The Fumble Of A Quarterback

Chapter 18: It'll Be Fun

Look out for the <>!!!

"So, Everett's doing a one-on-one training with Tyler today. But the thing is, Everett has never requested that before," Dad said as he put his phone back into his pocket. "I was wondering if you have something to do with that?"

My hands grew sweaty as I thought about the conversation Everett and I had the day before. There was a reason I didn't say much about the date when I walked into the house that night. "Probably not. He probably just wants someone on one training for the big game coming up," I lied as I tried to look as casual as I could.

"You might have a point there."

As we pulled into the parking lot, my heart started to race. Concerns about running into Everett filled my mind. I still had no idea what to say to him and I felt like I needed to stay away until I worked out my thoughts.

"Hey, do you mind if I leave a little earlier today? I'm going to study for a big test," I said.

"Say no more! Leave whenever you need to. Just please make those copies for me before you head out." He pointed towards a car by the sidewalk. "I think that's Shelly's car. He's going to get a ticket today."

"That's unfortunate."

"You got that right." We walked into the Woody. "Also, don't forget to run those reports to Tyler. We need to see who will be going through the transfer portal for next year."

I still wasn't clear on the transfer portal and the more I asked about it, the fuzzier it got. From what I understood, it was common for college players to switch schools based on how much they would give them. Dad mentioned that most of the players on our team stay for only a year or two before transferring to another school.

"Do you think Charles will use the transfer portal to go to another school?" I asked as the thought popped into my mind.

He stopped in his tracks. He frowned quickly as he stroked his mustache. "It's possible. He could use it just like any other athlete."

But the thing was, he wasn't like any other athlete. He should be bared. And Dad knew that too.

"Alright, anyhow, one more thing, we're leaving for the match tomorrow afternoon," he said, changing the topic. "Do you want to come? It's just Toledo U, so the drive won't be so far."

Up until last night, I wanted to go, but now, being on the bus with Everett... the thought made my stomach tie in knots.

I bit my lip as I tried to come up with a way to let Dad down slowly.

"It'll be fun. I promise you."

I forced a smile. Even though he wanted me there, I wasn't sure if I would have the courage. Two hours was a long enough bus ride, but maybe I could avoid him if I sat by someone else. The team was big and if I brought homework, how hard could it be?

"Sure, I'll come," I said with a sigh.

He beamed. "Great. I'll see you at home tonight and we can talk about the details of the trip. You're going to love it! Away games are like a rodeo. There're snacks, prizes, and a little bit of action along with a show.

But there was a part of the show I was trying to avoid. "Cool, see you at home then," I said as I waved him goodbye then left to make the copies of the upcoming plays.

______________________________

After spending a few hours at the Woody, I was at the local boba shop getting a cup of tea when Rick caught my eyes. He smiled brightly, then waved at me. He walked across the road without a care in the world, as if he wasn't skipping practice.