Page 69 of The Fall Classic

As much as I want every notification to be a text from Georgie, though, most of them are from the Firebirds’ travel coordinator confirming my flight, arranging for my truck to be shipped, establishing my temporary housing until I transition to staying with Lucas, shipping my gear from the clubhouse, and so much more.

There should be an excitement buzzing through me, right? Or, if anxiety has its way, a low-level dread? The last two times I was called up, all I could focus on was my fear of failing and getting sent back down.

This time, all I can think of is how my time in Mullet Ridge is running out.

I don’t have to ask myself why that makes me sad.

That reason is meeting me at five PM tonight in the coffee shop that’s become my second home.

Out the window, the landscape is uniquely Southern: trees pressing in on both sides of the freeway like they’re trying to take the road back and Waffle Houses marking every exit.

I don’t understand the Waffle House thing at all.

Logan

What do you think of Waffle House?

Georgie

For tonight?

Logan

No.

No, I will not be taking you to Waffle House on our date.

Georgie

In that case, it’s fine, but the diner in Sugar Maple is way better. Their waffles are absolute heaven. And they have a fantastic Diet Coke.

Logan

I hope you’d tell me you don’t like Waffle House if I suggested it.

Georgie

I can’t make that promise.

Logan

Then I have to pull out the big guns:

I’m more of a Coke Zero guy.

Georgie

Oh dear.

It’s okay.

I can still like you.

Logan

WOW.

You like me?