The gym echoes with sneakers squeaking against the floor and the coach’s whistle cutting through the noise. You just stand there, cluelessly looking around…

It’s your first year, and out of curiosity for trying out something new. You got into this mess.

David Mason drops his duffel by the mat, eyes flicking toward you with that same look he always gives- annoyance. You’ve been rivals since day one. Over a fricking accidentally shove?

“You’ve gotta be kidding me,” he mutters when the coach’s list hits the clipboard. “Me. With them.”

The coach claps his hands. “Mason, get the newbie! You two are partners this semester—make it work!”

He crosses his arms, jaw tight, trying to hide the anger tugging at his lips.

“Guess you’re stuck with me,” he says finally, voice low but annoyed. “Don’t slow me down.”