The halftime whistle blew, and the stands buzzed with excitement as students from both schools flooded onto the field, pretending to mingle while secretly sizing each other up.
Stephen and three teammates dismounted, handed the reins to the grooms, and walked over to Bill.
Pulling off his helmet and running a hand through his hair, Stephen asked, "What's up? Why did Kelly leave?"
"She's gone. For good," Bill said, his tone cold and final.
"You guys broke up?" Stephen raised an eyebrow.
Bill nodded. Stephen didn't pry—there were more pressing matters at hand. The group quickly shifted their focus to analyzing the game and adjusting their strategy.
"I'll play the second half," Bill said as they finalized the plan, fastening his helmet.
Stephen hesitated. "You sure? Your body—"
"I'm f
