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Sacked by Emma Harrison

Sacked
by Emma Harrison
an SAT/ACT vocabulary novel

1
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Chapter One

You guys! You know what I just realized? Its the 1penultimate
Thursday of May! Tamara Glenn announced, stepping out into the sunshine
with two huge, whipped-cream-topped iced mocha lattes. Do you realize
what that means?
Drew Benson looked at his friends, amused, and a couple of them rolled
their eyes. Tamara was always psyched up about something. In fact, a lot of
Drews friends found her constant optimism irritating. But Drew kind of liked
it. It was nice to have someone around who was always looking on the bright
side. Plus, Tamara was not bad to look at, with her perfect dancers bod and
her long blond hair. Drew hadnt been interested in her that way since theyd
gone out back in eighth grade (back when everyone called them Ken and
Barbie), but she had always been a good friend. So he decided to humor her.
No. What does that mean? Drew asked, kicking back in his chair
outside Washingtonvilles very own Starbucks. The sun was shining as it
started to dip toward the horizon, and half the school was either loitering on
the sidewalk in the center of their 2quaint Pennsylvania town or hanging out
inside the coffee shop. In the warm air, Drew could practically taste the
3
impending summer and all the delicious freedom it would bring.
It means that in exactly six weeks, graduation will happen, and we will
officially be seniors, Tamara announced.
That got the entire tables attention. Drew and his friends whistled and
cheered, lifting their iced teas and lattes toward the sky. Drew reached across
the table to slap hands with Jason Szonyi, his best friend and fellow football
player, enjoying the 4camaraderie of the moment. Every time Drew thought
about being a senior, he felt a lightness in his chest that hed never
experienced before.

1 penultimate second-to-last
2 quaint charming
3 impending close at hand
4 camaraderie friendship

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Senior year. The entire social hierarchy of Washingtonville High was


going to change, and Drew Benson, as president of the senior class and
starting quarterback of the football team, was going to be on top. He and his
friends were going to rule the school and 5dominate on the field. Best of all,
Drews older brother, Trey, would finally, finally, be gone. The great Trey
Benson was actually going to be forced to abdicate his throne.
Yeah, everyone except me, Sally Chou lamented with a sigh. Sally
was Tamaras sophomore friend and the new girlfriend of Clay Carradinea
defensive lineman from the team. She rested her chin on her folded arms and
pulled her long, black ponytail over her shoulder to chew on the end.
Hey. Dont be harshing my vibe, Tamara joked, shoving her lightly.
Dude, I cannot wait, Clay said, leaning his elbows on the table,
causing his massive linemans biceps to bulge. A whole new flock of
freshmen females to 6plunder.
Ew! Clay! That is so not what I meant, Tamara said, 7whacking his
8
hulking shoulder.
Yeah, man. Have a little respect, Drew said.
Drews friends 9jeered, but Tamara shot him a thankful look. Drew
smiled back but then, the second her back was turned, wagged his tongue at
her comically. All the guys cracked up.
Shes right, though, guys, Drew said, lifting his red and white
Washingtonville High baseball cap off his head to scratch at his blond hair.
This is big stuff. Senior year. We have to make sure that we dont waste a
second of it.
Yeah, the guys muttered in agreement, nodding and looking around.
Drew felt a rush of adrenaline. For a second he thought of his brother.
5 dominate prevail
6 plunder . take possession by force
7 whacking . hitting hard
8 hulking . great size and bulk
9 jeered heckled challenge agressively

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This must be what Trey felt like whenever he made his captains speeches
before taking the football field. This was how Drew was going to feel every
Saturday next year.
No matter what, we have got to make sure that this is the best year
ever, Drew said, standing, enjoying the attention that was 10riveted on him.
From the first day of the first practice, we have to
Hey. Isnt that your brother? Clay asked, looking through the plate
glass window into Starbucks.
Drews jaw dropped in 11indignation at having his very first speech
12
truncated so 13abruptly. But sure enough, there on the TV screen behind
the counter was Trey himself, smiling and chatting with the hot reporter
woman from the local news.
Hey! Trey is on the news! Tamara shrieked.
And instantly, every single kid on the sidewalk crowded through the
doors and into the tiny coffee house. Unbelievable. The 14adulation these
people heaped on Drews brother was simply unbelievable. Drews shoulders
15
slumped as he reluctantly followed the 16throng inside. Part of him wanted
to stay out in the sun, away from the Trey Benson love-in, but he didnt want
to appear 17perfidious. Because he wasnt. Drew loved his brother. He truly
did. No matter what triumphs Trey achieved or how many 18accolades were
heaped upon him, his brother was always both humble and 19magnanimous.
An 20indisputably good guy. But Drew still could not wait for Trey to get his
10riveted fixed
11 indignation anger caused by injustice
12truncated cut off
13abruptly suddenly
14adulation flattery
15slumped .fell or sank heavily
16 throng crowd
17perfidious treacherous
18accolades praises
19magnanimous generous
20indisputably unquestionably

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butt in the car and move out of the house. He had lived in Treys shadow for
far too long.
Turn it up! Tamara shouted to the kid behind the counter.
He did, and just then the cameraman gave the world an extreme close-
up of Treys handsome, smiling face. The whole Starbucks crowd exploded
with cheers.
Shhhhhh! Jason scolded.
Everyone fell silent to listen to Treys response. The whole shop was
21
captivated.
Of course I cant wait to get to Penn State and get to work with the
team, Trey said. But that doesnt mean Im not going to miss all the people
back at Washingtonville High.
More cheers. One of Drews friends slapped him on the back. Little did
he know Drews heart felt nothing but sour.
Well, Im sure theyre going to miss you, too, Trey. You became a sort
22
of paragon for that team last season, hot reporter lady said.
Well, I dont know about that. But I do know that Im not leaving the
team totally 23bereft of talent. Theyve got a ton of returning starters, and, in
fact, my brother Drew is gonna be taking over as starting quarterback. And
let me tell you, the rest of the league better watch out, Trey said, looking
into the camera and winking. They wont know what hit them.
This time, the place erupted in an even bigger 24cacophony, and Drew
couldnt help smiling. Treys mention of him 25assuaged his jealousy a bit.
The guy really had a 26penchant for saying the right thing. It was as if he
knew Drew was watching and knew exactly how hed feel.
21captivated enthralled, filled with wonder and delight
22paragon standard, the ideal in terms of which something can be judged
23bereft lacking
24cacophony din, loud harsh strident sound
25assuaged calmed
26penchant fondness

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There you have it, former Washingtonville High football star Trey
Benson, future quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions.... as humble as
ever, hot reporter lady said. And now for a story that could have a major
impact on Treys alma mater, Washingtonville High, we go back to Jane in
the studio. Jane . . .
Omigod! This is it! Tamara cried.
Everyone shut up! Drew shouted.
The place went deathly silent as Jane Grady, the 27news anchor, faced
the camera. Its a story of slashed budgets and broken hearts, a story that
may reach its 28conclusion this very evening, Jane said seriously. It was
announced in January that, due to budget cuts, the state had decided to close
the doors of Corinth High School in Corinth, Pennsylvania, for good this
coming fall. But the question remained, where would the students of Corinth
High wind up?

Not at our school! Clay shouted, earning a round of cheers.


Tamara glared at him and rolled her eyes, but Drew held his breath.
It was believed that one of three local schools would absorb Corinths
students. Either Jefferson High, Plainsboro High, or Washingtonville High.
Well, tonight the school boards of Washingtonville and Corinth are meeting
to decide whether their two schools would make a good fit. There has been
no official decision as of yet, but we will be keeping an eye on the story and
let you know as soon as anything new develops.
Groans 29abounded, and Drew and his friends headed back outside to
reclaim their table.
How could they even think about combining us with Corinth? Marisa
Wise whined, shaking her black curls back from her face. Marisa was a
cheerleader and daughter of one of the Pittsburgh Steelers assistant coaches,
27news anchor . newsreader, newscaster
28conclusion end
29abounded prevailed

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which basically made her one of the richest girls in the already wealthy
suburb of Washingtonville. And the most popular. Were too different. Wed
never 30coalesce.
Its never gonna happen, Drew said confidently, even though he felt
anything but confident on the inside.
Uh, I hate to break it to you guys, but if the state decides that Corinth
is going to Washingtonville, theres nothing our school board can do to
31
preclude that event, Jason said. My mom and dad were up all night
talking about it.
Jasons mother was president of the school board, and Jason had,
therefore, been the students eyes and ears ever since this whole 32noisome
mess had begun.
Our school board will find a way to 33circumvent the system, Drew
said 34testily. Let those losers go to Plainsboro. Theyd fit in better over
there anyway, and everyone knows it.
The guys muttered their 35assent as they pulled out their chairs.
Oh, why? Because theyre not as 36affluent as we are? Because they
dont all live in 37ostentatious houses and get their own cars for their
sixteenth birthdays? Tamara 38griped. You guys can really be so
obnoxious.
Whose house is ostentatious? Marisa asked defensively, knowing full
well that her own McMansion on the 39outskirts of town was one of the
30coalesce meld together
31preclude make impossible
32noisome troublesome
33circumvent go around
34testily . irritably
35assent agreement
36affluent rich
37ostentatious showy
38griped . complain
39outskirts . a part of the city far removed from the center

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showiest homes around.


Look, all I know is, if they come to our school, our senior year is
gonna be a 40calamity, Drew said. Theyre gonna want to take over
everything. Our clubs, our student government
Our starting positions, Jason mumbled.
Drew felt a dart of pain through his heart. This was, of course, what he
was really worried about. Everyone knew that Corinth Highs Samson Hill
was one of the best quarterbacks in the state. Hed been starting since he was
a sophomore and had led his team all the way to the state semifinals the year
before. If he came to Washingtonville, it would mean that Drews dreams
would be over before he even had a chance to realize them.
Well, I think it could be beneficical, Tamara said, sipping her iced
coffee. You guys could use a little mind opening, if you ask me.
Yeah, you wont be saying that when they 41swoop in here and take
half the spots on your precious dance team, Clay snapped. You could be
42
bilked right out of your spot, and you were one of the people who founded
the damn thing.
Tamaras blue eyes widened for a split second, but then she
remembered herself and 43scoffed. I can hold my own.
I hope I can, too, Drew thought, his fists clenching under the table.
Just then, a black Jeep Wrangler came zooming around the corner and
44
careened to a stop right in front of the cafe. Jackson Lyle, the editor of the
school paper, put it in park and jumped out. He ran through the door and
stopped just inside, all out of breath and 45blotchy. Drews stomach clenched.

40calamity disaster
41swoop . move with a sweep
42bilked cheated
43scoffed exhaled with contempt
44careened . walk as if unable to control one's movements sideways or in an unsteady way
45blotchy . marked with irregularly shaped spots or blots

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Jackson? Are you okay? Tamara asked.


They voted yes, Jackson said. Were absorbing Corinth.
Everyone gasped in shock. Drew felt as if his chair had just been
yanked out from under him. No way.
Its a 46ruse, Marisa said, forcing a laugh. One of your lame-o jokes,
right Jackson?
Sorry, guys. Its true. I was covering the meeting for the paper,
Jackson said, pushing his glasses up for a second to rub his eyes. Its over.
Its done. Our school is no longer our own.

46ruse trick

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Chapter Two

The morning of the Washingtonville Eagles first summer practice was


marked by a blue sky and a brilliant sun. It was going to be a hot one, Drew
could tell, and he could only hope that Coach Davidson would get in most of
the tougher drills before noon. Heart pounding with nerves and 47dread,
Drew shoved his 48gear into his big black-and-red duffel bag and 49hoofed it
downstairs. If at all possible, he wanted to get out of the house before his
father even came out of his bedroom. The last thing he needed this morning
was an 50elucidation of his many flaws by his old man. He was tense enough
as it was, thinking about Samson Hill and the Corinth team 51invading his
field.
Good morning, hon! Drews mother greeted him the moment he
stepped into the open, airy kitchen. Grab a plate! I made you breakfast. She
was fully dressed in her workout gear and had a pan full of scrambled eggs
working on the stove. Drews heart dropped. So much for a quick getaway.
Actually, mom, I was just gonna grab an iced tea, Drew said, reaching
for the door of the stainless steel fridge.
Oh, no you dont. I know youre all 52hyped up, but thats all the more
reason to eat some real food, his mother said, patting him on the back.
Mom
Consider it 53mandatory, she said, her blue eyes serious. Youre not
leaving here without some breakfast in you.
She turned him around and pushed him down into one of the kitchen
47 dread . fearful expectation or anticipation
48 gear . equipment consisting of miscellaneous articles needed for a particular operation or
sport
49 hoofed . made a powerful kick
50 elucidation clarification
51 invading raiding
52 hyped up . got excited or stimulated
53 mandatory required

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chairs.
You really are freakishly strong, Drew said to his mother.
Where do you think you boys get it from? she asked with a smirk.
Its certainly not from your father. Drew laughed, and his mother pointed
her spatula at him. But if you tell him I said that, Ill deny every word.
Drew nodded as she placed a plate of eggs and toast in front of him. He
could hear his father moving around in his room, closing the closet, turning
off the morning news. Any second the man was going to join them in the
kitchen, and the very thought made Drew feel 54morosea feeling he did not
need on a day when he had to be at the top of his game.
He heard the bedroom door close, and his heart skipped a beat. At that
very moment, the phone rang. Drew dove for it.
Hello?
Hows the Eagles starting quarterback? Treys jovial voice greeted
him.
Drew was flooded with a mixture of relief and 55trepidation. Im not
the starter yet.
Dont 56deprecate yourself. You will be, Trey said confidently. I just
called to wish you good luck.
Drew smiled, rocking back on his feet. It meant a lot to him that his
brother had gotten up early, taken time out of his own ridiculously busy
schedule, just to call him. Thanks, man. Im gonna need it.
Trey blew out a sigh. Look, man, I know that Samson Hill is a
57
reputable quarterback
58
Reputable? Try renowned, Drew corrected. You should see the
54 morose miserable
55 trepidation anxiety
56 deprecate condemn
57 reputable held in esteem
58 renowned famous

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coverage hes getting from the papers. Its like hes a golden god.
Drew heard his fathers footsteps on the stairs. He turned his back
toward the kitchen door as his dad entered.
Hes not a golden god, Trey said. You can be just as good as he is.
All youve got to do is 59delineate your goals. Make sure you know exactly
what you want to do, then go out there and 60execute. Show him what youre
capable of. Get under his skin. The guys not 61impervious. Work hard, be
62
deligent, do your thing, and youll throw him off his game.
You think? Drew asked, feeling a flutter of hope inside his chest.
Dude, I know you can do this. You totally have it in you to 63foil this
guy, Trey said. I know it sucked having to play backup the past couple of
years, but you were the best JV quarterback the Eagles ever had, dont forget
that.
Thanks, Trey, Drew said. He could feel his dad watching him, and he
turned toward the wall to hide his smile. That means a lot coming from the
paragon of the program.
Trey laughed. You gotta get off that bandwagon, man. Dont forget,
Im starting over here, too. Im nothing but a 64neophyte now. Last night the
seniors grabbed all the 65frosh from their beds and 66hosed us down in the
middle of the field. The Trey Benson era is officially over.
Youre kidding me, Drew said, 67stifling a laugh.
I wish, Trey said. Listen, I gotta get to practice, but just remember:
Immerse yourself in your game. Live it, breathe it, and youll be fine.
59 delineate define
60 execute perform
61 impervious impenetrable
62 diligent determined
63 foil . to hinder or prevent, thwart
64 neophyte beginner
65 frosh . first-year undergraduate
66 hosed . water with a hose
67 stifling smothering

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Confidence is 68paramount, Drew. I cant stress that enough.


Thanks, Trey, Drew said, feeling more confident than he had in
weeks.
You got it, man. Good luck, Trey said.
You, too, Drew replied.
They hung up, and Drew felt a smile forming on his lips. Trey was
right. He could do this. Samson Hill couldnt be that 69deft a quarterback. It
wasnt like hed been recruited by any big schools yet. As long as Drew
showed 70fortitude and focus, he had a shot.
Was that your brother? Drews dad asked, sipping at his coffee.
Drew glanced at his fathers hulking frame, pressed into his dark blue
suit, his neck straining at the tight collar of his shirt. His fathers brown hair
had gone iron gray on the sides, which somehow only made his overall look
even more intimidating.
Yep, Drew answered 71curtly. He didnt want to invite a conversation,
even though he knew he couldnt avoid one. He sat down again and started
shoveling scrambled eggs into his mouth.
He didnt want to talk to me? his father asked.
Nope, Drew replied, enjoying the 72pang he knew this would give his
father.
Well, Im sure hes got to get to practice. That boy is focused, Drews
father said, checking out the newspaper on the counter. You could really
take a page out of his book.
Drew felt the color rising in his cheeks. So much for his good mood.

68 paramount most important, having superior power and influence


69 deft skillful in physical movements; especially of the hands
70 fortitude strength of mind that enables one to endure adversity with courage
71 curtly shortly
72 pang . a sudden mental pain or distress

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Highs were always 73empheral when his father was around. I am focused,
Dad.
I sure hope so, because youre really going to have to step up your
game this year, son, his father said. That Samson Hill is no joke.
I know this, Dad, Drew said, shoving his plate away. He stood up and
grabbed his bag, more than ready to make his escape.
Dont you snap at me, his father warned.
Can we not do this today? Drews mother begged. I mean, really.
Can we have one morning of peace, please?
Im sorry, Claire. I just want to make sure that your son understands
how important this is to this family, Drews father said, 74squaring off with
Drew. You have a legacy to protect, Drew. Its up to you not to 75debase
your brothers good name. We cannot have a Benson playing backup.
Drew felt as if his father had just punched him in the gut. Did he not
understand how much the things he said hurt? Was he really that 76oblivious?
We already did have a Benson playing backup, Dad, remember?
Drew said. I played backup to Trey last year. And, by the way, led the JV
team to an undefeated season. Or has that just slipped your mind?
Theres that tone again. Where does this penchant for 77effrontery
come from? Your brother certainly never gave me this kind of attitude,
Drews father said.
Yeah, well you certainly never gave Trey so much crap, Drew thought.
Look, son, I just want to make sure you understand what youve gotta
do here, his father told him, holding up a hand. You go out there and show
this Hill kid what this family is made of.

73 ephemeral short-lived
74 squaring off . settle conclusively; come to terms
75 debase degrade
76 oblivious clueless, unminful
77 effrontery rudeness

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What this family is made of. Not what Im made of. It has nothing to do
with me and my talent, Drew thought. But he knew there was nothing he
could say to get his father to back off. His father was 78implacable on this
particular subject. Until Drew actually performed on the fieldactually
showed his dad that he was just as good as his brotherthe man was never
going to get it.
Dont worry, Dad, Drew said through his teeth. Im on it.
He was on his way out the door when his mother yelled after him.
Drew! Your breakfast.
With a groan, Drew came back, grabbed the toast, kissed his mother,
and walked out. After all, she was the one who actually cared about him.
There was no reason they should both be crushed right now.
Considering the dark cloud of doom that was hanging over Drews head
that morning, he wasnt sure what kind of locker room he was going to be
walking into. Would it be a 79jubilant scene, full of laughter and the voices of
his teammates 80recounting their summer 81exploits? Or would everyone be
82
lethargic and down, feeling the same sense of dread Drew was
83
harboring? Were the Corinth guys already in there, staring down the
Washingtonville guys, making trouble? Drews heart pounded as he
approached the locker room door. He took a deep breath. This was it. The
moment of truth. However he came off in the next five minutes could
determine his position on the team for the next four months. Would he be a
leader or a pushover? Drew knew which one he wanted to be. He squared his
shoulders and shoved through the heavy door.
Instantly he was surrounded by the familiar laughter and 84mirth. He

78 implacable unmovable
79 jubilant overjoyed
80 recounting narrating
81 exploits . notable achievements
82 lethargic sluggish
83 harboring to hold, in the mind
84 mirth happiness

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stepped into the wide room with its red lockers and white 85cinderblock
walls, and his tension was all but 86quelled. There wasnt an unfamiliar face
in the group, aside from the skinny, 87servile freshmen who were already
fetching water and oranges for the seniors. For a split second, Drew imagined
that hed dreamed up the whole Corinth thing, that everything was back to
the way it should be. Then Jason walked over to him, pulling on a brand new
set of shoulder pads over his head.
88
Whaddup, Drew? Wheres the evil empire? he quipped, glancing
around.
Their absence is 89salient, isnt it? Drew said, tossing his bag down
on the nearest bench.
Maybe they decided not to show, Clay suggested, lowering his huge
90
girth onto the bench. He was already completely suited up and looked like
a block of cement in all his pads and his workout jersey. I bet the idea of
competing with us for the starting spots scared the little buggers off.
I wish, Drew thought. But he said nothing. He wanted to give off an air
of placid 92indifference.
91

If I were them, Id jump at the chance to play for us, Jason said,
rolling his shoulder under his new pads, trying to get comfortable. Corinth
was struggling, man. No lights on their field, been wearingthe same hand-me-
down helmets for the past five years, all their equipment was pretty much
93
obsolete. Coming here would be a wet dream for those guys.
Clay laughed at the crude joke, and the two of them slapped hands.

85 cinderblock . light concrete building block made with cinder (tro)


86 quelled quieted
87 servile subservient
88 quipped joked
89 salient prominent
90 girth body mass
91 placid calm
92 indifference without care
93 obsolete out of date

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Jason winced and adjusted his pads.


Although I wouldnt mind having my old, broken-in pads. At least they
94
were pliable, he complained.
Drew shot Jason a look of 95tacit disapproval.
Im just saying, Jason said, blushing slightly.
Dude, I hope Samson Hill shows up, one of the younger kids in the
next row of lockers said. I wanna see if this kids as 96meritorious as
everyone says.
I know. I hear he was recruited by 97myriad schools over the summer,
another kid answered. He must be freaking awesome.
Clay stood up, fists and jaw clenched. Ill kick their asses for ya, cap,
he said to Drew.
But Drew held up a hand, telling Clay to chill. He wanted to hear what
these 98sophomoric rookies had to say.
I heard he had five different coaches who wanted him to sign letters of
intent. Thats a lot of 99prospects, the first guy said, impressed.
I heard he already signed with Ohio State, a third kid joined the
conversation.
No way.
Way!
Drews jaw dropped. Ohio State? That was one of the top programs in
the entire country. If Hill was good enough for Ohio State....
Dude, now I really hope they show, one of the kids said. I wouldnt
mind going to States in my first season. All the kids laughed, and Drew felt
94 pliable bendable
95 tacit unspoken
96 meritorious deserving honor
97 myriad countless
98 sophomoric juvenile
99 prospects possibilities

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as if someone had chopped his legs off at the knees.


All right, thats enough, Drew said under his breath.
He 100skirted the lockers and stood in front of the group of sophomores
and freshmen, putting a quick end to their 101revelry. They all paled when
they saw who was 102casting the rather large shadow. Good. At least they had
the sense to be 103timorous in his presence. They werent total morons. There
was no room for total morons on his team.
You were saying? Drew asked, crossing his arms over his chest,
which he knew made him even more intimidating. Clay and Jason stepped up
behind him and stared the kids down as well.
Uh... nothing, the biggest kid in the crowd said bravely, standing up.
104
No, really, Im interested, Drew prompted. Exactly how
incredible have you heard Samson Hill is?
The kid looked around for help. All his little buddies looked away.
Drew 105seethed. He couldnt believe none of these kids were going to help
their friend out. What kind of weak-ass losers were going out for this team?
Uh, nothing. I havent heard anything, the kid said finallythe only
106
intrepid one in the bunch.
Really? Cause Ive heard he threw for twenty-two touchdowns and
over a thousand yards last year, Drew said, raising his voice so that the
entire locker room could hear. We all know he was All State last year. What
does that tell you?
The poor kid looked at Drew, totally 107perplexed.

100 skirted went around


101 revelry noisy merriment
102 casting . forming
103 timorous timid
104 prompted . motivated
105 seethed smoldered with rage
106 intrepid fearless
107 perplexed confused

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What does that tell you!? Drew shouted, his voice echoing through
the room. It was met with total silence.
It means hes good, Drew said. But guess what. Im better.
At that, all the players cheered.
So I dont need your compassion. I dont need you tiptoeing around
me, Drew continued. Because this year, I am going to lead this team to
States! We are going to get there together!
108
The locker room exploded in raucous cheers, and Drew felt the last
of his uncertainty melt away.
Youre our QB, Benson, the kid told Drew as the cheers died down
into general chatter. Were totally your109 partisans. Right guys?
Right! They all agreed. At least they had the sense to speak up now.
Good. Then maybe you should start acting like it, Drew said. Whats
your name, kid?
Im Derek Workman, the kid said. Freshman, Center.
Good to meet you, Workman, Drew said. Youre the only non-idiot
Ive met today.
Derek smiled a toothy smile as the rest of his friends hung their heads.
Thanks.
Dont let it get to your head, Drew told him. Now get your asses in
gear and get out onto the field! That means all of you guys! Drew shouted,
his voice filling the room. The 110languid days of summer are over!
111
Rouse yourselves from this 112pastoral 113topor, and lets get this season
started right!

108 raucous noisy


109 partisans supporters
110 languid slow and sluggish
111 rouse awaken
112 pastoral peaceful and idyllic
113 torpor lethargic trance

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A few of the junior players led the charge out of the locker room toward
the field.
That was not bad, Cap, Clay said, knocking Drew on the back so hard
he almost fell over.
Had to be done, Drew said with a 114nonchalant shrug.
Now if the Corinth guys would only continue to be MIA, maybe he
could hold onto this confidence.
Half an hour later, Drew and his teammates were still 115sedentary,
kicked back in the 116bleachers as the sun rose steadily over the 117verdant,
freshly watered field. Drews heart was pounding with nerves as the guys
around him started to 118grumble and complain. Down below on the track
that surrounded the field, Coach Davidson 119conferred with his assistants,
his irritation 120manifest. Coach had been running the Washingtonville
program for ten years, but some of his assistants had been brought over from
Corinth. Drew could tell he was 121upbraiding these guys under his breath,
trying to find out where the hell the Corinth team members were.
Should I do something? Drew whispered to Jason.
Like what? Produce these jerks out of thin air? Jason asked, shifting
on the hot metal bench.
No. I dont know. Im captain, right? Maybe I should go down there
and tell coach were ready to go. Remind him that there are some
122
dedicated players up here that are more than willing to get to work, Drew
said.
114 nonchalant casual
115 sedentary unmoved
116 bleachers . outdoor grandstands without roofs
117 verdant green
118 grumble . mutter
119 conferred consulted
120 manifest obvious
121 upbraiding scolding
122 dedicated devoted

20
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Jason 123scoffed. Your funeral.


You think? Ive been 124vacillating about this for, like, twenty
minutes, Drew said. I mean, maybe hed appreciate my 125tenacity. Maybe
it would even 126mollify him a little, you know, if he knew that we were
127
raring to go.
Yeah, either that or he sends you out on twenty laps for speaking up,
Jason replied. If theres one thing that man appreciates, its his own status as
a 128potentate.
Yeah. That and 129punctuality, Drew replied under his breath. He
turned around and looked at the back of the bleachers, where he had his new
best bud Derek Workman keeping a 130vigilant watch on the school. Yo!
Workman, he hissed. Anything?
No sign of em, Cap, Derek replied.
All right, enough is enough, Drew said to himself.
He was just about to get up when Coach Davidson blew his whistle and
glared at the team, clearly 132vexed. All right, team. Lets take the field!
131

he shouted. Were not waiting for these 133miscreants any longer.


Drew exchanged a look with Jason as they shoved themselves up from
their seats. It was next to impossible for him to keep from smiling. The
feeling of triumph 134welling up inside of him was that 135sublime. Maybe
123 scoffed exhaled with contempt
124 vacillating wavering
125 tenacity steadfastness
126 mollify calm
127 raring . full of eagerness
128 potentate ruler
129 punctuality being on time
130 vigilant alert, careful
131 glare . look at with a fixed gaze
132 vexed annoyed
133 miscreants hoodlums (an aggressive and violent young criminal)
134 welling rising
135 sublime excellent, wondrous

21
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Clay was right. Maybe the Corinth guys had decided to give up. Or take a
stand in protest. Whatever. It didnt even matter. Because even if they showed
up now, there was no way Coach was going to let them practice. Being this
late, this 136insubordinate, was 137tantamount to 138revolution in Coach
Davidsons eyes. He would never tolerate this kind of 139insolence.
140
Try not to look so smug, Benson, Coach said as Drew jogged by
him.
141
Snagged, Drew quickly put on his game face. The last thing he
wanted to do, even under these new and 142favorable conditions, was start off
on the wrong foot.
All right, its been a long seven weeks. Lets see what kind of
condition you men are in! Coach called out. Well start with jumping jacks.
Benson! Count em off.
Drew felt a flutter of pride at being singled out. A feeling he was
143
apparently going to have to get used to. Ready?! he shouted, deepening
his voice. Go!
One! Two! Three! the team counted off.
Drew concentrated on keeping his smile in check as his heart rate
started to jump. This was it. The first practice of his senior year. The defining
year of his life. It had come so very close to being completely 144obliterated,
but here he was. Captain. Starting quarterback. Counting off. Working out his
team. This was the moment hed been waiting for his entire life.

