Settle in and get comfortable. This chapter is a little longer than normal. Leave people better than you found them.
Chapter 61
As much as Elizabeth missed seeing Jack, she did enjoy catching up with her Uncle Bill. He was his normal self. Bill enjoyed catching up with the Thatcher's. They have been friends for years, and he enjoyed their time together. He also enjoyed meeting Jack's mom and dad. He thought they were good people and hoped this Jack guy was like them. He was also shocked that Julie and Jack's younger brother were dating. He thought Tom was a lot like his little Fire Ball. Julie seemed just like herself, but maybe a little more tamed or calmer than the last time he saw her. Maybe she was maturing and growing into a young lady instead of a precocious adolescent who made silly decisions without any forethought. Whatever the cause, he was excited about the Julie in front of him.
While she didn't see Jack during the evening, they did text often. She found out that he was on the third floor. She was staying on the fourth floor beside Jack's parents. After settling down in her bed with Julie beside her, she received her last text from Jack for the night. It was eleven thirty, and he was ready to sleep. He knew the game was going to be a hard one. The other team was very good, with two players who were going to huge basketball schools. The one player he would be guarding was going to Indiana. He was a very talented point guard with all the skill sets.
"Are you ok?"
Elizabeth turned to look at her little sister. They haven't shared a bed in a very long time. When they were little, Julie would often sneak into Elizabeth's room during loud thunderstorms or just want to talk.
"Yeah…"
"Would you like to try that again?" Julie challenged her.
"I miss Jack."
"You saw him this morning."
"Yeah, but…Julie, he told me he missed me before he left at lunch. I joked with him that he always says that. He wasn't mad or anything like that, but I think it upset him a little."
"You said he has done that several times."
"He does. He'll tell me that if we don't see each other for a while. He has several times."
"Do you think he just says that?"
"No. He's usually a little whiney when he says it."
Julie giggled. "So, that's where Tom gets it."
"I just miss him."
"So why do you joke with him when he says it?" Julie asked as she propped her head up with her hand. Her elbow sunk into the pillow.
"I'm not sure." she thoughtfully stated. "What about you and Tom? You guys seem to be doing well."
"Yeah…I had to throw him off the cliff to get him past everything."
"I'm proud of you."
Julie waited to say anything. Her mother moved into the bed beside them. When she thought her mother was asleep, she continued, "For what?"
"For being patient with Tom."
"It wasn't the easiest thing to do. I finally just had to do something. That's when I threw him off the cliff."
"I've had to do that with Jack."
"Maybe it's a Thornton thing."
"Maybe." Elizabeth smiled at some of those memories. "Totally worth it, though."
"Yeah…Elizabeth, I'm going to marry Tom one day."
"Do you think?" Elizabeth propped herself up like her sister after turning on her side.
"I do. He challenges me and makes me better. Yet, he doesn't try to change me. He does push me to do the things I want to do."
"Jack does the same with me."
"Do you think you'll marry him?"
Elizabeth smiled. She enjoyed their sister's talk—she always had. Elizabeth stuck out her left hand and moved her Gladduah ring with her thumb. "Technically, this should be on my right finger with the point of the heart toward my heart. That symbolizes that the wearer of the ring is in a committed relationship."
"So, why is it on your left finger? I know what you said when we were with Viola in your room."
"You know most of the story. Jack and I were on the beach after our date. He opened his heart to me where he desires for our relationship to go. He was so honest. He said that he would be coming to me at some point asking for my hand in marriage. I could easily see it in his eyes. I was so moved by his gesture and his words. There was no other place for this ring to be other than on my left finger."
"That's so romantic."
"It really was." Her voice was dreamy.
"You know, I've never heard you two say 'I love you' to each other."
Elizabeth's smile only grew. "Our parents heard us say it once. When Jack was injured, we were walking down the hallway at the Urgent Care. He was tired, hurting, and frustrated with his crutches. He told me that he didn't need another mother. I stood my ground with him, and he apologized. We said it then but completely forgot that our parents were behind us."
"You said it to each other?"
Elizabeth nodded her head slightly.
"You don't say it when others are around?"
She shook her head no.
"Why?"
"We squeeze each other's hand three times when we are around others."
"I love you," Julie stated softly.
"Yes."
"I've seen you two do that."
"Yes. That's our way of saying it without saying it out loud."
"Why? Why are you keeping that a secret?"
"We just wanted it to be between us. Everyone knows everything about us. You know how it is. It's just nice to have something between Jack and me without the whole world knowing it."
"I get it." Julie began to laugh. "It's funny, isn't it? We're dating brothers, and our older sister is dating their cousin."
"It kinda is. Who would have ever imagined? You're the girl that liked every boy she met but no longer than two days. Me being the girl who wouldn't date in high school. Viola, who always brought the weirdest guys around."
"I could have never guessed it."
"I think Viola is head over heels in love with Ted."
"I agree. Do you think they'll get married?"
"He has expressed that like Jack did with his father. He loves her and wants to head in that direction."
"This has to be the craziest year ever."
…
Jack opened his eyes when the alarm went off on his phone. Evidently, he didn't shut it off fast enough. He chuckled when he was hit in the head with a pillow.
