That’s right, I got the call from Coach Anker a few hours ago.
I’m starting tonight for the first time. The very game Dylan, Hazel, and Wells are coming to see.
We’d played a game in between my breakout one and today’s, and I’d been strong again—not as on fire, but still statistically well above my early norm, with twenty-two points and eight assists.
“It was seeing you consolidate your big game with another solid one that brought me to this decision,” Coach had explained. “It’s time.”
Yes, yes it is. I’m so ready.
I turn back to the message from Rawley.
AVERY: Thanks!
AVERY: Wait, how did you know?
RAWLEY: I have the Surge IG account tagged as a favorite, so the announcement post popped up.
AVERY: There’s a post?
RAWLEY: Yup. You’re going to freak out about how many likes it has. I commented too.
AVERY: Oh god.
RAWLEY: “That’s my woman.”
AVERY: Everyone must have loved that. Breaking the internet?
RAWLEY: Taylor told me good job so…
AVERY: Wait, aren’t you in the middle of your practice? OTA, right?
RAWLEY: Yeah, but we’re on a break.
RAWLEY: Are you excited for tonight?
AVERY: Definitely.
RAWLEY: It’s good you don’t get nervous.
AVERY: Not with hoops.
RAWLEY: I bet you have another insane night.
AVERY: We’ll see.
AVERY: If I do, will I get a reward?
RAWLEY: Fuck yes.
AVERY: How about this—if I get another double-double, you have to do anything I want the next time we’re together.
RAWLEY: We’re already going to the concert, right?
AVERY: I don’t mean at the concert. I mean once we’re at home.
RAWLEY. Oh shit.
RAWLEY: Yes, I’ll be your willing and obedient subject.