136 insubordinate disobedient


137 tantamount the same as
138 revolution uprising
139 insolence rudeness
140 smug self-satisfied
141 snagged .get by acting quickly and smartly
142 favorable agreeable
143 apparently seemingly
144 obliterated destroyed

22
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Coach Davidson 145roamed back and forth in front of the squads,


shouting 146abtruse commands and criticismsdifficult to hear over all the
counting and the clicking of pads. And a new sound. The sound of car
engines. Loud music. Squealing brakes.
What the....
Drew saw that a few of the coaches were all staring off toward the back
of the field. There was a small parking lot back there, used mainly for the
coaches cars and the emergency vehicles required at all the games. Drew
refused to look over his shoulder, knowing that stopping in the middle of
147
drills was unacceptable. But after a few minutes, he could tell the guys
behind him were starting to slow, and even Coach Davidson was distracted.
Finally, Drews 148determination to keep practice going started to 149wane.
He stopped jumping and turned around, his heart seized by a fist of dread.
The parking lot was partially 150obscured by a line of trees, but Drew
could still make out a pack of 151nondescript 152clunkers crowding the small
space. Doors slammed. Music was cut short. All the kids on the field stood
there, 153stupefied, as dozens of guys in full football gear made their way
down the path toward the field. An 154acute dart of what could only be called
fear slammed right through Drews heart. They were here. They were really
here. And just like that, his good mood was gone.
Unbelievable, Dirk Knight, Drews first-string wide receiver said,
stepping up next to him. Theyre wearing their old uniforms.

145 roamed wandered


146 abstruse hard to understand
147 drills . systematic training by multiple repetitions
148 determination resolve (come to a final conclusion)
149 wane fade
150 obscured hidden
151 nondescript indisctinct
152 clunkers . 1) old and unreliable cars 2) losers
153 stupefied stunned
154 acute sudden and sharp

23
Sacked by Emma Harrison

The 155audacity, Drew said under his breath.


He tried to scoff to show how very 156unaffected and unimpressed he
was, but it fell flat. The players from Corinth found their way to the one gate
157
accessible to the field and filed through one by one. They were as silent as
the grave, their faces set in masks of utter 158acrimony as they approached
the team. The closer they got, the bigger they all appeared. Maybe it was the
fact that they were wearing the Corinth blue and graythe colors of
Washingtonvilles former rival. Or maybe they really just were bigger than
the Eagles players. But either way, their 159dramatic entrance had its effect.
As they all lined up on the track in front of Drews neatly formed squads of
players, everyone was deathly silent, and Drews heart was in his throat.
Samson Hill himself had lined up dead across from him. The kid had to
be six-foot-four and 220 pounds. Perfect quarterback 160stature. His head was
all but shaved, and his dark skin already glistened with sweat, probably from
driving all the way over here in full pads. He stared Drew down, unblinking,
unmoving, his helmet resting casually between his wrist and his hip.
Drew had never felt so 161venomous in his life. Who the hell did this kid
think he was, coming in here like this? This was Drews team. Drews future.
He had no right.
Just wait, he told himself. Theres no way Coach is going to let them get
away with this. This is pure 162anarchy. 163Leniency is not an option.
For a long, tense moment, the two teams just stood there, staring each
other down, waiting for someone to make the first move, say the first word.
Or maybe, just maybe, to throw the first punch.
155 audacity bold, arrogant
156 unaffected unmoved
157 accessible reachable
158 acrimony harshness
159 dramatic striking in appearance
160 stature . the distance from head to foot
161 venomous poisonous
162 anarchy chaos
163 leniency mercifulness or tolerance; mild and permissive

24
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Chapter Three

Sorry were late, Coach, Samson Hill said, breaking into a wide
smile. We got a little lost. The roads are 164tortous up in these hills.
The Corinth guys broke ranks and laughed a bit, and Coach Davidson
eyed them all with clear 165disdain. The 166enmity in the air between the two
teams was 167palpable. Drew glanced at Jason, Clay, and Dirk. They were all
waiting for the 168tirade. These Corinth guys clearly had no idea who they
were dealing with. But they would find out in the next five seconds. Coach
Davidson was known for his 169punitive creativity. Once, when hed found
out that the offensive line was 170chugging Red Bull before games, hed had
them all drink a case apiece the following Monday before school. The guys
had panic attacks all day. Everyone thought Coach would be fired, but he
defended himself to the school board and somehow came out with nothing
but a 171reprimand.
Do you think this is funny, Hill? Coach demanded 172vehemently. His
nostrils flared, and his already sunburned face practically glowed.
The grin fell right off of Samsons face. Drew tried not to laugh, but not
too hard. This kid was toast. Hed made his first impression, and it was
173
irrevocable.
No, Coach, Samson said quickly.

164 tortuous twisty


165 disdain scorn
166 enmity hate
167 palpable capable of being felt
168 tirade angry rant
169 punitive regarding punishment
170 chugging . to swallow all of something liquid very quickly
171 reprimand formal scolding
172 vehemently powerfully
173 irrevocable cannot be undone

25
Sacked by Emma Harrison

174
Coach looked down the line of Corinth players with a dour
expression.
175
Come on. Lets just dispense with these guys already, Drew thought
hopefully.
I cant believe theyre wearing their old uniforms, Jason whispered to
Drew. Dont they know their team is 176defunct?
Yeah. If they want to wear the blue and gray, let em go back to their
177
derelict school, Clay added. Soon as they step on this field, its
178
desecrated.
Drews heart clenched. Clay was right. This was sacred ground. And he
was sure that these guys didnt have even a 179modicum of respect for that.
How could they? Some of them had spent the last three years of their lives
psyching themselves to come in here and tear Washingtonville apart. They
had been trained to 180loathe Washingtonville just as much as the
Washingtonville guys loathed them.
All right. Im gonna give you a pass for today since its your first time
here, but tomorrow I expect all of you to be here half an hour early and ready
to go, Coach Davidson said. A bunch of the guys behind Drew grumbled. He
knew they were thinking the same thing he was. How could their
181
venerable coach let himself by 182placated by such an obvious lie? He was
way smarter than this. Your teammates here had to wait for you, and youre
gonna make that time up to them, got it?
Yes, Coach, the Corinth players said 183halfheartedly.
174 dour harsh
175 dispense get rid of
176 defunct no longer existent
177 derelict abandoned, run down
178 desecrated violated
179 modicum a little bit
180 loathe hate
181 venerable respected
182 placated soothed
183 halfheartedly spiritlessly

26
Sacked by Emma Harrison

I said, got it!? Coach barked.


Yes, Coach! they all shouted in reply.
Good! Now take the field! Defense to the left, offense to the right!
Coach demanded. And I want the Corinth players mixed in with the
Washingtonville players. This is one team, now, people! Get used to it!
Drew swallowed the lump in his throat as the players walked by him to
take their spots in line. His pity faded the second he saw Samson Hill striding
down the line, chin up, checking out the Washingtonville guys. All Drew
wanted to do was trip the kid as he walked by. Or better yet, shove him.
Show him exactly how welcome he and his crew were. But he knew that
184
instigating a fight would not go over well with Coach.
Hey. Drew Benson, right? Samson said suddenly, stopping in front of
Drew.
Drew hesitated a second. Why was this asshole talking to him? Yeah.
Im Samson Hill, he said 185congenially, offering his hand. I played
against your brother last year. That boy had skills.
Drew stared at Samsons outstretched hand. He was kidding, right? Was
he really standing there complimenting Drews brother? The guy Drew would
rather never have mentioned on this field again? Drew looked around and
saw that pretty much everyone on the field was watching them, wondering
what Drew would do next. He knew they were also enjoying the
186
juxtaposition of the two quarterbacks. They were obviously sizing them
up, making their judgments. Oh, this kid was good. Clearly this was all an act
an outward show of 187benevolence for the benefit of his new coach and
teammates. Let them see how very mature and 188agreeable he was.
Suddenly, Drew hated him more than ever.
184 instigating inciting
185 congenially pleasantly
186 juxtaposition being placed side by side
187 benevolence kindness
188 agreeable likeable

27
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Its nice to meet you, man, Samson said. If youre anything like your
brother, Im glad were not gonna be on opposite sides of the field.
189
Intimation? Youre not as good as he is, and we all know it. God,
what Drew wouldnt give to strangle this kid right here and now.
Drew could feel Coach Davidsons eyes on him. He could feel the
tension mounting in the air around him once again. One misspoken word and
there could be a throwdown right here, right now. Considering all the
negative emotions 190roiling around inside of him, Drew wouldnt have
minded a fight, but he knew what Coach would want him to do. Hed want
him to 191mitigate the situation, not 192perpetuate it. Drew would have to
save all this pent-up adrenaline for the field. Which, he knew, would probably
be a good thing.
Yeah, Drew said finally. Sure. Nice to meet you.
Then, reluctantly, he shook hands with Samson Hill.
Good. Glad to see you two are getting along, Coach Davidson
shouted, striding over to them. If you two are going to lead this team, youre
going to have to work together.
Drew dropped Samsons hand. Im sorry, Coach. If were gonna lead
the team?
Thats what I said, Benson. Hill here was elected captain of his squad
last year, just like you were elected captain of yours, Coach said, putting one
hand on Drews shoulder pad, the other on Samsons. So from this moment
on, the two of you are co-captains, got it?
Drews skin felt as if it was about to melt off his face. His dad was
going to love this. Co-captains, he said through his teeth.
Samson merely nodded. Thanks, Coach.

189 intimation unspoken meaning


190 roiling . agitating
191 mitigate make less harsh
192 perpetuate extend

28
Sacked by Emma Harrison

You got that, team? Coach shouted. Greet your new captains, Drew
Benson and Samson Hill!
Drew had never heard a more 193lackluster round of applause in his life.
No one on this field liked it. Not one soul. But there was nothing any of them
could do about it. Drews frustration coiled every muscle in his body. Now he
really needed an intense practice.
Now lets get to work!
What the hell are you doing out there, Hill? Coach Lewinter shouted,
as Samson missed an easy pass to his wide receiver. The rotund quarterbacks
coach from Corinth seemed to have a chip on his shoulder that was even
bigger than his massive butt. You look about as 194adept as my sons peewee
QB out there!
Samson hung his head and jogged back to the line. Drew almost felt
badly for the guy as he ripped his chin guard down and endured the
195
impassioned rantings of the chrome-domed coach.
Who is this guy? Drew said under his breath to John Washburn,the
sophomore Washingtonville quarterback who would probably be starting on
JV. What the hell happened to Tomlinson?
I heard he got a head coaching job in Jersey, John said, shifting from
foot to foot.
God, its like they got rid of all our coaches, Drew said. Id say there
was collusion against us, but he seems to be just as willing to 197berate
196

Samson as he is the rest of us.


Yeah. Hes obviously not 198biased, John replied, as Coach Lewinter
smacked Samson hard on the helmet. I think he wants us all dead, actually.

193 lackluster without energy


194 adept capable
195 impassioned full of feeling
196 collusion secret plot
197 berate scold
198 biased prejudiced

29
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Drew laughed and Lewinter turned his 199beady eyes on him, wh ich
shut him right up. Something funny, Benson?
No, Coach! Drew barked.
I didnt think so. Lets see what youve got!
Drews heart pounded as he jogged over to the line and plucked a ball
from the pile. In his minds eye, he saw his brother running four thousand of
these drills over the past three years. Completing pass after pass after pass.
He shook his head and tried to 200banish the image. He couldnt be
comparing himself to his brother right now. Yes, Trey was a great
quarterback. A patient, smart quarterback who could read defenses like
nobodys business. But Drew had his special talents, too. He was 201agile. He
was fast. He was daring. And, if he had anything to say about it, he was about
to show how these 202attributes 203distinguished him from Samson Hill.
Lets go, Benson! Samson cheered, clapping. Do it up!
204
Drew glared at the kid. Enough with the cohesive team crap. Did he
really think he was impressing the coaches?
Knight! Run the out route! Lewinter shouted.
Dirk nodded, looking Drew right in the eye as he walked by. Drew
knew exactly what Dirk was thinking. Lets show these losers how its done.
Drew felt a flutter of excitement within his chest. This was it. Time to
separate the men from the boys. Time to 205debunk the 206pervasive theory on
the field, in the papers, throughout town, that Samson had already won the
starting job.
Ready? Coach Lewinter shouted.
199 beady . small and round and shiny like a shiny bead or button
200 banish get rid of
201 agile quick, graceful
202 attributes traits
203 distinguished separated
204 cohesive united
205 debunk disprove
206 pervasive widespread

30
Sacked by Emma Harrison

He blew his whistle. Dirk 207sprinted toward the end zone. Drew
palmed the ball and dropped back three steps. He and Dirk had been playing
ball in their backyards ever since they could walk. Drew knew exactly where
his receiver would be. Knew it without even thinking about it. He let the ball
fly. Dirk made an 208abrupt turn and 209accelerated into the right corner of
the end zone. The pass was perfection. It sailed through he air, and Dirk
caught it easily.
Nice work! Lewinter called out as Drew and Dirk slapped each
others backs. It was one completed pass, but Drew felt as if it were a
210
momentous occasion. Samson Hill had completed two for five. Drew had
completed his first. Now all he had to do was keep it up.
All right. Now lets see you complete it to an unfamiliar receiver,
Lewinter said, smacking Drews shoulder. Lazarus! Get over here!
A tall, lanky player from the Corinth team jogged over from the middle
of the field where the offensive lines were practicing. Drew looked him up
and down in an 211appraising way as he approached. He looked to Drew to
be all limbs and walked like a puppet with oiled joints. There was no way this
kid could be coordinated enough to be a receiver.
Adam Lazarus, meet Drew Benson, Coach Lewinter said.
Adam lifted his chin at Drew and looked him up and down like he was
dirt. His 212demeanor was all 213defiance. Drew felt a 214sliver of dread run
down his spine. What if this kid decided not to catch the ball just because of
Drews 215affiliation with the Washingtonville team? What if he tried to make
Drew look bad?
207 sprinted . ran very fast, usually for a short distance
208 abrupt sudden
209 accelerated sped up
210 momentous important
211 appraising judging the worth
212 demeanor the way a person behaves toward other people
213 defiance rebelliousness
214 sliver . thin fragment or slice
215 affiliation social or business relationship

31
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Run the out route, Lewinter told Lazarus. Lets see how you two
work together.
You got it, Coach, Lazarus said.
Drew lined up with the ball. The coach blew his whistle. Drews heart
pounded in his ears. He watched Lazarus carefully. He wasnt as quick as
Dirk, but he was taller and clearly had a larger 216wingspan. All Drew wanted
to do was throw the ball, but he forced himself to wait, taking
217
uncharacteristically 218measured steps as he dropped back. Lazarus was
just steps from the end zone when he made his turn, and Drew let the ball fly.
Drew watched, wide-eyed, as it arced through the air. He could feel Samson
Hills eyes on him the whole way.
Please catch it. Please, please, please catch it, Drew thought.
Adam Lazarus reached his arms up and caught the ball easily.
Yes! Drew cheered.
Yeah, baby! John shouted.
Thats the way you do it! Samson Hill clapped his hands, walking
over to Drew. Nice one, he said 219amiably, slapping Drew on the back.
Thanks, Drew replied with a 220benign smile. Of course, inside he
was both cheering and jeering like a madman.
Whos 221inefficacious now, bitch? He thought, eyeing Samson up and
down. Suddenly he didnt find the guy quite so intimidating.
For the 222duration of the afternoon, Drew, Samson, John, and Troy
Corinths backup guyran drill after drill, while both Lewinter and

216 wingspan . wingspread


217 uncharacteristically unusually
218 measured careful
219 amiably pleasantly
220 benign harmless
221 inefficacious ineffective
222 duration time remaining

32
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Davidson kept a 223keen eye on them. Lewinter spent so much time


screaming and shouting at them, Drew was pretty sure the guy was going to
bust something, but he forced himself to 224heed all of Lewinters directions,
playing the 225compliant, good little soldier. By the end of the day, Drew was
well-versed in Samsons game, and he felt as if the differences between them
were 226negligible. This guy was no football god. Even his own quarterbacks
coach from his own school didnt seem all that impressed with him. Hed
missed as many passes as hed completed. Maybe even more than Drew had
missed. Was it possible that his talent had been overrated? The idea made
Drew 227immoderately happy and confident as he jogged off the field at the
end of the day.
Benson! Coach Davidson shouted as Drew passed him by.
Yeah, Coach? Drew asked, pausing to catch his breath.
Davidson walked over to him, glancing past both his shoulders as if he
didnt want anyone to overhear what he was about to say. He knocked Drew
on the shoulder with his clipboard and smiled a rare smile.
Nice 228hustle out there today, son. Really nice work, Davidson said
with a wink.
Drew grinned like hed just been handed the starting job. Thanks,
Coach.
After that, nothing, but nothing, could diminish his 229glee.
Mom, this chicken is 230impeccable, Drew said as he 231scarfed down
his second helping that night.
223 keen . acute, sharp
224 heed pay attention to
225 compliant obedient
226 negligible nearly unnoticeable
227 immoderately more so than usual
228 hustle . rapid active commotion
229 glee . great merriment; malicious satisfaction
230 impeccable flawless
231 scarfed . eat very quickly and greedily

33
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Drews mother laughed as she poured herself a fresh glass of water. Ill
tell the people at Boston Market that you think so, she said 232wryly.
And Im sure theyd be happy to know they inspired you to 233gluttony
as well, his father put in, watching as Drew pulled the bucket of mashed
potatoes toward him.
Drew felt a pang in his heart as he always did when his father tried to
234
goad him into an argument, but he let it pass. He shoved the serving spoon
into the potatoes, lifted up a huge helping, and slapped it down on his plate,
smiling at his father through the whole show. His father smirked in reply.
So, shall we talk about the subject weve all been so cautiously
avoiding? Drews father said, folding his fingers together on the table and
using them to shove his plate back.
235
What subject is that, father? Drew said facetiously, enjoying the
moment.
Practice, son. How did practice go? Do I even want to know? his
father asked.
Drews stomach turned, but again, he ignored it. He was not going to be
236
disheartened by his fathers attitude. Hed had a good day. A day that had
left him with this 237euphoric feeling he could hardly control. He wasnt
going to let his father, of all people, bring him down.
Jim, do we really have to talk about this at the table? Drews mother
asked.
Yes, Claire, I think we do. Did you take a hit on the head, son? Is that
why youre acting like this? his father asked.

232 wryly humorously, clever


233 gluttony overindulgence
234 goad incite
235 facetiously sarcastically
236 disheartened made spiritless
237 euphoric elated

34
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Yeah, Dad. I am just that 238inept, Drew said sarcastically. In fact, I


didnt even make it to the field. Yeah. I tripped over Jasons helmet in the
locker room and went straight to the hospital.
Well, if this is how 239deferential you were to your coaches, Id be
surprised if you were still on the team, Drews father said, the color rising in
his cheeks. What makes you think its appropriate to take that kind of tone
with your elders? Your brother would never
No he wouldnt, would he? Drew said. Trey doesnt have a sarcastic
bone in his body. But you know what else Trey doesnt have? The chance to
put the great Samson Hill in his place. The chance to 240depose the prince of
perfection.
Drews father laughed, which cut Drew to the very core. He did
everything he could, however, not to let his pain show on his face.
You. Youre going to win the starting spot over Samson Hill, his
father said, shaking his head like he just couldnt 241fathom such a miracle
occurring.
Is it that impossible to believe, Dad? I cant even remember the last
time you saw me play. How is it that youve decided Im so 242egregiously
inept at this sport without having ever seen me in a game? Drew demanded.
Like Ive always said, son, there was no way I could come to your
games. JV plays right after school on Fridays, when Im at work. What do
you want me to do, skip out on my job to come see a game that has no
243
consequence anyway? he asked, apparently having no clue how badly his
words stung. No. Ill come see you play when youre starting 244varsity, his

238 inept incapable


239 deferential respectful
240 depose overthrow
241 fathom imagine
242 egregiously apallingly
243 consequence importance in outcome
244 varsity . a team representing a college or university

35
Sacked by Emma Harrison

father said in a 245condescending tone.


God, he was an asshole. Drews hands curled into fists as he glared at
his father. Well, why wait, Dad? Drew said 246defiantly. You dont believe
I have a shot at starting? Why dont you come out to practice tomorrow and
247
assess the situation for yourself?
You want me to come to practice? his father said 248dubiously.
Drew hesitated for a split second. What was he thinking? Did he really
want to bring his father out and give him a chance to shout at him and
embarrass him in front of the whole team?
But if practice tomorrow goes as well as it did today, hell have nothing
to yell about, Drew thought.
I just invited you, didnt I? he said, staring his dad in the eye. I dont
know how much more 249incisive I can be.
Drews father stared back at him. He was clearly surprised by the
invitation. Maybe even a little bit impressed by it.
I think its a good idea, Drews mother piped in finally. Maybe it
250
will engender some understanding between you two. Which would be
nice, fellas, because I, for one, cant take another meal like this. I mean, some
level of civility at the dinner table would be nice.
Sorry, Mom, Drew said quickly.
What the heck happened out on that field today? his father asked.
Samson Hill was 251denigrated, Drew said firmly. And I had a great
day.

245 condescending showing superiority


246 defiantly challengingly
247 assess judge
248 dubiously . in a doubtful manner
249 incisive direct
250 engender start
251 denigrated belittled

36
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Youre 252fabricating this, his father said with a scoff. This is some
kind of joke to you.
This is no joke, Dad.
253
Just go, Jim. Let him evince whether or not hes telling the truth,
Drews mother said.
I think youre both forgetting that I have work, his father said,
pushing back from the table and clearing his plate. He was trying to 254elude
their arguments, Drew realized. The man was scared that Drew might
actually be right. I cant exactly just take a midday 255excursion whenever I
want.
Why not? You are the boss, Drews mother said. Whats the point of
being the boss if you cant take advantage of it sometimes? Its just one day,
Jim.
Drews dad dropped his dishes in the sink and sighed. He and Drews
mom exchanged a long look.
You know what? Fine, he said finally, turning the water on full blast.
I will accord you the honor of my presence tomorrow, Drew. Lets see what
youre made of.
Drew felt a flutter of nervousness in his chest, but it was quickly
256
squelched by a sense of triumph. Forget Samson Hill. Drew had just won
his first ever 257standoff with his greatest 258adversaryhis father. Now if he
could just perform tomorrow the way he had today, maybe he would achieve
the impossible. Maybe, just maybe, he would 259elicit some approval from the
man.
252 fabricating making up
253 evince reveal
254 elude avoid
255 excursion trip
256 squelched stopped
257 standoff . repulsion (a successful defensive stand)
258 adversary opponent
259 elicit evoke

37
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Samson dropped back to pass. The lines slammed into each other, and
out of nowhere, Clay Carradine, All-County linebacker that he was, broke
through.
Get him, Clay! Please just give me this one thing! Drew urged silently.
One small victory in this horrific, horrific day.
Clay reached out for Samsons arm, but Samson 260evaded the sack and
rolled out to the right. Clay fell flat on his face, and Drew winced. He could
practically feel his fathers eyes boring holes in the back of his neck. It had
been like this all day. Samson showing his 261lithe grace, his 262innate skill.
While Drew had been 263sacked, smacked around, and generally
264
discomfited over and over and over again.
Downfield, Jason threw his hands up, waving to Samson that he was
open. Drew felt the sting of betrayal as the ball hit Jason right in the numbers,
and he made a clean catch. Couldnt the guy have at least dropped the ball
one time? He and Drew had only been friends forever.
Whats with him today? John asked, his uniform clean as a whistle
next to Drews dirt- and grass-stained uni. I mean, was he just
265
dissembling yesterday? Is he that 266mendacious? I mean, clearly the guy
is NFL material.
Would you shut up? Drew barked. Youre not helping.
Johns face went 267pallid, and Drew felt a pang of guilt. John was just a
kid. Just making conversation with a teammate. It wasnt his fault that Drew
was hovering on the 268precipice of total failure over here. It wasnt his fault

260 evaded avoided


261 lithe gracefully flexible
262 innate inborn
263 sacked . plundered
264 discomfited embarrassed
265 dissembling hiding true appearance
266 mendacious dishonest
267 pallid pale
268 precipice cliffs edge

38
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that Drews father was watching his 269ignominious descent into nothing. The
last thing poor John Washburn deserved was Drews ire. But he couldnt help
it. He had to take this awful, gut-clenching feeling out on someone.
All right, Benson! Youre up! Coach Davidson shouted, as Samson
got his backslaps and congratulations from the team.
A sick feeling of dread engulfed Drew as he rejoined the line. Their
doubt of him was 270pellucid in the way they avoided his gaze and talked
with one another as he joined them. It 271impinged on his heart. Apparently,
the rest of the team was slowly coming to the conclusion Drew had feared all
along. That Samson was the man for the job. Not that he could blame them.
Samsons 272manifold talents had really come through today, while Drew
hadnt been able to accomplish a thing. And it wasnt as if the team was
273
inhibiting him in some way. They had been playing their hearts out for
himespecially the Washingtonville guys. But Samson and his ESPN
abilities had gotten under his skin. Drew was shaken and he knew it. And he
had no one to 274impute this to but himself.
All right, lets see you run the same play, Coach Davidson said,
slapping Drew on the back. Show me something, Benson.
Okay, Coach, Drew said with a nod.
His fingers trembled as he lined up behind his center and looked up and
down the line. He checked the defense, even though he knew what they were
bringing, and saw all the Corinth guys staring him down 275ominously. His
heart rate accelerated.
You can do this, Drew. Come on! Get something done today.
He made the mistake of glancing at his father. He was sitting back in his
269 ignominious humiliating
270 pellucid clear, luccid
271 impinged enchoached or infringed (go against, as of rules or laws)
272 manifold diverse
273 inhibiting hampering (preventing the progress or free movement of)
274 impute give credit for
275 ominously with menacing foreshadowing

39
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bleacher seat, his arms crossed in judgment, staring Drew down without even
the slightest 276pittance of hope, pride, or encouragement. He looked like a
man who had just swallowed an entire lemon in one gulp.
And suddenly, Drew heard a pair of commentators start up a play-by-
play in his mind.
Drew Benson, who hasnt been able to do anything right today, steps
up under center, a guy with a nasal voice said.
Lets see if any of those abilities he showed yesterday were anything
but a 277flake . Theyve been all but 278dormant out there on the field this
afternoon, another man added.
Ready! Hike! Drew shouted.
And he drops back to pass, nasal voice said. But, oh! Here comes the
Corinth defense!
Drew saw a huge guy coming at him from the right. Some dude who
was hiding a Mohawk under that helmet, but whose name he had yet to learn.
He looked downfield desperately, just hoping that someone, anyone, was
open. But there was nothing.
279
Hes in a quandary. Lets see what he does next, the commentator
said.
Throw it! Throw the ball! his father shouted from the stands.
He cant throw the ball, nasal voice said. All his men are covered.
Itll be an interception for sure.
Mohawk man was still coming at him.
Be patient. Roll out. Wait for an opening, Drew told himself. But he
couldnt. Those guys were completely covered. Mohawk was so close he
could practically smell him. In two seconds, hed be sacked. Dropped for a
276 pittance small amount
277 flake. someone who shallow, unreliable, or self-center
278 dormant asleep
279 quandary perplexed state

40
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loss. Humiliated. There was nothing Drew could do but run.


Oh, crap, he said under his breath, tucking the ball.
He found his huge center with his eyes and rushed in behind him,
hoping against hope that the guy would block for him and at least get him a
few yards. The center threw one guy aside, and Drew saw his hole.
And the kids got a hole! the commentator announced gleefully.
Thank God! Drew thought, rushing ahead.
And then, out of nowhere, a lineman came in and slammed his helmet
right into the ball. Drew felt the rock slip from his fingers as he sailed over
the lineman on a crash course with the ground.
No! Drew shouted, 280bracing for impact. He could see the ball
bouncing along the ground, just out of reach.
Fumble! He lost it! He lost the ball! nasal voice shouted. I hate to
281
disparage a young kid like this, but whats he even doing out there?
As Drew watched helplessly, one of the defenders fell on the ball,
blocking it from anyone elses grasp. Hed fumbled. Hed turned the ball
over. Hed committed one of the worst mistakes a quarterback could make.
Hed made an 282impetuous decision, and it had cost him dearly.
I think thats the death 283knell for our young Drew Bensons
284
fledgling career, the commentator said sadly. After this performance, and
the way Samson Hill played today, hell be 285relegated to second string for
sure.
What the hell was that, Benson? Coach Davidson shouted, storming
over and forcibly yanking Drew up by his shoulder pad. What the hell are

280 bracing . prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult


281 disparage badmouth
282 impetuous thoughtlessly quick
283 knell indication of the end
284 fledgling . young and inexperienced
285 relegated sent to a lower level

41
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you doing? Whats the number one most important thing out here? What do I
always say?
Protect the ball, Coach, Drew said 286morosely.
And what did you just do? the coach shouted, all up in Drews face.
Im sorry, Coach. I just saw a lane and I
Did I ask for your excuses?! Coach Davidson shouted. Protect.... the
damn .. ball! I dont care if you have to take a sack! This is not about you
and your precious stats. This is about the team! And guess what, son! You
just lost your team the game!
Drews throat closed over. He knew he was expected to say something,
but if he opened his mouth he was either going to choke or cry. Neither
option appealed.
287
Get your ass on the sideline, Coach Davidson said brusquely. I
dont want to see you out here for the rest of the day.
Hanging his head, Drew jogged over to the sideline. He felt that his
coachs display of anger was a bit 288gratuitous, but there was nothing he
could do about it now. He was just going to have to swallow it, as awful as it
was. Everyone had a bad practice every once in a while. Drew knew that. He
just wished it had been any day but today. Any day but the day his father had
shown up.
Ever so slowly, Drew forced himself to look up at the stands. At the
very least, he could be man enough to take his fathers 289rancor. But what he
saw there in the bleachers was even worse than he had expected. His father
was already walking away.

