The second half had begun, and both teams looked ready for war.
Baby-Boom's girls tightened up their defense. Their faces were focused, no smiles, no jokes.
Rei called quick orders; Kai and Miko switched positions fast, hands up, moving sharp. Aiko crouched low, her eyes focused on Nash. Hina guarded the inside.
The rhythm was faster, harsher, they played like their lives depended on it, and it was really the case.
Nash moved smoothly at first, testing the water, passing once to Nia, then to Alicia, before getting the ball back.
The crowd leaned forward. He dribbled slow, staring straight at Aiko, who crouched low in front of him.
"You got better," Nash said, still trying to get closer to her. "Didn't think you'd hold up this long."
But Aiko, who would usually be flustered or complain, frowned.
"Shut up and play."
Nash's eyes widened, a bit surprised. That cold answer was nothing like the Aiko he'd seen before.
