The Franklin Match: Halftime

“This Franklin team is trying to suffocate us,” Daphne says. “But we planned for that, and now we have the lead.”

“Glory to our queen,” Javier says, mock bowing to her.

“We should not get overconfident,” she warns. “Though we are up two, there are still forty-five minutes left in this game.”

“Same tactics, or should we start parking the bus more?” Jason asks.

“With the way they press, I do not think it would be effective to stay hemmed into our half for the entire match,” Daphne says. “We play the same style as before. We play to win.”

“Let’s go Stonewall!” Keegan says, and the team cheers.

As halftime draws to an end, you spy Daphne chatting with a petite brunette. She wears a cropped sweater and a short skirt, leaving a delectable amount of midriff exposed. Who could this snack be?

“Alex, this is my friend Nicole,” Daphne says. “She has been giving us a hand recently.”

Nicole

“The one who sent us the tapes?” you ask.

“The very one,” she smiles.

“Ah, so you’re the secret behind our success,” you smile. “Thanks to you, we managed to draw up some nasty tactics.”

“It’s not a secret,” Nicole laughs, tapping the little camcorder strapped to her hand. “I give the footage to the Franklin team so they can review too. I just happen to be… generous, in who I share it with.”

“Well, keep that generosity coming,” you say.

“I do some photography on the side, too,” Nicole says. “So in many ways, this is just a fun chance to practice that skill.”

“That’s awesome,” you say. “Thanks for helping out our team this week.”

“Yes, we appreciate it,” Daphne says, and then she gives you a curt nod.

Getting the hint, you excuse yourself. Daphne probably wants some time alone to chat with her friend. {if Jeanne > 50} You’re about to head for the pitch when you feel somebody grab your arm.

You spin around and come face to face with Jeanne. The petite blonde is wearing a suit and high heels today, looking like a consummate professional.

“Time for a quote for the Stonewall Gray?” she asks, holding her phone out as a mic. “How are you feeling after the first half? Are you planning to make any changes?”

“Whoa… Jeanne, wasn’t expecting to see you here,” you say, still catching your footing. “The team’s confident. We’re going to do what we can to win. But ah… coming all the way out for an away game, now that’s some dedication to reporting,” you laugh.

{if JeanneStalker == 1} “I came out to support you,” she smiles. “It’s the least I could do after all we’ve been through together. I’ll see you after the game?” {else} “I take my job seriously,” she says. “Besides, there was a hidden perk to making the trip.” She touches your arm. “I’ll see you after the game?” {endif}

“I’ve got to focus for the match,” you say. “Let’s take things one step at a time.”

“Of course,” she says. “Good luck!”

With that, she kisses you on the cheek and leaves for the stands.
{endif}

It’s time to play ball.