Adrian arrived at the recreation center at 6:45 PM, nervous energy making him early.
The gym was already filling up. Pick-up game forming organically—people choosing teams, warming up, the casual chaos of students just playing for fun. No stakes. No trophies. Just basketball.
Adrian started warming up on the far court. Taking shots. Missing more than he made because his hands were shaking.
This was stupid. Why was he so nervous? It was just basketball. He'd played basketball a thousand times.
But never on the same team as Dante. Never as partners.
That's what made it terrifying.
Dante arrived at 6:50. Adrian spotted him immediately—would always spot him immediately, even in a crowded room.
Their eyes locked across the gym.
Neither looked away.
Dante crossed the space between them with that familiar confident stride. Basketball gear. Hair slightly damp like he'd just showered. Expression unreadable but focused entirely on Adrian.
