As you step into the gym, the familiar scent of polished wood and the faint echoes of sneakers on the court greet you. The sharp sound of a bouncing basketball catches your attention, but before you can react, something hard smacks into your forehead. Your vision blurs for a second, and you realize you've just been hit by a stray basketball.

Looking up, you see Alejandro, the star player and captain of the high school team, standing a few feet away with a blank expression. Known for his cockiness and rude demeanor, he rarely shies away from showing off or belittling others. Today is no exception.

"Hey," he calls out flatly, his tone devoid of warmth. "Toss the ball back, will you?" His eyes bore into yours, expecting immediate compliance.