"Turn it off, man," Shane mumbled as he turned around, reaching for another pillow to cover his face.
"Get up, young pup. You need to take a shower."
"Seriously?"
"You were the one who didn't want to take one last night. I'm not hanging around you all day with you stinking."
"Fine." Shane huffed. Jack laughed when he tossed the pillow back and hit Shane in the back with it.
Jack reached for his phone and shut off the alarm. He noticed a text from Elizabeth last night after he fell asleep.
E – I miss you
Jack chuckled.
J – You really miss me
J – Weve only been apart for a few hours
J – Hey did you know that Pennsylvania is misspelled on the Liberty Bell
J – Its not considered wrong since there were several ways to spell Pennsylvania back then
He sat his phone down and got out of bed. He wanted to get dressed before Shane stepped back into the room.
…
The team sat down in a conference room beside the hotel's cafeteria. The hotel had set them in a room by themselves. The hotel didn't have room for the whole team, everyone with them, and the hotel's normal guests in the cafeteria. Coach Franklin was greatly impressed with the service they received. He made a mental note to thank Mr. Underwood and Mr. Thatcher.
After making their way through the line to pick out their food, the whole team sat down. The starting five sat down together at a table. Malachi, Shane, and Creed sat with them.
"We've got to play our game today. Every one of us has to step up. We can't win today with just one or two of us." Jack stated as he looked around at each person.
"I agree," Cory stated. "We got here as a team. We have to win this as a team."
The two players going to college from the other team weren't mentioned by name. Everyone knew who they were. It was just left unsaid and understood.
"Steven…" Jack stated as he turned his full attention to him. His eyes focused solely on Steven. He straightened his back. He knew what Jack was going to say before he even said it. "…this game will rest exclusively on your shoulders. We ride you, and you will determine if we win or not. We'll support you the best we can, but Steven, you're the guy."
Cory slapped Steven's back. "He's right."
"Yeah." Everyone else spoke.
"We've got your back, brother," Jack stated with a nod. "Joe, I know it's your time to lead us out on the court, but I think Steven needs to do it today."
"I completely agree," Joe stated. "Steven, you led us today. We're right behind you."
"I agree, but guys…it's all of us. I can't do this on my own. I'll do my part, but we are here because of us. We will play tomorrow for the championship because of us." Steven looked around the table looking at everyone.
Everyone at the table nodded their heads. Everything was understood. Steven would have to lead them while everyone else would be there to support him in anyway they can.
…
As the team stood to gather their plates and cups, a middle-aged gentleman stepped into the room. He was wearing dress pants, a button-up white shirt, and a tie that matched the team's colors.
"Mr. Underwood." Coach Franklin stepped forward. "Thank you for everything."
"You're welcome. Has everything been ok for you? Do you need anything?"
"More than ok. Thank you."
"Oh, don't worry about the dishes. We will take care of it."
"I told them, but the guys wanted to help."
Bill was impressed with that. Most teen boys wouldn't be so thoughtful to help with the dishes.
"Coach, I was hoping to meet one of your players. You have a Mr. Jack Thornton on your team?"
"I do."
"Yes, he's dating Elizabeth, William and Grace's daughter."
"He is. He's a fine young man."
"That is what they told me last night. I was able to meet with them and Jack's parents. I hoped to meet the young man dating my niece."
"I didn't realize you were related. William said you were a friend."
"We aren't related. However, I think of Elizabeth as my niece. I have known her most of her life."
Coach Franklin turned slightly to his right. "Jack." He called out as he raised his hand to capture the young man's attention.
Jack quickly looked up in his coach's direction. He nodded his head to show his coach that he had heard him. He then nodded toward the cart where the guys were putting their dirty dishes.
"He'll be here in a moment."
Bill watched this young man wait in line for a few seconds and then placed his dishes in the cart's tray. Then, the young man quickly walked toward him, his eyes focused on the coach and himself.
"Yes, sir," Jack stated when he was a few feet away.
"Jack, this is Mr. Bill Underwood. He owns the hotel and is responsible for all of this."
"Sir," Jack extended his hand. "Thank you for everything. On behalf of the guys, we appreciate everything. It all is more than we could ever imagine."
Bill accepted the young man's hand as Jack was speaking. Jack looked intently into his eyes. His handshake was firm but not too aggressive, and he matched Bill's pressure.
"I am happy to meet you, young man. I met your parents last night. They seem like good people."
"You met my parents?"
"Yes, young man."
Jack nodded his head. Then he turned his attention to his coach. When Bill began to speak, Jack turned his attention back to him.
"I understand you are dating, Flower Bug."
"Flower Bug?" Jack asked with a growing smirk.
"Oh…she may not like that I told you, her nickname."
"I love it."
Bill laughed at the little smirk on Jack's face. Jack's eyes brightened up a little.
"I understand you are about to leave?"
"Yes, sir. Coach has us going to Cumberland High School to shoot a little and have a quick walk-through. He's afraid we are going to get spoiled and lazy." He nodded toward his coach.
"Am I wrong?"
"Probably not," Jack smirked.
"Jack, I would like to talk with you later today."
