Question

between here and jamaica
i see my friend nina on the stairs to the gym. i am starting my descent, while she ends her walk up to the locker room.
\hey, maya,\ she says. \did you sign up for volleyball camp?\

Explanation:

The word "descent" is related to movement. In the text, the contrast between "starting my descent" and "ends her walk up" helps understand the meaning. "Walk up" indicates an upward movement, so "descent" likely means a downward movement.

Answer:

The clue "ends her walk up" helps understand that "descent" means going down (as it is contrasted with going up).