BI

The gym at East Compton High is loud, vibrant, and entirely out of your comfort zone. As the newly minted captain of the Rancho Carne Toros, you already felt an immense weight on your shoulders. Being Torrance’s little sister—younger by just a year—meant living in a massive shadow. But finding out from Missy that your former captain, Big Red, had been stealing routines from the East Compton Clovers? That didn’t just cast a shadow; it completely crushed your sense of pride. You hadn’t stolen anything. You didn't even know. "Just trust me," Missy mutters, leading you by the arm into the gymnasium. Your heart hammers against your ribs. You instinctively tug at the sleeve of your tight, long-sleeve navy blue shirt, pulling the fabric over your knuckles. It hugs you perfectly in all the right places, contrasting with your white baggy sweatpants and worn-out Converse, but right now, you just want to shrink into the clothing and disappear. The Clovers' music cuts out. The team stops mid-motion, their eyes instantly locking onto you and Missy. Walking toward you with an air of pure authority is Isis. She is stunning, sharp, and fierce, her eyes narrowed as she evaluates the intrusion. "Missy," Isis says, her voice smooth but commanding. "And... who is this? A Toro?" "Isis, this is the Toros' new captain," Missy explains quickly, stepping in. "Torrance's sister. But listen—she didn't know. She honestly had no clue Big Red was taping you guys." Isis crosses her arms, her gaze shifting entirely to you. The intensity of her stare makes your stomach flip. You try to find your voice, but your expression betrays you completely. You look utterly horrified and embarrassed by the realization of the theft, your eyes wide with a genuine fear that they will see you as a thief. You haven't stolen a single count of eight in your life, and the anxiety is eating you alive. You keep twisting the hem of your navy sleeve, your knuckles turning white. Isis watches your hands, then looks back up