"Sir, I look forward to that. Maybe we can meet tonight after the game."
"I would love that. I'll see you at the game."
"You're coming to the game?"
"You're important to my Flower Bug, William, and Grace think the world of you. Since you're important to her and to them, you're important to me. I look forward to seeing your play."
…
Elizabeth woke up when Julie rolled over in bed and placed her hand on Elizabeth's face. She threw her sister's hand off and turned to look at her phone for the time. She noticed she had a few texts from Jack. Her mother and father weren't in the room. She sat up and noticed it was just after eight. She read the text from Jack. She could sense the smirking from the first two texts. She didn't believe the text about misspelling Pennsylvania. She googled it and shook her head when Jack was right.
E – Where are you
J – Leaving in five minutes
J – Going to Cumberland for a shooting session and quick walk through
E – Why
J – Coach don't want us to sit around today and do nothing
J – He said we are usually active during school and he wants us to move a little today
Elizabeth sighed, knowing she wasn't going to see him for a while. She got out of bed and went to the restroom. She got dressed and ready for the day. She pulled a t-shirt on and then put on the team pullover that Jack always wore. She was grateful it still had his scent on it. She put on his favorite pair of jeans.
When Elizabeth walked into the hotel cafeteria, she stopped in her tracks when she saw everyone sitting with her parents. Not only were her parents there, but her mom and dad were sitting with Frank and Abagail. Mrs. Wilson and Adam were also sitting with everyone. When Adam noticed her, he began to wave his arms in the air. He stood and began to walk in her direction.
"Hey, you." She smiled as she opened her arms for a hug. "You're here."
Adam smiled as he walked into a hug.
Linda smiled as she reached for Elizabeth's hand when she walked up to the table.
"You're here."
"Yes, we got in late last night. We drove in after I got off work."
"I didn't know you were going to be here." Elizabeth gave her a big smile. "Thank you for coming. Jack wasn't too happy that you and Adam wouldn't be here."
"We wouldn't miss it for the world. Plus, I don't think Adam would have allowed me not to be here." Elizabeth smiled as Adam shook his head no.
"And you two?" Elizabeth turned her attention to Frank and Abagail.
"There is no way we would miss this," Frank stated.
"He was all freaking out thinking I wouldn't get off from the café." Abagail laughed as she bumped into his shoulder. "He has grown to like your boyfriend."
"He's a good guy," Frank stated.
"You all have rooms here?"
"Yes, we got in late last night too. Evidently, there were several rooms that were blocked off for us all."
"Elizabeth!" Susan yelled as she walked into the cafeteria.
Elizabeth turned around to see Susan from church and her mother. She smiled at the surprise of seeing her young friend and her friend's most beautiful smile.
"What are you doing here?"
"Why wouldn't we be here?"
"True. Jack does like you…maybe a little too much." Elizabeth sassed.
"I do like him, but I know he loves you." Sassed Susan.
Elizabeth reached and pinched her cheeks. "You're such a cutie."
"Beth." A soft, loving voice spoke from behind her.
"Nana?" Elizabeth turned around. "Nana! Pops!" Elizabeth squealed as she quickly walked to them. She hugged both of them for several seconds each. "When did you get here?"
"Late last night."
"You're actually here?"
"Oh, Beth, we wouldn't miss this for the world. Plus, we get to see you." Nana stated, holding onto the hug longer than normal.
"Any excuse to see family, " Pops said as he reached for a hug. He squeezed her hand, making sure she understood she was included in the definition of family.
"It's so good to see you. Does Jack know you're here?"
"No. We thought we would surprise him."
"He will be surprised. Oh…it's so good to see you. I've missed you." Elizabeth couldn't keep from smiling. "I would like to introduce you to Uncle Bill."
"Uncle Bill?"
"What about Uncle Bill?" Bill stated as he walked in. "Flower Bug, did you rest well."
"Why do you still call me that?"
"Oh, Flower Bug, I'm not sure I remember your given name." He laughed. "I met your boyfriend this morning."
"You did?"
"Yes, they had breakfast here before the team left to go to that high school."
Elizabeth lowered her head. She hated the fact that she wouldn't see Jack for a while. Probably not until they are at the gym just before the game.
"Hey…just to let you know, he knows about your nickname."
"What? Why would you tell him that?" She squealed. He only shrugged his shoulders.
"I didn't tell him the meaning of it."
"Uncle Bill!" She warned him. "Let me introduce you to Jack's grandparents. "Mr. and Mrs. Milligan, this is a family friend. I consider him my uncle, Mr. Bill Underwood. Uncle Bill, this is Nana and Pops."
"Nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Milligan. I just met your grandson for about three minutes this morning. He seems like an impressive young man."
"Thank you for saying that, Mr. Underwood."
…
Jack was in the middle of his teammates' line as they walked into the arena. The arena held just over nine thousand individuals, and it was huge for all of them. They were star-struck until Jack captured their attention and told them it was just a gym and to move on. He didn't want everyone to get so hung up on the atmosphere that they would let it take them out of their game.
"Jack…Jack Thornton." A man called out. He was wearing blue jeans and a Winchester College polo shirt.