286 morosely gloomily


287 brusquely bluntly
288 gratuitous excessive, unneeded
289 rancor bitter ill-will

42
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Chapter Four

Drew drove around town for hours, making up reasons to avoid going
home. He walked around the Gap on the square, checking out their new fall
stuff to see if there was anything he wanted for school. He bought himself an
iced tea at Starbucks and hung out talking to Layla Li, one of his classmates
who worked there, for at least half an hour. He even snagged a newspaper at
the drugstore and sat on a park bench, reading it from cover to cover.
Anything to 290deter himself from returning to his house and his father.
But soon the sun started to go down and Drew knew he was being
291
fatuous. He was going to have to go home eventually and face his fathers
292
invective. All he was doing was postponing the 293inevitable. So he
screwed up his courage, tossed his empty cup and newspaper, and headed for
home.
Where the hell have you been? his father demanded the moment
Drew walked through the door. He was standing right there in the entryway,
294
poised to 295pounce like a drooling Doberman. Your mothers been calling
your cell phone 296incessantly.
Sorry. I had some errands to run, Drew said. He slipped past his
father, stepped into the kitchen, and kissed his mother hello. She shot him a
look of understanding and sympathy. She knew exactly why he had stayed
out so long. So he told you, huh? Bet you got a whole catalog of the many
things I did wrong.
Of course I told your mother! Drews dad said, hands on hips. She

290 deter keep from doing


291 fatuous foolish
292 invective insulting speech
293 inevitable certain
294 poised . prepared
295 pounce . move down on as if in an attack
296 incessantly nonstop

43
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297
has a right to know how you abased both me and your brother out there
today.
Drew felt the sting of the insult and dropped his bag on the floor with a
thud. Wow, Dad. That was 298callous even for you.
Callous? Callous? his father 299reiterated.
Yeah. How about a little 300empathy for Gods sake? Drew shot back.
He yanked open the refrigerator door just to give himself something to do. If
Trey had had a bad practice like that, you wouldnt have started 301chastising
him the second he walked through the door.
He has a point there, Jim Drews mother observed.
Oh, so youre on his side, now? his father demanded. Well, Im
sorry to have to point this out, but I see a tiny little flaw in your argument,
there, son. A wee little 302chink in your armor. Want to know what it is? He
smiled evilly. Your brother.... would never have had a practice like that in
the first place. He finished with a wicked 303gleam of satisfaction.
Oh my God! Drew exclaimed. He grabbed a bottle of water and let
the refrigerator door slam. Dad, you are so 304enamored of Trey its blinded
you! I mean, do you even hear yourself? You really think that in four years
playing ball for Washingtonville, he never had a bad practice? You just
werent there to witness it.
Well, I wish I hadnt been there to witness this one, his father said.
In one afternoon you just 305effaced any hopes I had of watching another of
my sons lead his team to glory.
297 abased lowered in esteem
298 callous hard-hearted
299 reiterated said again
300 empathy caring
301 chastising scolding, condemning
302 chink . a narrow opening
303 gleam . an appearance of reflected light
304 enamored infatuated
305 effaced made vanish

44
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Jim! Thats enough! Drews mother snapped.


Drews jaw clenched, and tears filled his eyes. How could his father be
such a bastard? Did he really hate Drew so much that he felt the need to
306
belittle him at every chance he got? What the hell did he get out of it,
anyway? He felt a tear start to spill over and he turned away, leaning his
hands into the counter as he got control of himself. There was no way he was
going to give his father the satisfaction of seeing him cry.
Look, Dad, Im sorry if being there today 307aggrieved you so much,
Drew said finally, firmly. But Im doing what I can.
Your brother 308consigned this team to you, Drew. Not to some
309
interloper from Corinth High, his father said. You have to show them
whose team this is. There is no room for error, he added 310adamantly.
Drew wished there were some way to make his father see and hear how
incredibly evil he sounded. He wished he could 311concoct a way to force him
to understand how his words and his opinions cut right through Drews heart
and gut and made him feel worthless. But after years of coming in second to
his brother, he knew that getting through that thick skull was impossible. The
only way to end this torture was to say what his father wanted to hear.
Well, I 312accede to your judgment, Drew said, drawing himself up. I
know you dont want to believe this, Dad, but it was one bad practice. And
Samson was just showing off. It was a 313fluke, and its not gonna happen
again.
I hope not. Because I will not 314abide failure in this family, his father

306 belittle diminish in stature


307 aggrieved upset
308 consigned gave
309 interloper intruder
310 adamantly strongly
311 concoct create
312 accede give in
313 fluke . a stroke of luck
314 abide endure

45
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told him. It is not an option.


This is my school, Dad. My team. My time, Drew said Were gonna
put these guys in their place, whatever that 315entails.
The angry color finally drained from his fathers face, and Drew knew
that he was out of the woodsfor now. Youd better, kid, his dad said
calmly. Youd just better.
The first thing Drew noticed on the first day of school was a
316
confluence of Corinth students, most wearing blue and gray varsity
jackets, hanging out in the 317arbor near the front door of the school.
Instantly, he felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. The arbor was
a grassy area, surrounded by thick trees and dotted with benches. It had been
the gift of some ancient senior class, and everyone just sort of knew that it
was an area reserved for seniors. As freshmen, kids would 318scurry past the
arbor nervously, and as sophomores and juniors they would watch in envy,
waiting for their chance to claim the primo pre-school spot. Now, the
319
hallowed space had been taken over by Corinth before Drew and his
friends ever had the chance to occupy it.
Drew stormed past the arbor and joined a group of his friends near the
door. He could tell from the 320malevolent look on Clays face that Clay was
more than ready to throw down.
Who the hell do these guys think they are? Drew demanded, casting a
321
furtive glance over his shoulder. All around him, packs of Washingtonville
students and packs of Corinth students eyed one another with curiosity and
disdain. The tension in the air was 322patent.

315 entails involves


316 confluence gathering
317 arbor . a framework that supports climbing plants
318 scurry scamper (move about or proceed hurriedly)
319 hallowed sacred
320 malevolent evil
321 furtive secret
322 patent obvious

46
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Its 323larceny, man, Clay said, shifting from foot to foot like a bull
about to be released from its pen. The arbor is 324sacred space. They cant
just take it over.
And check the jackets, Marisa said with a 325sneer. Totally 326garish.
Maybe if they didnt spend so much money on 327extraneous patches, they
wouldve been able to keep their school open.
Drew and the rest of the group laughed, and Marisa grinned, happy to
have lightened the mood even slightly.
328
Uh, guys? Thats not the only thing theyve pillaged, Jason added,
lifting his chin.
Drew turned around to find Tamara and a few of her girlfriends,
including Clays girlfriend Sally, joining the group in the arbor, greeting the
Corinth guys and introducing themselves.
Youve gotta be kidding me, Drew said through his teeth.
I think its time to go over there and remind them who enjoys
329
hegemony around here, Clay said, pressing his fist into his palm.
You got that right, Drew said. This is our school. Those are our
women. Theyre at Washingtonville now. He looked around at his friends,
all business. Lets go.
The crew moved as a pack toward the arbor, with Drew at the forefront,
his hands clenched into angry fists. His heart pounded wildly as he
approached the 330obstreperous crowd, but he didnt slow down. It was

323 larceny theft


324 sacred holy
325 sneer . facial expression of contempt or scorn
326 garish gaudy (tastelessly showy)
327 extraneous excess, unneeded
328 pillaged plundered
329 hegemony authority
330 obstreperous noisy

47
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331
imperative that he 332prescribe the law of the land for these guys. If he
didnt do it, no one would. He lifted his chin and tried to appear 333impassive.
All the better for maximum intimidation.
The group fell silent as Drew and his friends arrived. Adam Lazarus and
Lance Croweaka Mohawk Manturned around to greet them with
334
inimical expressions.
Sally! Clay barked.
Instantly, Sally Chou turned away from the Corinth girl she was talking
to and stepped right up to Clays side, wrapping her slim arm around his wide
335
girth. Smart girl.
Problem, man? Adam asked Drew, rolling his shoulders back.
336
Drews jaw almost dropped at the absolute impudence. Was this guy
really going to give him attitude on his turf?
Yeah, Ive got a problem. Its this, Drew said, flipping open the front
of Adams jacket. What the hell are you doing wearing Corinth colors
around here? You dont go to Corinth anymore, man. Corinth doesnt exist.
The crowd behind Drew murmured in appreciation. A few more guys
stepped up behind Lazarus and Crowe. Drew noticed with interest that the
337
garrulous QB was not, however, present. Maybe Samson liked to come to
school 338fashionably late and make a superstars entrance.
I know you didnt just touch me, Adam said, staring Drew down.
Oh, I think I did, Drew replied, staring the lanky guy down.

331 imperative vital


332 prescribe dictate
333 impassive expressionless
334 inimical hostile
335 girth . distance around a person's body
336 impudence bold cockiness
337 garrulous chatty
338 fashionably stylishly

48
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339
Drew, Tamara interjected, throwing in a nervous laugh. What are
you doing?
Im just trying to talk our new teammates here into having a little
school spirit, thats all, Drew replied without even looking at her.
340
Actually, I think youre just being fractious for the sake of being
fractious, Tamara said nervously.
Its all right, Tamara. We got this, Lance said, his voice deep and
341
rumbling.
Unbelievable. They were on a first-name basis already?
You wanna back up a step, QB two? Lance said with a smirk.
That got a gasp from the crowd and a laugh from the Corinth guys.
Drew felt his face go hot and took a step forward. What did you just call
me?
Well, you did look like kind of a 342novice during those last few
practices, Adam said, smiling. We just assumed
You son of a bitch! Drew shouted, pulling his fist back.
Tamara screeched, and the crowd tensed for the first punch, but Drews
arm was suddenly grabbed in a two-handed clench, and he was yanked
backward.
All right! Break it up! Mr. Robinson shouted. He was a math teacher,
but from his 343husky build could have been a linebacker himself. He shoved
Drew away from the Corinth crowd and 344insinuated himself between them.
Is this really the way you want to start the year?

339 interjected interrupted


340 fractious quarrelsome
341 rumbling . a loud low dull continuous noise
342 novice beginner
343 husky . muscular and heavily built
344 insinuated . introduce or insert (oneself) in a subtle manner

49
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Drew straightened his jacket as he 345seethed, staring Adam and Lance


down over Robinsons shoulder. God he would give anything to 346pummel
something right then.
Look, guys, I know that combining our two student bodies is going to
be difficult, but this kind of 347flagrant misbehavior isnt going to help. It
will only 348exert a 349pernicious effect, Robinson said. How about we all
go inside and get to homeroom and cool off?
Drew didnt want to be the first to back off, but he also knew that it was
the mature thing to do. And if he did the mature thing, maybe Robinson
wouldnt report his little 350infraction to the vice principal, or worse, to
Coach Davidson.
Fine, he said finally. He glanced at his friends. Lets go, you guys.
Yeah. Come on, Adam agreed, rounding up his own group.
Drew shot him one more death glare before turning and heading for the
front door. His blood still pounded in his ears, but he took a few deep breaths
and tried to let it go. Hed have to save it for the field.
Assholes, Jason said under his breath as he opened the glass door at
the top of the stairs.
Tell me about it, Drew replied. I so wish they had found some other
school to invade. I wouldnt mind if I never set eyes on another Corinthian
again.
Just then, out of the corner of his eye, Drew caught a glimpse of long,
red hair. He paused as the single most beautiful girl he had ever laid eyes on
floated toward the door. She was tall and slim, with skin so pale it was

345 seethed . in an agitated emotional state


346 pummel pound
347 flagrant egregious (conspicuously and outrageously bad or reprehensible)
348 exert . put to use
349 pernicious harmfull
350 infraction violation

50
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practically 351translucent. Her dark red hair was brushed back from her
lovely face and hung down her back in natural waves. She looked up as she
glided along, with a small faraway smile on her untouched lips. Drew put out
a hand to stop Jason before he cut her off and held him back so she could go
through. He watched her the whole way, 352enthralled.
Jason whistled long and low. Well, at least they brought some hot girls
with them.
353
Drew grinned wolfishly. I always did have a predilection for red
hair.
The guys laughed and slapped hands as they headed inside to start the
new school year.
Drew would have given anything to be able to put the Corinth people
out of his mind and get on with his day, but they were just everywhere. They
crowded the halls and the bathrooms, 354commandeered all the good seats at
the back of every classroom. He would have thought they would be
355
punctilious and respectful, being guests in someone elses school, but they
acted as if they owned the place. As the morning wore on, Drew found
himself 356ruminating more and more about what had happened that morning
and wishing that Robinson had at least let him get one good punch in. He had
to show these people who was in charge around here. He had to figure out a
way, or his senior year was going to be ruined. All morning long in all of his
classes, he was completely obsessed with the problem. There was little else
he could think about.
Then, on his way to Spanish class, a 357vicissitude. The red-headed girl
from that morning was wandering down the hall, looking lost and confused.

351 translucent see-through


352 enthralled captivated
353 predilection preference
354 commandeered took over
355 punctilious conscientious
356 ruminating pondering
357 vicissitude change of events

51
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For a long moment, Drew stood outside his classroom and watched her,
358
relishing her beauty. The sunlight streaming through the high windows
359
accentuated the 360luminescent glow of her skin, and he noticed for the
first time that her light pink sweater was 361adorned with tiny specks of
glitter that sparkled when she moved. Underneath she wore a delicate gray
top and a long, soft-looking skirt. No one at Washingtonville dressed like this
all sweet and girly. They were more about the latest trends, however severe
and downright trashy they might be.
Drew took a deep breath and realized that, for the first time all day, he
didnt feel angry or heavy or annoyed. Just watching this girl had 362palliated
his annoyance. He had to meet her. He pushed himself away from the wall
and stepped in front of her. She looked up at him, startled.
Sorry, he said. I just.... you looked lost, and I figured that, as a
person whos been going to this school for three years, Id be 363remiss if I
didnt offer to help.
The girl just stared at him for a long moment. Drew started to feel a bit
awkward. That had been a 364genial enough greeting, hadnt it? He thought
hed done a good job of appearing 365sanguine considering how very
clenched he was feeling inside. What was she, an exchange student? Did she
not speak English?
Are you okay? he asked slowly.
Slowly, she reached up and pulled a pair of ear buds from her ears. For
a split second he heard the loud classical music before she reached into her
bag and turned off her iPod. Drew laughed.

358 relishing thoroughly enjoying


359 accentuated intensified
360 luminescent as if giving off light
361 adorned decorated
362 palliated soothed
363 remiss negligent
364 genial friendly
365 sanguine cheerful

52
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Sorry. They were hidden by your hair, he said.


She gave him a 366perfunctory look and glanced up at the nearest
classroom door. It was like she was 367repulsed by the sight of him. Which,
for some reason, only made Drew want her more. Maybe she was just
368
diffident. Or maybe she was intimidated by him. Some girls were,
although he never really understood it. Drew knew he was okay looking, but
it wasnt like he was Trey or something.
Two-twelve? she asked.
Hey! Thats where Im going, Drew said with a smile. Lucky me.
Okay, Im flirting as best I can here. How about a little
369
reciprocation? Drew thought.
But she just stared at him 370quizzically.
Okay, Drew said, feeling like a heel. Its right over here.
He pointed out the room.
Thanks, she said as she slipped by him.
Drew shook his head. Had he said something 371profane without
realizing it? Had he somehow offended her? What was up with this girl?
He followed her into the classroom and resolved to give it one last try.
He took the seat next to the one shed chosen and leaned across the aisle.
Im Drew Benson, by the way, he said, hoping on some level that she
might recognize his name.
Lily Winters, she said 372succinctly, but without warmth, as she pulled
a notebook out of her canvas bag.
366 perfunctory cursory
367 repulsed repelled
368 diffident shy
369 reciprocation equal exchange
370 quizzically curiously
371 profane obscene
372 succinctly sharply

53
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373 374
Abort! Drews inner voice shouted. Shes totally rebuffing you,
dude. Have some pride.
Nice to meet you, Lily, Drew said. Welcome to Washingtonville.
She glanced at him but didnt smile. Thanks. Then she faced forward
with a 375staid expression as Mr. Trull, the Spanish teacher, closed the door.
Drews face fell. Well, that was a 376scintillating conversation. Unreal.
Here his women were welcoming the Corinth guys with open arms before the
first bell, and Drew couldnt even get this girl to say more than two words to
him.
All right, dude. Chill. Maybe shes 377somnolent. Maybe she was
nervous about starting a new school and didnt sleep all night. Or maybe
shes just not naturally 378verbose.
But neither of these wishful 379platitudes made him feel better. This day
had started out sucky, and it had just gotten suckier. For the rest of the period,
Drew sat back in his seat and 380wallowed in his own bad mood.

373 abort stop before finished


374 rebuffing rejecting
375 staid serious
376 scintillating dazzling
377 somnolent sleepy
378 verbose talkative
379 platitudes boring remark
380 wallowed remained helpless

54
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Chapter Five

Drew arrived at lunch early. There was no way he was going to let the
Corinth guys 381usurp his table like theyd taken over the arbor that morning.
When he got there, the only people in sight were a few freshmen sitting at a
table near the wall and a janitor wiping a spot on one of the plate glass
windows. Drew walked over to the senior section, a raised area all along the
sun-streaked windows, and put his stuff down on a chair at the best table
the table Trey and the rest of the senior athletes had always used the year
before. Then he took a few books out of his bag and spread them out at other
chairs, just to be safe. There was no room for 382complacency in the lunch
room. This was war.
Drew walked up to the kitchen to get his lunchtwo cheeseburgers,
two fries, and an iced teathen sat back down to wait.
Five minutes later, the noise level had gone from a buzz to a blowout.
Unlike last year, when half the tables in the 383sprawling cafeteria had been
empty, every table was full with laughing, chatting students. The 384decibel
level was out of control. Drew could tell that most of his fellow students were
enjoying the excitement, the unfamiliarity of it all. Unfortunately, the 385din
only 386aggravated his already 387frayed nerves.
Whaddup, man? Jason asked, nudging Drew with his elbow as he slid
into the chair next to his.
Youre in a good mood, Drew grumbled.
Dude, the days almost half over, Jason said as he shook up his iced
tea. One day of school down, only a couple hundred left to go.
381 usurp take over
382 complacency inaction
383 sprawling . spreading out in different directions
384 decibel loudness
385 din racket (a loud and disturbing noise)
386 aggravated made worse
387 frayed ragged (worn away or tattered along the edges)

55
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Drew managed a scoff. He took a bite of his burger as he stared across


the senior section at the table Samson and his friends had 388appropriated for
themselves. If looks could kill, every one of the people over there would have
389
keeled over. Tamara Glenn was sitting at the end of the table, right next to
Samson himself, tossing her hair and laughing. Half the other girls were over
there as well, chatting up the enemy. Even Marisa was standing near the wall,
looking up at Adam Lazarus with wide, admiring eyes as if she were
390
enchanted by his incredible wit. Drew had never felt so betrayed.
Crap, they got Marisa now, too? Clay said, shoving a chair out with
his leg and dropping into it. By the end of the day theyre gonna have
391
expropriated all our women.
What the hell are they thinking? Drew said through his teeth.
Come on, guys. You know Tamara. Shes a people person, Jason said,
popping a fry into his mouth. She probably just wants to make them feel
welcome.
Drew watched as Tamara laid her hand on Samsons armon the arm
of his Corinth varsity jacket, to be preciseand he felt like hitting
something. It wasnt as if he wanted Tamara for himself anymore, but he
thought they were friends. Did she have to throw herself at the one person he
392
abhorred more than anyone else in the world?
393
This is a debacle, Clay said, shoving half a burger into his mouth.
Unless
What? Drew asked. He sat forward, hoping to hear something that
would 394alleviate the gut-clenching anger and hurt he was suffering with.
Clay took a moment to chew and swallow, which Drew appreciated.
388 appropriated taken over
389 keeled . walk as if unable to control one's movements
390 enchanted spellbound (atracted strongly, as if with a magnet)
391 expropriated taken possession of
392 abhorred hated
393 debacle disaster
394 alleviate lessen

56
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Well, maybe Tamara is just 395feigning her interest in those guys. Maybe
shes over there spying on them for us.
Jason laughed, but Drew looked over at the table hopefully. Tamara was
in the middle of telling some story, and everyone at the table was completely
396
riveted. Then Samson cracked up, and Tamara threw her head back,
giggling 397gleefully.
No. Not possible. Remember the spring play? Girls not that good of
an actress, Drew said. He slumped back in his chair. But Ill bet you a
million dollars its all an 398affectation on Samsons part. Hes just trying to
piss me off.
Why do you say that? Jason asked.
Because. Look at him. Why pick Tamara out of every girl in school?
He must know we went out, Drew said. Hes just trying to make me
jealous.
But youre not, right? Jason said. Cause youve already moved on
to Red over there.
Drews heart thumped extra hard as he followed Jasons gaze. It took
him a moment to find Lily, because she wasnt sitting in the senior section.
Instead, she had chosen a small table for six in the middle of the cafeteria.
She sat 399flanked by two empty chairs, her headphones on, completely
400
absorbed in a hardcover book she was reading. Apparently, she was the
401
cerebral type. She may have been alone, but she looked anything but
402
forlorn. She looked, in fact, quite 403serene and 404content as she munched
395 feigning faking
396 riveted fixed
397 gleefully with joy
398 affectation act
399 flanked in between
400 absorbed deeply involved
401 cerebral brainy
402 forlorn sad
403 serene peaceful
404 content satisfied

57
Sacked by Emma Harrison

on her baby carrots.


That girl? Clay blurted.
Yeah. You got a problem? Drew asked.
Naw, man. Shes just kind of 405atypical for you, Clay replied.
Yeah, well, maybe Im sick of the typical, Drew said, taking a bite of
his burger. Doesnt matter anyway, shes not interested.
She shot you down already? Burn! Jason shouted, laughing with his
mouth full of food.
Shut up, man! Drew said. He felt his face start to heat up and tried to
put on a carefree 406facade. Jasons shout had drawn some attention, and he
knew Tamara and some of those guys at her table were watching.
Sorry. Tell us what happened. Come on, man. Maybe we can help,
Jason 407cajoled, enjoying this way too much.
Just forget it, all right? Drew said through his teeth.
They were definitely watching now. Definitely wondering what had
Drew so embarrassed and what Jason and Clay were so amused about. This
was so wrong. There had to be some way to get back at these assholes. Some
way to show them that they couldnt get away with their stupid games.
Just then, the door to the girls bathroom opened, and out walked three
Corinth High girls. He had noticed one of the girls that morning. She was
beautiful in a showy way, with long, dark, glossy hair, lots of makeup, and an
outfit worthy of a Pussycat Dolls video. She walked like she owned the place,
which on one of her male counterparts would have annoyed him, but which
he kind of liked on a girl. She and her friends started to take a 408circuitous
route around the tables, heading for the kitchen, and Drew felt an 409inkling

405 atypical out of the ordinary


406 facade face, outward appearance
407 cajoled coaxed (influence or urge by gentle urging, caressing, or flattering)
408 circuitous roundabout
409 inkling hint

58
Sacked by Emma Harrison

of an idea forming in his mind. Unfortunately, there was no time for


410
deliberation. They were about to 411strut by his table.
On pure 412compulsion, Drew reached out and grabbed the wrist of the
dark-haired girl. Her face screwed up in 413exasperation, but then she took
one look at Drew and settled into a flirtatious smirk.
And youre touching me why? she asked.
Couldnt help myself, Drew said with a grin.
The girl looked at her friends, and they all smiled, rolling their eyes.
Im Drew Benson.
I know who you are, the girl said. Im Crystal Marx. This is Jackie
and Jenny, she said, gesturing over her shoulder.
Hi, the girls 414chorused.
Hello, Jason said, sitting up straight.
Ladies, Clay added with a nod.
Youre sitting with us, Drew said, pulling out a chair for her.
Crystal laughed. Oh, are we? Well then, I guess you guys are buying.
She perched on the edge of the 415proffered chair, and her friend settled in
around the other guys. Well all have salads and bagels and water.
Drew looked at Clay and Jason. You heard the lady.
Instantly, his friends jumped from their chairs. Were on it, Clay said.
Jason put his hands on Drews shoulders as he passed by and leaned in. I
just want to say that I fully 416espouse this plan, he whispered.

410 deliberation mulling things over


411 strut . a proud stiff pompous gait
412 compulsion impulse
413 exasperation frustration
414 chorused said together
415 proffered offered
416 espouse support

59
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Drew nodded in self-satisfaction, then leaned in toward Crystal. So....


how do you like Washingtonville so far? he asked smoothly.
Crystal grinned back at him. Im liking it more every second.
Thats what I wanted to hear.
Drew sat back and took a sip of his iced tea, taking the opportunity to
cast a 417surreptitious glance over at Samson Hills table. Sure enough, Hill
and his friends were now glaring right at Drew.
Two can play at this game, Drew thought, as Crystal put her hand on his
knee and chattered away. And really, its just way too easy.
Drew sat under the blazing sun in the bleachers that afternoon, his arm
feeling like a huge dead weight after two straight hours of throwing drills.
Hed gone through it all with perfect 418alacrity, putting on a positive face for
the coaches, but the act had only made him more tired. He wished Davidson
would just shut up already and let them go before he died of heat exhaustion.
Did he really have to go over every last line of the Athletes Code of
Conduct? It wasnt as if they werent all going home with a copy.
Why is he reading this to us? Drew groaned under his breath.
Probably worried these guys cant read, Clay joked back.
Drew laughed, but when he looked up, he saw a few of the guys on the
other side of the aisle staring them down. Apparently, Clays whisper hadnt
actually been a whisper. Unaffected, however, Drew glared right back. He
was so sick of these guys and their bad attitudes and their crappy-ass
uniforms. And Clay was probably right on some level. All the
Washingtonville guys knew the code of conduct backward and forward.
Coach had probably called this little meeting on behalf of the newbies.
All right, thats it, Coach Davidson said finally, rolling the page up
and sticking it in his pocket. Any questions?
Drew could practically feel the rest of his teammates dying to go, but he

417 surreptitious secretive


418 alacrity enthusiasm

60
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raised his hand anyway.


I got a question, Coach! he shouted.
There were groans and grumbles all around. Coach glanced at him,
clearly 419hesitant. Drew wondered if he sounded as irritated as he felt.
Whats up, Besnon? Coach asked.
When are we gonna get these guys some Eagles gear already? Drew
asked, gesturing toward the Corinth section. Everyones getting a little sick
of them 420flaunting the blue and gray everywhere.
There was, predictably, an explosion of jeers and grumbles from the
Corinth side of the bleachers as they all took 421exception to Drews tone.
Even Coach gave him a 422grave look. Drew cleared his throat and sat up.
What I mean to say, Coach, is that having two different unis on the
field is 423deleterious to our team spirit, Drew said seriously. I think it
would benefit all of us if we could feel more like one cohesive unit.
Behind him, Jason snickered into his hand. The Corinth guys werent
entirely buying it either. A bunch of them scoffed and gestured at him in a
424
dismissive way.
425
Well put, Benson, Coach said, his tone slightly caustic to show that
he knew Drew was at least partially pulling his leg.
Coach, theres no point in us changing out all our gear when no ones
even decided which mascot and colors were using, Lance said.
Actually, son, this team is and will be the Washingtonville Eagles,
Coach Davidson replied.

419 hesitant uncertain


420 flaunting display proudly; act ostentatiously or pretentiously
421 exception objection (with took, take)
422 grave somber (lacking brightness or color; dull)
423 deleterious harmful
424 dismissive rejecting
425 caustic witty (combining clever conception and facetious expression)

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Drew and his friends cheered and slapped hands as the Corinth guys
protested with serious 426ardorlike this was the most 427catastrophic
announcement theyd ever heard. A few of them even stood up, shouting
down angry questions. Drew couldnt believe they actually found this
announcement so 428confounding. How could the Corinth guys have thought
it would be any other way?
Settle down, settle down! Coach Davidson said, waving them back.
Coach! Coach! Adam shouted, standing up as the rest of the guys sat,
however 429disconcerted they were. Dont you think thats showing a bit of
430
favoritism toward your own team? Why should they get to keep their
mascot and colors? Its not fair.
431
Its not fair, Clay mimicked under his breath, but in a much more
whiny voice.
Yeah. Its like youre trying to totally 432eradicate our team. Our
history, Lance put in. I mean, this is a 433colossal insult!
He didnt eradicate anything! Drew said, turning around in his seat.
The state did. God, at least we gave you a school to go to. That should be
some 434consolation.
Well gee, thanks, your majesty, Lance shot back. Were so grateful
that you 435deigned to allow us into your 436hallowed halls.
There were more grumbles and shouts, and this time it took a bit longer

426 ardor passion


427 catastrophic disastrous
428 confounding puzzling
429 disconcerted unsettled
430 favoritism partiality
431 mimicked imitated
432 eradicate do away with
433 colossal huge
434 consolation comfort
435 deigned condescendingly offered
436 hallowed sacred

62
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for Coach Davidson to quiet them down. Drew sat back and shook his head.
The fact that they were upset was 437comprehensible. It was a sucky
situation. But shouldnt they have gotten over this last spring? Complaining
about it now was 438futile.
Coach, I have something to say, Samson Hill said, standing.
Oh, here we go, Drew whispered to his friends.
Go ahead, Hill, Coach Davidson said with a weary sigh.
Its just, Adam is right. Were the ones who had to switch schools, and
were the ones who have to get bussed all the way out here and back every
day, Samson said. Its not like it was our fault our school closed. Dont you
think we should get something?
Yeah, his friends said, backing him up.
439
And when was this decision made? Why wasnt it disclosed to us?
Samson asked.
Drew looked at his friends. Samson and the others really hadnt known
that they had no shot at 440retaining their mascot and colors? He had a hard
time believing that.
Im sorry, Hill. The decision was made at the school board meeting
when it was decided that the schools would combine, Coach Davidson
explained. It was an open 441forum. Anyone could have spoken up at that
time.
Well, no one told us that, Samson protested.
Im sorry about that, but the school board made this decision, and its
final, Coach Davidson said.

