August 2, 2010
Graves Gym – 3:12 PM
The heavy thud of a basketball echoed across the hardwood floor.
Thump. Thump. Thump. THUMP.
Lucas Graves was in full rhythm, his sweat-slicked arms pumping as he dribbled with speed and control. His footwork was sharp, honed, instinctive. He stepped back, dropped low, then launched into a sudden crossover, shifting the ball behind his back before spinning forward into the lane. One step, then two he rose into the air for a clean, one-handed air dunk, slamming it down with precision.
Charlotte stood by the entrance, arms crossed, one brow slightly raised as she watched.
(He became… stronger.)
Her thoughts whispered through her head, heavy with surprise and just a tinge of pride.
The younger brother she used to beat easily in the backyard court was now moving like a real athlete no, like a threat.
