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Asthey left the tent to gather the team for the next game,KimsawDaveandLaurenwalking toward them.Davewore anFCUbaseball cap, andLaurensported a whiteT-shirt with the school’s blue logo.ShetouchedSpence’sarm to stop and nodded toward them.
“Sorrywe missed your first game,”Davegreeted asLaurenhuggedKim. “Wehelped with theSuns’ promo.”
“Y’allhad a huge crowd over there,”Spencesaid. “Theentire organization’s contributed more than we ever hoped.”
“IcetheBulliesis one of theSuns' signature community corporate partnerships,"Laurensaid, gesturing to the buzzing crowd in the quadrangle. “Theturnout's even larger today—and it looks like many non-students.”
“Yeah, a lot of unfamiliar faces today,"Spencesaid, his eyes bright with excitement. "Hopefully, they’ll spend money or make text donations.”Heglanced at his watch. "Ishould round up the team and move them to the court."
“I’llfollow in just a minute,"Kimsaid. "DoIneed to get water and sports drinks?"
"Nope,Carlson’sgot that covered.I'llsee you guys after the match."
KimwatchedSpencewalk toward the shady section of the quad beneath theLiveOaktree, then turned to her brother andLauren.
"Thanksagain for last night—that restaurant was amazing!Then, coming to volunteer today.You'rethe best!"
“We'reenjoying this,”Laurensaid. “Whata fun weekend!”
DavepulledKim'sbaseball cap lower over her face. "Ididn't get to spend much time with you during the last year or so.Imissed watching you play volleyball."
"Justintramural teams,Dave,"Kimpushed the hat back so she could see his face. "IwishIhadn't missed your game when theSunscame toVancouver."
"Well, you both can catch up now,"Laurensaid. "We'lltry not to embarrass you by cheering too loud."
Kimlaughed. "Never.Seeyou after the game?"
"Youbet,HalfPint,"Davesaid with a smile. "Goodluck on your next game, but don't break a leg."
Kimarrived at the court and stretched before joining her teammates in passing the ball back and forth. “Readyto deliver a few spikes?” she askedPedrowith a grin.
“Youset me up,I’llscore,” he returned.
“Confidentmuch?”Spencelaughed as he joined them.
“I’vegot the easy job,” the tall second baseman said. “WhenCoachKimmakes those perfect passes, anyone could score.”
Kimscoffed. “Alot of people spike the ball right into the net.You’refast and accurate, like when you turn a double play.”Shehid a smile when she noticed his cheeks redden.
“Listento her,”TimCarlsonsaid asSpencewaved the team into a huddle.
“Onemore win, and we play for the trophy, guys,”Spencesaid. “Thanksfor giving one hundred percent before and during the tournament.Don’tlet up, and we’ll take that trophy home.”
28
Afterthe first two semifinal games, the teams tied with one win apiece.Spencechuckled as he watchedKimreturn to the court after drinking a large water bottle.Shepulled her cap on her head and jogged in place as she stretched.Mygirl’s got game.Ifwe win, hope the team gives her the trophy.
Hesprinted to her side. “Youtaking first serve?”
Kim'seyes flashed with excitement. “Whateveryou want,Captain.”Herradiant smile caused a rush of emotion in his chest, and he tamped it down with an effort.Nodistractions,Spencer.
Whenthe whistle blew, the players took their positions on both sides of the net.AsKimtossed the ball up, she thought someone called her name, but she was so focused that she drilled the perfect serve.Spenceglanced at the crowd, but no one caught his eye.Avolley commenced, and he lost count of the times the ball crossed the net.
Theball flew high, and the players focused intently on its path.Suddenly, a loud shout from the stands caughtKim'sattention.Sheturned her head towards the source of the distraction just as the ball was about to land in her area.Beforeshe could react, the ball hit her square in the face, sending her reeling.Kimstumbled and fell backward, her head bouncing against the ground.Sherolled to her side, holding her face and groaning in pain.
Themedical team rushed onto the court as her concerned teammates gathered.Spencerglared at the stands, trying to find the source of the voice, and knelt by her side.
"Kim," he said, gently touching her arm. "Areyou okay?"
