Usually the honor was given to one of the more senior members of the team such as Shane Given or Rhys Hughes.
“Why?” I found myself asking, not entirely trusting Jack. Or his reasons for anything.
“Because you’re their leader,” Jack had said matter of factly. Begrudgingly. But with a note of respect.
I had slid the band over my arm and felt ten feet tall.
As we jogged to our positions on the pitch I glanced up into the stands. It was a sold out crowd. Everyone was on their feet. Banners waved in the wind.
Morgan had texted a few hours before letting me know she had checked into the hotel without a problem.
I made it here alive.
I had been eating a light lunch, having just gotten into the city. The ride had been quiet and I had been able to get some more sleep. Though not much. Alan had eventually come down to sit with me.
You on your way to the stadium?I messaged back.
Not yet. The car is on its way. Do I have time to make you a poster?
I had grinned which prompted more ribbing from Alan.
Now I looked for her.
I couldn’t help it.
I found myself scanning the faces. I knew which section she’d be in. I had gotten her a seat in the away box reserved for wives, girlfriends, and friends of the club. I could see Marla Denham and my stomach dropped. Shit. I had no idea she had made the trip to London. She didn’t normally go to the away games. It took away from time to do whatever she did while Craig was gone.
But then I wasn’t thinking about Marla because thereshewas. Morgan was on her feet like everyone else. I could see her clapping her hands.
In a stadium full of thousands of people, I saw only her.
My heart thumped in my chest. The adrenaline coursed through my veins.
And there she was.
Adam Koffi, our right midfielder, patted my arm, pulling my attention back to the match.
I found my position.
The whistle blew.
And that was it.
I became Lucas Bradley, striker.
Lucas Bradley, the star of Chester.
I was on fire.
No one could touch me.
When the final whistle blew, we had won. Two to one. Both of those goals were mine.
I was on top of the world.
My teammates converged around me in a pile. Shouting. Back thumping. Craig took off his shirt and gave it to a young boy in the crowd, who promptly started crying.
We shook hands with the opposing side. Jack congratulated us. It was a moment that can’t be described.
