“Chaperones will be on hand,” local rep Jill McNeil promised. “I’ll personally be there for Devon, as I understand this is one of those things that could definitely make him a bit anxious. I think he’ll enjoy meeting the other five swimmers coming in from Georgia, Washington, Vermont, Nevada, and Texas, though. I’ve known him for a while, and though the decision, of course, is yours, I feel as if this can be a positive experience.”
“I think so too,” my dad said. “Except…we had an issue last weekend.”
“Yes. But,” Jill continued, “we don’t always. Devon has done quite well at many gatherings, correct? Being in the water might help. A suit and tie, the stage, the formality of the banquet…”
“I’m just not sure.” Even though I couldn’t see my father’s face, I could tell by his voice he was un
