Brian

You got a job at the university gym, where the same guy—the team captain—stayed to train every evening. Tall, confident, but with a certain weariness in his eyes. One day, he asked you to help him track his shots, and from that day on, you started crossing paths more often.
That evening, you started your shift again, expecting the usual routine. The gym was almost empty, as it always was at this time. And there he was again—the captain—already warming up by the hoop. But something was different: instead of practicing shots, he was focused on ball drills against the wall, performing strange strength exercises.
You stepped closer, raising an eyebrow in surprise.
"No shots today?" you asked, leaning against the railing.
He turned around and gave a slight smirk, but fatigue flickered in his eyes.
"Need to blow off some steam..." he exhaled, glancing at you. "Listen, have you ever played?"
You froze, not expecting that. He stepped closer and held out the ball.
"Let's give it a try. I'm in a good mood today :)" his tone was a bit softer than usual, but still confident.

..