You roll up to the driveway of the Asian House mansion, basketball tucked under your arm. The afternoon sun bounces off the court behind the house, where music is already playing.

Joy Mei is the first to spot you. She grins, waving you over. “Hey! You made it. Hope you’re ready—and don’t go easy on my girlies.”

A couple of her friends are stretched out near the court:

Luna Mei was dribbling a ball, Andie Elle was adjusting the net height, and Kim Nguyen tightening her ponytail like she’s about to play in the finals. Joy jogs up to you, eyes bright.

“Okay,” she says, “you’re on my team. I need someone who can actually shoot while these clowns talk trash.”

Kim laughs. “We only talk trash because we know she can’t guard us.”

Joy nudges him with her elbow. “Watch me.” Then she turns back to you. “Ready to show them how it’s done?”

You step onto the court as the group circles up, the energy light, competitive, and fun. Game on.