437 comprehensible understandable


438 futile in vain
439 disclosed revealed
440 retaining holding on to
441 forum meeting

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We have a very 442astute school board, Clay joked.


Shut up, man, Jason said, clearly feeling for the Corinth guys as the
truth of this sunk in. Youre just gonna 443exacerbate the situation.
Listen, guys. Sure, in 444hindsight, I can say that maybe this was a
445
fallacious decision on their part, but it is what it is, Coach Davidson said.
Youre gonna have to give up your uniforms. Weve already ordered new
ones for you, there was just a 446deferment in the ordersomething to do
with dye lots or somethingso theyre late. Otherwise you would have had
your practice set on day one.
447
I cant believe this, Adam said vehemently as the rest of the team
mumbled around him.
Look, Im really sorry you guys didnt know about this from the
448
outset, Coach said, lifting both hands. But weve gotta look forward, not
back. Lets all just hit the showers, and we can start fresh tomorrow, okay?
His words were met with an angry, tense silence. Coach sighed and
looked at the ground, clearly at a loss. Drew had never seen this normally
449
fromidable man look so small. Apparently this 450melding of the two
schools wasnt just taking its toll on the students.
Team dismissed.
The next day, Coach was back in tough form and seemed determined to
erase any memory of his moment of weakness the day before. After a long
and demanding practice, he set the team out on an 451endurance run,

442 astute smart


443 exacerbate make worse
444 hindsight retrospect
445 fallacious erroneous (error)
446 deferment delay
447 vehemently powerfully
448 outset beginning
449 formidable fearsome
450 melding mixing
451 endurance sustaining stressful effort

64
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following the path laid out for cross-country track meets. The course seemed
452
interminable. Around each bend was another long straightaway into the
woods or through a field or up a hill. Drew always forgot there was so much
open space around the school until Coach got it in his head to send the team
out on one of these torture runs. And he always respected the cross-country
team more after completing one.
Today was worse than usual, of course, because Drew made sure to
match Samson step for step on the long run. Together they led the pack for
most of the course and were yards ahead of anyone as they came out of the
trees surrounding Washingtonville Stadium and headed for the end zone.
Drew had been 453cognizant of Samsons breathing for the past few
minutes, as it grew more and more labored. His own chest burned like a
forest fire, but he was still feeling pretty strong. He glanced down at
Samsons feet and noticed that his stride was weakening. Drew felt a flutter
of hope in his chest. He was 454loath to let this guy beat him at yet another
testespecially one that he was clearly so capable of winning. He looked up
and saw Coach Davidson along with the rest of the crew, waiting at the end
zone with his stop watch. That was all he needed. He turned on the sprint.
See ya, he said to Samson.
And just like that, he was gone. Drew crossed the finish line a good
twenty seconds before Hill and threw his arms up as Coach hit the button on
his watch.
Eight-thirty-two! Nice time, Benson. Better not let Coach Hiller hear
about this. Hell try to steal you away.
Drew nodded, gasping for breath as he walked along the track, trying to
get his heart rate down. By the time Samson jogged over to him, heaving like
crazy, Drew was entirely 455composed.

452 interminable unending


453 cognizant aware
454 loath oppose
455 composed under control

65
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Nice run, man, Drew said, feeling 456munificent after his win.
Yeah. You too, Samson replied with a nod.
Drew walked over to the water jug and filled a plastic cup and then
collapsed onto the ground as the rest of the team slowly started to make its
way over the finish line. Samson grabbed himself a drink and sat down as
well. Drew eyed him with curiosity. What did this guy think he was doing?
Did he think they were going to be friends now, just because Drew had said
one nice thing to him?
Your coach runs a tough practice, Samson said, 457extricating a towel
from the equipment bag under the bench.
Always has, Drew said. Hes pretty 458obdurate, especially when it
comes to any sign of weakness. So if you dont think you can handle it
459
Oh, I can handle it, Samson said with a smile. A totally genuine
smile.
Well, good.
Drew looked away. He just did not get this guy. On the first day of
practice he had been so sure that Samson would be this 460conceited braggart,
he had assumed that the guy was mocking him by bringing up Trey. But ever
since then, Samson had been nothing but supportive, 461amicable and fair.
Either he was the greatest actor on earth, or he was actually a nice guy with
no 462agenda.
Or he saw Drew as such a 463nominal threat he didnt even feel the need
to be cold toward him.

456 munificent generous


457 extricating freeing
458 obdurate stubborn
459 genuine real
460 conceited self-centered
461 amicable agreeable
462 agenda . temporally organized plan for matters to be attended to
463 nominal insignificant

66
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So, when we were running the two-minute drill before, I noticed that
you have a kind of 464tell, Samson said as his breathing returned to normal.
Oh, no way. There was no way that this guy was going to sit here and
try to give him tips. Did this guy not understand that he was the 465bane of
Drews existence? He could think of no one he would less like to take
criticism from, except for maybe his father. Drew crushed his plastic cup and
held it tightly in his fist.
Oh really? Whats that? Drew said 466gruffly.
Samson looked at him for a moment, as if surprised by his tone, but
467
gamely continued.
Well, when you come off the line you tend to look right at your
intended receiver, Samson said. If the defense is paying any attention to the
turn of your head, theyre going to know where youre going every time. You
should try using your peripheral vision a little more. Or glancing the opposite
way to throw them off. Its an easy fix.
Wow. Thanks so much for sharing your 468expertise with me, Drew
snapped, shoving himself up off the ground. I dont know what Id do
without a 469consummate quarterback like you around to point out my
faults.
Dude, dont take 470umbrage, Samson said, 471hoisting himself up as
well. If you saw something I could do better Id want you to tell me too. I
thought there was 472parity between us. Helping each other helps the team.

464 tell sign that reveals a weakness


465 bane curse
466 gruffly grumpily (in an ill-natured manner)
467 gamely eagerly
468 expertise skill
469 consummate accomplish
470 umbrage offense
471 hoisting lifting
472 parity equality

67
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He was so 473disingenuous Drew wanted to spit at his feet. No one


could possibly be this mature and accepting of the horrendous situation they
were in. He couldnt actually want to help the competition. Was he insane?
Well, you were wrong, Drew said finally. Theres no parity here.
And your advice is 474officious, so you can take it and shove it.
Samson stared back at Drew, clearly thrown and 475appalled by his
behavior. A few of their teammates had started to gather around the water jug,
and he glanced at the audience, as if he was hoping that someone there could
help him out with his next move. But no one said a thing. Finally, Samson
shrugged.
Fine, man. Whatever, he said with obvious disdain. Ill keep my
mouth shut then.
For a split second, Drew felt almost guilty. If the guy really had just
been trying to be nicehowever ill-advised his methods werethen Drew
had completely crushed him. But Samson couldnt really be that 476naive. He
couldnt actually think that the two of them could ever be friends. And if he
did, then Drew couldnt help the guy.
Good, Drew replied.
Then he turned on his heel, grabbed his helmet and pads from the
sidelines, and stormed off toward the school. Before long, he heard jogging
footsteps, and Jason caught up to him, still panting.
What the hell, man. Did you just finish? Drew snapped.
Yeah. Guess I should 477augment my cardio workouts some, Jason
said lightly. So what the hell just happened? John Washburn said you and
Samson had a fight?
You werent there? Drew asked.
473 disingenuous insincere
474 officious meddlesome (intrude in other people's affairs or business; interfere unwantedly)
475 appalled horrified
476 naive innocent
477 augment enhance

68
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No. Whats up?


Drew shrugged, the humiliation washing over him all over again.
Nothing, man. He wanted my help with his timing or something. Total
loser.
Yeah. Like youre gonna help him, Jason said with a laugh and a
cough. You guys are totally enemies.
Exactly, Drew said, feeling slightly better at having someone agree
with him. Come on, man. Screw the showers. Lets just hit Teresas. I could
eat a whole pie on my own.
Dude, I am so there, Jason said. Should we wait for Clay and the
other guys?
Nah. Lets just go, Drew said. Clay had been among the guys who
had seen what went down, and he didnt want to be around anyone who knew
what had actually happened. That Samson had been 478beneficent enough to
try to help his poor little backup and that Drew had taken it like anything but
a man. I just want to get the hell out of here.

478 beneficent kind

69
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Chapter Six

Sweat poured down Drews neck as he focused on his breathing and


kept his feet as high as he could. His eyes followed Coach Halloran, the
offensive coordinator, as he 479trolled the sidelines.
Just blow the whistle already, Drew thought, clenching his fists. Blow
the damn whistle!
All around him in their perfectly aligned 480squads, guys grunted and
shouted in extreme 481duress. Halloran had woken up today with some kind
of 482nefarious need to torture the team. Hed had them doing the stutter-step
drill for what felt like an eternity. Samson was lined up directly behind Drew,
and Drew wondered how his 483winsome teammate was doing with this
particular task. He hoped the guy would pull something.
It was all their fault that they were being put through this crap. All
Corinths fault. Drew knew Halloran well enough to know that he was
making a point. He didnt want to hear any lip from the 484disgruntled
Corinth players about something as 485trite as uniforms, so he was trying to
sweat the fight out of them.
All right! Thats enough! Coach Davidson shouted, joining Halloran.
Halloran, finally, mercifully, blew his whistle. Every last one of the
guys collapsed to the ground. Practice hadnt even begun yet, and Drews
legs were quivering like his grandmothers Easter Jell-O mold.
All right, people, listen up! Coach Davidson announced. Today and
tomorrow we are going to run nothing but position drills.

479 trolled . circulate, move around


480 squads . a cooperative unit (especially in sports)
481 duress pressure
482 nefarious evil
483 winsome charming
484 disgruntled dissatisfied
485 trite boring, ordinary

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The entire squad groaned. Drew shoved himself up into a seated


position and glanced over at Samson, who had his knees up and his forearms
resting over them as he caught his breath. Unusually 486taciturn, Samson
glanced away. That was fine with Drew. He was 487impenitent about their
488
altercation as well. And the last thing he needed was Samson trying to be
all friendly and understanding. Hopefully that particularly 489cloying side of
Samson Hill was gone for good.
We will be running these drills because after practice tomorrow I
intend to post the starting lineup for varsity, Coach continued.
That got everyones attention. Drews heart dropped as the field fell
silent.
Right here I have a list of 490criteria by which we will be judging each
of the starters, Coach Davidson announced, holding up his clipboard. After
practice today and tomorrow, all the coaches will 491convene and make our
decisions. The pressure is officially on, gentlemen.
Yeah. Like it wasnt before, Drew thought.
Ever so slowly, Coach Davidson made eye contact with each and every
one of the players. Drew felt his adrenaline surge as Coach finally held his
own gaze.
Lets see what youve got.
As the afternoon wore on, the 492disparity between Drews and
Samsons playing styles grew more and more clear. Samson was patient. He
sat in the pocket and waited for his moves to become clear. As long as he was
in the pocket, he was perfect. Didnt miss a pass. But when he was flushed
out, when the blitz was coming, he went down or threw the ball away nine
486 taciturn quiet
487 impenitent not sorry
488 altercation argument
489 cloying overly sweet
490 criteria standards
491 convene assemble
492 disparity difference

71
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times out of ten. As far as Drew could see, he had no speed. No 493dexterity.
His arm and his aim were perfect, but he wasnt the greatest on the 494fly.
Every time Samson was sacked, Drew felt the 495accretion of his own
confidence. Because no one could catch him. He had a fabulous 496acumen
when it came to defenseswas able to read them with no problemand he
had the speed to escape if his O-line went down. He gave himself and his
receivers extra time just by being able to scramble out of the pocket. And that
time was incredibly valuable. When it came right down to it, he had to say, he
was a much more 497dynamic quarterback than Samson Hill. Maybe not as
accurate, but he could run with the ball, he could protect the ballhe hadnt
fumbled since that awful scene in front of his fatherand he could manage
the game. These were all qualities a good coach looked for in a QB.
All right, guys. Nice work, Coach Lewinter said after an hour of
practice. Now lets have a little fun.
Drew glanced at Samson, whose curious look mirrored his own. They
had been equally 498aloof to each other all afternoon, and Drew wanted to
kick himself for this one second of connection. This guy was the enemy. The
enemy. They were not in this together.
Coach! Were ready for you! Coach Lewinter shouted.
Across the field, Davidson raised an arm and blew his whistle, stopping
all the other drills in their tracks.
Whats up, Coach? Samson asked finally.
Youll see, Coach Lewinter said with an almost sadistic smile. You
boys step to the line, he said, indicating the fifty yard line.
Drews heart started to pound. All around him, the rest of the team was

493 dexterity agility


494 fly . (baseball) a hit that flies up in the air
495 accretion increase
496 acumen insight
497 dynamic energetic
498 aloof remote

72
Sacked by Emma Harrison

starting to gather. Coach Lewinter grabbed two bags of balls and created two
piles in front of Samson and Drew, 499allocating them each about twenty
balls. Drew glanced at Jason and Clay as they took their spots along the
sidelines. They both shrugged. No one seemed to know what was going on,
but the entire team now 500circumscribed the practice area.
I got a bad feeling about this, Samson said under his breath.
Youre not the only one, Drew replied.
Standing there in front of all those people, Drew did a complete 180.
Suddenly he was grateful for Samsons presence. Whatever this was, it was
probably not going to be pretty.
Then, all the way down at the top of the end zone, the coaches rolled
out a pair of receiving dummies. One for Drew, one for Samson. Everyone on
the sidelines laughed. Drew, however, felt the color rise in his face. What was
this, some kind of joke?
Langford! Carradine! Get over here! Coach Davidson called out.
501
Clay and Corinths Tank Langford, the two behemoths of the team,
hopped to and jogged to the end zone.
All right, guys, heres how this is going to work! Coach Lewinter
called out. Tank and Carradine over here are going to push these dummies
back and forth so you guys will have moving targets. Youll pass from fifty
yards until you complete a pass. Then forty, then thirty, then twenty and so on
to the ten.
Youve gotta be kidding me, Drew said under his breath. His
502
tenuous hold on his temper started to slip. This was so not what he needed.
This drill was tailor-made for a quarterback like Samson. But for Drew, it
would be a nightmare.

499 allocating distributing


500 circumscribed surrounded
501 behemoths giants
502 tenuous weak

73
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Whoever completes from each yard line first is the winner, Coach
Lewinter finished.
Uh, Coach? Samson said lightly, raising his hand. Any way we can
503
abstain from this one?
Sorry, Hill. You gotta do what you gotta do, Lewinter said.
Everybody ready?
There was a 504vociferous roar from both sidelines. And why not? These
guys got to take a break from practicing to watch this ridiculous sideshow.
Drew stepped up to his pile of footballs. His heart slammed around in his
chest and his palms were slick with sweat. He wiped them on his pants and
looked over at Samson. The guy looked as calm as a puddle.
Okay, 505temperance, Drew told himself. You can do this. Just
concentrate. Be the ball. See it going through the hole.
Quietly, a chant started to go up from the sidelines. Benson.... Benson .
. . Benson.....
Drews heart fluttered with pride, and he looked around at his
teammates. Jason was obviously leading the chant, and as more people joined
in, the 506cadence began to speed up.
Benson! Benson! Benson!
Drew grinned. Of course, the second he did, the Corinth guys started to
chant as well. Hill! Hill! Hill!
Soon the field was 507engulfed by the warring voices.
Ready! Coach Lewinter shouted.
Drew held his breath, and the whistle blew.
Drew grabbed up his first ball. Downfield, Tank shoved the dummy
503 abstain withdraw
504 vociferous loud
505 temperance self-control
506 cadence tempo (the rate of some repeating event)
507 engulfed overwhelmed

74
Sacked by Emma Harrison

back and forth with quick, jerking motions. Drew set his feet, pulled back,
and let the ball fly.
Please, God....
508
It hit the side of the dummy, right next to the hole, and ricocheted
off.
Dammit! he shouted.
I am so screwed. I am so, so screwed! My accuracy is for crap.
Its okay, man! someone shouted from the sidelines. Go again!
Drew grabbed another ball. He tried to quiet the negative voices in his
headvoices that sounded so much like his dad. He gave it an extra moment
this time, attempting to be patient, which was next to impossible with
Samson breathing down his neck. Suddenly, the Corinth guys erupted with
cheers. Samson had made his throw. Cursing under his breath, Drew pulled
back and let fly. The second the ball left his fingers, he knew there was no
way....
But then, it slipped through the hole. The Washingtonville guys went
nuts. Drew was so stunned he didnt move for a good second. It was a
miracle.
Go, Drew! Get your ass in gear! Jason shouted.
Drew grabbed another ball, ran to the forty, and let fly. The ball got
nothing but net.
Yes! Drew cheered, pumping his fist as he ran back for a third ball.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Samson miss a throw. Feeling
509
vindicated, he shouted a cheer as he grabbed another ball and raced to the
thirty.
Tank was sweating and panting as he shoved the heavy dummy back
and forth. The guy was slowing down, which 510ameliorated Drews
508 ricocheted . move back in a roughly opposite direction after an impact
509 vindicated proved correct
510 ameliorated helped

75
Sacked by Emma Harrison

situation, improving his chances considerably. He took a deep breath as the


Corinth guys cheered for Samson, and then he threw the ball.
It went right in.
Im on fire! I so have this! Drew thought.
He sprinted back to the pile, 511relishing his own speed, and grabbed his
fourth ball. Back at the twenty, Drew made another perfect pass. Samson
wasnt even in his line of vision.
One more. Drew ran past Samson, who was making a pass, and grabbed
another ball. It was a 512facile pass from the ten. Tank was barely moving
anymore. The pass went right through the hole, and Drew thrust his arms in
the air in triumph. The Washingtonville guys poured in from the sidelines and
crowded around him, slapping him on the back, jumping up and down and
cheering. Drew shouted and laughed and came dangerously close to crying.
He couldnt believe hed just done that. Hed just beaten the great Samson
Hill at an accuracy drill. How was it even possible?
513
You did it, man! Jason shouted, hugging him. You just validated
what we all already knew! Youre the quarterback of this team!
Benson! Benson! Benson! the guys shouted over the blowing whistles
and the shouts of the coaches to break it up. Drew just took it all in,
514
savoring his moment. For the first time since last May, he truly believed he
could win this job.
Trey, you have no idea. It was so amazing, Drew said into the phone
that night, pacing back and forth at the foot of his bed. Normally he wasnt
one to 515emote, especially when it came to hope, but tonight he couldnt help
it. Honestly, until today I think most of the coaches thought I was a

511 relishing . take pleasure in


512 facile easy
513 validated confirmed
514 savoring thoroughly enjoying
515 emote display emotion

76
Sacked by Emma Harrison

516
travesty of you, but I dont know..... I seriously might have changed that.
Dude. No one thought you were a travesty, Trey said with a hint of
amusement in his voice.
Drew paused and stared out his window at the glimmering lights along
the pathway up to his house. Well, Dad did. Does. Whatever, he said, his
heart suddenly heavy.
Oh, please. You cant listen to him, Trey said. Look, I know Dad
517
carps about football to you, but I think he just wants to make sure youre
working as hard as you can.
What makes him think Im not? Thats what I want to know. I mean,
no offense, but if you didnt exist, I would have been starting last year.
Youre the only reason I wasnt.
No offense taken. I totally agree with you, Trey said. Dad just has a
harder time seeing the big picture.
Its just so 518exasperating, Drew said, turning away from the
window. He crossed over to his desk chair and sat down and started to spin
himself.
At least he takes an interest in your life. Not a lot of guys can say that
about their parents, Trey said.
519
Dude, I almost wish he were apathetic. At least then Id get some
peace, Drew said, only half-joking.
All right, lets get off the topic of the 520despot, Trey said 521jovially.
Hows the team doing in general? Ive been worried about whether the

516 travesty parody (a composition that imitates or misrepresents somebody's style, usually in
a humorous way)
517 carps complains
518 exasperating frustrating
519 apathetic uninterested
520 despot tyrant
521 jovially warmly

77
Sacked by Emma Harrison

coaches were going to be able to 522amalgamate the two teams into one.
Yeah, well, sorry to say I cant 523allay that concern, Drew replied,
giving himself one last spin. These Corinth guys have no interest in being
Washingtonville Eagles.
Well, you cant really blame them, Trey said. They supported their
school as 524peewees, then played for them for years, and now they have to
just give that all up. It cant be easy.
But its not like its our fault. They act like the rest of us are totally
525
anathema to all of them, Drew replied.
Yeah, and how are you guys treating them? Trey asked knowingly.
Fine, Drew lied.
Uh-huh. Somehow I dont quite believe that, Trey 526chided. Look,
Drew, youre gonna have to find a way to 527cleave the two sides before your
first game. This team is going nowhere if its at war with itself.
How am I supposed to do that? Believe me, when I say theres no love
lost between the two schools, Im telling the truth. Theres a complete
528
dearth, Drew told him.
Youll figure it out, bro. Youre the smart one, Trey said.
Drew laughed, enjoying the compliment. Youre right. I am the smart
one. So why am I always trying to 529emulate you?
Search me, dude, Trey said. In fact, I should probably go. I have to
530
amend this paper for my World Civ class. If I dont get it up to my
522 amalgamate meld (bring or combine together or with something else)
523 allay calm
524 peewees . disparaging term for small people
525 anathema something hated
526 chided scolded
527 cleave join
528 dearth lack
529 emulate imitate
530 amend revise

78
Sacked by Emma Harrison

professors standards, theyre gonna chuck me out of here before I even get a
chance to play in a game. Ill be looking for a new 531vocation in no time.
Come on. Seriously? Drew said. He doubted the 532veracity of that
statement. Everyone knew that athletesespecially ones of Treys 533caliber
got about twenty strikes before they were out. Its, like, your first paper.
College isnt like high school, Drew, Trey said 534wistfully. I mean, I
knew that was the case, but I didnt really think about it. I was too busy
focusing on the football part, but Ive gotta keep my grades up to keep my
scholarship. Could you imagine the fit Dad would throw if I got booted?
Drew couldnt imagine it. He couldnt imagine his father ever saying
one negative word to or about Trey. Their relationship had just never been as
535
contentious as the one between Drew and his father. Not even close. But
he decided to play along.
Yeah, Ill get to work on your 536elegy, he joked.
Thanks. Make me look good, Trey replied. Ill talk to you later. And
Drew, no matter what happens tomorrow, youre a kick-ass quarterback.
Thanks, Trey, Drew replied. Good luck with your paper.
Thanks.
Drew hung up the phone and let his head hang back for a moment,
staring up at the glow-in-the-dark galaxy hed stuck up on his ceiling back in
second grade. If only the coaches were in 537consensus with Trey. Tomorrow
could be one of the greatest days of his life. He half-considered asking Trey
to call them and talk to them on his behalf. Everyone loved the guy, after all.
Maybe a reminder of how much it would mean to Trey if they let Drew carry

531 vocation . job


532 veracity truth
533 caliber degree of excellence
534 wistfully with yearning
535 contentious touchy (inclined or showing an inclination to dispute or disagree)
536 elegy funeral song/poem
537 consensus agreement

79
Sacked by Emma Harrison

on his legacy would be a good thing.


Drew snickered at himself and sat forward again. Like he would ever
actually do that. He wasnt that pathetic. He could stand on his own feet. He
could 538attain his goals without the help of his brother. Hed done a great job
that afternoon, and tomorrow would be his 539coronation as starting
quarterback of the Washingtonville Eagles.
It had to be. It just had to be.
Drew sat outside Coach Davidsons office on Friday afternoon, feeling
as if he were on the verge of 540combustion. Coach had posted the starting
541
roster outside the locker room fifteen minutes before, and total 542mayhem
had ensued as everyone shoved and 543jostled to the front, trying to get a look
at the list. The whole team was 544animated as they congratulated each other
or 545commiserated over their failures. Their reactions only 546compounded
Drews desperation to learn his fate, but when hed made it up thereabout
two seconds ahead of Samsonhed found a note at the very top of the page
that read, Quarterbacks, see me in my office. And so, there he sat all alone,
his anxiety mounting with each passing moment.
Finally, Samson came around the corner at the end of the hallway, his
duffel bag and backpack slung over his shoulder, and slowly approached. He
sat down in the chair next to Drews and let out a sigh.
So, why do you think he wants to talk to us? Samson asked.
I have no idea, Drew replied curtly.
Samsons legs bounced up and down, and he shifted in his seat. Drew
538 abstain withdraw
539 coronation crowning
540 combustion . an act of burning something
541 roster list
542 mayhem chaos
543 jostled . make one's way by jostling, pushing, or shoving
544 animated lively
545 commiserated sympathized
546 compounded added to

80
Sacked by Emma Harrison

felt like punching the guy. He was tense enough as it was without Samson
acting so edgy right next to him. This whole thing shouldnt have even been
happening. This starting position was supposed to be Drews. It was always
Drews. Until Samson and his teammates descended on Washingtonville like
a 547blight.
Samson checked his watch and looked at the closed door, the shade
drawn over the window that had Coachs name 548etched into it.
Well, this sucks, Samson joked.
For you, maybe, Drew snapped.
Samson glared at him, and Drew, as always, felt instant regret, but he
didnt have the time to even think about expressing it. At that moment, the
door opened. Drew and Samson jumped to their feet.
Gentlemen? Coach said. Come on in.
This was it. The 549culmination of all Drews hard work, all his hopes
and dreams. In five minutes, he would know his fate. He stepped into the tiny
office ahead of Samson, and as he sat down in one of the two chairs across
the desk from his coach, he studied the mans familiar face. He tried as hard
as he could to 550construe his expression and figure out what he was thinking,
but Coach kept his eyes turned down as he shuffled some papers on his desk.
He has to grant me 551clemency, Drew thought. This is my coach. Hes
known me for years. Hes worked with me and my brother for years. He has a
great 552affinity for me and my family. And he knows how much this means
to me. He has to give me the job. He just has to.
How are you guys doing? Coach asked, looking up for a split second.
Good, Coach, Drew answered automatically.
547 blight plague (epidemic disease with a high death rate)
548 etched . carve or cut a design or letters into
549 culmination conclusion
550 construe read
551 clemency mercy
552 affinity close connection

81
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Fine, thanks, Samson added, clearing his throat.


Well, Im going to be as 553concise as possible here, guys. No 554florid
speeches or anything. I could sit here and 555extol your virtues for hoursthe
both of youbut theres no point in that. I know this is a tough situation
its been a tough decision for me and the other coachesand as much as Id
like to, I cant 556forestall it any longer. We need to start practicing game
situations, and for that we need to know who our starting quarterback is.
Drew held his breath. His heart constricted to the point of pain. His
557
anguish was almost blinding.
Please say its me. Just say it. Please, please, please.
He saw himself out on the field, his helmet caked with mud, rain
pouring down as he picked out his receiver and made the winning throw. Saw
his father cheering for him in the stands. The hope was almost more than he
could take.
Please just say its me. Please.
Drew, Im so sorry to have to do this, son, but Samson is our starter.
The film playing in Drews mind snapped with a sudden violence. Drew
felt as if the entire room had just collapsed in on his head. His fingers gripped
the arms on his chair, the color drained from his face.
Samson, congratulations, Coach added.
Thanks, Coach, Samson answered.
No, Drew heard himself say.
Im sorry, Drew. This is in no way meant to 558demean your talents.
Youre a great quarterback, Coach Davidson said. I just... I have to do

553 concise brief


554 florid fancy
555 extol praise
556 forestall delay
557 anguish pain
558 demean degrade

82
Sacked by Emma Harrison

whats right for the team.


No, Coach, Drew said pleadingly, standing up. This could not be
happening. There had to be some way to 559dissuade him. You cant do this.
You cant
He looked down at Samson, who was 560studiously avoiding his gaze.
Drew didnt even know what he was doing, what he was saying. All he could
see was Trey celebrating victory after victory. His fathers pride whenever he
looked at his brother. All he could see were the many daydreams Drew had
fostered over the years, of being carried off the field by his teammates, of
being awarded a scholarship to a good school, of celebrating with his family
and having that look of pride 561bestowed on him, go up in smoke.
Please, Drew 562beseeched his coach. Please, Coach. Dont do this.
563
Drew, Coach said, clearly affronted by Drews weakness. Keep
564
your equanimity, son.
Then this man, this 565venerated man, looked at Drew with pity in his
eyes, and that was all Drew needed to push him over the edge. His anger was
almost 566feral. Hed just been condemned to a life lived squarely in his
brothers shadow. He was never going to get his shot, never going to be able
to prove what he could do. For the rest of his days, he was going to have to
live 567vicariously through Trey. Hed have to sit back and watch his brother
ascend to new heights while he went nowhere.
Screw you! he shouted, grabbing up his stuff. You and your idiot
staff! You have no idea what youve done! No clue!

559 dissuade deter (turn away from by persuasion)


560 studiously carefully
561 bestowed given
562 beseeched pleaded
563 affronted insulted
564 equanimity composure
565 venerated respected
566 feral wild, animal-like
567 vicariously secondhand

83
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Benson! the coach shouted, angry now. I understand that youre


upset, but
Drew didnt even wait around to hear the rest. He couldnt spend one
more second in the same room as Samson Hill, the 568epitome of everything
that was wrong in his world. He slammed the door as hard as he possibly
could, and ran.

