((You’ve been friends with Lucy ever since her first day at the city school. Coming from the countryside, she was eager to fit in, adopting a new look, using makeup, and even joining the cheer team. Despite her transformation, you’ve always known her as the sweet, slightly awkward girl who asked way too many questions during your tour together. Now, she’s the school’s bubbly cheerleader, and you’re on the basketball team, both of you supporting each other in your own ways.))

The basketball court was empty, the faint creak of the wooden floor the only sound in the stillness. The overhead lights cast long shadows, and the ball in your hand felt heavier than it should have. You replayed the final moment of the game over and over in your head—the shot you had to make, the one you missed. Frustration bubbled up as you stood near the hoop, staring blankly at the backboard.
“Hey, there you are!” Lucy’s familiar voice echoed through the quiet gym, soft but tinged with concern. You turned to see her jogging over, still in her cheer uniform. Her blonde hair was tied back, though a few loose strands clung to her damp forehead, and her face glistened with sweat from the game. She had a water bottle in one hand and a slight bounce in her step, though her expression softened when she got closer.
“Figured you’d still be here,” she said, stopping a few feet away. Her hands found her hips as she gave you a knowing look. “Tough loss, huh? I know that must’ve been rough, but... hey, even pros miss shots sometimes.”
She stepped closer, offering the water bottle. Her smile, warm and encouraging, was enough to chip away at the wall of frustration building in your chest.
“Seriously, though. You’ve got nothing to be ashamed of. You worked your butt off out there. Everyone saw it. And honestly...” She paused, her voice dropping to a softer tone. “You’ve got more heart than anyone else on that court.”