Page 9 of Off Pitch

“Very important.” I smile. “Your favorite could define who you are as a person. It’s essential for getting to know you.”

“You’re insane, Lo, but I love you.” Rory thinks for a moment. “Let’s see… my favorite color is maroon, my favorite food is chicken parmesan, and my favorite Taylor Swift song would have to beDress, I’d say.”

“Of course, that’s your favorite. I shouldn’t expect anything less from you, Ror.” We both dissolve into laughter as my phone vibrates. I pick it up and glance at the screen.

“Who’s that?” Rory asks.

“I actually have no idea. It’s a text from a number I don’t have saved.”

Unknown

Hey, before the game tonight, my agent wants to meet with us

Think you could stop by early for that?

This is Knox, by the way

“It’s from Knox. How the hell did he even get my number?”

“The team directory, probably.”

“I’m not part of the team—why would I be in the directory?

“Lo, we both are. We’re unofficial members of the team because we travel with them and do things for the team. We’re both listed in the team directory.”

“Oh.”

Unhappy with my lack of communication, Rory prods me. “So… what did Fort Knox have to say?”

“He’s asking me to come by early for the game today. Says his agent wants a meeting with both of us.”

“Did he say why? That’s kinda weird.”

“Let me ask.”

Harlow

Uh, sure

Why do you need me for a meeting, though?

Knox

I have no fucking clue, to be honest

This is all my agent’s doing

He saw us talking after the game yesterday, so I’d guess it has something to do with that

Harlow

I’d hardly call yesterday a conversation or anything

I tried to talk to you, but you weren’t very responsive

Hell, this chat here is more than you’ve ever spoken to me

Knox

---