CHAPTER 180

TRENT'S POV

The early morning sun cast long shadows across the empty basketball court as I approached, my gym bag slung over my shoulder. I'd been avoiding this place, but the need to shoot some hoops, to lose myself in the familiar rhythm of the game, had finally won out over my pride.

I pushed open the gate, the loud creak that shattered the morning silence. As I stepped onto the court, the familiar smell of rubber and sweat hit me.

This place had been my sanctuary for so long. Now, it felt like enemy territory.

I was so lost in my thoughts that I almost missed the sound of voices coming from the other side of the court. My head snapped up, and I froze mid-step. The entire team was there, running drills as if it was just another normal practice day.

For a moment, I hesitated, unsure whether to approach or slink away unnoticed. But before I could make up my mind, Michael spotted me and waved me over.

"Yo, Trent! Where you been, man? We've been waiting for you!"

I blinked, confusion