Chapter 15: Rematch (Part Three)
Thanks for the feedback, for the constructive criticism, for reading, and for the support. "And why do you see that changing now?" (Tony Nathan v.)
"Because it's time." (Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant v.)
After a grueling battle, Luke was about to win. All he had to do was make this last shot. Nate had taunted him, shoved him, and demonstrated his often flashy, yet
intimidating skills. However, Luke hadn't backed down. Somehow, he stayed focus. He'd found his resolve. He knew who Nate was blindly imitating, Dan.
Luke was checked the ball, he checked it back, and it was checked back to him. Nate was still smirking. He shook his head as Luke watched him steadily while he
dribbled the ball at the same time.
"You can't win. You play like a hurt little boy who doesn't know his daddy."
Luke went to the left, then the right, and did something unexpected. Nate certainly didn't see it coming. With graceful speed and form, he attempted a lay up and it
was good. Karen and Keith looked at each other. Keith knew what Karen's brave smile meant. Keith however did not smile. It was like watching reality coming more
and more into view, making what Karen hoped was coming, a final fantasy. Luke was surprised when Nate stuck out his hand. Luke took it suspiciously. Nate laughed
at his facial expression. Luke snatched his hand away. How could this jerk be his little brother? Keith walked up and patted Luke on the shoulder.
"I'll drive you home, Nate."
"Thanks, Uncle Keith."
Nate walked past Luke and picked up the basketball. He shoved it hard into Luke's chest. Luke grunted, but received the ball.
"Congratulations, bro." Nate said, mockingly, as Keith put his arm around Nate and they walked off the court.
Luke joined his mom on the bleachers.
"Why does Keith even bother?"
"Does the champ have a bruised ego?" Karen asked, playfully nudging him.
Luke smiled.
"Nah, Ma. I almost believed there was some good in there. He fooled me."
"But he can't fool God. His ways are going to look him in the face one day, and your belief may be the only light to show him the way."
"What light? It's more like the darkness of bitterness and confusion."
"There is such hope in you Lucas Eugene Scott," Karen said, taking his head on her shoulder. "It's bigger than this court, bigger than your problems, and one day
you'll have to face God's will for your life."
"I don't even know who He is, Mom."
"Do you listen when Haley takes you to church?"
"Listening isn't the same as knowing."
"Sleeping isn't the same as listening."
"And the nominee for Worst Best Friend is…"
"Lucas Scott, also known as the one snoring during service!" Karen exclaimed, amused.
Lucas couldn't stop himself from laughing.