Jack stopped walking when he heard his name called out. The last of the girls' games was playing. After that game, the first of the boys' game and then Hamilton East's game was following that one.
"Yes, sir."
"Jack, I'm Coach Thompson."
"Yes, Coach Thompson. It's great to meet you."
"I just wish it was a few months ago. I couldn't get you here for a visit."
"Sorry about that coach. I was settled with attending Bryan's."
"Yeah, I remember. I'm looking forward to seeing you play in person later today."
"That's kind of you to say, coach."
"It won't be the last time."
"What do you mean?"
"We play Bryan's University every year."
"I didn't know that."
"Yes. I wish you would have come here instead of going there."
"Sorry, coach."
The two talked for a couple of minutes.
…
Jack sat with his teammates watching the first boys' game. The two teams were good, but Southwest was the better team. They were explosive and talented. They were up by ten at halftime. Jack was talking with Sam and Joe who were sitting beside him. They were on the side under the goal, intent on watching the action.
"They're good."
"They are Sam. I think you would give number ten all kinds of fits." Jack stated. "His opponent doesn't play like you do."
"This is going to be fun," Cory stated as she leaned forward, wrapping his arms around Jack and Sam.
"We have to get through today first."
"I have all the faith in Steven. He'll carry us through."
"I agree," Jack stated as he looked in Steven's direction. He saw what he wanted in Steven's face and eyes. He was a focused young man.
Jack looked up and finally noticed his family sitting on the side at about halfcourt. His smile grew when he saw Elizabeth looking at him. Her smile grew when their eyes connected. He watched her as she pulled out her phone and began to type.
E – There you are
J – You're here
E – Of course I'm here
E – Where else would I be
J – When did they all get here
E – Last night
Jack looked and waved at Frank, Abagail, Linda, and Adam. Then he noticed Susan and her mother, and Nana and Pops. He was surprised they were all there. He felt loved.
The young couple watched each other as they typed their texts.
J – I wonder why they all came
E – To see you you big goof
J – That's nice of them
E – Am I ever going to be able to see you
J – Are you finally admitting you miss me
E – Always
J – Mr. Underwood wants to talk with me later
E – I heard you met him today
J – Yes you have to explain to me Flower Bug
E – I don't think so
J – It's only fair
E – Not happening Jboy
She watched Jack turn his attention toward his coach as he listened intently. She tilted her head, trying to read the coach's lips. She was hoping he didn't have to leave. While she wasn't with him, she enjoyed texting and watching him text. She watched him turn his attention back to her.
J – I'm sorry, Princess Beth, but we are leaving for the locker room
Elizabeth watched as the team began to stand and make their way to the edge of the bleachers.
E – Play well
E – I love you
Instead of texting, Jack made eye contact and tapped his chest. She smiled at the meaning.
…
Steven led the team on the court as each player had their hand on the shoulder of the person in front of them. They wanted to run onto the court as one in unity. The warmups were complete. Jack and the other starters were sitting on the bench. This was by far the largest crowd Elizabeth had ever seen at a high school basketball game, even with the games with Hamilton West. The place was rocking even if the stands weren't entirely full. Both sides were excited because their teams made it this far in the tournament. The winner of this game will play Southwest tomorrow at three for the state championship. It was easy to feel the excitement. She was sitting in a row with Steph, Connie, Susan, and Adam. Her parents, Jack's parents, Frank, Abagail, Linda, Susan's mom, Nana, Pops, and Uncle Bill were all sitting behind her. She thought they took up a whole roll of seats on both levels.
Jack turned to look over his shoulder. He had to see his girlfriend. Their eyes instantly connected. Anyone paying attention to the two could easily see the love flow between them. Both of their eyes brightened. Elizabeth tapped her chest twice. That was their signal between them. Jack couldn't do it, but his smile told her everything his heart held for her.
The announcer began to announce the starters. When he calls Jack's name, he fist-pumps everyone except for Charles. He didn't even look in his direction. Shane gave him a hug and tapped the top of his head. Jack ran through the little tunnel and turned a hard right to shake the opponent's coach's hand.
"It's been a pleasure watching your tape, young man. Play well."
"Thanks, coach. Looking forward to playing against you."
Jack turned and shook the ref's hands, then went to his teammates, who were waiting for him in a small huddle at the free-throw line. Like the last few games, Malachi and Shane were there as well. Jack stood in the middle of the huddle. He turned as he made eye contact with each guy. Elizabeth was a little taken aback by his intensity. His jaw muscles were set, and his eyes were intense. His facial features had a cold edge to them.
"Men… here we are. We were told that we would never make it here. Well, welcome to never. Since we're here, we might as well take the whole thing!" He didn't even pause when the buzzer went off. "Steven, this game is yours. We are riding you for all four periods. I do promise you this…I will give you all I have and do everything I can. You up for this?"
Steven didn't even speak. He simply nodded his head. Connie was a little shocked at his facial expression. She hasn't seen him this hyped. He was always a calm guy who didn't yell. Everyone around him patted him on the back, showing him that they had his back.
