Ian
“Damn it, Ian O’Connor! If Scott tackles you one more time, I’m gonna bench you this weekend, do you understand me?”
I pick myself up from the grass with Scott pulling me to my feet. He pats me on the shoulder and runs off with his head down.
I breathe in, bending my knees as the guys head off the field and make their way towards the gym, each going to his own machine.
“What’s your problem, kid?” The coach is storming towards me, and he’s not happy.
“I’m just—”
“You’re just an idiot, that’s what!”
Okay, that’s a pretty perfect definition.
“You show up like this again and you’re out, seriously. You’re done for today.”
I nod, absorbing the coach’s wrath, and I can hear snickering over my shoulder.
All that was missing from this picture was the biggest pair of arseholes to witness it.
I turn towards the stands to see my brothers sitting there, sitting apart obviously, but at least there’re here together. I move towards them as they stand up and walk down the steps.
“Jesus, Ian. I didn’t remember you being so bad. Your age must be catching up with you.” Nick punches my arm and I try not to react.
“Good thing you’re the big champion in the family,” Ryan teases me, and Nick snickers.
“I’m glad to see you two dickheads are united in making fun of me.”
“United my arse,” Nick gets serious quickly.
“Then what are you two doing here together?”
“We have to talk to you.”
“I’ll have a shower and be right there. You guys try not to gouge each other’s eyes out.”
“I can’t make any promises,” Ryan calls as I head towards the changing rooms. I’d better avoid fucking up anything else here or they really won’t let me play.
* * *
I leavethe gym and head towards the car park, where my brothers are waiting for me next to my motorbike.
“Where are we going?” I ask.
“Your house.”
Obviously.
“I’m coming with you,” Ryan says grabbing the helmet.
Nick raises his hands and goes towards a car parked a few feet away.
“A car?” I ask Ryan.
He shrugs his shoulders and gets on the bike behind me as I start the engine and head off for my house, towards the next impending disaster.
* * *
