Page 106 of A Game as Old as Time

Here we go.

The whole sideline leaned forward. A collective inhale rushed through the stadium as both teams came to the ball.

“This is it, Pioneer fans. The winner punches a ticket to the state championship game in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Eagles line up for the game-winning field goal trailing 21-20. Both teams are in position. The holder calls out the cadence. Here is the snap…”

Gunner closed his eyes right when he heard the pads smashing against each other.

Wait for it.

The first thud of the kicker’s foot against the ball.

Wait.

He heard a second thud.

He felt a lurch behind him and an arm wrapping him up. His head was still cloudy from the pain, but he could hear screams all around him. As he opened his eyes, he saw his teammates sprinting onto the field and the referees running off.

WE BLOCKED IT!

Emilio was galloping around, his helmet off, a trail of steam chasing after him.

“We’re going to Hershey, G!” He twisted to Ty, pure elation on his face. “We’re going to the STATE CHAMPIONSHIP!”

His best friend’s voice broke, and they embraced.

Oh shit!

The knives shot back into Gunner’s arm and chest, making him wobble.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” Ty yelled and pulled back, panic painted across his face.

Gunner took a deep breath to steady himself, but then immediatelywrapped his good arm around his best friend.

“Damn straight we are, Ty!” he screamed with all the energy he had left.

We’re going to Hershey!

Chapter 19

“We are one week away from what will be an historic night of South Mountain Pioneer football. The state championship looms on the horizon, and while many in town are preparing for a trip to Hershey Stadium, questions remain about the health of Gunner Weston.

The Pioneers will need everything they can get from him, as they will be taking on the number-one defense in the state. This Allegheny Prep team boasts five All-State players on defense, including All-American safety Riley Davis. The defensive line averages over thirty pounds more than the South Mountain offensive line and is led by All-State defensive ends Ricardo Sampson and Benjamin Bishop. The offense for the Crusaders is engineered by State Player of the Year Tyrell Whitworth, who has set multiple state records. On paper, this game seems like a mismatch at every position---it’s not a surprise that the Crusaders have dominated every opponent they’ve met this year.”

**********

Hailey glanced over at Gunner as he settled into the passenger seat.

“Sorry,” he said as he flipped off the radio. “I was listening to you, I swear.” He motioned to the bags in the back seat, clearly trying to change the subject. “I think we got enough treats, though. I just hopeboth our sisters will be willing to help us out.”

He laughed and reached over with his right arm, patting one of the bags they had placed on the floor.

“I hope so,” Hailey said. “I am so excited to see the lights tonight. I hear they’re beautiful.”

She noticed a small wince when he sank back into the seat.

“Yeah, me too.” He took a second to catch his breath. “My family has always loved the Hershey Lights.” He let out an audible exhale, adjusting the sling under his letterman jacket. “But I swear I was listening to you.”

She turned on the car. The heat immediately kicked on to combat the chilly air outside.

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