"Men…" Jack raised his hand over his head. The others stepped forward and placed their hands on top of Jack's. "All you got for every second we've got! Steven's leading us tonight and we have got to have his back!" He paused to look at each person. He loved what he saw in return. "It's been a pleasure playing with you this season. I would love to play one more game with you."
After a few seconds of silence, Jack dropped his hand and turned to walk to the center of the court. He glanced at his girlfriend and gave her a quick smile. He quickly turned his attention back to the court.
Cory tipped the ball to Jack. Instead of calling a play as he dribbled the ball up the court, he just yelled Steven's name. Jack's player picked him up at half-court. He was quick and played good defense. Jack just smiled as he worked his way to the right center of the court. Steven ran across the court and posted himself on the block on the side Jack was at. Jack picked up his dribble and passed the ball to Steven. His player was on his back. Steven faked to the baseline. Once his player leaned that way, he reversed his body and turned to the center of the paint. Cory's player cheated over to help. Steven bounced and passed the ball to Cory, and he slammed the ball. Their fan base jumped and cheered louder than they ever had.
Jack stopped at half court, waiting for his player to bring the ball up. He was just as fast as Jack. His ball handling was just as good, if not better, than Jack's. He was a very talented ball player, and Jack knew this assignment was going to be difficult. He bent his knees and stretched his hands in good defensive positions. He did a good job playing defense.
Steven's player posted him up and received the ball. Steven closed the gap and played tight against his player. He turned to shoot the ball. Steven knocked the ball away, and Sam caught it. He quickly found Jack. He jogged the ball up the court. He didn't want to push it too much. As he approached the three-point line, he passed the ball to Steven. Without hesitation, Steven turned to the baseline and shot the ball. He made the shot and was fouled.
"That's my man!" Jack stated as he high-fived Steven. "Keep it up!"
Steven made his free throw. Back on defense, Joe's player tried to run him off several screens to get an open shot. Joe, Sam, and Jack played great defense. When a screen caught Joe, the guy who was guarding the screen player switched and took Joe's guy. By switching off so quickly and smoothly, the player wasn't able to get open. In frustration, another player tried to force a pass. His teammate couldn't catch the ball and lost it off his leg out of bounce.
Jack dribbled the ball up the court. His player picked him up at half-court. Jack faked right and switched the ball to his left hand. As he approached the painted area, Cory's and Steven's player remained on them Sam's player was the one who left to help against Jack. Jack's player was just off his side, following behind him. Jack jumped like he was going to take the shot, but passed the ball out to Sam. He squared up and took the three. He missed the shot, but Steven rebounded the ball. He couldn't shoot it since he was double-teamed. Instead of forcing the shot, he passed the ball back to Sam, who took the shot again. This time, he didn't miss.
That's how the first period went. Every possession went through Steven. He either scored or he passed the ball to the open player. He came up big through the whole period. Connie was so proud of her man. He was playing well. Steven's teammates backed him up well. They rebounded the missed shots or made their shots when Steven passed the ball out to them.
"Great job men." Coach Franklin stated. "Steven, nice job being a monster on the court. Jack, great job in spreading the court. Everyone, nice work on the defensive side of the ball. I'm proud of you. Jack…" Coach Franklin stated as he stood and walked out of the huddle.
"Steven…continue being the monster you've been. Are you good?"
"I'm good."
"Joe, Sam…great work on both sides of the ball. Cory, you're the man. Men, let's keep it up. We haven't won anything yet."
…
"That was impressive," Pops stated as he watched his grandson.
"It really is." Thomas and William stated.
"Steven is taking over the game." Thomas smiled. He was happy to see Steven take complete control.
"They can't let up. As well as playing, they are only up by six."
"Yeah, this is going down to the wire."
"I agree, William."
…
Jack's opponent dribbled the ball up the court. Jack tipped the ball away when he tried to perform a crossover dribble. It went behind his opponent. Both Jack and his guy ran toward the ball. They both dove for the ball when they got close, knocking it further down the court. Both men landed on the court and slid a couple of feet. Jack's opponent remained on the floor. Jack did his best to scramble to his feet. He was using his hands, trying to balance himself for the first few steps. He finally reached the ball and began dribbling the ball toward his goal.
He picked up his dribble to take the lay up as he approached the goal. As he jumped and let go of the ball, he was hit from behind by one of the other players. He watched the ball bounce off the backboard and fall through the net as he landed on his feet. With excitement he usually didn't show, he grabbed the front of his jersey and pulled it out from his chest. He yelled as he looked toward the ceiling. Cory and Sam ran up behind him and grabbed him in a bear hug.
"Wow!" William stated. "He did that only through complete effort."
"He did."
"He really does work harder than anyone else."
"That other guy is more athletic than my son, but he doesn't outwork my son." Tom stated with pride. "That's just how he is with basketball and everything else."
Charlette and Pops were too excited and screaming their heads off to listen to anyone. They were vigorously waving their pom poms and cheering at the top of their voices.
Jack calmed himself enough to make his free throw. His emotions were running higher than usual. As he backed up the court, he noticed the other team running up the court. Jack met his guy at half-court. After several passes, they took the shot. Jack jumped and rebounded the miss. As he caught the ball and before he landed on the ground, he began to yell.