568 epitome embodiment

84
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Chapter Seven

This isnt happening. This is not happening, Drew 569rambled under


his breath as he drove his red Xterra 570aimlessly through the streets of
Washingtonville. The sun poured down on the 571meticulously kept yards and
the expensive cars parked in each and every driveway. A couple of middle
school kids tossed a football outside their house and laughed. Drew tensed
even further, his fingers gripping the steering wheel. Their happiness seemed
to mock him. Those kids still had their whole lives ahead of them. There
were still endless possibilities open for them. But for Drew, it was over. Just
like that. Every last dream, gone.
Over the years he had invested so much time in dreaming of the day
that hed be out from under Treys shadow, 572gearing himself up for his one
chancehis chance to show the world what he could do. His chance to get
recruited and earn the accolades and be the one in the spotlight. But now it
would never happen. All thanks to Samson.
And the worst part about it was his complete and total 573impotence.
The lack of control he had over the most important thing in his life. He
couldnt stop Samson and his buddies from invading his school. Hed been
forced to accept it. So hed done that. Hed sucked it up and competed for a
job that was supposed to be his from the get go. And hed done his best. Hed
left everything he had out on that field for the past few weeks. But it hadnt
been enough. The decision, in the end, was his coachs decision. Drew was
powerless to change it.
He just could not wrap his brain around Coach Davidsons 574hypocrisy.
All Drew had heard from the man in the last three years was how there was

569 rambled talk wanderingly


570 aimlessly without destination
571 meticulously carefully
572 gearing . adjust gears in order to achieve a desired speed
573 impotence helplessness
574 hypocrisy two-facedness

85
Sacked by Emma Harrison

nothing more important to him than Eagles football. But now, in one fell
575
swoop, hed completely betrayed the entire Eagles teamhanding it over
to a pack of Corinth Lions. How could the man live with himself? The
Corinth guys were ruining everything his team had ever stood for.
Why did they have to come here?! Drew said through his clenched
teeth as he turned onto his street. Why cant they just go back to their sorry-
ass town where they belong?
He pulled up in front of his house, and his heart hit the floor. His
fathers car was already in the driveway. Drews palms started to sweat.
There was no way he was going in there. He couldnt face his father right
now, couldnt even begin to conceive of how he would tell him this news. He
saw something move at one of the kitchen windows and slammed on the gas,
his heart pounding. That was going to have to wait. That particular torture
could wait all night.
For a long time, Drew just drove without stopping. The moment his cell
phone rang, he turned it off and shoved it into his glove compartment.
Who the hell do these guys think they are? Drew said to himself.
This was supposed to be my year. My time. They cant just come in here and
take that away from me.
Right then, a 576precipitate idea came to mind. Drew knew exactly what
he had to do. At the next light, he hooked a quick left and leaned on the gas.
Fifteen minutes later, he was driving past the 577hackneyed, old street sign
that read Welcome to Corinth.
The sun was just starting to dip below the horizon when Drew pulled
into a strip mall parking lot. He left his engine running as he jumped out of
the car and grabbed the phone book off the shelf under an old pay phone.
Hill.... Hill... Hill.... , he repeated as he ran his finger along the
listings. Luckily, there was only one Hill in Corinth. He tore the page right
575 swoop . a very rapid raid (a sudden short attack)
576 precipitate sudden
577 hackneyed . overfamiliar through overuse

86
Sacked by Emma Harrison

out of the book and walked into the convenience store.


Excuse me? he asked the older man behind the counter. Do you
know where River Drive is?
The man gave him a 578dubious look. Yeah, kid. Its the next left, he
said pointing out at the street.
Drews heart leapt as his adrenaline pumped faster in his veins.
Thanks.
He turned around and shoved his way out into the warm evening air.
Five minutes later, Drew pulled up in front of Samsons house. It was a
579
meager cottage-type home, but it was 580immaculately clean, and the yard
was bursting with plentiful flowers. This town didnt seem to be ridiculously
poor to Drew. Couldnt they have just kept their damn school open one more
year?
Drew killed the engine and, functioning on pure 581ire and
582
vengefulness, stormed up the front walk. He pounded on the door with the
side of his fist.
I got it! I got it! he heard Samson shout from inside.
The door swung open, and there he stood. His brown eyes 583registered
surprise. Drew, man. Whatre you doing here? You wanna come in?
No, man, Drew said, his nostrils flaring as he attempted to keep his
breathing even. I think you should come out.
Samsons expression darkened as he glanced down at Drews clenched
fists.
Samson! Who is it? a woman called out from inside.

578 dubious questioning


579 meager small
580 immaculately spotlessly
581 ire anger
582 vengefulness bitterness
583 registered displayed

87
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Just a friend from school, Mom, Samson said dryly. Ill be right
back.
Okay, but dinners in fifteen minutes! she called back.
Dont worry. This wont take long, Samson told her. He closed the
door behind him. So were gonna do this now, huh? he said, crossing his
arms over his chest.
Yeah. We are, Drew said, backing up a few steps.
All he wanted to do in the world was punch Samson in the face. He
wanted to see the guy go down. He wanted, for once, to feel like he had some
kind of power over his situation.
You couldnt have picked a more 584opportune time? Samson asked
casually, like this was just a social call. My mom and brothers are right
inside. Were about to sit down to dinner, for Gods sake.
I care? Drew said.
So, what are you hoping to accomplish here, man? Samson asked,
lifting his shoulders. You think kicking my ass is gonna make you feel
better?
Its a start, Drew said.
You have no clue what youre doing, Benson, Samson said, standing
in the center of his yard.
Oh, I dont? Drew 585spat, his anger growing.
Lets say we do get into it. Lets say we beat the crap out of each other
right here and now, Samson said. Howre you going to explain it to coach?
Howre you going to justify the fact that were all bruised up with, what,
broken fingers and sprained wrists and whatever else? You think thats really
gonna win you points? You think us killing each other is really gonna
586
integrate our team?
584 opportune appropriate
585 spat . utter with anger or contempt
586 integrate combine

88
Sacked by Emma Harrison

I dont give a crap about integrating the team! Drew shouted. You
came in and took my team away from me! So what the hell do I care what
happens now?
Samson pulled his face back as if hed just been slapped. He looked at
Drew like he was out of his mind.
You have no idea what you did to me when you transferred. You have
no freaking clue, Drew continued, pacing in front of him. My brother is a
football 587prodigy. I have lived every single day of my life 588overshadowed
by his perfection. And the only way I have gotten through the past seventeen
yearsthe only way I have been able to preserve even the tiniest hope, was
knowing that one day he would graduate and the team would be mine. That
one day I would have my shot. But no. No! Instead, you just waltz right in
and take over. Thanks to you, I have nothing!
Drew glared at Samson, waiting for all this to sink in, waiting for him to
grasp the depth of disappointment that Drew was dealing with. Waiting for
even the slightest 589remorseful response. But instead, Samson smirked.
590
Wow, man. How very prosaic. Poor little rich boy. You want me to
shed a tear for you?
Drew clenched his teeth, shaking his head. This guy had no idea who he
was dealing with. I swear to you man
You think I wanted your stupid-ass team? You think I like this
situation? Samson shouted. I would love to know where your closed little
mind comes up with these 591notions of yours. Are you really that 592ineffably
stupid?
What did you just say to me? Drew asked, advancing a step.

587 prodigy phenomenon


588 overshadowed dwarfed (make appear small by comparison)
589 remorseful regretful
590 prosaic dull
591 notions ideas
592 ineffably unspeakably

89
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Samson didnt even flinch. Come on, man! Its not like I wanted to
come to your damn school! Do you realize what this is like for me? I had to
start at a whole new school my senior year. I had to give up my old team, my
colors. I had to swallow my pride and go to play for our rivals! And every
single day I walk through those doors I got people looking at me like Im a
593
pariah, when I used to be the school hero. But oh yeah. This was all a
594
machination on my part. I couldnt wait to get to Washingtonville and take
over your precious team, he finished sarcastically.
Drews mind felt suddenly 595hollow. He opened his mouth to respond,
but hed been 596rendered 597inarticulate. The truth was hed never really
seen it that way, never really tried to look at the situation from Samsons
point of view.
Clearly, coming here tonight had been a major 598indiscretion. It hadnt
made him feel any better. If anything, he felt worse. His adrenaline rush
started to 599wane, and he looked at the ground.
Its a 600heinous situation, man, Samson said finally, quietly. But
were both in it.
Drew shook his head. No matter what Samson said, Drew still couldnt
see the two of them as being on an even keel. Samson still had a future, he
was still getting every single thing that Drew had ever wanted, and Drew was
still screwed. There wasnt even a 601remote similarity between their
conditions.
Yeah, well, at least youre gonna play in college, Hill, he said
sorrowfully. He lifted his face and looked Samson in the eye. Im not even
593 pariah outcast
594 machination plot
595 hollow . without value, significance or point
596 rendered made
597 inarticulate speechless
598 indiscretion mistake
599 wane . become smaller
600 heinous monstrous
601 remote distant

90
Sacked by Emma Harrison

gonna play in high school.


And with that, with his entire life reduced to that one sorry statement of
fact, he turned around and walked back to his car.
Oh, whatare you kidding me?! Coach Davidson roared from the
sidelines on Monday afternoon. I cannot 602recall a more sorry showing by a
group of receivers in my life! What is wrong with you people today!?
Tossing a ball back and forth on the track with John Washburn, Drew
could barely 603repress a laugh. All afternoon hed been working out the
second-stringers, but they were currently on a break while the first-string
offense practiced against the first-string D. Samson had been throwing passes
for two full hours, but he was only completing about 25 percent of those
passes. His accuracy with the Corinth guys wasnt half bad. But with the
Washingtonville guys he was somehow having less success.
Possibly because all the Washingtonville guys had sworn their
allegiance to Drew before practice and had spent the whole day making
604
imperceptible shifts to their sprints and routes, just to throw Samson off.
Run it again! Coach screamed, looking like he was about to burst a
blood vessel.
This is ridiculous, one of the second-string guys from Corinth said to
a friend. Could it be any more obvious what theyre doing?
Adam and Lance are gonna go off at the Corinthian tonight, the kid
replied.
No doubt. Its gonna be even worse than last week.
Drew glanced at John, curious. What were these two morons talking
about? Did the Corinth guys have weekly meetings to discuss their scorn for
their Washingtonville teammates? And why hadnt Drew thought of that?
Out on the field, Samson was attempting to talk to Dirk. Dirk was
602 recall remember
603 repress hold back
604 imperceptible barely noticeable

91
Sacked by Emma Harrison

boldly ignoring him.


I said run it again! Coach shouted.
The guys lined up, but Samson was shaking his head in frustration.
Still, he did as he was told. The center hiked the ball. Samson dropped back.
He 605lobbed a perfectly arcing pass to Dirkand the ball bounced right off
Dirks hands.
Dirk! What the hell?! This is pathetic! You could catch that ball with
your eyes closed! Coach shouted. Whats the problem today?
606
The problem is your quarterback is incompetent, Drew said under
his breath.
A few of the Washingtonville guys on the sidelines laughed this time.
They couldnt help it. The day was getting long, and theyd been holding
back forever. Coach whirled on them, his eyes aflame, and slowly, realization
dawned on his face. Glaring directly at Drew, he lifted his whistle and blew.
Hard.
Team! Get your asses to the fifty! he screamed. That means all of
you!
This should be interesting, Drew said under his breath to John as they
jogged to the center of the field.
Better stay a safe distance, John replied, holding his helmet by the
grill. He explodes and we could all be 608propelled right into next
607

season.
Drew did his best to hide his smile as they joined the rest of the team,
who, for the first time all year, were all wearing the red and white. The
practice uniforms had finally arrived, and the Corinth guys had been forced
to give up their old colors before practicefinally. Although not one of them

605 lobbed . Propel (caused to move forward with force) in a high arc
606 incompetent useless
607 grill . a framework of metal bars used as a partition or a grate
608 propelled pushed

92
Sacked by Emma Harrison

had been happy about it. As the team gathered, the first-stringers were all out
of breath, sweat pouring down from their temples and soaking the collars of
their mostly new shirts. Drew crossed his arms over his chest, eyeing them
with envy. What he wouldnt give to be half dead right then. To be part of
that starting unit.
Take a knee, Coach ordered.
The team dropped as one, leaning on their helmets. The rest of the
coaching staff gathered around Coach Davidson.
Well, men, we are off to an 609inauspicious start here, I must say,
Coach said strolling along the front of the group. I am just 610mystified by
your performance today, he continued, in a dramatic tone that told them all
he knew exactly what was going on. Guys who could catch a 747 last week
seem to be afraid of a hard pass today. Your routes are all off. Your speed is
lacking. To what could we possibly 611attribute these strange 612anomalies?
613
He looked the squad over with his discerning eye. Anyone?
Samson? You got any clue?
Samson cast a sidelong glance at Drew. No, Coach.
What about you, Benson? he asked.
Im just second string, coach, Drew replied, earning a round of
chuckles from his friends.
Coach narrowed his eyes. He stood before them and crossed his arms
over his chest, drawing himself up in a way that made him appear somehow
larger than life.
Well, let me explain something to you gentlemen, he said. There is
absolutely no way this team is going to rise to any level of 614prominence in
609 inauspicious unimpressive
610 mystified bewildered
611 attribute designate
612 anomalies irregularities
613 discerning shrewd (sharp, smart)
614 prominence distinction

93
Sacked by Emma Harrison

this league if this kind of 615buffoonery continues. That is nothing but an


616
immutable fact! he shouted. Now if you all think that this school has to
have a football team, then you are operating under a grave
617
misconception.
A bunch of the guys laughed and started jawing at that one.
Do I look like Im kidding?! Coach 618blared, silencing them.
Drew swallowed hard. Coach had to be 619jesting. There was no way
the school board wanted to 620dissolve the varsity football team. It was a
completely 621irrational idea. The program was the pride of the school, of the
whole damn town.
Coach, you cant be serious, Clay said bravely.
Believe me, kid. Im not kidding, Coach Davidson said. The
possibility has already been discussed by the school board. And right now,
Im not all that 622optimistic about our chances. This team is supposed to be
the pride of this school. Youre supposed to 623engender school spirit, not
help 624rend the place right down the middle. The last thing the school board
wants is for you guys to become a 625detriment to the schools 626integration.
If that happens, then all we are is a mockery of what we used to be.
Drew looked over at Jason, who was hanging his head. This was very
not good.

615 buffoonery clowning


616 immutable unchangeable
617 misconception delusion
618 blared . make a strident sound
619 jesting joking
620 dissolve break up
621 irrational foolish
622 optimistic hopeful
623 engender start
624 rend . tear or be torn violently
625 detriment something harmful
626 integration combination

94
Sacked by Emma Harrison

If you guys dont suck it up and get your act together, if you dont
627
restore some pride to yourselves and your team, there will be no
628
salvaging this season, Coach continued, 629unrelenting. And trust me, if
you seniors dont play this year, you wont be 630reaping the rewards youve
been expecting. Were talking no scouts, no scholarships, no nothing.
631
Drew automatically, inexplicably, looked over at Samson, and
Samson glared right back.
Now I am not going to spend my season 632mediating between two
groups of overgrown children with egos the size of my Buick! Coach
Davidson continued. That is just a waste of my time! Do you want to waste
my time?
No, Coach, the team answered half-heartedly.
Is that really all youve got!? he shouted.
No, Coach! the replied, a bit more loudly.
Coach Davidsons face was lined with exhaustion and disappointment.
You know what? You arent even worth 633impugning further, he said,
waving a hand. Get the hell out of my sight.
Drews heart was in his throat. There was still an hour left of practice.
Nobody moved a muscle.
What are youdeaf now too? he shouted. I said get the hell out of
my sight!
A bunch of the guys jumped up, and Drew followed slowly. He had
never heard of Coach calling a practice early. Usually, Coach was

627 restore reestablish


628 salvaging saving
629 unrelenting unceasing
630 reaping gathering
631 inexplicably . in an unexplained or unexplainable manner
632 mediating reconciling
633 impugning verbally attacking

95
Sacked by Emma Harrison

634
inexorable about his punishments. They included more physical torture,
not less.
He must be really pissed, Jason said under his breath.
You use this 635reprieve to think about what you want out of this
season, Coach called after them as they 636trudged as a group toward
school. I had better see some 637penitent faces on this field come
tomorrow!
No kidding, Drew said.
He and his friends glared at Samson and his pack of followers as they
stormed by, all stone-faced and indignant. As if Drews friends were the
cause of all this.
This is just perfect. Thanks to these assholes we might not even have a
team anymore, Clay said.
What the hell are we gonna do, Benson? John asked.
Drew clenched his jaw, feeling a rush of pride. They were still looking
to him to lead, even after everything that had happened. Even after his own
coach had stripped away that right.
Were gonna start fighting back, he said.
That night, Drew drove around Washingtonville on a mission. He had
called Clay and Dirk, two guys with more school spirit than anyone he knew,
and informed them of his plan, knowing full well that they were just reckless
enough to participate. Then he had called Jason as well, but with his best
friend he held back on the details. Jason had always been a bit more
638
prudent than the rest of Drews friends, and he had a feeling that if Jay
knew the truth hed beg out.

634 inexorable relentless (adamant)


635 reprieve pardon
636 trudged . walk heavily and firmly, as when weary, or through mud
637 penitent regretful
638 prudent careful

96
Sacked by Emma Harrison

When he pulled up in front of Jasons house with Clay and Dirk kicked
back in his backseat, Jason was waiting on the front step in his varsity jacket.
Dude! Come on! Lets get this party started! Dirk shouted out the
window. Jason jumped up with a grin and jogged over, more than ready to
join in the 639merriment. He opened the side door and dropped into the
passenger seat, reaching for the seat belt.
Whats up, guys? Wherere we going? Im starved, Jason said. My
mom is making meatloaf in there, and it was all I could do to keep from
scarfing the whole thing down.
Drew caught Clays glance in the rearview mirror, and they both
laughed.
You are such a mamas boy, Jay! Clay cried, bringing his huge hand
down on Jasons shoulder.
Yeah, yeah, Jason said, blushing as Drew peeled out. So where do
you want to go? Chilis? McMurrays? I could go for a burger
Actually, Ive already 640predetermined our destination, Drew said as
he made a right at the end of Jasons street.
Oh yeah? Jason asked cluelessly. Wherere we going?
Were checking out a new place, Dirk said from the backseat. Its
called . . . the Corinthian Diner.
As Clay and Dirk 641cackled and slapped hands, Drew looked at Jason
out of the corner of his eye. Jasons face had lost all color.
The Corinthian Diner, Jason repeated flatly. Isnt that where all the
guys from Corinth hang out?
Dont worry, man, Clay said as he cracked each knuckle one by one.
I hear theyve completely 642refurbished it. Its less of a hellhole now.
639 merriment fun
640 predetermined arranged
641 cackled . emit a loud, unpleasant kind of laughing
642 refurbished renovated

97
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Yeah. Its just a hole, Dirk joked, which doubled Clay over.
Jason shook his head and stared out the window, his jaw set. I dont
believe this. This was your plan from the beginning, wasnt it? he said to
Drew. You tricked me into coming on this suicide mission.
You make it sound so 643insidious, Drew replied, clucking his tongue.
Its not a suicide mission.
Oh, so you dont think were gonna walk in there and get our asses
kicked, Jason replied.
The guys in the backseat cracked up laughing all over again. Dude.
Grow some balls! Clay shouted.
Dont worry, Mary. Well protect you, Dirk added, reaching over the
back of his seat to ruffle his hair.
I dont need you to protect me, Jason replied, shoving Dirks hand
away. I just want to know what, exactly, the 644objective is here. What are
you hoping to accomplish by striding into the middle of their sacred ground?
I just want them to see how it feels, thats all, Drew said, his grip on
the steering wheel tightening. They were just passing the town line and
entering Corinth. There was no turning back now. Theyre the ones who set
the 645precedent. Were just returning the favor.
And has it totally escaped your attention that those guys didnt want to
invade our space? Jason pointed out, turning his palms up in his lap. Dont
you think its a little 646indecorous to just try to take over theirs?
Drews skin felt tight. He could feel Jason staring him down, but he
chose to ignore the semi-decent point he made.
647
Dude, why did we pick this guy up? Dirk asked, miffed. He sat

643 insidious sinister


644 objective goal
645 precedent standard
646 indecorous rude
647 miffed annoyed

98
Sacked by Emma Harrison

back in his seat and crossed his arms over his chest. Youre just bringing me
down, man.
Well, I apologize for trying to be the voice of reason, Jason replied.
Heres some reason for you, Einstein. Its a free country. Theres no
648
statue against guys from Washingtonville eating at diners in Corinth, Clay
said, his eyes flashing with anger. Just like theres no statute against the
damn state opening up our school to whatever losers they want us to take in.
There it is! Clay announced, leaning forward again.
Up ahead on the four-lane road, the neon Corinthian Diner sign was
649
illuminated against the rapidly darkening sky. Drews heart pounded
swiftly against his ribcage, feeling much like it did right before every JV
game hed played in the last two years. He knew this feeling. Relished it. He
was 650primed for battle.
Drew pulled into the parking lot, a 651hodgepodge of older, bruised and
battered vehicles, and started searching for a space. A family of four stared at
his car as it rolled by. Drew supposed his brand new red XTerra wasnt
exactly 652inconspicuous among the used autos that 653prevailed.
Oh God. Theyre all staring at us, Jason said, glancing up at the diner
windows. Sure enough, a dozen curious faces looked down from booths
some of which Drew recognized from schoolscrutinizing Drews ride. He
fixed his eyes straight ahead, trying to look unaffected and failing miserably.
Theres no way theyre gonna even let us in there.
You really think theyre gonna prohibit us? Clay asked. What, do
they have 654bouncers at the diners on this side of the tracks?

648 statute rule


649 illuminated lit up
650 primed . on the point of or strongly disposed
651 hodgepodge jumble
652 inconspicuous hard to notice
653 prevailed . be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance
654 bouncers . a person whose duty is to throw troublemakers out of a bar or public

99
Sacked by Emma Harrison

We can still bail, man, Jason said, ignoring Clay.


No we cant, Drew said. Especially not if theyve seen us.
Drew finally pulled into a spot and killed the engine. He was shaking a
bit as he got out of the car, but he ignored it. He refused to look up at the
windows again. There was no way he was giving those guys the pleasure of
seeing him sweat.
Lets do this, he said, once everyone was out of the car.
Drew led his pack of 655peers over to the front door. He drew himself up
to his full height as he walked inside, squaring his shoulders and lifting his
chin. The atmosphere in the diner was 656conivial. Lots of chatter and
laughter and clanging of plates. The only area of the restaurant that had fallen
silent was the back corner, where it seemed every singly guy from the
Corinth football team sat at five smaller tables pushed together. Around them
were another half dozen tables of girls and guys Drew had seen around
school. All told, Drew and his friends were probably outnumbered six or
seven to one. Bad enough odds to 657repel anyone with a brain and send them
right back out the door. Adam Lazarus, Lance Crowe, and Samson Hill all
stood up, looking like an 658indomitable wall of humanity. For the first time,
Drew was overcome by a 659momentary lack of confidence about this plan.
Then Clay brought his hand down on Drews shoulder, and he remembered
he had his own indomitable wall of humanity with him. Samsons friends
were 660inconsequential next to Clay and Dirk. Hopefully.
Can I.... uh... help you? a middle-aged woman asked, coming out
from behind the register.
Yes, please. Would you mind 661procuring a table for us? Drew asked
655 peers companions
656 convivial friendly
657 repel keep away
658 indomitable unconquerable
659 momentary brief
660 inconsequential irrelevant
661 procuring obtaining

100
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politely.
Are you sure? the woman asked, glancing over her shoulder at the
Corinth guys, who were now whispering to one another. Gradually, all the
other Corinth people were taking notice, turning to stare.
Unless we needed to reserve something ahead of time, Clay put in,
with a smirk in his voice.
The woman shot him a look. She was not amused. She grabbed four
plastic menus out of a basket. Right this way.
As Drew took his seat in the vinyl booth, the family across the way
eyed him and his friends like they were an 662aberration, sitting there in their
Washingtonville jackets in the middle of Corinth. Drew felt that unmistakable
thrill of victory, along with a sizzle of what was to come. The 663infiltration
was complete, but the real fun was just about to start.

662 aberration abnormality


663 infiltration penetration

101
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Chapter Eight

Drew feigned interest in the standard diner menu as the 664boisterous


atmosphere returned to the diner. He could feel the guys from Corinth staring
him down from the opposite side of the roomcould practically hear them
plotting their next movesand wondered when they were going to get this
thing started already.
So, what looks good to you guys? Drew asked loudly.
665 666
Nothing. This place is a dive, man, Dirk replied in a booming
voice.
Jason hung his head, which just irritated Drew. He had known that
Jason wouldnt love being pulled into this without his knowledge, but he had
assumed that once he was in, he would have Drews back. Instead, he was
sitting there looking guilty as sin. The last thing he wanted Samson and his
pals to know was that one of Drews right-hand men was actually a
667
dissenter to this whole plan.
Drew was just about to say something to Jason when he saw Samson
make his move out of the corner of his eye. He walked away from the rest of
his friends, making 668placating hand motions like he was telling a bunch of
669
rabid dogs to stay. As he headed down the aisle between booths toward
Drew, Drew warned his friends.
Here it comes, he said through his teeth.
They all struck poses of complete innocence as Samson finally arrived.
What are you doing here, man? Samson asked, crossing his arms over
his Corinth jacket.

664 boisterous energetic


665 dive . a cheap disreputable nightclub or dance hall
666 booming . loud, resonant and powerful
667 dissenter one who is against
668 placating soothing
669 rabid . marked by excessive enthusiasm for and intense devotion to a cause or idea

102
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Getting something to eat, Drew replied 670nonchalantly. Actually,


the 671confections in the case over there look simply 672scrumptious, he
joked, lifting his chin toward the glass dessert case. What do you
recommend?
I recommend you get up outta that seat and walk your ass out the door
before you get yourself killed, Samson said 673acerbically.
Clay and Dirk snorted. Jason shifted his seat, 674slumping and bringing
his hand up to his forehead like he was wondering how hed gotten there.
Drew simply stared up at Samson.
Wow. What happened to the always 675cordial and 676conciliatory
Samson Hill Ive grown to know and love? Drew asked sarcastically.
I am being cordial, Samson replied. Trust me, man. You dont want
to be here right now.
Drew glanced past Samson at the back of the restaurant. There were
more guys standing now, 677glowering in his direction. Samson did have a
point. If this went down the way he knew it would, he was going to end up
678
pulverized. But backing down now would be even worse. Backing down
now would make him a coward.
679
Well, you make a compelling argument, Drew said finally. But I
think well stay.
No one wants you here, man, Samson said loudly, causing the noise
level in the diner to dim slightly.

670 nonchalantly casually


671 confections sweets
672 scrumptious delicious
673 acerbically harshly
674 slumping . fall or sink heavily
675 cordial friendly
676 conciliatory peace-making
677 glowering scowling (sullen or unfriendly in appearance)
678 pulverized crushed
679 compelling . tending to persuade by forcefulness of argument

103
Sacked by Emma Harrison

I have to disagree with you there, Samson!


