Jump Ball: Las Vegas Ramblers by Thompson Kasha

Author:Thompson, Kasha
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-04-09T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 13

SARIAH

“Can I get one of those foam fingers?” Tracie asked, as we made our way to our courtside seats.

I took Justus’s suggestion and decided to attend a Ramblers’ home game in person. And since Tracie was in town visiting, I dragged her with me. We were in the front row, center court, right in the thick of the action. I would’ve preferred the privacy of the skybox, but Justus claimed center-court seating was like being in the heart of the game.

Entering the arena, I was struck by the rumble of conversation and movement as fans settled in. Fans donned red and white, the team colors. We passed several individuals with signs that read Rambler Nation. And one man with his face painted in a checkerboard red and white pattern. It was truly impressive to see all of these people here to watch the Ramblers play.

The teams were already on the court warming up. Tracie and I walked past the Ramblers bench and I stopped to acknowledge the coaching staff. The last thing I wanted was for my presence to be a distraction but I did want to show my support and express my enthusiasm for the game.

Assistant Coach Klay’s back snapped to attention when he noticed me approaching. “Hello Ms. Thornton, so happy to have you in the building.”

“Thanks Coach Klay and please call me Sariah. I’m very excited and wearing my Ramblers Red.” I tugged at my bedazzled sequin jersey with my name on the back and the number one. After introducing Tracie we quickly moved on.

I spotted Justus immediately wearing a tailored suit and serious expression. A ribbon of excitement fluttered inside my tummy. It was safe to proclaim that I was smitten. I tried my best to wrestle the smile that threatened to overtake my features. Justus was engrossed in his clipboard. Moving in his direction, I said, “Hi Coach Chappel.” He slowly raised his head but his eyes were unfocused, almost as if he was looking past me. “I just wanted you to meet my friend Tracie.”

Justus’s head was on a swivel, barely registering Tracie’s presence. “Nice to meet you. Enjoy the game.” His response was curt as he turned and walked away, flagging down player number twelve to offer instruction.

“Very friendly,” Tracie teased.

When we took our seats, I apologized. “He’s usually more personable.”

“He’s probably just preoccupied with preparing for the game.”

“Yeah, I’m sure you’re right. But it was a touch rude. Like I wasn’t expecting him to roll out the red carpet. But I had hoped he’d be happier to see me … and meet you.”

“Babes … you’re doing that thing you do when you obsess.”

“I just really wanted him to meet my best friend.” I tried to make my irritation more about the slight against her and less about me.

I’d been looking forward to seeing him all day. Thinking about the cute wink and nod we’d share when I called him Coach Chappel. The invisible current of electricity that would pass between us while he tried his best to resist the urge to touch me.

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