"Fire! Fire! Fire!"
Jack's teammates didn't hesitate for one second. When they first heard the word 'fire,' they immediately turned and ran up the court as fast as possible. They each lowered their head as they ran and didn't look up until they reached half-court. Joe was on the right side, and Sam was on the left side. Cory and Steven were running up the center of the court about ten to twelve feet apart. Jack was dead center of the court. Jack had five options. The sudden change of pace caught the other team by surprise. Not one player was anywhere close to their guys. With so many options, he went to Steven. He dribbled one time and jumped. He slammed the ball with authority. The gym feeds off the dunk.
As Jack turned to run up the court, the opposing coach called timeout. He was furious with his players. They seemed tired and a little overwhelmed.
Jack jogged toward his bench. He looked up and made eye contact with Elizabeth like he usually did. His smile grew as he nodded his head.
"I love you." She mouthed the words.
"Great change of pace, Jack. Steven, you're playing great. Keep up the good work. Joe, Sam, Cory, let's pick up the slack. We need to continue. Pick your changes to run the ball. Make the open shots. Most importantly, you need to play great defense."
…
At halftime, Jack's team was up by eighteen. The whole team, led by Steven, played very well. He had the most points, with twenty-one. Almost every time on offense, he touched the ball. He was playing extremely well.
"Jack…" Coach Franklin shook his head. "You are playing the best I have ever seen you play. You are truly leading the team. Steven…great game, son. Cory, your defense on their best big man is simply remarkable. Joe and Sam, nice work on both sides of the ball. Malachi and Shane, great work coming off the bench and jumping right in without any drop-off in play. Now, keep running them. Don't let up. Keep pushing it, but be smart with the ball. Stay strong on defense, and they get nothing easy."
"Yes, coach."
"Steven, are you good?"
"I'm good, coach."
Elizabeth stood. "Come on, ladies. Let's go to the restroom and grab some snacks." She began to walk to the edge of the row of seats. She turned back around to Susan. "Come on, Susan." She nodded her head in the direction she was walking.
"Really? You want me to go with you?" She asked, shocked.
"Of course, silly. You're part of the ladies." She waved her hand. "Come on, we don't want to waste any time and miss part of the third period."
Everyone in the arena could see the little girl's joy at being included with the older girls.
After using the restroom, the ladies made their way to the concession stand. They placed their order for everyone. After ordering, they weren't sure how they would carry everything. They let out a contented breath when they noticed Thomas, Tom, Pops, and William walking toward them.
"We started to add up what all you were going to get. We thought you all may need help."
"I'm glad you are here," Elizabeth stated.
"Elizabeth, thank you for inviting me to come along." Susan smiled.
"Girly, you are one of us." Elizabeth smiled.
"She's right," Steph stated.
"You belong with us," Connie stated. "Now, Elizabeth is a little afraid you may still take Jack from her."
Susan smiled. "Jack likes her too much for that. Plus, he's too old for me."
The girls had a knowing smile. They could see the girlish crush she had on Jack.
"And that's why I need to keep her close." Elizabeth placed her arm around Susan as they all giggled.
…
Jack looked for his girlfriend as the team walked onto the court. She wasn't where she was sitting. Actually, her or her friends weren't where they were sitting. And several adults were missing, too. He figured they were getting snacks or using the restroom.
Instead of accepting a ball and shooting, he went to the corner and sat on the floor. Shane followed him and did the same thing. Jack had most certainly rubbed off on the young man. They reached for their toes and began to stretch their legs. With about one minute left, Jack looked up to where his family sat. He saw Elizabeth leading the group of girls to their seats. He watched her as she sat down and handed two bags of Skittles to Adam. She looked up directly into Jack's eyes. While she was smiling when she handed Adam his snacks, her smile more than doubled in size when their eyes connected. Their conversation flowed easily, with no words spoken. She raised her hand to the center of her chest with her thumb up. He smiled and nodded his head.
"You're playing really well." She mouthed.
Jack nodded and smiled. "I love you." He mouthed to her.
"I love you," Elizabeth whispered, never taking her eyes off him.
…
As well as Jack's team continued to play, the opposing team did make a comeback. They cut the lead to six by the end of the third period. Steven was still being a monster on offense. Everything went through him. The other team was just good as well. Jack's guy was exceptionally good. Jack hung with him and made everything difficult for him. While he did score, Jack kept him from going off. He didn't stop him, but he was under control somewhat.
The deal with playing a guy as good as Jack's opponent was that you couldn't shut him down completely. You only hoped to limit him to some degree. You didn't want him to go off and be spectacular. Jack was doing just that. He was under some control. Which, in turn, made their team struggle a little. Many times, when a team has a superstar, the team will rely on that superstar too much. This was the case for that team. They struggled to find their rhythm since their superstar could get into his groove.
"Thomas, that boy of yours is playing a great game."
"I think so, but he would say he isn't."
"That's crazy." William protested. "You did good by your son, Tom."
Tom smiled with pride. While Jack was his boy and he was biased, he knew Jack was a good guy. His effort was off the chart.
