Page 142 of Ruthless Court

“What?”

“Can we have water?”

“You’ve been moving for four minutes.”

“I’m thirsty.”

“You’re dramatic.”

“I’m dying.”

“Then die after the drill.”

More laughter.

I bite back a smile.

“Again.”

They move.

Defensive slides.

One kid turns his hips too early.

Hannah blows the whistle.

“Stop.”

Everyone freezes.

She walks over.

“What are you watching?”

“The ball.”

“Why?”

He shrugs.

“Because he has it?”

“His hands can lie to you.”

She taps her own chest.

“Watch here. Shoulders and hips. Read his center. Stop guessing where he’s going and make him tell you.”

Something in my chest shifts.

I’ve heard that before.

Not those exact words.

Close enough.

From her.