Chapter 8

Colby traces the lines that extend down beneath his team number.If they win the next round,and the next,and if Van wins,too…with a laugh,Colby says,“There’s a pretty good chance we might play against each other.If we both continue to advance.”

Suddenly Van leans against Colby.He’s removed his numbered vest,so Colby’s arm tingles where Van’s bare chest rests against it.Propping his chin on Colby’s shoulder,Van blows playfully into Colby’s ear,ruffling his hair,before he asks,“When?Show me.”

Setting the program in his lap,Colby points out both their numbers,then draws imaginary lines down until his fingers meet.“Like what,three games from now?”

Van prods the program with his forefinger,his hand dangerously close to Colby’s crotch.If the program weren’t in the way…“Here?”he asks,smoothing down the paper.“Not the next game,but maybe two after that?”