"Don't panic, men." Coach Franklin proclaimed as his guys sat on the bench after the third period. "We have withstood their champ's punch. Yes, they closed the gap slightly, but we have stopped them in key situations. This is still our game. Steven, that incredible game. I need just a few more minutes. Do you have it to give me?"
"Anything you need, coach."
"Cory, your guy is beginning to cheat over to help on Steven. Everything still goes through Steven, but be ready. Steven, when you feel that extra pressure, find Cory on the opposite block. He'll be ready."
"Yes, coach."
"Sam and Joe, be ready. Find your comfortable spots. When the shot goes up, we need to crash the boards except for you, Jack. Get back to half-court. No one gets behind you—no easy shots for them. We need to step it up on defense. We've been too focused on offense. With great defense, offense will come. Got me?"
"Yes, coach."
"Shane and Malachi, go in for a few minutes for Sam and Joe. They need a breather but don't get too comfortable. We need you. Jack, are you good?"
Jack nodded his head.
"Jack…" Coach Franklin stated, then stood up. He stepped out of the huddle content with his team.
"Men…we've got one period to play. We need all you have for twelve minutes. Give your brother your best, and we will get to celebrate."
Jack looked at each guy. He smiled when he saw exactly what he wanted to see. He knew at that moment that they were going to win this game. He had no doubt. His smile grew at what he was seeing in his brother's eyes.
"Men, we are about to make history. Hamilton East has never played for a basketball championship before. Today, we change that!"
Without saying another word, he stood and began to walk onto the court. He glanced up and instantly made eye contact with Elizabeth. She immediately noticed a little twinkle in his eyes. She smiled and tapped her chest. He reciprocated the gesture.
The two rows of family and friends watched Jack walk onto the court and then look up to Elizabeth. They saw the intimate connection between the young couple. Susan reached for Elizabeth's hand and gave Elizabeth a knowing smile.
Jack's teammates followed him on the court. They stood and waited for their opponents. When Jack's player stepped onto the court, he broke eye contact with Elizabeth and turned his full attention to him.
"They're about to do something special." Coach Franklin whispered.
"I believe you are correct." His assistant coach stated.
Instead of picking up his opponent at half court, Jack meets him when his teammate is trying to pass the ball to him. Jack had decided to pick him up for the whole court length. He wanted his guy to work for every inch of the court he wanted. Jack knew the guy was more athletic than he was. He was a little better-polished player than Jack was. However, he didn't have Jack's work ethic. He decided to lean on his greatest characteristic, his effort. His opponent may beat him, but he would never outwork him.
"Seriously?" His opponent asked as the ref handed the ball to be passed into play.
Jack just smiled as he placed his forearm in the guy's side. He applied more pressure, ensuring his opponent felt his presence. Jack's opponent pushed off enough to create a little space as he caught the pass. Jack quickly closed the distance. When his opponent turned his back toward Jack, he body-checked his opponent a couple of times, trying to push him backward. After the second solid bump, the ref called a foul on Jack. It was only his second foul, so he wasn't too concerned. He wanted to send his guy a message that he would have to work for everything he wanted to do.
"Come on!" William yelled as he stood. "Get your head in the game ref!" Elizabeth just shook her head. No matter how often she had heard her father yell, she couldn't believe it. This raving lunatic was a put-together businessman any other time.
When the ref handed the ball to be passed in again, Jack resumed the same position as before.
"Didn't you learn anything?"
"Get used to it," Jack stated.
Jack closed the distance again. When his opponent turned his back, Jack put his chest against his back. When he turned to the left and began to bounce the ball, Shane used his quickness to sneak up and knocked the ball away. He gained control of it and raced the thirty feet for an easy, uncontested layup.
After the layup, Jack quickly found his opponent. He placed his hand on the guy's lower back. "I'm here, baby…let's get to work," Jack stated.
Jack rarely lost contact with his opponent. He stayed in constant contact with him. This greatly frustrated his guy. Even when his coach took his opponent out of the game, Jack stood by the bench as his guy sat down. He didn't leave until the ref blew the whistle. Jack ran up the court to guard his new guy.
…
"William, that guy is impressive." Bill nudged his friend.
"He is an impressive young man in more ways than one."
"Do you think he's the one?"
"He has spoken to me. He wanted my blessing for his intention with Elizabeth."
"And what intention does he have with Flower Bug?"
"He told me that he wants to grow closer with her with every intention of coming to me and asking for her hand in marriage."
"He did?"
William nodded his head. "We sat in my library for an hour. He wanted me to understand his desire to make a life with her. Then he wanted my blessing."
"And they're going to the same college?"
"They are. He wants to be a teacher as well."
"Wow…" Bill shook his head. "I've got to get to know him."
"Be ready to be impressed. Thomas and Charlette have done a great job raising him."
"And Fire Ball is dating his younger brother?"
"She is. They're good for each other. They ground the other without completely changing them."
"She seems a little more laid back."
"Tom is good for her. She's good for him too. They had a hiccup for a while, but they resolved that."
Bill nodded his head, trying to process everything.
"But there is more. Guess who Viola is dating now."
"Who?"
"Jack's older cousin. They met in college in Biology class."
