Chapter 96: Jalen Carter  

July 22, 2010

Location: Oak Hill Academy Gymnasium

 

The air in the gym buzzed with the rhythmic sound of squeaking shoes and bouncing basketballs—until a voice rang out from the entrance, sharp and confident.

 

"You must be the team Vorpal Basket."

 

The entire gym fell into a stunned silence.

 

Everyone turned.

 

Standing at the doorway was a boy, around their age, but with a presence that demanded attention. He wore a black-and-red Chicago Raptors warm-up jacket, the kind stitched with pride and pedigree. A duffel bag hung loosely over one shoulder, and the fading sunlight outside caught the red trim of his sleeves, making him almost glow against the backdrop of the gym.