The Unknown

Thursday's game

Wednesday's practice

Lisa's pov

I walked out of the locker room into the gym, holding my one sheet of paper. Coach Mott intercepted me.

"You have your assignment done?"

He knew damn well I didn't have time to do that assignment. I let my temper get the best of me.

"Here!" I said, shoving the paper into his hand. I was unjustifiably proud of myself.

Coach Mott unfolded the piece of paper, read my sole sentence, and his face turned a shade of reddish purple I've only ever seen before on vegetables. That must be where the phrase purple with rage comes from. Huh, you learn something new everyday.

"Do you think this is funny?" He was literally shaking, he was so angry.

Truth be told, I did kinda think it was funny. I was thinking that less by the minute though. I didn't know what to say so I just kept my mouth shut.

"Now, you can write Mr. Mott ten thousand times or you'll be benched for the next three games!" he yelled in my face, clearly unamused. "You can run laps today, instead of practicing with the team, and don't bother dressing tomorrow, unless you tell your guardians why you're going to be benched."

By the end of practice, he seemed more hurt than angry. For some reason, that was worse. I wish I never wrote that one sentence: MR. MOTT ONE THOUSAND TIMES. What the hell was I thinking?

Thursday's game

Lisa's pov

I walked out of the locker room in uniform and warmed up with the team. When it was time for the game to start, I took a seat on the bench. Coach Mott came up to me.

"Since you're dressed, I assume you told your guardians why you won't be playing for the next three games."

I just nodded my head yes, not wanting to verbalize the lie. I see Mike and Shane watching from the bleachers and wonder how long it will take them to figure out what's going on. As I predicted, it's a close game. We're pretty evenly matched with the other team so the points alternate frequently. I wish I was out there helping my team.

Shane's pov

Mike asks, "Why isn't Lisa playing? Did she get injured during warm ups?"

"Not that I know of. I missed the first half of warm ups but from what I saw she certainly didn't appear to be hurt." I look down at Lisa sitting on the bench. As soon as she sees me, she quickly looks away.

"I think something's wrong."

Mike asks, "Why do you say that? Maybe Fred is just giving second string some court time."

"Except, there's only one second string player on the court. I'm pretty sure he's benched Lisa on purpose."

"Why do you s'pose?" Mike asks.

"I don't know but I intend to find out."

After the game

Coach Mott walks up to Mike and I.

I say, "Tough loss, Coach, but it was a good game."

Coach Mott replies, "I'm surprised to see you both here."

"What do you mean? We always try to make the girls' games."

Coach Mott replies, "Yeah, but knowing Lisa wouldn't be playing, I didn't think you'd make the drive out here." Mike and I exchange a look that doesn't go unnoticed by Coach Mott. "She didn't tell you, did she?"