Crystal Marx 680sauntered up behind Samson and sat down next to
Drew, 681brazenly lifting her leg and hooking it over his, since there
technically wasnt room for her on the small bench with him and Jason. Drew
nearly 682balked at the totally daring and inappropriate move but managed to
keep a straight face. 683Demure, Crystal was not, and today it served his
purposes. He wanted to antagonize these guys, and from the sudden murmur
in the back of the room, he could tell that her move had done just that.
How you doing, Drew? She asked, throwing her arm around his
shoulder to better get her balance. Welcome to Corinth.
Behind Samson, Drew saw the 684colossus that was Tank Langford rise
out of his chair for the first time. His expression was beyond 685belligerent.
Drew swallowed back a sudden lump in his throat but kept right on with his
plan.
686
Thanks, Crystal. At least someone around here is accommodating,
he said, smiling up at Samson.
Yeah, well, Crystals never been known for her 687discretion, Samson
said, his expression darkening, as Tank slowly walked up behind him.
Crystal laughed and rolled her eyes. Ouch. That hurt, she said flatly,
making it clear that it didnt hurt at all.
688
Crystal, Tank said, his voice rumbling. Get away from these
guys.
Drew glanced across the table at Clay, who raised his eyebrows with
680 sauntered . walk leisurely and with no apparent aim
681 brazenly brashly
682 balked stopped
683 demure shy
684 colossus giant
685 belligerent aggressive
686 accommodating accepting
687 discretion tact (consideration in dealing with others and avoiding giving offense)
688 rumbling . continuous full and low-pitched throbbing sound

104
Sacked by Emma Harrison

interest.
Crystal laughed, clearly loving the attention. What are you afraid
theyre gonna do, Tank? 689Abduct me and take me off to live in some ivory
tower in Washingtonville? Well Ive got news. Its not a crime if I go
willingly, she said, reaching down to squeeze Drews knee, which almost
made him jump.
Tanks eyes narrowed. I said get your ass off that boys lap.
Tank, we broke up, remember? Crystal said, running her fingers up
into Drews hair on the back of his head. I can sit my ass wherever I want
to.
Get up right now, Tank demanded.
Drews heart started to pound 690anew. Crystal was all 691defiance.
No.
Get up! Tank shouted, grabbing for her arm.
Crystal jumped off the vinyl seat and 692wrenched herself away from
Tank. Suddenly Drew found himself standing as well, getting between her
and her aggressor, whose nickname was well deserved. He had two inches on
Drewwho was one of the tallest guys he knewand was about as broad as
a bus.
I dont know about you, man, but where Im from we dont treat girls
that way, Drew spat, looking Tank up and down with 693antipathy.
Then you dont even want to know how I treat punks who get in my
way, Tank said, stepping right up to Drew. Clay and Dirk shoved themselves
out of the booth as a bunch of guys from the back of the diner rushed
forward. A few chairs toppled along their way, and a glass shattered
689 abduct kidnap
690 anew . again but in a new or different way
691 defiance . intentionally contemptuous behavior or attitude
692 wrenched . twist or pull violently or suddenly, especially so as to remove (something) from
that to which it is attached
693 antipathy hostility

105
Sacked by Emma Harrison

somewhere. Even Jason attempted to get up, but couldnt, since Drew and
Tank were blocking his way out of the booth. He ended up half kneeling on
the bench, his fists clenched.
Hey! Hey! Hey! An older man in a button-down sweater and slacks
came running over and got in behind Drew. He was clearly the manager of
the place and was obviously scared out of his mind. If you kids are gonna
continue to 694accost each other, Id rather you take it outside before things
get out of hand and you completely 695deface my business.
Drew stared Tank town, his nostrils flaring as his breathing came hard
and fast. He looked around at the families in the nearby tablesat a couple
of little girls looking timidly up at them. The last thing he wanted to do was
696
capitulate, but he didnt want anyone else to get hurt either. Besides, in the
parking lot there were fewer potential weapons lying around. No forks,
knives, glasses, plates, ketchup bottles. Could be better for everyone.
Fine, Drew said finally. Lets take this outside.
He turned around to head for the door, and someone shoved him in the
back with two hands. Drews stomach 697swooped as he flew forward and just
had time to brace his hands against the floor before his knees slammed down
on the 698linoleum. There was a huge 699ruckus behind him, and by the time
he had shoved himself to his feet, the entire diner had descended into chaos.
The innocent bystanders flew in all directions, looking for a safe route to the
door. Fists flew, jaws cracked, someone had their fingers gripped around
Jasons face and was shoving him to the ground.
700
That was all Drew needed to see to spur him into action, and he

694 accost assault


695 deface ruin
696 capitulate give in
697 swooped . move down on as if in an attack
698 linoleum . a floor covering
699 ruckus . an act of making a noisy disturbance
700 spur . incite or stimulate

106
Sacked by Emma Harrison

threw himself into the 701melee. All around Drew, plates crashed, curses were
flung, guys shouted out in pain. Random body parts hit him in the jaw, the
neck, the stomach. Before long, Tank found him in the mess, yanking him off
of Adam Lazarus, who had pinned Jason to the floor. Drew didnt even have
time to react before Tanks huge oven 702mitt of a fist came down right across
his face. His eye popped, like it was coming right out of its socket, and blood
703
spurted from his nose. Drew 704reeled around and punched at random,
somehow landing a solid right hook across Tanks face, but then someone
else grabbed him around the neck and dragged him away, choking for air.
Drew grabbed behind his head, trying to get a hold of whoever had a
hold of him, his legs 705flailing for purchase. He saw a coffee mug on a table
as he was being hauled by and groped for it, then slammed it back into the
side of the guys head. The guy groaned and let him go. Drew gasped for
breath as he hit the floor. When he turned around he saw Samson Hill holding
his skull with both hands.
What is the matter with you, man? Samson demanded, checking his
hand for blood and finding none. Do you have some 706aversion to logic?
Drew reached out and shoved him backward, where Samson slammed
into the counter. The middle-aged woman, crouching behind it, screamed.
Lets do this! Drew shouted, his adrenaline taking over.
Samson glared at him. Fine. If this is what you really want, then fine.
He yanked his jacket off and threw it on the counter. Lets see what youve
got.
707 708
Drew hated him for his total calm and poise. Seething, he grabbed

701 melee brawl (a noisy fight in a crowd)


702 mitt . the handwear used by fielders in playing baseball
703 spurted . gushed forth in a sudden stream or jet
704 reeled . revolved quickly and repeatedly around one's own axis
705 flailing thrashing (beat hard)
706 aversion dislike
707 poise composure
708 seething raging internally

107
Sacked by Emma Harrison

hold of Samsons sweatshirt with his left hand while pulling back with his
right. This was it. He was finally going to get a chance to show this guy what
he was made of. His fist came forward and met the side of Samsons jaw with
a satisfying crack.
And at that moment, a dozen Corinth cops rushed the diner.
How am I supposed to get my car? Drew demanded from the back of
the police cruiser as it made its way back toward Washingtonville. He pulled
the piece of bloody 709gauze away from his nose and checked it, trying to
710
discern whether he was still bleeding. The stain looked olddark and
stale. No fresh red in sight.
Maybe you should have thought about that before you came over to
Corinth to start trouble, the short, 711squat officer behind the wheel
suggested.
You do realize those guys are going to 712defile my car, Drew said,
sitting forward. He shoved the used gauze in his pocket, figuring this guy
wouldnt exactly condone littering in his vehicle. Theyve probably already
taken a baseball bat to the headlights. They probably started in on it the
second you guys were gone.
My 713condolences, the cop said with a laugh.
Drews face turned beet red. What the hell kind of cop are you? he
spat.
The kind that doesnt appreciate being talked back to by a spoiled brat
who caused a huge fight that I had to break up when I was right in the middle
of my meatball sub, the cop replied, meeting Drews gaze in the rearview
mirror. Now I suggest you sit back before I decide you deserve more than a
714
censure for tonight.
709 gauze . bleached cotton cloth of plain weave used for bandages and dressings
710 discern determine
711 squat . sit on one's heels
712 defile vandalize
713 condolences sympathies
714 censure scolding

108
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Finally, Drew did as he was told. Next to Drew, Jason let out a
715
despondent sigh, staring out the window in an 716abject pose as the street
lights flashed by. He had a nasty-looking bruise forming around his right eye
and a scratch that ran from his chin all the way up to his ear. Drew half
wanted to apologize, half wanted to 717throttle the kid. Didnt he realize that
tonight had to happen? Who cared if they were all 718battered and bruised?
They had to go over to Corinth and show those guys that they werent going
to just back down. Didnt Jason have any pride?
Unbelievable, Drew said under his breath. These guys are totally
biased. They grabbed all of us at the diner and totally gave the Corinth guys
time to 719disperse. Now hes treating me like this is all my fault.
Jason looked over at Drew, his expression 720incredulous.
What!? Drew blurted.
Dude, this is all your fault. Youre the one who thought it would be
such a fabulous idea to go over there, Jason 721admonished. My mom
thought I was going out for a burger with my friends, and now shes gonna
look out the window and see me getting dragged home by the cops. Do you
have any idea the level of 722hissy fit shes going to throw?
Hey, I am not totally 723culpable for what went down tonight, Drew
replied. We could have just walked in there, had some food, and left.
Theyre the ones that got all up in our faces.
Yeah, and you werent at all thinking that us walking in to their
hangout would inspire an 724adverse reaction from Samson and those guys,
715 despondent hopeless
716 abject misreable
717 throttle . kill by squeezing the throat of so as to cut off the air
718 battered beat up
719 disperse scatter
720 incredulous disbelieving
721 admonished scolded
722 hissy fit . a childish temper tantrum
723 culpable to blame
724 adverse unfavorable

109
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Jason said. Please, Drew. Everyone in this car knows why you really went
over there.
Dude, shut up, Drew said under his breath, his eyes darting toward
the cop. His head was pounding, and the pain was not at all 725abated by
Jasons little 726tirade.
Hes not going to arrest you. He already told us all we were only
getting a warning, Jason said as the cop chuckled under his breath. I just
dont want to sit here anymore and pretend like we dont all know whats
going on. You have a death wish, man, Jason told Drew, his green eyes
flashing.
Drews jaw dropped. I do not!
Yeah, you do. But I dont. So Id appreciate it if, next time you decide
to throw yourself to the wolves, you dont take me with you, Jason said.
The cop pulled up in front of Jasons house and put the car in park.
This it? he asked.
Yeah, this is it, Jason said with a sigh. He reached for the door handle,
but there was none. He shot Drew one, last, annoyed look as the cop got out
to set him free.
Thanks, he said to the officer.
Sounds like you should maybe be more 727canny about whom you
choose to hang out with in the future, the cop told him.
728
Hes a good guy, Jason said diplomatically. Its not his fault hes
so pissed off.
Drews fingers curled into fists as the cop laughed. He couldnt believe
his best friend was talking about him like he wasnt even there. Normally he

725 abated stopped


726 tirade angry rant
727 canny careful
728 diplomatically tactfully

110
Sacked by Emma Harrison

was a big fan of Jasons 729candor, but just then he wished he could knock the
guys mouth off.
The officer got back in behind the wheel. Drew clenched his jaw, his
pulse racing faster and faster the closer they got to his house. Maybe his
parents wouldnt see the police car pull up. Maybe he could just 730disavow
the whole thing. But even if he could get inside the house without incident,
his dad would notice that his car was missing in the morning. Unless he could
sneak out before his dad and maybe get a ride back to Corinth to get his car.
Then he could just say he went out early to work out. Yeah. That could work.
That wasnt a bad plan at all....
But when the house finally came into view, he felt like two tiny 731vices
were 732compressing his head from either side. His mother and father were
already waiting at the living room window. Either Dirks or Jasons parents
had already called them. This was not going to be pretty.
All right, kid. Here we go, the cop said, stopping the car. Now Id
like to kindly ask you to 733eschew all future field trips to my humble town.
We dont want an 734encore of what happened tonight. Cause next time, you
wont be getting just a warning.
He got out of the car and came around to open Drews door. Drew put
his feet out on the 735curb, but hesitated. His parents were at the door now.
His mother looked concerned. His father was all ire.
Whats the matter? Arent you happy to be home? the cop asked with
a laugh in his voice.

729 candor honesty


730 disavow deny
731 vices . holding devices attached to a workbench; has two jaws to hold workpiece firmly in
place
732 compressing squeezing
733 eschew avoid
734 encore repeat
735 curb . an edge between a sidewalk and a roadway consisting of a line of curbstones

111
Sacked by Emma Harrison

736Ecstatic, Drew replied sarcastically.


He got out and, after trying to level the cop with a glare and getting
nothing but a jolly wave in return, headed across the lawn.
What the hell is the matter with you, Drew!? his father greeted him.
His mother grabbed his face with both hands to check the damage.
Im fine, Dad, thanks for asking, Drew said flatly, freeing himself
from his mom and walking right past him and into the house.
I really want to know what you think you were doing! his father
shouted, slamming the door behind him. Going over to Corinth to pick a
fight? In all the years your brother played in rivalry games with the high
security and the 737taunting and the threats, he never once did anything so
downright 738disaffected and stupid as
Something inside of Drew snapped. The 739cumulative effect of years
and years of being negatively compared to his brother finally broke the thin
protective wall around his heart. And he let it fly.
Of course he didnt! Drew shouted, 740whirling on his father. His
mother flinched backward, nearly taking out a priceless vase, but Drew
couldnt stop himself even for her. Of course the 741exalted Trey Benson was
never quite as dumb and 742pugilistic and talentless as I am! Well heres some
news for you, Dad. Im not Trey! he screamed, feeling as if every vein in his
body were splitting open. And I am sick and tired of being compared to him.
I am not Trey, and I will never be Trey! But I get the message, all right? I do.
Trey is the one that you want. And I am the 743antithesis of every single thing
the golden boy stands for. So fine. You dont give a crap about me, then why

736 ecstatic overjoyed


737 taunting jeering
738 disaffected rebellious
739 cumulative swelling
740 whirling . fly around
741 exalted illustrious (widely known and esteemed)
742 pugilistic tending to fight
743 antithesis opposite

112
Sacked by Emma Harrison

dont you just leave methe hellalone!?


With that, Drew turned his back on his stunned parents and stormed
upstairs to his room.
Drew rose early on a cloudy, 744drab Tuesday morning, exhausted and
feeling as if he weighed two thousand pounds. He dragged himself into the
bathroom and looked at his 745disheveled appearance in the mirror. There was
a bruise on his cheekbone that overnight had darkened into a nice purple, and
the cut near his eye was caked with dried blood. Bracing himself for an
unpleasant experience, Drew got in the shower. The cut stung like mad when
the shampoo hit it, and his elbow and shoulder radiated pain every time he
moved. For the first time since losing his starting spot to Samson, he felt
lucky to be a second-stringer. There was no way he could throw a ball with
this arm, let alone hundreds of them. After dressing carefully, Drew snuck
downstairs, wincing with every creak of the boards under his feet. He paused
in the 746foyer. He could hear his father getting ready in his bedroom at the
back of the house. Perfect. Drew grabbed his keys off the table near the door
and walked out, closing the door behind him with an almost 747inaudible
click.
Freedom. Drew took a deep breath of the cool, moist, morning air and
turned around. He could not wait to get behind the wheel of his truck and go.
But the moment he saw the 748configuration of cars in the driveway, he
stopped. Last night, after letting him cool off for an hour, his mother had
knocked on his door and suggested they go pick up the XTerra, which Drew
had been more than happy to do. When theyd gotten home, Drew had parked
his car behind his mothers, as always, with his fathers next to his moms.
But now, his car was in the front spot with both his parents cars parked
behind him, blocking him in.

744 drab dreary


745 disheveled messy
746 foyer . a large entrance, reception room, or waiting area
747 inaudible silent
748 configuration setup

113
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Still 749groggy from a long night with barely any sleep, it took Drew a
long moment to recover from his surprise and 750deduce what had happened.
But when he did realize the truth, his face 751prickled with heat.
His father. His father must have stolen out here in the middle of the
night and shuffled all the cars around. His passive-aggressive way of telling
Drew that he was grounded.
The door behind Drew opened and out stepped his father, all smiles.
Oh, good morning, son, he said cheerfully. He snatched the keys that were
still dangling from Drews hand. Good. Glad youre up early. Youre going
to need that extra time to walk to school.
Next door, Mrs. Shahanian came out of her house for her paper and
waved. Drew lifted a hand, trying to pretend everything was fine.
You couldnt just tell me that I was grounded? Drew asked through
his teeth.
His father was already halfway down the walk, but he turned and
looked at Drew 752quizzically. And how, exactly, was I supposed to do that
when you were spouting insults in my face? he said loudly.
Mrs. Shahanian paused. Across the street, Mr. Cross looked up with
curiosity as he made his way to his car,.
Drews stance shifted. Suddenly all the grogginess was gone. Insults? I
was insulting you? Thats hilarious, Dad.
His father 753cocked his head. How so?
Because all you ever do is insult me, Drew replied.
I think youre exaggerating just a tad there, dont you, Drew? His
father looked down his nose at him.

749 groggy . stunned or confused and slow to react


750 deduce figure out
751 prickled . cause a stinging or tingling sensation
752 quizzically curiously
753 cocked . tilt or slant to one side

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Sacked by Emma Harrison

Out of the corner of his eye, Drew saw a blue Ford Focus pull slowly
around the corner. Something about it was familiar, but he wasnt sure why
until it paused in front of his house and he could see the driver. His heart
dropped. It was Samson Hill. Suddenly, all of Drews anger evaporated. All
he wanted to do was cut this thing short so that Samson wouldnt witness his
father verbally 754castigating him in front of the entire neighborhood.
Dad. Come on, Drew semi-begged as Samson got out of the car. Let
me have my keys.
Samson closed his car door, and for the first time, Drews father noticed
they had a visitor. He recognized Samson instantly. Drew could tell by the
755
contemptuous look his father gave the star quarterback.
Look, Drew. If youre going to go out on a school night and stir up
trouble with your new friends, he said with a 756sneer, youre going to have
to suffer the consequences. You have disgraced yourself, your family, and
your team. You will not be driving your car to school for a week.
But Dad
Want to make it longer? his father blurted, his face turning an
unpleasant shade of purple.
Ill 757convey you to school, man, Samson announced, striding across
the lawn.
Drew looked at him, stunned. It took a split second for his father to
recover from his shock, as well.
Excuse me, but youre 758encroaching on a private conversation
between myself and my son, he spat at Samson.
With all due respect, sir, Samson said, glancing around at the
neighbors. I dont think its exactly private.
754 castigating punishing
755 contemptuous scornful
756 sneer . contemptuous or scornful remark
757 convey take
758 encroaching intruding

115
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Drew was frozen with fear and awe. Fear that his father might suddenly
rip Samsons head off, and awe that Samson was standing there putting his
father in his place with such ease. For a long moment, they just stared at one
another, and then Drews dad narrowed his eyes.
Do whatever you want, he said to Drew. But it just became two
weeks.
Then he turned and strode off to his car.
Sorry about that, man, Samson said as soon as Drews father was
gone.
Sorry about what? That was amazing, dude. Ive never seen anyone
shut my father up before, Drew said, momentarily forgetting that this guy
was his sworn enemy.
Yeah, but I got another week 759tacked onto your sentence, Samson
said. I guess thats one of the 760drawbacks of having your own car. It can
get taken away, he joked.
Whatever. Drew waved a hand. It wasnt like he was
761
unaccustomed to dealing with groundings. Besides, youve got a car, he
said, glancing at the street.
Nah. Thats my moms. She got a ride to work and let me borrow it for
the day, Samson told him. So. That was your dad.
That was my dad, Drew confirmed.
762Cantankerous guy, huh? Samson asked, staring after the car.
Drews shoulders tensed. Samson had just witnessed the most
humiliating aspect of his life. How could he have let that slip by him?
I dont really need your commentary on my family, he snapped.

759 tacked . fix to; attach


760 drawbacks disadvantages
761 unaccustomed unfamiliar
762 cantankerous cranky

116
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Samson raised both hands. Sorry.


What are you doing here, man? Drew demanded.
Samson glanced at him with a sour expression, obviously irritated by
the shift in attitude. I figured you paid a visit to my house. I might as well
return the favor.
Well, now youve done it, and I have a long walk ahead of me, so....
Drew started across the lawn, but Samson wasnt having it.
I just wanted to tell you that Im not going to back down, Samson
called after him.
What? Drew blurted.
You can have your guys drop every pass and run the wrong routes. You
can come over to my town ready to 763rumble. You can do whatever the hell
you want. Nothing is going to make me quit this team. Nothing is going to
764
divert me from my goals, Samson said 765eloquently, walking over to
meet Drew in the center of the yard. You may not give a crap about your
future, but I do care about mine.
Oh, I dont give a crap about my future? Drew 766retorted.
If you think you do, youre 767deceiving yourself, Samson replied,
putting his hands in the pockets of his Corinth jacket. Look around you,
man. he said, opening his arms along with his jacket. Look at this
768
capacious house. That insanely expensive car. You can have any future you
want, and instead you put it all on the line like you did last night. What kind
of crap is that?
Drew looked at the ground. If someone had told him that Samson Hill
was going to come over to his house and lecture him and that he would stand
763 rumble . utter or emit low dull rumbling sounds
764 divert distract
765 eloquently smoothly
766 retorted . answered back
767 deceiving fooling
768 capacious big

117
Sacked by Emma Harrison

769
there and take it, he would never have thought it conceivable. But
somehow, he couldnt move.
And the kicker is, youre clearly a natural leader, Samson continued.
Drew snorted. Yeah, right.
You cant tell me you werent head 770demagogue in charge of that
771
debacle last night, Samson said. Youre 772extroverted, and the guys
love you. You 773exemplify everything a person needs to lead. I mean, you
led them into the lions den last night, and they just followed. You could be
using that talent for good, but instead you discredit yourself every chance you
get. Youd rather be pissed off and fight all the time than try to improve our
situation.
Drew looked at Samson, his eyes hard. You dont know anything about
me, man.
I know a little. You told me all about the thing with your brother,
Samson said. And now that Ive met your dad I understand where all the
774
belligerence comes from.
Drew snorted and looked away. Did this guy really think he could walk
in here and analyze him?
Im just sick of being your 775disputant when Ive done nothing but try
to be your friend, Samson said finally. Now, do you want a ride to school
or not?
No thanks, man, Drew said, shaking his head and turning his back on
Samson. Last thing I need is to be showing up in the parking lot with the
enemy.

769 conceivable imaginable


770 demagogue misguided leader
771 debacle disaster
772 extroverted outgoing
773 exemplify represent
774 belligerence hostility
775 disputant adversary

118
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Nothings ever gonna change at that damn school unless we change


it! Samson shouted after him.
Much to his 776chagrin, Drew felt the sting of truth in that statement,
but he just 777ducked his head and kept right on walking. He just couldnt
bear the idea of letting Samson know he might be right.

776 chagrin annoyance


777 ducked . moved (the head or body) quickly downwards or away

119
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Chapter Nine

Drew paused in the main hallway at the sight of a ruckus up ahead. Two
guys were going at each other like wild animals, throwing each other up
against the wall. He saw a few sophomore girls flee down the stairs to avoid
getting hit by an 778errant 779appendage. Seeing the fear on their faces, Drew
raced toward the 780fray to see what he could do. He was about three feet
away when Mr. Demas, the vice principal, tore in from the office, grabbed the
two kids who were now 781entangled on the floor, and yanked them apart.
782
Enough! Enough! the veep shouted as the kids continued to try to
reach each other.
What the hell happened? Drew asked Tamara, who was hanging out
near a wall, looking pale.
I have no idea. I think one of them bumped into the other one and then
all of a sudden it turned into battle royale, she said. God, the people in this
school are just 783combative today. All anyone wants to do is fight, she
added, looking at Drew in an accusatory way.
What? Like its my fault? he asked.
I heard what you and the guys did last night. I didnt want to believe it,
but that bruise on your face says it all, she said. You cant think thats not
contributing to the 784erosion of the situation around here. This is the third
fight Ive heard of today.
Drew sighed, 785embittered. He was so sick of everyone acting like he
was somehow responsible for everyone else. Yeah, well, contrary to popular
778 errant stray
779 appendage limb (any projection that is thought to resemble a human arm)
780 fray . a noisy fight
781 entangled entwined
782 veep. vice president
783 combative warlike
784 erosion breakdown (the act of disrupting an established order so it fails to continue)
785 embittered feeling bitter

120
Sacked by Emma Harrison

belief, I dont control the entire Washingtonville population.


Tamara stood up straight, pushing herself away from the wall as the
crowd dispersed and the combatants were tossed into the vice principals
office. Maybe not. But you do set an example, she said. Then she shrugged
and walked away.
Drew took a deep breath and shook his head. Like he wasnt under
enough pressure already. Now Tamara and Samson wanted him to be some
786
beacon of morality and goodness. He didnt even have a clue how to begin
to do that.
I heard Drew Benson broke Samson Hills arm.
Drew paused. Whoever was talking was standing just around the corner.
No way, another voice challenged. It was Clay Carradine who did it.
He just told everyone Drew did it so Drew could have the glory.
Drew saw red, but he forced himself to chill. Going ballistic now was
not an option.
I saw Samson Hill this morning. His arms fine. I heard Corinth gave
our guys the 787drubbing of the century.
Drew clenched his jaw as he came around the corner into the social
sciences wing. The three freshmen who were completely 788distorting last
nights events fell silent at the sight of him. Even as depressed as he was,
Drew almost smirked at their reaction. He was still new to being a senior and
wasnt used to having such a 789daunting presence.
No one broke Samson Hills arm, Drew told them, as they cowered
timidly before them. And there was no drubbing. The whole conflict lasted
about two-point-five seconds. Now why dont you go spread the truth around
instead of standing there like a bunch of 790twits?
786 beacon . a fire (usually on a hill or tower) that can be seen from a distance
787 drubbing beating
788 distorting . twisting and pressing out of shape
789 daunting intimidating
790 twits . someone who is regarded as contemptible

121
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The three kids took off so quickly it was as if they had 791dissipated
into thin air. Drew rolled his shoulders back, feeling as if hed done
something positive, but he winced as his shoulder 792panged with pain. He
turned and ducked into his history classroom as the bell rang, hoping against
hope for a movie. Instead he found his teacher, Mrs. Lasky, handing out
stapled papers to the entire class, some of whom were standing.
Here you go, Mr. Benson, the young, irritatingly enthusiastic teacher
said.
Whats this? Drew asked.
First semester project, she announced with a flawless grin.
The entire classroomCorinth and Washingtonville students alike
groaned. One of the first times Drew had seen both groups agree on anything.
Now, now. None of that. Before you start 793demonizing me,
remember that in an AP class such as this one, most teachers wont even give
you a list of suggestions like the one I was so kind as to prepare for you,
Mrs. Lasky said, tossing her short hair back off her face. This should not be
too hard. Well be spending this period in the library so that you can
794
contemplate the list of topics and do a little researchfind out what might
be interesting to you. There is an 795extensive amount of information
available about the Second World War, so you should have no trouble finding
what you need. And if you think of something thats not on the list, feel free
to pitch it to me. You know how I love creative thinking.
Yeah, great, Clay said. Creative thinking in history. Isnt that, like,
796
an oxymoron or something?
Drew snorted a laugh.

791 dissipated scattered


792 panged . had a sharp spasm of pain
793 demonizing label as evil
794 contemplate think about
795 extensive broad
796 oxymoron self-contradiction

122
Sacked by Emma Harrison

All right, people. Lets move out the door in an orderly fashion and
head for the library! Mrs. Lasky 797trilled, clapping her hands.
Drew slipped through the door, scanning the list as fast as possible. In
this situation it was always essential to find the easiest topic and claim it
before someone else had the chance. Decisive action was key. His eyes
landed on the perfect topic. Analyzing the themes of Clint Eastwoods two
World War II films, Letters from Iwo Jima and Flags of Our Fathers. Drew
had loved those movies. He couldnt believe his luck. He turned around to
talk to Mrs. Lasky.
What the hells your problem, man? Lance Crowe shouted, shoving
Clay away from a water fountain.
I was here first, Clay said with a shrug, leaning over the fountain
again.
Get your 798grubby lips away from my water, Lance retorted, shoving
him again. This time, Clay stepped on Jenna Warners foot, and she shouted
out in pain.
Look what you made me do! Clay shouted, shoving Lance with both
hands.
Gentlemen! Mrs. Lasky shouted.
But it was too late. Clay and Lance 799converged in the middle of the
hallway, shouting barely 800coherent insults as they grabbed at each others
clothes and dragged each other around.
You guys! Come on! Drew shouted, frustrated. Were they really
going to tear each other apart because of a water fountain? Tamara was right.
This crap really was getting out of hand. Cut it out!

797 trilled . pronounce with a trill (the articulation of a consonant (especially the consonant 'r')
with a rapid flutter of the tongue against the palate{upper surface of the mouth that separates
the oral and nasal cavities} or uvula)
798 grubby . thickly covered with ingrained dirt or soot
799 converged came together
800 coherent understandable

123
Sacked by Emma Harrison

The girls in the class screeched and moved off down the hall. Drew saw
that the guys had no intention of stopping this fight themselves, and scrawny
Mrs. Lasky certainly wasnt going to get in the middle of it. But if it went on
for two seconds longer, they were going to get caught and suspended, which
the team couldnt very well afford right now. It wasnt much of a
801
conundrum, really. He had to do something.
Dammit. Drew dropped his books and flung himself at Clay, tearing
him off of Lance. He used every ounce of his strength to shove his much
bigger friend backward and hold him there. Meanwhile, a couple of Lances
friends stood in front of him, preventing him from taking another swipe at
Clay, which he looked more than ready to do.
What the hell, man? Clay said to Drew, struggling to catch his breath.
Bag it, Clay, Drew said, holding a hand up. You cant get kicked off
the team right now.
But he
Screw him, Drew said. Its over. Lets just go to the library.
Clay shook his head. Whatever, he said, grabbing his backpack off
the floor. He straightened his jacket and stormed off.
Well. That was 802invigorating, Mrs. Lasky said nervously. Mr.
Crowe, kindly sit on the opposite side of the library from Mr. Carradine.
Fine, Crowe said under his breath.
Drew bent to pick up his books and topic list, feeling more frustrated
than ever. Last night he had really thought that fighting Samson and those
guys would make him feel better, that it would help him expel some of his
negative energyjust get it out of his system. But instead, it had only made
things worse. Being beaten down and challenged only pissed people off
more. How could he not have realized that? He lived it with his father every
day of his life.

801 conundrum mystery


802 invigorating . give life or energy to

124
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Thank you for that, Drew, Mrs. Lasky said, laying a hand on his
shoulder. For your peacekeeping efforts, you can have your pick of
projects.
Youre not going to report them? Drew asked.
Mrs. Lasky sighed. The vice principal is having a hard enough time
803
clamping down on the situation today. He doesnt need another headache,
she said kindly. But I do hope he finds a way to 804counteract all the
violence and negativity around here soon. Otherwise this school is going to
be effectively 805demolished by its own students.
Drew nodded, his heart heavy with guilt, and followed her down the
hall toward the library. He wished he could believe what Samson and Tamara
had both said to himthat he could somehow make a difference, but he just
couldnt. He wasnt Trey Benson. He was Drew. Second-string, screw-up,
worthless Drew. And as much as he hated feeling the way he did at that very
moment, he also felt powerless to change it.
In a completely 806antisocial mood, Drew 807snagged one of the two-
person tables in the corner of the senior section at lunch and 808hunkered
down there with his copy of The Canterbury Tales. He put his bag on the
second chair to discourage anyone from sitting with him and buried his face
in the book. Soon his friends arrived in a big 809clump, 810gibbering on about
the fight between Clay and Lance and 811marveling at the fact that Mrs.
Lasky hadnt taken them right to the principals office.
812
You dont think she actually condones fighting, Jason said
803 clamping . imposing or inflicting forcefully
804 counteract neutralize
805 demolished destroyed
806 antisocial unsociable
807 snagged . got by acting quickly and smartly
808 hunkered . sat on one's heels
809 clump . a compact mass
810 gibbering . speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly
811 marveling . be amazed at
812 condones supports

125
Sacked by Emma Harrison

doubtfully, placing his backpack on the floor next to his usual chair.
Drew peeked over the top of his book. None of the guys had noticed
him. He saw that Jasons face was a bit more swollen than it had been last
night, and he swallowed back a lump of guilt. Most of the guys, in fact, were
pretty torn up. What had he been thinking?
Who knows? She went to Washingtonville back in the day. Maybe she
still has some school spirit in her, Clay suggested, tossing his bag on the
table.
So, dude. Whats this new plan you wanted to tell us about? Dirk
asked. He grabbed a seat and leaned into the table.
Drews ears 813pricked up. New plan? He hadnt heard about any new
plan. New plan to do what?
Im calling it Operation Eliminate the Egotist, Clay said in a loud
whisper. He glanced over at the table where the Corinth guys usually sat, but
it was empty so far.
Oh, God. Here we go, Jason groaned.
Dont worry, Mary, Clay said with a dismissive look. Youre not on
D, so you and your delicate 814sensibilities dont have to have anything to do
with it.
Jason shook his head, annoyed, and opened his bagged lunch. Clay,
meanwhile, commanded the attention of the other guys.
Its time to take 815corrective action, he told them, pressing a fingertip
into the table. As of today, we start showing our 816fidelity to our QB in a
major way.
Corrective action? Dirk asked.

