Chapter One: The Human Passing Machine

Marcus came face-mask to face-mask with Kai. “You stole my call.” *How did he know?* “I studied the book.” “The book didn't tell you that corner was coming.” Kai removed his helmet, grateful for silence. “Then you'd better hope I guessed.” After practice, he passed the administrative wing and heard owner Victor Sloane through a half-open door. “Let the press call it a competition,” Sloane said. “Just don't let it become one. Marcus starts. His endorsement extension signs next week.” Grant answered, “Lin saw a pressure even analytics missed.” “Give him a few preseason snaps. Kids like that are useful. They mistake one meal for an opportunity, so they'll carry anything you put on their backs.”