Chapter Three: Ninety-Seven Yards

His teammates buried him beneath a pile. The weight was immense, but for the first time in his professional life, it felt like belonging. In the locker room, Grant handed Kai the game ball. “You disobeyed me twice.” “Yes, Coach.” “Do it again and I'll plant you on the bench.” “Understood.” Grant's mouth twitched. “Assuming I can still hold you there.” The room erupted. Players hammered lockers and chanted Kai's name. Marcus sat alone at the far end, his right hand shaking too badly to button his shirt. Kai stepped between him and the reporters and offered a towel. “I don't need pity,” Marcus said. “It isn't pity.” “Then what?” “I don't want to win because you're hurt. I want to win the job.”