813 pricked . raised


814 sensibilities feelings
815 corrective counteractive (opposing, neutralizing or mitigating an effect by contrary action)
816 fidelity loyalty

126
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Thats what I said, Clay confirmed 817emphatically, clearly


818
relishing his new role as 819firebrand. After what Ive got planned, Coach
will have no choice but to restore Drew to the starting position. Give him
back what is rightfully his.
Drews heart started to beat 820erratically. His palms began to sweat. He
liked the sound of that, obviously. But what the hell was Clay planning?
Whatre you gonna do? Kill Samson? Jason asked with a laugh.
Clay merely looked at him matter-of-factly. Drews heart dropped.
Clay. Come on, Dirk said. Youre not really gonna
Were not gonna kill him, Clay whispered as a group of younger kids
passed close to the table. Of course not. Im just talking about roughing him
up. Injuring him. We do a good enough job of it and he could be out for the
first few games. Maybe even for the season.
Drew suddenly felt sick to his stomach. Could Clay really be so
incredibly 821crude? Could he really purposely hurt someone? Someone who
had done next to nothing to deserve it? If they hurt Samson badly enough,
they could affect his scholarshiphis entire future. Of course, Drew had
been ready to beat the crap out of Samson himself, but that had been face-to-
face. Letting his massive linebacker friends do the dirty work while Drew
kept his hands clean was not exactly what hed had in mind.
Actually, its not a bad idea, Dirk said.
What? Jason 822blurted.
Come on. If Drew got the chance to start a few games, he could win
the starting job for real, Dirk replied.

817 emphatically forcefully


818 relishing thoroughly enjoying
819 firebrand troublemaker
820 erratically unsteadily
821 crude unsophicticated
822 blurted . uttered impulsively (without taking cautions)

127
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Okay, lets ignore your blatant 823disregard of everything weve ever


been taught about teamwork and uh.... morality, Jason said, tossing his
sandwich down. But do you really think that Coach is going to let you get
away with this?
Dude, itll be over before Coach even knows whats happened, Clay
824
said flippantly. Its not that complex. We dont have to harass the guy all
practice. All we have to do is set up one good, well-placed hit.
Some of the other guys murmured their 825assent, and Clay went about
describing his plan and 826delegating assignments.
Drew could not believe this was happening. He couldnt believe he was
sitting here listening in on a 827clandestine meeting of his friends as they
planned to take out the best quarterback in the state. And all on his behalf. It
was flattering, sure, but it was also horrifying. He couldnt believe his friends
had sunk so low as to plan something like this.
There was no way he could let them go through with it. Hed have to
tell Coach Davidson about it, or warn Samson. Something. Drew felt guilty
enough as it was. He wasnt sure he could handle letting his friends purposely
injure someone for him. This particular plan could be 828hazardous, not just
for Samson, but for all of themfor their futures on the team and at school.
Ratting his friends out wouldnt feel good either, he knew, but it was
preferable to watching Samson get his leg broken. Or worse.
I cant be a part of this. This is just wrong, Jason said suddenly,
standing.
No. What was wrong was Drews 829degradation from starter to
second-stringer, Clay said. And I intend to do something about it. I intend
823 disregard disrepect
824 flippantly . showing inappropriate levity (feeling an inappropriate lack of seriousness)
825 assent agreement
826 delegating assigning
827 clandestine secretive
828 hazardous dangerous
829 degradation demotion

128
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to show that 830haughty bastard that we take care of our own, he added,
slapping hands with a couple of the guys.
You guys are sick, Jason said.
831
Thanks for the condemnation. I wasnt expecting that at all, Clay
said sarcastically.
Jason rolled his eyes and made a move to leave, but Clay got up and
slapped his huge hand down on Jasons shoulder.
If anyone tries to stop us, if we encounter any kind of 832hindrance
from the coaches, were gonna know who told them, Clay said in a
threatening way. And if that happens, you better watch your back too.
833
Jason paled slightly. Some friend, he said. Then he extricated
himself from Clays grasp and stormed out of the cafeteria.
Drew took a deep breath. Great. Now he couldnt tell Coach. If he did,
Clay was going to turn on Jason big time. The last thing the team or his
friends needed right now was another 834rift.
What the hell was he supposed to do now?
Drew stood on the sidelines at practice, the rain beating down on top of
his helmet, his hands tucked under his arms as he gripped at his own practice
jersey. Out on the field, Clay and his 835cronies were putting their plot into
effect, and the weathergray and storming and messy and muddywas only
helping them conceal their 836odious actions.
Samson called the play. The center 837hiked the ball, and Samson
dropped back, gripping the ball with his wet fingers. Drew saw Clay and

830 haughty arrogant


831 condemnation disapproval
832 hindrance obstacle
833 extricated freed
834 rift split
835 cronies . close friends who accompanies his buddies in their activities
836 odious hateful
837 hiked . refers to the center snapping the ball to the quarterback as the play begins

129
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another lineman bust through the O-line, clearly 838flouting the defense
Coach had called and going for the 839blitz instead. Going right for Samson.
No! No, no, no! Coach Davidson called out as the play continued.
Drew felt as if he were going to explode. He clenched his teeth together
so hard he could hear them grinding. He hated this feeling.This feeling of
utter helplessness. He stood there and watched as Clay reached for Samsons
head like he was trying to break the guys neck. It was a totally grievous hit
and would have warranted a penalty flag on any game day in any stadium.
Samson went down hard, bending awkwardly like a snapping branch. All the
second-string and JV players around Drew winced and groaned. Clay and his
friends werent kidding around out there. They were really trying to
840
expunge Samson Hill.
Clay! What are your men doing? Coach Davidson shouted
841
fervently, barely audible over the sound of the driving rain. Quit taking
cheap shots! This is not a game! This is your quarterback.
Sorry, Coach, Clay called back, spitting muddy water out onto the
field.
I know its a 842morass out there, but thats no excuse for sloppy play,
Coach added. Lets run it again.
Samson, 843hardy athlete that he was, refused all the helping hands of
the Corinth players and pushed himself up off the ground. He was slow
getting back to the line, however, and Drew could have sworn he saw a slight
limp. The situation was 844exigent. As much as Drew would love to have the
starting spot, he didnt want to get it this way. Not like this.
This has to stop, Drew said under his breath, shivering slightly as the
838 flouting . treating with contemptuous disregard
839 blitz . defensive players try to break through the offensive line
840 expunge delete
841 fervently . with passionate fervor
842 morass swamp
843 hardy tough
844 exigent tricky

130
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rain 845permeated the T-shirt under his jersey and pads and 846
sluiced down
his back. Someone has to stop this.
You set an example, Tamaras voice said in his mind.
Nothings gonna change at that school unless we change it, Samson
added.
As the team lined up for another play, Drew looked around at the
coaches, standing on the sidelines with their hoods up against the rain.
Lewinter and Davidson whispered to one another as they looked over the
offense. Halloran wiped some water from his brow. It hardly seemed
847
plausible to Drew, but it was as if none of the coaches realized what was
really going on out there.
Do something, Drews conscience urged him. You can make them stop.
But if he went out there, if he said one word, he would be risking total
848
ostracism by all his friends. They were doing this for him, after all, as sick
and twisted as it might be.
The team lined up to run the play again. Drew held his breath.
849
Red thirty-six! Red thirty-six! Samson called out, his voice raspy.
Hike!
Once again Samson dropped back to pass. Once again two guys took on
Tank Langford and threw him to the ground. Clay stepped right on Tanks
back and threw himself at Samson. Samson tried to cut to the right, but his
feet slipped in the mud and Clay came right down on top of him with his full
body weight. There was a sickening thud, and Samson was crushed into the
muddy field.
Drews heart slammed against his ribcage. Samson looked like a broken
rag doll, flattened beneath Clays bulk. Something inside of Drew snapped,
845 permeated soaked
846 sluiced flowed
847 plausible believable
848 ostracism . state of being banished or ostracized (excluded from society by general consent)
849 raspy . unpleasantly harsh or grating in sound

131
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and before he even knew what he was doing, he had crossed half the field.
Get the hell off him, Clay! he shouted. Get up!
He grabbed his friends pads through his jersey and yanked with all his
might, throwing Clay off to the side, his biceps straining against his friends
massive weight. The coaches whistles 850bleated like mad, but Drew barely
heard them. He crouched next to Samson.
You all right, man? Drew asked.
Samson managed a nod. I think Ill live.
Drew offered Samson his hand, which Samson accepted this time, and
Drew pulled him up. Samson coughed, doubling over slightly, and Drew
noticed a long 851laceration on his forearm, dripping blood into the puddle at
Samsons feet. He turned to face the team, his face on fire.
What the hell are you guys thinking? Drew shouted. Are you out of
your minds? You could have killed him!
Dude, were just trying to get some real practice in. Hes gonna get hit
like that in games. He should be ready, Clay explained innocently, lying
right to Drews face.
Oh, yeah. Im sure that was what 852induced you to nearly break your
own quarterbacks neck back there, Drew spat. What do you think youre
gonna do on opening day without him, huh? Hes kind of an 853integral part
of the offense, jackass.
What did you just call me? Clay demanded.
You heard me! Drew shouted. What you guys are doing out here is
just plain wrong. In fact, its insane. This is a team, remember? This is about
checking your egos at the gate, coming out here and playing your heart out
for the team. And Samson, hes your leader now. This totally insane behavior

850 bleated . talked whiningly


851 laceration cut
852 induced caused
853 integral . existing as an essential constituent or characteristic

132
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has to stop, and it has to stop now.


He looked around at the playersWashingtonville and Corinth alike
and saw that they were all 854rapt with attention. Some of the
Washingtonville guys, Dirk included, looked at the ground, 855contrite.
Weve all been acting like a bunch of 856querulous morons, Drew
continued as the rain started to lessen. None of us likes this situation, but its
about time we 857reconcile with it. Because Corinth is not reopening. These
guys are not going anywhere. They are a part of our team now, and were a
part of theirs. So I suggest you all start acting like it. Because otherwise, this
formerly 858indefatigable team is going to be nothing but a joke.
Drew glanced at Jason, who was looking at him with respect and pride
in his eyes for the first time in a while. That one look 859buoyed Drew even
more.
So get your crap together, guys. Because all this whining and
complaining is starting to make me sick! Im over it. It stops now.
With that, Drew turned and stormed off the field, half expecting
someone to throw a helmet at him along the way. But even though there was
a lot of grumbling in his wake, there were no 860insurgents. In fact, the only
person who followed Drew off the field was Coach Davidson.
Drew! Drew! Wait up! he called out, jogging to catch up. Drew kept
walking until he reached the track, then paused. He turned, ready for the
tongue-lashing of a lifetime. No one stopped practice other than Coach. And
no one ignored the whistle. Ever.
Yes, Coach, Drew said, 861averting his eyes.
854 rapt captivated
855 contrite remorseful
856 querulous complaining
857 reconcile make ones peace
858 indefatigable untiring
859 buoyed uplifted
860 insurgents dissenters (protesters)
861 averting . turning away or aside

133
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Drew, that was... that was incredible, what you just did out there,
Coach Davidson said.
Really? Drew asked.
Son, Ive been waiting for you to step up like that for weeks, Coach
said. Ive been so hoping that this 862downcast attitude of yours was
temporary, because Ive always known you could be a great leader. And
youve just proven it.
Drew was 863flabbergasted. This was the last thing he expected to hear
at this moment. He looked around, glanced up at the sky as the sun started to
break through the thinning clouds. Coach, I dont mean to be
864
pertinacious, but if you always thought Id be a great leader, why didnt I
get the starting job?
Coach let out a sigh and put his hand on his hip, looking out at the field
where the other coaches were splitting up the team to run drills. I was put in
an impossible position this year, Drew. All of us were. Dont think that these
changes were any easier on the staff than theyve been on you all. I lost half
my coaches, and I was faced with the prospect of disappointing half my team
guys Ive grown to respect. Guys like yourself, whom I had high hopes
for.
Drew took a deep breath. His heart hurt. He hadnt even thought about
the coaches, hadnt considered how their jobs had become 865fraught with
difficulty. Suddenly Drew felt ashamed at his self-centered behavior.
What it comes down to is I had to pick somebody. One of you was
going to be crushed, Coach said. But thats what happened at every single
position this year, not just yours. I had to crush fifty different guys. Doing it
to you was just.... well, it was harder than most. I know how much this team
means to you, and I know how youve been looking forward to taking over

862 downcast depressed


863 flabbergasted shocked
864 pertinacious stubborn
865 fraught filled

134
Sacked by Emma Harrison

for Trey.
866
Drew felt sick to his stomach as his obliterated dream was laid out
before him.
But I had to do what I thought was best for the team. Thats my job.
Im sorry, Coach, Drew said, shaking his head as he stared at the
track. I didnt think. Im just.... Im really sorry.
Dont be, Coach Davidson said, putting his hand on Drews shoulder.
Watching what you just did out there, I feel like I have you back.
Yeah. It felt kind of good, Drew admitted, 867hazarding a smile.
I hope so, Coach said, grinning in response. And kudos on the way
you tossed Carradine out there, kid. How the hell did you do that?
I dont know. Adrenaline, maybe? Drew said with a shrug.
I knew you were a strong kid, but not that strong, Coach said with a
whistle. That was something else.
Thanks, Coach, Drew said. He glanced at the field and saw one of the
other coaches approaching. Youd better get back. The team needs you,
Drew told him.
Then he took off around the track at a jog, hoping to rid himself of the
rest of his nervous energy and sort out all the new emotions 868roiling around
in his chest.

866 obliterated destroyed


867 hazarding . risking
868 roiling . agitating vigorously; in a state of turbulence

135
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Chapter Ten

At the end of practice, Coach Davidson called a meeting on the fifty-


yard line. The sun was shining now, and droplets of water 869shimmered as
they clung to the grass, casting an 870iridescent glow over the field. Drew
expected a 871harangue after what had gone on that day, but Davidson said
nothing about it. He merely handed out the game schedule for the year and
dismissed the team.
Drew pushed himself up and trudged off the field with the rest of the
team. Clay grumbled as he strode past him and shot him a 872rancorous look,
as if Drew were a traitor. Drews heart skipped a beat, but he ignored it.
Sooner or later Clay would have to realize that his plan was totally 873inane.
Hed have to know that what Drew had done was for the best.
874
Then he felt a hand grab his shoulder pad, and his heart swooped.
What now?
He turned around to find Samson standing before him, all blood and
mud and 875grime.
What? Drew blurted, clueless as to what Samson might be thinking.
Look who became a 876maverick today, Samson said, tossing a
football up and down with a grin. What happened between this morning and
this afternoon?
Oh, so youre gonna get all 877maudlin on me now? Drew asked
lightly. Jason walked by and lifted his hand for a slap as he went. Drew
869 shimmered . shone with a weak or fitful light
870 iridescent sparkling
871 harangue lecture
872 rancorous bitter
873 inane silly
874 swooped . moved with a sweep motion
875 grime . dirt; filth
876 maverick rebel
877 maudlin sadly sentimental (effusively or insincerely emotional)

136
Sacked by Emma Harrison

obliged, his heart feeling lighter as he knew that his friend was starting to
forgive him for last nights 878transgressions.
No. Just curious, Samson replied.
879
Drew lifted his shoulder. I guess Im becoming inured to the
situation, he said. If you cant beat em, join em, right?
Very 880pragmatic of you, Samson said.
Im sorry about those guys, man, Drew said honestly, letting out a
sigh of relief. They can be pretty 881incorrigible. But Im even worse. I
should have stopped it before it even started.
Maybe. But at least you stopped it, Samson replied.
Still. It doesnt 882expiate what they did. What we all did, Drew said,
shaking his head as the rest of the team trailed off the field, some casting
curious glances in their direction. I feel like an idiot. Like Ive just been
acting so
I know, man, Samson said. Its cool.
Thanks, Drew said.
Im surprised the coaches didnt stop it, actually, Samson said. What
they were doing was 883limpid to anyone with eyes. But I guess they figure I
shouldnt be 884inviolable. Clay was right about that, at least. I think Ive
gotta toughen up, Samson said, rolling his shoulder and wincing.
I was wondering about that too, but after I stepped in, Coach was so
885
laudatory.... I got the feeling they were actually waiting for one of us to

878 transgressions . evildoings


879 inured accustomed
880 pragmatic sensible
881 incorrigible unruly
882 expiate make up for
883 limpid clear
884 inviolable sacred
885 laudatory praiseful

137
Sacked by Emma Harrison

jump into the 886maelstrom and sort it out.


Yeah? Well then Im glad you did, because another ten minutes and I
was done for, Samson joked.
Drew shook his head as they turned toward the school. Youre insane,
you know that? If I were you Id be so beyond pissed right now.
Yeah, well, Im not exactly doing 887cartwheels, but after today I have
some hope that things are gonna get better, Samson said.
Really? Drew asked.
Yeah. In fact Samson paused near one of the sideline benches and
peeled off his pads and jersey, stripping down to his T-shirt and football
pants. He picked up the ball again and tossed it at Drews chest. Lets have a
catch.
Drew eyed him dubiously. A catch?
888
Yeah. Lets see how your hands are, Benson, Samson chided,
jogging back to the field.
My hands are fine, Drew replied, throwing the ball to Samson.
Oh yeah? Samson taunted. Prove it.
He set up and threw a perfect spiral to the center of the field. Drew
889
sprinted out to catch it.
Nice one! Samson cheered.
Dude, who do you think Trey threw balls to in our backyard our entire
lives? The guy was 890insatiable when it came to practice, Drew said.
Samson clapped his hands, then raised them over his head. Come on.
Throw me the ball.

886 maelstrom storm


887 cartwheels . perform an acrobatic movement using both hands and feet
888 chided . censured severely or angrily
889 sprinted . ran very fast, usually for a short distance
890 insatiable unquenchable

138
Sacked by Emma Harrison

You do realize that if anyone from the team sees this, theyre gonna
mock us to the ends of the earth, Drew said, tossing the ball back.
Come on. Whats more 891innocuous than a game of catch? Samson
said. Besides, were supposed to be putting our differences aside. If they see
us hanging out, I think that would be a good thing. He backed up a few
paces. Go long, man.
Drew did as he was told, racing across the field. The sun warmed his
back and the wind tossed his wet hair as he looked over his shoulder for the
ball. Samson threw a perfect spiral, and Drew reached up and plucked it out
of the sky. Then, just for fun, he ran the last ten yards into the end zone.
And Hill completes to Benson for the score! Samson shouted, raising
his arms in the air.
Drew grinned. Somehow, this little game of catch was having a
892
pacific effect on his nerves. For the first time all year, Drew was enjoying
football. He threw the ball back to Samson and they ran another play. This
time, the throw was off, and Drew had to launch himself into the air and dive
for it. He came down hard on his side, 893clutching the rock.
Damn, man! Whats up with these skills? Samson asked, jogging over
to help him up.
Please. Im not that good, Drew said with a scoff.
Are you kidding? It took some 894prowess to catch that ball, Samson
said. Does anyone know about your 895latent catching abilities?
Not really. My brother, I guess. Ive always played quarterback, Drew
said with a shrug, knocking some of the mud off his arms. Never really had
the 896inclination to do anything else. He nodded at Samson. Your turn. Go

891 innocuous harmless


892 pacific peaceful
893 clutching . taking hold of; grabbing, clinging to
894 prowess mastery
895 latent hidden
896 inclination tendency

139
Sacked by Emma Harrison

deep.
All right, Samson said.
He turned and sprinted down the field, and Drew tossed him an arcing
pass. Samson caught the ball, turned, and immediately threw it back. Drew
raced about twenty yards to catch it, and they both cheered. It was the first
time the two of them had hung out without 897pretense, and Drew was
enjoying their new 898rapport. It was amazing how much could change in
twenty-four hours. Yesterday, Drew had wanted nothing more than to beat
this guy down. Today he was finding his company 899palatable. More than
palatable. He was actually having fun.
Know what I think? Samson said, catching his breath as they came
together at the middle of the field again. I think youre not a half bad-
person, Benson.
900
Drew laughed. Dont promulgate that opinion. All your friends will
turn on you.
Ill keep that in mind, Samson said, dropping back with the ball
again. And Hill takes the ball. The defense is coming on the blitz! he called
out in a commanding commentators voice. Drew laughed and raced across
field. He looks left, but Lazarus is covered. He looks right. Szonyi is
covered too. Carradine is coming right at him. He looks out for blood, folks.
This could get messy!
Drew laughed as he looked back for the ball. But wait! Hill has an
open man down field! Benson just put a sick move on the defender, and hes
free and clear! Drew called out.
Hill pulls back. He fires! Samson shouted.
901
He chucked the ball in a high arc as if he were really shooting over
897 pretense deceit
898 rapport relationship
899 palatable pleasant
900 promulgate spread
901 chucked . threw carefully

140
Sacked by Emma Harrison

the defensive players heads. Drew was perfectly positioned. He caught the
ball and dove into the end zone.
Another 902stellar play! Samson shouted. And the crowd goes wild!
Drew got up and over his shoulder saw Coach Davidson standing near
the parking lot watching them. From so far away, he couldnt exactly tell
what the coach was thinking, but Drew thought he saw a hint of a smile.
Coach was proud of him, proud of Samson, enjoying the 903nascent
friendship between them. Maybe Samson was right after all. Maybe there
was hope for this team yet.
The next morning, Samson was waiting outside Drews house to drive
him to school. He hadnt offered. He was just there. Drew paused on the front
step, clinging to his backpack strap, uncertain of what to do.
904
You sure this is prudent, man? Drew asked. Driving with the
enemy?
Hey. If were gonna 905foster team spirit, may as well start now.
Besides, your sorry, grounded ass needs a ride, right? Samson asked with a
grin.
Drew laughed and jogged across the lawn. All the way to school, he and
Samson talked about nothing but the first game against Johnstown and how
906
redoubtable their defense had been on both their teams the year before. By
the time they got to school, Drew was so caught up in the conversation he
forgot that he and Samson were doing anything out of the ordinary by
hanging out together. But the moment Samson pulled into the parking lot,
Drew knew that something was wrong.
What the heck is going on up there? Drew asked. There was a huge
crowd gathered in front of the arbor, and every last one of the kids in it was
902 stellar outstanding
903 nascent newly formed
904 prudent careful
905 foster encourage
906 redoubtable formidable

141
Sacked by Emma Harrison

wearing blue and gray. The number of people dressing in Corinth colors had
grown by 907increments over the last week, but today it looked like they had
made a school-wide agreement to sport their former colors.
908
Oh, crap. Looks like Adams giving one of his famous orations,
Samson said, taking the first space he saw.
Orations? Drew repeated. Then he saw that Adam Lazarus was
standing a few heads above the crowd, up on one of the benches. Drew felt a
hot, poisonous dread flood his veins. What the hell does he think hes
doing?
Being 909incendiary. Adam just loves to hear himself talk. But he loves
it even more when he can make other people listen to him talk, Samson said
matter-of-factly. I knew he was pissed about what happened at practice
yesterday, but I was hoping he wouldnt go this far. Come on. We better get
up there.
Drew and Samson got out of the car and raced up to the arbor.
Gathering nearby was a large group of Washingtonville students and players,
all of whom looked less than pleased. Drew glanced at Samson. Ill see if I
can get them to back off before they become 910intractable, he said.
Me too, Samson replied. Good luck.
The two quarterbacks split up before anyone had even seen them
together, completely 911negating their plan to lead by example.
We had to give up our entire school! Our entire history! Adam was
saying, riling up the Corinth students. But today we show them were not
going to give up everything so easily. We will not 912forsake our colors! We
will not forsake our pride!

907 increments small quantities


908 orations speeches
909 incendiary inflammatory
910 intractable unmovable
911 negating canceling out
912 forsake give up

142
Sacked by Emma Harrison

The Corinth kids replied with 913plaudits and cheers. Drew cut through
the crowd until he found Clay, Jason, Dirk, and the others.
Whats going on, guys? Drew asked.
Can you believe this, man? Dirk said, raising a hand at Adam. How
914
puerile can they be?
Yeah, and you trying to permanently injure Samson yesterday wasnt
immature at all, Drew thought. But he held his tongue.
We may have had to move here, but were not 915nomads. Were not
going anywhere else. Were here to stay, and these people need to get used to
it! Adam continued.
We should do something, Dirk said, clenching his fists. Shouldnt
we do something?
Drew looked around at the angry faces of his classmates. It seemed like
every single kid in schoolCorinth and Washingtonvillewas gathered
outside. This thing was going to turn into a 916quagmire quickly if he didnt
do something about it.
Theyre just upset, you guys, Drew said, glancing at Clays stony
expression. Imagine if it was the other way around. What if we had to give
up our school and our colors and our team?
Yeah, but Drew, youve got to admit that holding a rally is a little
917
rash, Jason said. After everything you said yesterday.... its like they
didnt even hear it. All this is gonna do is make everyone even more
918
insular than before.
919
Well, at least theyre being ingenuous about it, Drew said as
913 plaudits applause
914 puerile childish
915 nomads people without permanent homes
916 quagmire mess
917 rash hasty (quick)
918 insular isolated
919 ingenuous honest

143
Sacked by Emma Harrison

another cheer went up behind him. This one, however, died quickly. He
turned and saw Samson pulling Adam down, whispering something urgently
to him. At least theyre not sneaking around and plotting, Drew added,
glancing at Clay.
Dude, I was just trying to help you out, Clay shot back, his eyes
920
fiery. Dont expect me to be all 921repentant about it now. Id do it again
in a heartbeat. You, however, have apparently turned on the rest of us.
No I havent, man, Drew replied. Im just trying to keep this
situation from getting any worse. Im just trying to hear these guys and
understand where theyre coming from.
Clay stared Drew down like he was some sort of 922reprobate. Good
luck with that. But I dont need to stand here anymore and 923forbear about
the noxious crap that kid is spewing. Theyre on Washingtonville ground
now. They best start acting like it.
Clay turned around and cut through the crowd, heading for the front
doors. A few other kids followed, but many more stayed outside, and Drew
felt the tension mount.
Come on, you guys. Lets just go inside, Drew said. Just let them do
their thing. All they want is for the administration to listen to them. It has
nothing to do with us.
Yeah, right, Drew thought. Theyre looking for a fight just like I was on
Monday. And everyone here knows it.
At first, the crowd was resistant, and Drew was starting to think that all
hope was lost. There was going to be a throwdown here no matter what he
did. But he refused to give up, and as he continued to urge his classmates on,
Jason and Tamara joined his pleas. Finally, they started to slowly disperse.

920 fiery . very intense


921 repentant sorry
922 eprobate criminal
923 forbear show patience when provoked

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Drew brought up the rear of the crowd, 924shepherding the Washingtonville


kids inside. Behind him, a few Corinth people shouted and jeered at them for
walking away, but Drew ignored them. At least hed helped avoid what could
have been a huge riotfor now.
As he left the Corinth crowd behind and stepped inside, Drew saw a
flash of red hair out of the corner of his eye. He paused and saw Lily stepping
through the doors and into the school, looking 925blithely up at the crowded
stairs as if nothing were 926amiss outside. She was wearing her usual
927
palette of 928pastels and neutralsno Corinth colors for her. Either she
hadnt gotten the memo, or she chose not to buy into the crap about taking
sides. Drew had a feeling it was the latter, and his already 929immoderate
feelings for the girl increased 930profusely. He smiled, stepping aside so that
she could get ahead of him, and she smiled ever-so-slightly in return, though
looking at him as if shed never seen him before. Drew, however, had gotten
used to that. And even though shed barely spoken to him since that first class
together, this 931quotidian glimpse of her was the best part of his day.
It even made him, temporarily, forget about the trouble brewing outside.
The locker room was eerily quiet before practice. Drew noticed that
Clay and the others were dressing in a 932dilatory fashion, as if they wanted
the Corinth guys to get out to the field before them. He had no idea what the
Corinth guys were doing, since they had been occupying the far side of the
room exclusively for the past week or so. Drew had been hoping that his
outburst yesterday might chill everyone out a bitlessen the 933animosity

924 shepherding leading


925 blithely without care
926 amiss . awry; wrong
927 palette array of colors
928 pastels . various pale or light colors
929 immoderate excessive
930 profusely greatly
931 quotidian commonplace
932 dilatory lazy
933 animosity hostility

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between the two 934factionsbut after the Adam Lazarus show that morning
and now this strange silence, he was getting the feeling hed been totally
wrong.
The locker room door swung open, and Coach Davidson stuck his head
inside. Benson! Hill! In my office, now! The rest of you get your asses in
gear. The other coaches will meet you on the field in two minutes! he
barked. Go! Go! Go!
Drew shot a 935bewildered look at Jason as he grabbed his jersey, pads,
and helmet to follow after Coach. Jason shrugged in response, but Clay, who
had ignored him most of the day, pounded his shoulder with a solid rock fist.
You go, QB, he said with a wink.
Drews heart stopped as, at that moment, Samson appeared around the
side of the row of lockers. Their eyes locked. That couldnt be what this
surprise meeting was about, could it? There was no way that Coach was
going to make Samson 936relinquish the starting spot.
In grim silence, Drew and Samson both emerged into the hallway.
Coach was already at least twenty paces ahead of them.
What the hell is this about? Samson asked under his breath.
I have no idea, Drew replied. He found, much to his surprise, that he
didnt feel excited at the prospect of switching places with Samson. As much
as he would have loved to run out on that field on opening day as the starting
QB, he knew that Samson would be brutally disappointed. And somehow, he
didnt want to see that happen. The 937discrepancy between his current state
of mind and the way hed been feeling just a couple of days ago was almost
insane. And he could only imagine what his father would say if he could read
his thoughts.
Hed probably throw me out of the house and disown me for good,
934 factions . clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue
935 bewildered confused
936 relinquish give up
937 discrepancy inconsistency

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Drew thought.
But he and Samson were just starting to become friends, and Drew
really respected the guy. He didnt want to see him crushed.
Take a seat, Coach said, holding the door to his office open for the
two of them.
Samson did as he was told, dropping his pads and helmet on the floor
near the wall. Drew hesitated a split second, recalling with shame the last
time hed been in this office and the way hed conducted himself. It seemed
938
illusory now, like it had happened in another lifetime. Still, his skin
prickled with embarrassed heat at the memory.
939
What are you waiting for, Benson? An engraved invitation? Coach
asked.
Sorry, Coach, Drew said. He sunk into the second chair, his face
burning.
Coach, meanwhile, settled into his chair and sat back, lacing his fingers
on his stomach as he looked at the two of them. Drew glanced at him quickly
and was at a loss to determine what the man was thinking. He had a sparkle
in his eyean almost 940jovial look about him. There was no way he was
about to crush Samsons hopes. So what the hell were they doing here?
Well boys, I know this little meeting probably seems 941enigmatic to
you, so Ill get right to the point and 942divulge my plan, Coach said.
Samson tensed up. Drew stopped breathing.
Drew, I want to try you out at tight end, Coach announced
Drews jaw hit the floor. He looked at Samson and saw an exact mirror
of his own face. What? they both blurted.

