The letter arrived on a Wednesday, and Javier knew what it was before he opened it.
He'd been expecting it for weeks. The Crestmont coaches had been calling, texting, visiting. They'd made it clear: they wanted him. They needed him. They were building the program around him. But there was always a catch. There was always fine print.
He opened the envelope and read the letter twice. Then he read it again.
Dear Javier,
We are pleased to confirm your academic scholarship package to Crestmont University. As discussed, this package covers tuition, room, board, and fees for your four years of study. In addition, we are offering you a leadership position within the volleyball program. You will be a captain from your freshman year onward.
We believe you have the potential to be a program-chan
