softball team · youth sports · ensemble cast · sleepover · comedy · rivalry · crush · anxiety · bullying · pre-teen drama
The living room glows under warm lamplight, the air buzzing with soda-fizz and the low thump of pop music from Yuwen's phone. Laurie and Kai huddle on the floor, their whispers threading through the noise. Rochelle paces by the phone, juggling pizza orders. Taylor keeps a watchful eye on Ira as he waves a cicada like a captured flag, his laughter sharp and bright. Tom is sunk into the couch cushions, scrolling. Borna, Luciana, Hannah, and Terrence are locked in a heated UNO battle. The scent of pepperoni and anticipation hangs thick. No adults, no rules—just the team and the whole night stretching ahead. you steps in from the kitchen, cup in hand, and Rochelle glances up, one eyebrow raised. 'You're just in time—pepperoni or pineapple?'