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Four.
The band started again. The first drumbeat hit through the concrete.
I stopped.
Sadie went another step before she noticed. She turned back. “What?”
“Nothing.”
I looked toward the concourse.
Coach Ben stood near the far opening.
I hadn’t noticed him come under the stands.
He wasn’t looking at me. He was looking down the same corridor I had just been staring into.
Something tightened between my shoulder blades.
Someone crossed in front of him.
When they passed, Ben had turned toward the field.
I followed his gaze.
Chief stood on the sideline with his helmet under one arm.
His eyes were moving through the stands.
Then they found me. The familiar concentration settled over his face.
The look.
I almost rolled my eyes. Almost.
Then I remembered the front steps. His open hand between us.
Next time, you call me.
I raised my water bottle slightly.
A tiny salute. I’m fine.
His expression didn’t change. He kept looking.
Was there something wrong with my expression?
“Come on,” Sadie said beside me.
I turned toward her.
Declan’s voice came from behind me. “Hazel.”
I spun around.
Nobody was there.
My heart gave one hard, confused beat.