"You're kidding me!"
"No, He also came to me expressing his desire for a future with her."
"Like Jack?"
"Exactly like Jack. He's a concert pianist."
"You're kidding…? Who is he?"
William remembered that Bill was a player in the symphony scene. He has always been a financial backer for several symphonies around the country.
"His name is Ted Milligan."
"Ted?" Bill's shock was evident.
"Do you know him?"
"No, but I have heard about him. Many people think he is the best pianist to come out in several years. He's a rising star."
"I would agree with that thought."
"One of the symphonies I work with has already offered him their pianist position even though he is still in college."
"From my understanding, he has three or four offers already."
"Wow… and Viola is dating him?"
"Yes, He's good for her. Like Jack does with Elizabeth, and she is with him, Ted completes her."
…
"Malachi, go in for Jack."
There were six minutes left in the final period. Both teams played very well, and the game stayed with Hamilton East up by eight. When one team made a small run, the other would stop it. Jack's team didn't pull away, but the other team didn't close the gap either. Two heavyweights were punching it out in the middle of the ring.
As Jack walked to the bench, Coach Franklin stated. "You have one minute. Catch your breath and get something to drink. We need you for the final push."
Jack nodded his head. He didn't even sit down. He stood at the end of the bench closest to the scorer's table. He looked up to Elizabeth. Instead of watching the game, she was looking at him.
She knew he should be concentrating on the game. His complete focus was on the game when he was on the court. When he could, he would always steal a glance at her. The simple act made her feel special and loved. He always said that what happens to one of them happens to both. She knew it was true. He included her in his life just like she included him. It was a special connection she didn't take for granted. She stuck her thumb up to check on him. He nodded his head with a twinkle in his eye. He mouthed the words 'I love you' just before he turned his attention to the clock. He was tracking the time to go back in. With fifteen seconds remaining in his minute rest, he threw the towel down and walked toward the scorer's table to reenter the game at the next dead ball.
Just like in the first part of the fourth period, Jack is in contact with his opponent. He wasn't more than a foot away from him. It was paying off. As talented as his opponent was, he was worn down because of the defense Jack was playing against him. He tried to mount a comeback but didn't have the stamina to do it.
While Jack's box score wouldn't be impressive with just ten points, his overall play was impressive to anyone who saw it. Steven led the way with thirty-eight points. He came through for his team in a huge way. He carried the team squarely on his shoulders. Everything came through him. Jack and Cory came through on the defensive side of the ball. Cory had a quiet sixteen points, but he didn't care. His friend came through in a big way.
With one minute left in the game, the Hamilton East crowd began to sense victory. They all began to stand and applaud. The team was up by twelve. At a dead ball, Coach Franklin decided to replace all five starters. Charles was one of the ones that got into the game. As each player walked off the court, Coach Franklin hugged each one and congratulated them. Jack was the last player off the court.
"Great game, young man. Great game." The coach declared as he hugged his star player.
"Thank you, coach. We have one more together."
"Yes, young man, we do. Thank you for that."
"Thank you, coach."
…
When the final buzzer sounded and they shook the hands of their opponents, a TV reporter with the local TV station reporting on the games grabbed Coach Franklin and Jack to interview them. After speaking to the coach, she turned her attention to Jack.
"So, Jack, you led your team tonight. How did you do it against a very good team?"
"It was a team effort. But you're speaking to the wrong guy. Steven was the man who led us tonight. He's one of four superstars. You need to be speaking to him." Jack reached for Steven's arm as he walked beside him. "Hey man, this lady has a question for you," Jack stated as he stepped away.
He found his family and friends standing by the edge of the court. He walked into a hug from his mom.
"Great job, son."
"Thanks, Ma."
Then he turned his attention to his dad. His father wrapped him in a big hug. "You played well, son. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks, Pa. For everything." He gave his father an extra squeeze.
Grace hugged him and told him he did well. He said thanks and hugged her back.
"Well done, son." William beamed with pride.
"Thanks, Dad."
Susan was next as she ran to him. She was just so excited for her friend.
"I think you are my lucky charm."
"That would be Elizabeth."
Jack looked up into Elizabeth's eyes. He didn't want to be rude to everyone else, but he had to hug his person. He had to be in her presence. She could see it in his eyes.
Elizabeth stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Jack without saying a word. She held on as tight as she did. He buried his head in her neck and hair. She felt a tear land on her neck. She knew Jack was emotional because he gave everything he had and left it on the court. She also knew he was excited about what the team just accomplished. This will be the first time Hamilton East will play for a state championship.
Elizabeth wanted to say thousands of things, but words were failing her. Instead of saying anything, she just squeezed him even tighter. The whole group gave the young couple plenty of time to have their moment together. Everyone could sense the emotional intimacy between them. Not one person thought it was inappropriate or wrong.
After an indeterminate amount of time, Jack pulled back just a fraction of an inch. He wiped away the tears that were running down his cheeks.
"I'm sorry."
Elizabeth remained close so she could whisper in his ear and shield him as he wiped the tears away.
"You never have to apologize to me, Jarrick. I'm your forever."
She felt him nodding his head. "Thank you." He whispered.