“Hot damn!” Mr. Hodges clapped his meaty palms together. “Now that’s what I’m talking about, Gallbreth. That’s school spirit. You could learn a thing or two from this kid.”

“Mr. Logan’s condition is beside the point,” said Mr. Gallbreth. “It was my understanding that the decision had been made to call off the game.”

“My ass it had. This boy wants to play, we’re gonna play,” Mr. Hodges declared.

“On whose authority?” Gallbreth asked.

“On Coach Hickham’s.” Mr. Hodges turned to the coach. “That’s right, ain’t it, Jimmy? I mean, the kid seems fit enough, don’t he?”

Cole and Hickham eyed each other as though they were the only ones in the room.

“You’re right, Mr. Hodges,” Hickham said, keeping his eyes on Cole. “It is my team, and therefore my decision whether or not we play. And we are playing tonight as scheduled.”

Mr. Hodges beamed. “Coach, I knew when you got here you were gonna be the answer to all our prayers. Now, come on, boys, let’s get outta here and let the coach get back to work.”

“Thanks, Coach,” Cole said. “I won’t let you down.” He started to file out of the room with the others.

“Hold on just a second, Cole.” Hickham took him by the elbow. “We’re going to play tonight … but I think maybe you ought to sit this one out.”

Silence fell over the room.

“But why, Coach?”

“Son, you lost two fingers.”

“On my left hand. I can still throw, still hand off the ball.”

“I’m not just concerned about your physical health, Cole. You were the victim of a violent attack.”

“So? I can assure you it wasn’t my first brush with violence in my neighborhood.”

“What are you so worried about, Coach?” asked Mr. Hodges.

“I’m responsible for the safety of my players. And I’m not going to put anyone at risk unnecessarily.”

“Jimmy, I know you’re in charge of this show and all, but this ain’t exactly an unnecessary risk,” Mr. Hodges said. “I mean, your backup quarterback has had about thirty-six seconds of playing time in the season. I’m not sure he’s up to snuff, if you know what I mean.”

“He’ll be fine.”

“What makes you so sure?”

“Because Logan is going to help him.”

“What?” Cole said, aghast.

“From the sideline. As the leader of this team, I expect you to help your backup QB.”

“You’re joking, right?”

“My decision is final.” Hickham glanced at each dumbstruck face. “You are all excused now.”

Everyone spoke up at once, but none more loudly than Savannah, who had kept silent until now.

She stepped into the room. “Just show him, Cole.”

“Show me what?”

“Cole is telling the truth, Dad. He’s fine to play. Go ahead and show him, Cole.”