Daily Flash Fiction Challenge

The autumn chill was chased off by this Saturday’s noonday sunshine. The spires on the gothic clock tower planted in the middle of campus, directing eyes to the heavens, are visible just above the visitors’ uprights. The melodic chiming is muffled by the rumbling of the anxious and enthusiastic crowd that filled the stadium.

I draw a deep cleansing breath and blow it out slowly. Adrenaline is pumping. My arms are extended and I shake my hands as though I am trying to sling mud from them. I jog in place. Cheerleaders line up and I know it is nearly time to make our grand entrance from the tunnel. I turn and look at my teammates, many fist-pumping and beginning to chant, “Go! Go! Go!”

I catch a glimpse of the sea of emerald green fans.

My people are up there. Everyone is watching.

Coach Williams stands closely discussing some last minute plays with our prize receiver. He has put faith in me, a rookie quarterback. A lot rides on this game.

I won’t let you down, Coach. We are going to put a spankin’ on these little girls.

4th Quarter:
Home: 7 Visitors: 7
4th and goal
0 min 4 sec

The ball is hiked and I back up from the line of scrimmage and find myself on the thirtieth yard line, searching for my receiver.

Block! Block! Ahh, okay …

I throw a perfect spiral to the outside and it’s caught …

Run! Run!

It’s caught! She spiked the ball! We win!

No! No!! I broke a nail. I hope the salon is open tomorrow.