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The ball bounces once. Twice.

Then disappears into the woods behind me.

“I'll get it!”

I wave so the kids know where I'm going.

More importantly, so Coach knows where I'm going. Because the last thing I need is him coming over here to help.

I follow the ball between the trees.

“There you are.”

It rolls down a slight incline.

“No, no, no⁠—”

Bounce.

Bounce.

Bounce.

And finally, plop.

Right into a small pond.

“Dammit.”

I stand at the edge and glare at it.

The golden ball floats about three feet from shore.

Of course it does.

I could use magic.

Probably.

But technically, faculty members aren't supposed to use magic to retrieve game equipment because something about setting a good example for students.

Rules.

So many rules.

I crouch and reach. My fingertips brush the ball.

“Come on.”

A little farther.

Almost have it.

The dirt beneath my shoe gives way.

“Oh, shit!”

I pitch forward.