The Franklin Match: Halftime

“This Franklin team isn’t giving us any space to breathe,” Daphne says. “We’ve got to find a way to break out.”

“Their defenders play so high up that I feel like I’m always offside,” Jack grumbles.

“That’s the key, isn’t it,” you say. “They’re so compact in our half that it leaves them dangerously open. But if we play some long balls and time our runs well…”

“It’ll be devastating,” Javier grins. “Tough to get the timing right though. This isn’t something that we’ve practiced.”

“This is a good idea,” Daphne says, giving you an approving nod. “Here’s how we should approach it…”

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

“Really?” you say, surprised. “What’s the story?”

“I’ve been sending Daphne some videos from the Franklin games earlier in the season,” she says, tapping the little camcorder strapped to her hand. “Just a little extra intel for a friend.”

“That’s awesome,” you say. “I had no idea! Do you film every game?”

“Lots of them,” Nicole says. “I do some photography on the side, too, So in many ways, this is just a fun chance to practice that skill. Pity that it’s looking rough out there for your side today.”

“We have a plan,” Daphne says. “We’ll be ready for them next half.”

Nicole looks at you, not fully convinced.

“We’ve got some new tactics, thanks to the boss,” you say, giving Daphne a reassuring smile. “We’ll be ready.”

“All credit to Alex,” Daphne says. She gives you a curt nod, and you excuse yourself.

Your captain 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.