft came and went, and now you’re a Las Vegas Ace while Nika is across the country in Seattle. Different jerseys. Different cities. Different teams.

You hadn’t anticipated how hard it would be to face her on the court.

The first quarter flies by in a blur. Seattle’s defense is relentless and your team is fighting for every point. You catch glimpses of Nika on the bench, her eyes fixed on the game but every so often, they dart toward you. She doesn’t smile when you glance her way. She doesn’t need to. The way her gaze softens, just for a moment tells you everything.

The second quarter is more physical. You’re battling for position, driving into the lane when you can trying to keep your team ahead. You catch a rebound off a missed shot and bolt toward the other end of the court, the sound of your shoes pounding against the hardwood echoing in your ears. Somewhere in the chaos, you hear her voice…sharp and commanding as she shouts instructions to her team.

It sends a shiver down your spine. You’ve heard that voice a hundred times in practices, but this is different. Now, she’s an opponent.

By the third quarter, exhaustion is creeping in. The game is tight and the tension on the court is heavy. Every possession feels like a battle.. your body aches, but you push through. You always do. You’ve learned that from her…Nika, with her relentless fire.

The fourth quarter is where everything unravels.

You’re running hard, cutting toward the basket…when it happens. A Seattle forward steps into your path setting a blindside screen. You don’t see it coming. Her body collides with yours and the impact sends you flying backward. There’s no time to think, no time to react. The back of your head hits the court with a sickening thud.

Pain explodes behind your eyes, sharp and overwhelming. The world spins and the crowd’s roar becomes distant. You blink rapidly trying to clear the haze but all you can see are the harsh overhead lights and blurry shapes moving around you.

Through the haze, you hear your name.

“Y/N!”

It’s her. You know it’s her.

You manage to tilt your head just enough to see the Seattle bench. Nika is on her feet…her hands gripping the edge of her seat like she’s about to bolt onto the court. Her eyes are wide with panic, her mouth slightly open as if she’s holding back a scream.

She wants to run to you. You can see it in the way her body leans forward…as if the only thing stopping her is the weight of the game and the unspoken rules that keep her on her side of the court.

The trainers are beside you now asking questions you can barely process. “What’s your name? Can you hear me? How many fingers am I holding up?” Their voices are gentle but insistent. You try to answer but your attention keeps slipping back to her. To Nika, who hasn’t moved from her spot even though her entire body looks like it’s trembling with the effort to stay put.

You try to lift your hand a weak signal, something to let her know you’re okay…but it barely moves. She sees it anyway and her hands fly to her mouth, you can see the tears welling in her eyes.

You don’t know how much time passes before they help you to your feet. The crowd cheers as you’re led off the court…though the noise feels distant and strange. Your legs feel shaky and your head is pounding but you glance over your shoulder one more time.

Nika is still standing…still watching. Her hands are clasped in front of her chest now, like she’s holding herself together.

Back in the tunnel you’re taken to the trainer’s room for evaluation. Your head is spinning and the bright lights are making your eyes sting but all you can think about is her.

Your phone buzzes on the bench beside you. You reach for it, fumbling slightly as you try and unlock the screen…It’s a text from her.

Nika💗: Are you okay? Baby Please. Please tell me you’re okay. I can’t sit here anymore.

Your chest tightens and your eyes blur not from pain, but from the ache of knowing how much this is killing her. You type back with shaky hands.

You: I’ll be okay. Don’t worry. Play your game.

The response feels hollow but you know it’s what she needs to hear. You imagine her reading it…clutching her phone like it’s a lifeline.

The game finishes without you on the court. The trainers cleared you from anything serious…a mild concussion, bruises that will ache for days, but nothing crazy. The anxiety in your chest hasn’t eased…you know your girl. You know she’ll be looking for you the second she can.

You’re just outside the locker rooms, every passing second dragging. Your phone vibrates in your hand, and you glance down at the screen.

Nika💗: Where are you? Are you still with the trainers? I’m coming to find you.

You barely have time to respond before you hear hurried footsteps echoing down the hallway.

Nika rounds the corner, her hair damp from a rushed shower and her Storm warmup jacket thrown hastily on. Her eyes are scanning the hallway frantic, until they land on you. She stops for a split second, and then she’s running.

Before you can say a word, her arms are around you pulling you into a hug so tight it almost knocks the air out of your lungs. She buries her face into the curve of your neck, her breath warm and uneven against your skin.

“You scared the hell out of me, ljubav.” she whispers her voice full of emotion. “I thought…I didn’t know if you were okay. I couldn’t come to you. God, I hated it.”

Her words spill out in a rush like she’s been holding them in since the moment you hit the court. You wrap your arms around her pulling her even closer. The tension in her body is noticeable and her hands are clutching at your jersey.

“Baby,” you murmur, your own voice thick with emotion. “I’m okay. I promise, I’m okay.”

She pulls back just enough to cup your face in her hands, her thumbs brushing lightly over your cheeks. “You don’t look okay,” she says, her voice soft. “You’re pale, and your head God, your head…”

“Gee thanks babe” you tease her while covering her hands with your own. “The trainers cleared me. Nothing serious…just some bruises and a small concussion.”

Her jaw tightens and for a moment, she doesn’t say anything. Her hands drop to your shoulders, holding you at arm’s length as her gaze hardens. “Don’t you ever do that to me again Y/N, you hear me?”

You blink at her surprised by the sudden intensity in her tone. “Do what?”

“Scare me like that” she says, her voice sharp but cracking under the weight of her emotions. “I couldn’t move, baby. I couldn’t come to you when you were lying there and it was killing me.”

Her words hit you, the raw vulnerability in her voice. You reach for her hands, squeezing them tightly. “Nika, you didn’t do anything wrong. You were there in the way I needed you to be. I saw you. I felt you.”

She frowns and she shakes her head, a tear slipping down her cheek. “You’re not allowed to get hurt like that again” she mutters, her voice quieter now but no less serious. “I don’t care if we’re on opposite teams. I’ll get ejected if I have to. I’ll run across the court next time.”

You chuckle softly, the sound broken but genuine. “I’d expect nothing less from you.”

Her lips press into a thin line but you can see the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corners. “You think I’m kidding babe?”

“I know you’re not.”

The two of you fall silent for a moment, the noise of the arena and the post-game chaos fading into the background. She leans down to kiss you, it’s passionate and intense. It makes you melt against her.

“I love you,” she says suddenly, her voice barely above a whisper. “You know that, right?”

Your chest tightens, and you nod, leaning into her touch. “I love you too. Always.”

She swallows hard and pulls you back into her arms, holding you like she’s afraid to let go.