Page 30 of Before the Fire


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First preseason game. First time wearing the jersey in a real game.

Novák

Preseason is not a real game. It's an audition.

Mueller

That's worse.

Novák

Yes. It is.

Davis

Thanks for the pep talk, Novák.

Novák

I don't do pep talks. I do accurate assessments.

Hájek

I am nervous. Is this normal?

Mueller

Yes.

Davis

Very.

Novák

No. I feel nothing.

Davis

Your pants are on fire, Novi.

Novák

I am not a liar. I just feel very little.

Hájek

Why are Novák's pants on fire? I do not understand.

Davis

Haji, it's an american phrase (Liar, Liar, Pants on fire). Novi, Still lying.

Novák

Fine. I feel a normal amount of pre-game alertness that could be misinterpreted as nerves by someone less emotionally disciplined.

Davis