Booker reached through the bars, squeezed Stubby’s neck, and lifted him off the floor. “I thought I told you we didn’t do shit to those Jackrabbits!”

“Sure,” Subby wheezed. “Whatever, dude. I didn’t mean nothin’ by it.”

Booker let him go.

Stubby hit the ground and stumbled away. He raised his hands defensively. “Look, dude, I’m just the messenger. I came here for two reasons: First, I figure I owe you for smearing jock cream in your eyes. Second, I’m hoping you’ll agree to never give me one of those power wedgies again. Can we call it a deal?”

“Not yet. What else you got?”

“Couple things. I should tell you there’s a strong possibility this game will never happen, no matter how many people are in favor of it.”

“How come?”

“For starters our whole team is in the slammer. Then there’s the issue of the sheriff. I just saw him upstairs, heading out the door. He’s been up there ranting and raving over the news of this game, saying there ain’t no way he’s gonna let it happen.”

“I ain’t worried about no cops,” Booker said. “This is Killington and Elmwood we’re talking ’bout. This rivalry goes far and above johnny law.”

“I hope you’re right.” Stubby stepped back up to the bars. “So listen … if this game does happen, I think I got just the thing to keep your blood flowing in here until kickoff time tomorrow.”

Booker’s face lit up. “Porn?”

“Better.”

“Beer?” Manny asked.

Stubby shook his head. “Even better.” He reached into the front of his pants and brought out a ziplock bag. “Thought a little Hombre Muchacho might be just the thing to cheer you fellas up. Considering what I’ve read about the Jackrabbits’ level of fury, I think y’all are gonna need it.”

Booker reached through the bars and swiped the bag from Stubby’s hand.

“My underwear’s full of the stuff,” Stubby said. “Gonna slip that guard another Butterfinger so he’ll let me see the rest of the guys. I’ll make sure they get their share, too.”

“How the hell did you get ahold of this much Hombre Muchacho?” Manny asked, a tinge of jealousy in his voice.

“Sorry, dude. I had to go through one of your competitors. No offense, but he knocked a little off the price because I bought in bulk … pardon the pun. Get it? Bulk? Anyway, I’ve been building up my own personal stash for a while now.”

“What the hell for?” Manny asked.

“Gonna try out for varsity next year. Thought I might need a little something extra to make the cut, play with the likes of you fellas.”

“Let’s get it on, baby!” Booker held the bag up to the light and gazed at it with reverence.