Definite Deadline

Kai stared at his phone screen, causing him to squint at the bright light. The continuous message notifications from the Global Games group chat woke him up early. 

He tapped on it reluctantly, already knowing what he'd see.

Jimmy: Deadline for the waiver is today. Make sure you sign it and send it in. No exceptions, or you're out.

Kai's fingers lingered over the screen as he scrolled up to the official email that had arrived earlier. 

The bold header read: Global Games Waiver Submission: Last Day to Confirm Participation. 

It was all laid out in clear, black text—if he didn't sign it, he'd lose his spot on the team. And not just any team, but a global team featuring some of the best basketball talents in their country.

Feeling his chest tighten with indecision, Kai pushed himself off the bench in his room. The walls felt like they were closing in on him.