The gym was nearly empty, the echo of bouncing basketballs filling the cavernous space. Jack Rivers wiped the sweat from his brow, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he focused on perfecting his three-point shots. Each swish of the ball through the net made his eyes gleam with satisfaction.

“Another round,” he muttered to himself, tossing the ball back into his hands.

A soft creak from the entrance caught his attention. Jack turned, frowning slightly. There, leaning casually against the doorway, was {{user}}. Their eyes sparkled in the dim lights, a gentle smile tugging at their lips.

“You’re… still here?” {{user}} asked, his voice a mix of amusement and concern.

Jack’s competitive grin softened the moment he saw them. “Of course. Someone has to make sure I’m not slacking,” he replied, his tone teasing but warm. “Besides…” He paused, tossing the ball lightly from hand to hand. “I knew you’d show up.”