Chapter 26

On the first Wednesday in February, Calvin and I enter our school gym. We head to a small table surrounded by TV cameras. Calvin’s parents and Coach Kainoa stand nearby, smiling supportively.

Calvin and I each take a seat at the table, facing the cameras. There’s a piece of a paper and pen in front of each of us.

“Look at the cameras,” someone says. “Three, two, one . . .”

We’re introduced by a TV anchor from the local news channel.

“I’m here with two young men who came out of nowhere and are now in the spotlight. Let’s meet them and see where they’ll be going next year.”

He turns to Calvin. “A star wide receiver from Regent High with 40 receptions for 476 yards and 16 touchdowns.”

“And hands of Velcro,” I say into the microphone.

Calvin laughs at this.

“And who are you signing with, Calvin Gibson?” the reporter asks.

Calvin leans forward and slips on his UCC hat. “UCC, baby!”

He signs the papers and everyone applauds. His mother kisses him on the cheek and his dad hugs him.

“And Ignatius Jones has 310 carries for 2,211 yards and 15 touchdowns. Regent’s finest running back in years. Who will you be signing with?”

I look over at Calvin and his parents.

“First, I’d like to thank the Gibson family and my best friend, Calvin. They took me in so I could finish up my time here at Regent High. They housed me and fed me and they gave me more than just a home—they gave me confidence and stability. I have so much respect for them.” With a smile I add, “But I won’t feel bad kicking Calvin’s butt in the big UCC-Branford game. I’m going to play for Branford University, just like my father.” I pull on my Branford hat.

“Now that’s interesting,” the anchor says. “Two friends heading to rival schools? How do you think that will impact your friendship?”

“Well,” Calvin says, “I’m sure we’ll cheer each other on when we aren’t playing against each other.”

“And,” I say, “knowing I’ll have to play against Calvin will only make me work harder to make sure the Bears beat the Titans.”

Calvin smiles at this. “I’m going to make sure the Titans get the Golden State Bell back.”

“We look forward to watching you two play,” the anchor says.

A journalist from the local paper asks us a few more questions and takes our picture. Then the gym starts to empty out, and it becomes quiet again.

Calvin and I stand there wearing two different hats.

“This isn’t over,” Calvin says, sticking out his hand.

“Until the clock says zero,” I say, grabbing his hand and shaking it.