Chapter 56

The final shot left Luca's fingertips, and for a suspended moment, the basketball seemed to hang in the air. The cheers of his friends echoed through the darkened schoolyard as the ball swished through the net, sealing his victory. The court was illuminated by the dim glow of streetlights, casting elongated shadows that danced with each triumphant shout.

Amidst the jubilant celebrations, the school guard emerged, casting a beam of light with his flashlight that cut through the darkness like a searchlight. His presence signaled the end of their basketball play, a reminder that the school's after-hours activities needed to come to a close. Luca's friends gathered around him, patting his back and offering their congratulations.

As the schoolyard bathed in the soft glow of the flashlight, Luca made his way towards Ronnie, who had been watching the game from the sidelines. The two friends exchanged a knowing look, a silent understanding passing between them. With a nod, Ronnie gestured tow