holy ground ★ conrad fisher (1)

that way ★ tate mcrae

thirty one | 1x06

ABOUT AN HOUR AFTER RORY ARRIVED, the event was set to begin. The sun hung high in the sky, casting golden light over the transformed beach grounds.

Vendors lined the outskirts of the courts, selling everything from fresh lemonade to custom-printed event T-shirts. The ocean breeze carried the scent of sunscreen and saltwater, mixing with the excited chatter of players and spectators.

Susannah stood proudly on the stage, positioned between the pledge tables, her presence radiating warmth. Meanwhile, Rory stood just beside the stage, a clipboard in one hand, a headset perched on her head, and a whistle hanging from her neck.

The whistle was more for the aesthetic than actual use, but it made her feel official. And the flowery ribbon that it hung on matched the necklaces and bracelets Rory had on, creating a coincidental floral theme that took over her look.

As Susannah prepared to address the crowd, Rory handed her a microphone, flashing her a small smile before stepping away. She made her way over to Belly, who leaned casually on the railing surrounding the sandy courts, watching the other teams warm up.

On Belly’s other side, Conrad had joined her, his arms crossed, eyes scanning the courts like a seasoned observer.

He was whispering to Belly, keeping his voice low but animated.
“…And her spike is lethal,” he finished, nodding toward a pair of girls warming up behind them.

Belly grinned at the commentary, reaching out to loop her arm through Rory’s as she approached. Conrad gave Rory a glance before the three of them turned their attention to the stage. Susannah’s voice rang out over the speakers.

“Good afternoon. I'm Susannah Fisher—”

Scattered cheers erupted from the crowd, making Susannah chuckle softly before continuing. Rory didn't notice but she was mouthing the words Susannah was saying, having memorized the older women's speech by heart after all the time she had spent proof reading it.

“Chair of the club's community service board, and I am delighted to welcome you to Play It Forward!”

More cheers followed, and Rory found herself smiling at the energy in the air.

“You know,” Susannah continued, “as my mother used to say, if you're lucky enough to be at the beach, you're lucky enough. And we are very fortunate indeed.”

Rory’s eyes swept across the event space, taking in the courts, the rows of colorful umbrellas, and the players stretching in the sand. It had taken weeks of planning, late-night phone calls, and endless spreadsheets, and she had worked tirelessly alongside Susannah, and seeing it all come together filled her with a quiet pride.

From beside her, Conrad took in her expression and couldn’t help but smile. Belly noticed and looked between them with a thoughtful look as a plan brewed in her mind.
Susannah carried on, her voice full of encouragement.

“Which is why, in the spirit of fun and friendly competition…”

Theo approached, his usual confident stride slightly softened as he came to stand next to his sister. He leaned forward slightly, greeting Belly and Conrad with an easy nod.