Alejandra ties her shoelaces tight. She kicks the orange soccer ball toward the goal. The ball hits the crossbar with a loud clang. It bounces back to tap her on the nose.
She picks up the ball and sees Mateo standing by the bench. He holds a worn-out basketball. He offers it with a shy smile, but Alejandra shakes her head and points to her soccer shoes.
Mateo dribbles the basketball past two imaginary defenders. He passes it gently to Alejandra. She tries to kick it but trips over her own laces. The ball rolls into the sandbox.
Instead of waiting for help, Alejandra digs her hands into the warm sand. She retrieves the muddy ball and wipes it clean on her shorts. She hands it back to Mateo.
They set up a makeshift net with jump ropes. They take turns shooting hoops until the sun dips low. Their laughter mixes with the sound of the school bell ringing.
The ball swishes through the loop. Mateo claps his hands in delight. Alejandra grins, breathing hard but happy. The sky turns purple above the school roof.
Mateo picks up the ball and walks toward the exit gate. He waves goodbye without turning around. Alejandra stays by the bench, watching him go.
Alejandra picks up her orange soccer ball one last time. She hugs it tightly to her chest. The streetlights flicker on overhead. She walks home alone, ready for tomorrow.