I arrive at the u; the weather isn’t favorable for practice yet, but I doubt that we’ll escape from it today. I grimace when I think of the wet grass and mud that awaits us on the field. I can deal with getting dirty, but I hate the feeling of damp dirt on my skin under the uniform, it's so f*****g uncomfortable. The wind is subtle but the cold is dense, although nothing I can't tolerate.
I walk through the main courtyard, feeling sharp stares and whispers as I go. Yesterday’s slap event must be spreading like wildfire by now, but I don't really care. Even if I remain motionless and don't breathe, they'll talk. The cafeteria isn’t very full, which is a relief. I quickly locate Nate and Steve between the tables and jog until I'm sitting next to them.
“Morning, sweetie,” Steve sings. “You
