Elleri’s school basketball team was exceeding expectations—an astonishing turnaround after their lackluster performance in the first two games. Their opponents hadn’t expected much of a challenge, but now, they were struggling. And the biggest surprise? Raphael. He wasn’t just playing; he was dominating. He was the team’s ace, carrying them through sheer force of will.
But while their performance was impressive, it wasn’t a team effort. It was a one-man show. Every point, every play—it was all Raphael.
At halftime, Elleri approached him with a towel and a bottle of water. Sweat dripped from his brow, but his expression remained sharp, unwavering.
“You know, you’re not alone in this team,” she said, handing him the towel. “You can trust your teammates.”
Raphael snatched the towel from h