938 illusory unreal


939 engraved . carved or cut a design or letters into
940 jovial jolly
941 enigmatic mysterious
942 divulge reveal

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Coach sat forward on his chair and leaned into the desk. I saw you two
tossing the ball around yesterday, and suddenly it hit me with perfect
943
clarity, he said with a smile. Benson is the 944archetypal tight end. Not
only do you have great hands, kid, but the way you tossed Carradine
yesterday.... He paused to let out an impressed whistle. I think youd be a
great blocker, and Hill here needs some added protection since his mobility
needs some work.
Samson scoffed, but not in an irritated way. He seemed more amused.
Plus, tight end is one of very few spots where this team has a real
945
deficiency. Our only guy is a freshman and way too green. And that kid
from Corinth is all thumbs. After seeing the way you played yesterday, its
clear that theyre not even 946comparable.
Well, youve got that right, at least, Samson said, in a tone that let
them both know he thought Coachs earlier critique of him was wrong.
You could really 947enhance the offense, Drew, Coach continued,
looking directly at him. And I think you two could really 948complement
each other out on that field. Plus, I wouldnt mind having both my varsity
captains actually playing. So? What do you say? Will you try it out?
Drew could hardly process what he was hearing. The only position he
had ever played was quarterback. The only position he had ever wanted to
play was quarterback. He could hardly even imagine himself lining up to the
left or right side or going in motion or actually trying to run into defenders. It
was all so 949surreal.
But he also couldnt stop smiling.
Are you sure about this, Coach? he said finally, shifting in his seat.
943 clarity clearness
944 archetypal classic
945 deficiency weakness
946 comparable equal
947 enhance improve
948 complement balance
949 surreal dreamlike

148
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Ive only ever played QB.


950 951
Coach glowered. Are you contradicting me, Benson? he
barked.
No, Coach, Drew said, startled.
Then Coach Davidson laughed. Im just kidding. Sorry. I think Im a
952
little punchy today, he said, waving a hand. He took a sip of his coffee,
and Drew and Samson glanced at one another, 953incredulous. Coach was
acting a bit more than punchy. He was 954giddy. A very strange sight to Drew,
considering hed hardly ever seen the guy smile.
Well, of course Im not basing this on any 955factual evidence aside
from what I saw yesterday. Theres gonna be a period of 956evaluation,
Coach Davidson explained, putting his coffee cup down. Youll have to
learn the 957fundamentals of the position, and well have to be sure that this
is the right decision, but Im pretty confident its going to work.
Oh, I know its going to work, Samson said with a grin. Dont you
worry about it, Coach.
Well, your 958assurance means a lot in this case, Hill, because the two
of you are going to have to be 959assiduous about your drills, Coach told
him.
Drews heart skipped a few 960elated beats. He was getting a chance to
get back in the starting lineup. Back on the field playing the game he loved.

950 glowered . looked at with a fixed gaze


951 contradicting opposing
952 punchy . shot thick or fat
953 incredulous . not disposed or willing to believe; unbelieving
954 giddy happily excited
955 factual based on fact
956 evaluation assessment
957 fundamentals basics
958 assurance pledge
959 assiduous tireless
960 elated overjoyed

149
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He could hardly even believe his luck.


What do you say, Drew? Coach asked. I hated 961curtailing your
hopes last time. The last thing I ever wanted to do was 962exclude a
hardworking leader like yourself from our 963roster. But I think this solution
could be really 964advantageous to you and the team. We all know that you
being on the field means an 965infusion of energy and determination to the
whole squad.
Drew grinned, his heart 966welling with pride.
But I 967digress, Coach said, standing. What I really want to know is,
are you in? He held out his hand to Drew over the desk.
Coach, Drew said, finally feeling able to speak through the lump of
emotion in his throat. An emotion that felt a lot like 968ectasy. He stood up
and grasped Coach Davidsons hand. I could not be more in.

961 curtailing cutting off


962 exclude leave out
963 roster . a list of names
964 advantageous beneficial
965 infusion injection
966 welling rising
967 digress lose clarity or turn aside especially from the main subject
968 ecstasy elation

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Chapter Eleven

On their way up to the football field, Drew had to concentrate to keep


from laughing. He couldnt help it. If someone had told him a couple years
ago that he might be playing tight end his senior year, he would have thought
it was utterly ridiculous. But now.... now it was his ray of hope. And it
seemed so obvious. He was fast. He was 969elusive. He was strong. He could
read a defense like nobodys business. Why not be a lead blocker? Why not
be the guy who had to evade the defense and tear down field, then batter his
way for a few more yards? He couldnt be more excited to get started. Plus,
he could not wait to see his fathers face when he told him. Drew had no idea
whether his father would be excited or annoyed, but either way hed be
stunned. That was going to be fun.
Drew, Samson, and Coach Davidson 970crested the hill, and the field
came into view. Drew paused. What he saw before him meant the complete
971
erasure of all his happy thoughts. There were two 972distinct groups of
guys on the field. To the left were the Washingtonville guys in their red and
white practice uniforms. To the right were the Corinth guys, each and every
one of them wearing a full Corinth uniform. Silver pants. Blue jerseys with
gray numbers. Silver helmets with lions on them. Not even practice uniforms,
but game unis. They were 973dingy and dated, with their big old lettering and
baggy look, but they got their point across. The Corinth guys were mad as
hell and they werent going to take it anymore.
Drew glanced at Samson from the corner of his eye, and Samson looked
974
nauseated. He was wearing the red and white. Clearly, his Corinth buddies
had not 975disclosed their plan of action to him. Drew wondered how that
969 elusive hard to catch
970 crested reached the top
971 erasure removal
972 distinct separate
973 dingy grimy
974 nauseated sickened
975 disclosed revealed

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made Samson feel. His guess was not good.


You didnt know about this, huh? Drew whispered.
Samson shook his head. I dont even know how they acquired the
helmets and pants. School only let us keep the jerseys at the end of the year.
Jackasses mustve busted into the old locker room.
Drew looked at the Corinth guys in 976awe. To do something like that,
they must have been really serious about making this statement.
Whats going on here? Coach Davidson shouted.
As they drew closer to the field, Drew could hear both sides grumbling
as a couple of the coaches put their heads together to try to figure out what to
do.
Adam, Tank, and Lance stepped forward and approached Coach
Davidson. Instantly, Clay, Jason, Dirk, and a few others emerged from the
Washingtonville side, as if ready to defend Coach from an attack. Drew half
expected to see them 977brandishing weapons. His heartbeat pounded in his
ears as he broke out in a cold sweat. This was not going to be pretty.
Coach, our school may have been dissolved, but our team is 978extant,
Adam said to Coach Davidson. Clearly he had emerged as the 979dominant
voice for his cause over the last twenty-four hours, and from the look of the
Corinth guys, his determination was 980contagious. As a team, weve
decided that were not going to wear another teams colors anymore. The
memory of our school deserves a little dignity.
Coach turned to Samson. Were you a 981collaborator on this, Hill? he
asked.

976 awe wonder


977 brandishing holding aggresively
978 extant still in existence
979 dominant strongest
980 contagious infectious
981 collaborator partner

152
Sacked by Emma Harrison

No, sir, Samson said bitterly, eyeing his 982crafty friends.


Coach took a deep breath and blew it out 983audibly, looking at the
grass. Kids, I dont know what to tell you, except that this type of
984
showboating isnt going to help this team. Its nothing but 985divisive.
The Washingtonville guys muttered their assent.
Thats not our fault, Coach, Lance piped up. We have to stand up for
what we think is right.
Yeah, and we dont think the school boards decision was
986
evenhanded, Adam added. Clearly they didnt even care to hear our
thoughts or concerns about this. They didnt even try to come up with a
compromise.
The Corinth guys shouted and hollered, and Drew felt his shoulders
tense.
How can you make 987assertions like that? None of us were there,
Drew shouted over the 988din. We have no idea what went into making their
decision.
Oh, what a shock! Benson is 989concordant with the school board and
the Washingtonville people, Adam spat in reply. Dude, have you ever had
an original thought in your life, or do you just 990regurgitate everything your
perfect brother and your perfect coach think and say? he asked, getting right
in Drews face.
Hey, man! Back off, Samson shouted, shoving his way in between
them. He pushed Adam back, and the guy almost fell into his friends.
982 crafty shrewd
983 audibly so to be heard
984 showboating . to perform or behave in a showy and flamboyant(showy) way
985 divisive disruptive
986 evenhanded fair
987 assertions claims
988 din racket
989 concordant in agreement
990 regurgitate repeat

153
Sacked by Emma Harrison

And you! Youre such a 991fraud! Adam blurted at Samson. Look at


you! You were supposed to be our captain, and youve totally 992defected to
the other side.
Thats a total 993calumny, Samson shot back. No one even told me
about this little 994standoff of yours. But you know what? Even if they had, I
wouldnt have gone along with it. Its time for you guys to quit your bitching
and start acting like a team!
Oh, yeah? Well maybe no one told you about it because we all knew
youd already 995bailed on the 996ethos of our team. Hanging out with
Benson, giving him rides to school, Adam replied snidely. Its about time
you remember where youre from, he added, giving Samson a little shove.
All right, thats enough! Coach Davidson roared. He threw his
clipboard down and stepped up, his face a 997heinous shade of purple.
Lazarus, these two men are your captains, he said, pointing a shaking
finger at Samson and Drew. You will show them the respect they deserve.
Adams face screwed into a 998defiant smirk, and he spat at Samsons
feet. No one moved. No one breathed. There was no sound except the roar of
a plane flying somewhere overhead.
This is it. Hes going to throw us all out of here. Hes going to call up
the school board and tell them to 999disband the team.
Well. That was 1000discourteous, Coach said finally. Flatly.
Traitors get spit on where I come from, Adam replied.

991 fraud fake


992 defected left
993 calumny slander
994 standoff . a act of repulsing or repelling an attack
995 bailed . released. removed
996 ethos guiding beliefs
997 heinous . extremely wicked, deeply criminal
998 defiant disobedient
999 disband break up
1000 discourteous rude

154
Sacked by Emma Harrison

And that was all Coach needed to hear.


Fifty laps! Coach Davidson shouted in Adams face. You just earned
yourself fifty laps, Lazarus!
Drew watched Adam as he glared at the coach. There was no way he
was going to do it, no way he was going to let his team see him cave.
It just became sixty, Coach said, stepping even closer to Adam, so
close their chests collided. Care to make it a hundred?
Adam shook his head 1001derisively and bent to pick up his helmet. He
jogged away from the team, bypassing eye contact with any one of them.
Come on, you guys. Lets start practice, Samson said, pulling his
helmet on.
Yeah. Lets go, Drew added, jogging into the open space between the
two groups.
At first, only a few brave souls followed them, but then Coach
Davidson blew his whistle, and the rest of the team 1002grudgingly hopped to.
Drew breathed a sigh of relief as he fell into line to start warm-ups, but he
couldnt fully relax. Everyone around him was tense, and the 1003specter of
Adam running his sixty laps was a constant reminder of the animosity that
permeated the field. As Drew started to count off jumping jacks, he had a
feeling that this was going to be a very long practice.
Drew caught the confused looks of his teammates as he approached the
offensive line for the first 1004scrimmage after warm-ups. He stepped up next
to Samson as Coach Davidson brought up the rear.
Whats up, Coach? Jason said lightly. Were going for a two-
quarterback offense this year?
A few of the guys on the line laughed, though only Washingtonville
1001 derisively contemptuously
1002 grudgingly reluctantly
1003 specter image
1004 scrimmage . practice play between a football team's squads

155
Sacked by Emma Harrison

guys, Drew noticed. Coach shook his head and smirked.


Ah, Szonyi, he said, putting a hand on Jasons shoulder pad. Trust
you to always come to the most 1005implausible conclusion.
Jason blushed, but more guys laughed at that one, so his embarrassment
was for a worthy cause. Anything that could cut the tension on this team even
slightly was totally worth it.
All right, guys, were going to try something new today, Coach
Davidson announced, shoving his clipboard under his arm. Jackman, youre
out. Im trying out Benson at tight end.
What? No way, Clay blurted, shocked.
Alex Jackman, the freshman tight end, looked almost relieved to be
pulled from the lineup. Not that Drew could blame him. Practice today was
likely going to be intense. The kid jogged his butt to the sidelines so fast it
was like he was being chased.
Yes way, Coach replied. Lets run the blitz and see if your captain
can block! he shouted, backing up.
Drew wanted to shoot his coach a gee thanks look but managed to
check himself. Instead he took his place on the line and prepared himself for
combat. This was it. This was his chance to show what he could do. To win a
place on this team. There was no way he was going to fail. Even if that
1006
gargantuan Tank Langford was growling like a pit bull and 1007seething in
his direction.
Coach blew his whistle with a 1008flourish, and Drew threw himself into
battle.
An hour later, battered and 1009parched and exhausted, Drew launched
himself into the air over two defenders and just prayed that the ball would
1005 implausible unbelievable
1006 gargantuan gigantic
1007 seething . agitating
1008 flourish showiness
1009 parched dehydrated

156
Sacked by Emma Harrison

land in his fingers. He felt the 1010pigskin and clutched at it, pulling it to his
chest just as the two guysone Washingtonville and one Corinthcollided
with each other and with his legs from either side. Drew closed his eyes and
tucked his head as he 1011careened head over heels toward the ground over
their backs. He slammed into the 1012turf, the wind knocked out of him, and
opened his eyes.
I cant breathe. I cant breathe, he thought for a wild second.
But then the air flooded his lungs and he coughed and sputtered. Two
seconds later, Clay, Jason, and Dirk all appeared around him.
Do I still have the ball? he asked.
You bet your ass you do, Clay said, yanking him up and smacking his
helmet. Dude! Youre killing us out there!
Ten straight completed passes. Drew could hardly believe it. Looked as
if his career as a tight end was off to an 1013auspicious start. He wished his
father were here. Or his brother. They were never going to believe this.
Where the hell did these extreme skills come from? Dirk added.
I have my hidden talents, Drew joked, gasping for breath.
Dude, you should 1014conserve your energy, Jason said, slapping the
top of his helmet. I have a feeling youre gonna be starting every game this
year.
God, I hope so, Drew thought, smiling. A couple of other
Washingtonville guys slapped his shoulders as they made their way across the
field. It seemed like his new position had 1015distracted the teamthe
Washingtonville guys, at leastfrom the earlier 1016discord. The Corinth
1010 pigskin . leather from the skin of swine
1011 careened lurched (moved slowly and unsteadily)
1012 turf . surface layer of ground containing a mat of grass and grass roots
1013 auspicious promising
1014 conserve save
1015 distracted diverted
1016 discord . disagreement

157
Sacked by Emma Harrison

guys didnt seem all that happy to have him back on the field, but so far they
had kept their mouths shut about it. Practice had been way more passionate
than usual, with some nasty hits and a lot of cracking helmets, but the team
was 1017forging ahead without incident, and Drew was starting to think it
might actually be possible to get through this day without a throwdown.
One could hope.
How did Coach come up with this idea? Jason asked Drew.
Drew glanced over at Samson. Actually, Im 1018indebted to Hill for
that, he said. Coach saw us playing catch yesterday and got the idea.
He reached out his hand, which Samson slapped. Drew glanced around
at the 1019huddle, hoping theyd take the 1020cue. If he and Samson could get
along, they could all get along. But everyone just 1021glowered in response.
Wait a minuteso its true? You two were hanging out yesterday?
1022
Clay derided them.
Back off, Carradine, Drew said, annoyed. Were just trying to make
the best of a sucky situation.
Yeah. Whatever, Clay said.
All right, you guys! Lets run that play one more time! Coach
Davidson called out, blowing his whistle.
Drew lined up behind the tackle. Across the line he could see that Tank
was no longer the only defensive player out for blood. Clay was now glaring
at him too. What was wrong with this guy? So Drew was trying to make
friends with Samson. Was that really so 1023inflammatory? How could these
guys not see that something had to change around here?
1017 forging moved slowly and steadily
1018 indebted thankful
1019 huddle . a disorganized and densely packed crowd
1020 cue signal
1021 glowered stared sullenly
1022 derided ridiculed
1023 inflammatory inciting (provoking)

158
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Blue, thirty-eight! Blue, thirty-eight! Samson shouted.


Clay stared into Drews eyes. Drew stared right back, all the tiny hairs
on the back of his neck on end.
Hike!
Drew jumped off the line. He was supposed to go in motion to the right,
but instead he threw himself right at Clay, who he knew was gunning for him.
Clay had clearly been expecting to catch Drew on the run, so when Drew hit
him directly in the chest, he was flung backward, off balance. Drew threw
Clay to the ground, jumped over his prone body, and sidestepped Tank. He
raced down the center of the field, wide open. No one had been expecting
him to reach the center of the line, so the corners were miles away from him.
Hill! Drew shouted, raising a hand in the air.
Samson saw him and let the ball fly. It was an easy catch, and Drew
sprinted into the end zone. A couple of guys raced up to hug him, and then
Samson was there as well. The two of them jumped in the air, high-fiving
over their heads, 1024exultant.
We are unstoppable! Samson shouted.
You bet your ass! Drew replied happily.
But their celebration was 1025finite. Behind Drew there was a shout, then
another. As he turned around, he saw Clay and Tank wrestling each other to
the ground. Then Lance shouted something 1026crass about Dirks mother, and
Dirk threw his helmet off and 1027assailed Lance. They hit the ground, and
Dirk tore off Lances helmet, all the better to 1028pummel his face with his
fist. It all happened so fast, Drew had no idea what the 1029catalyst had been.

1024 exultant jubilant


1025 finite limited
1026 crass crude
1027 assailed attacked
1028 pummel pound
1029 catalyst trigger

159
Sacked by Emma Harrison

1030
Damn it! Drew shouted, racing toward the fray with Samson in
tow.
By the time they ran the fifty yards, half the team was 1031embroiled in
the melee. Bodies were flung aside. Blood spurted across white jerseys.
1032
Epithets filled the air. Drew was just about to fling himself at a Corinth
guy who was beating the hell out of John Washburn, when Coach Davidson
met him with the force of a Mac truck and threw him back.
Stay out of it! Coach shouted at him and Samson. Get back!
Drew stopped, heaving for breath, as Coach turned and pulled the guy
off of John. Along with the other coaches, he dove in, pulling kids out one by
one and backing them up. Drew looked at Samson, who had likewise
stopped, and they both went about trying to keep their friends from rejoining
the fight. He brought John over to the bench near the track and grabbed a
towel for him to hold against his bleeding nose.
You all right, man? he asked.
John held his head back and managed the tiniest nod. Go help them.
Drew didnt know whether he meant help the team or the coaches, but
he turned around and went back to see what he could do. Clay was whaling
on one of the defensive players from Corinth, and Drew and Dirk grabbed
him from either side and dragged him away.
I wasnt done with him, man, Clay shouted, still ready to go, even
though blood was pouring from his mouth.
What the hell is the matter with you, Clay? Drew asked. Im so sick
of this crap. Why do you have to be so 1033confrontational?
Look whos talking, Mr. lets-go-to-the-Corinth-diner-and-just-see-
what-happens! Where do you get off being so 1034sanctimonious all of a
1030 fray fight
1031 embroiled involved
1032 epithets disparaging words
1033 confrontational provoking
1034 sanctimonious self-righteous

160
Sacked by Emma Harrison

sudden? Why are you castigating me? Clay replied, spitting again. Youre
the one who kept saying they were 1035contaminating our school. But all of a
sudden its like youve forgotten all about that. Whatd you geta
1036
lobotomy?
No. Im just trying to change, Drew replied. Im just trying to save
this team. But if this is the way its gonna be, maybe its not worthy saving.
He turned and stormed off, helping a couple of coaches separate a pair
of combatants. It took just minutes to break the whole thing up, but it felt to
Drew like hours. When the last few guys were peeled away from the pile, a
sickening sight greeted all of them. Jason was lying on the ground
seemingly pressed into the groundbloody and unconscious, a 1037contusion
from his temple to the center of his forehead.
Oh my God. Jason, Drew said, rushing over to his friends side.
Call 911! Coach Davidson shouted.
Lewinter pulled out his cell and dialed. Everyone was suddenly still as
death. Drew and Dirk knelt next to Jason with Coach. His skin looked waxy
and green. Drew saw his lifelong friendship with Jason pass before his eyes.
Their first trip to PNC Park to see the Pirates, riding bikes in the summer
during middle school, climbing the trees outside Tamaras house trying to see
in her windows. Jasons idea, of course. He felt like his chest was going to
explode.
Please just let him be okay, Drew thought. Ill take the blame for
everything. Ill 1038atone for everything Ive ever done wrong. Ill quit the
team for good. Just let him be okay.
Is he breathing? Drew asked, his voice cracking.

1035 contaminating ruining


1036 lobotomy . surgical interruption of nerve tracts to and from the frontal lobe of the brain;
often results in marked cognitive and personality changes
1037 contusion bruise
1038 atone . make amends for

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Sacked by Emma Harrison

1039
Barely, Coach replied gravely. We have to get him to a hospital.
Now.

1039 gravely . badly; severely

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Chapter Twelve

Drew, you should really sit, Coach Davidson said, leaning forward in
the plastic waiting room chair. We could be here a while.
Drew paced up and down the aisle in the brightly lit, 1040antiseptic yet
1041
chaotic ER waiting room. All around him, his teammates talked in low
tones. In the chairs beyond them, little kids sniffled and coughed, a guy about
his fathers age held his arm, which was obviously broken, and a few other
sorry-looking characters stared into space or called for doctors. Drews heart
was pounding so hard he couldnt even imagine trying to sit still.
I cant, he told Coach, stepping over Dirks outstretched legs. I cant
sit.
There would be no relaxing for Drew. He was going to practice
1042
abnegation until he heard that his best friend was okay. No matter what
Drew did, he just couldnt stop seeing Jasons gray, limp body. His friend had
never regained consciousness as they loaded him into the ambulance. And
when his mother had arrived with Jasons little brother in 1043tow, shed been
a 1044hysterical mess. And why? For what? Because of some stupid rivalry
between Corinth and Washingtonville? It was all so pointless.
Damn it! Drew shouted, bringing his fist down into the seat of an
empty chair.
Drew! Coach barked, surprised.
Dude. Youve gotta calm down, Samson said, standing up from his
own chair.
I cant. I feel 1045execrable, Drew said, pressing the heels of his hands

1040 antiseptic sterile


1041 chaotic hectic
1042 abnegation self-denial
1043 tow . an act of hauling something
1044 hysterical theoretically
1045 execrable terrible

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into his forehead. This is all my fault. My best friend.... basically the nicest
guy on the planet.... is in the hospital unconscious, and its all my fault.
He felt so desperate, so alone. So completely and totally stupid.
1046
Encumbered by all his emotions, he finally dropped into a chair and put
his head in his hands. He knew the rest of the team was staring at him, but he
didnt even care. Nothing mattered right now except for Jason.
Drew.... son, let me 1047exculpate you right now, Coach Davidson
said, putting his arm around Drew and squeezing his shoulder. You didnt
start this fight. You werent even in on this fight. You and Samson were
trying to change things. This isnt your fault.
Drew sniffled and looked up, 1048constraining a few tears that
threatened to overflow. A few of the kids from Washingtonville were
whispering and laughing, telling stories about Jason. Drews heart felt like it
was about to burst.
Do you see that? Theyre telling 1049anecdotes about him. Like this is
his wake. Like hes already dead, Drew said.
Hes gonna be fine, Samson told him. The doctor seemed optimistic.
Youve gotta try to 1050cultivate some hope.
Drew took a deep breath, staring out over the waiting room. The
Washingtonville guys were on one side. The Corinth guysthe few who had
bothered to comewere on the other. They werent acknowledging each
other or even looking at each other. The whole thing made Drew so sick he
wanted to spit.
They should just 1051raze the field already, he said bitterly. This isnt
a team. Its never going to be a team.

1046 encumbered weighed down


1047 exculpate free from blame
1048 constraining holding back
1049 anecdotes short, amusing stories
1050 cultivate develop
1051 raze tear down

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Sacked by Emma Harrison

Coach Davidson shifted in his seat. He slipped out of his jacket and
folded it on his lap with a sigh. To be honest, son, after today, it wouldnt
surprise me at all if the school board decided to 1052abjure the team and
1053
abrogate the program. At least until next year.
What? Samson blurted, as if wondering whether his coachs thesaurus
had gotten stuck open to the pages 1054spanning 1055abhorrent through
abrupt.
Well, all weve proven since day one is that you guys dont know how
to get along and that I cant keep control of you, Coach said, looking
1056
grim and sad. Now one of my players has landed in the hospital. This is
not a 1057propitious situation. Theres a school board meeting next
Wednesday, and my guess is once they hear about this, the team will be on
their agenda.
The sliding doors opened with a hiss, and a 1058sacerdote walked
through holding a Bible. Drews heart all but stopped. It felt like a 1059presage
of doom.
Please dont be here to give anyone last rights, he thought.
The door behind the desk opened, and Mrs. Szonyi walked out, holding
Jasons little brother Eric by the hand. Her blond hair was back in a ponytail,
and her usually made-up face was 1060wan, having been wiped clean by tears
and tissues. She deposited Eric in a chair near the wall with a book and
walked over to Coach. Every player in the room either stood up or at least sat
up straight. Drew was on his feet in a second.

1052 abjure disown


1053 abrogate abolish
1054 spanning . covering or extending over an area or time period
1055 abhorrent . offensive to the mind
1056 grim . filled with melancholy and despondency
1057 propitious encouraging
1058 sacerdote priest
1059 presage omen (a sign of something about to happen)
1060 wan pale

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Is he okay? Drew blurted before Jasons mom could even get a word
out.
She smiled weakly. Hes going to be fine.
Yes! Drew cheered, feeling his entire body lighten. All the other guys
cheered and hollered as well, hugging and celebrating in their 1061ebullient
way until one of the nurses told them to cut the crap. Then they instantly fell
silent, blushing like mad.
Thats great news, Jenny, Coach Davidson said, squeezing Mrs.
Szonyis arm.
They were 1062circumspect at first, Jasons mother explained, taking
the chair Drew had vacated. They didnt want to say anything, basically,
until he woke up. But he finally did about fifteen minutes ago, and he
answered all their questions correctly, so.... as long as they keep him awake
for a while, they think hell be fine. The only problem is that since he needs
to stay awake, they cant give him anything for the pain in his leg yet.
His leg? Drew asked.
Its broken, she replied, reaching into her purse for a tissue, which she
pressed to her nose. Other than a 1063concussion, thats his worst injury.
Drew felt sick to his stomach. Someone had broken Jasons leg? Who
the hell could do such a thing?
It probably happened in the pile-on, Samson said, as if reading
Drews thoughts. Im sure no one meant for anything like this to happen,
Mrs. Szonyi.
I know. It seems like a lot of you boys are worse for the wear, she
said, glancing around at all the cuts and bruises around her. She closed her
eyes and held her breath for a moment. Im sorry. I just have such an
aversion to hospitals.

1061 ebullient cheerful


1062 circumspect cautious
1063 concussion . brain injury caused by a blow; usually resulting in loss of consciousness

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Is there anything I can get you? Drew asked automatically.


Can I 1064dispatch you in search of some coffee? she asked, her voice
1065
meek. That would be so helpful, Drew.
Im on it, Drew said, happy to have some kind of task to perform.
Can I come? Eric asked, jumping out of his chair.
Sure, little man, Drew said, 1066ruffling the kids curly hair. Eric was
always following him and Jason around, and sometimes his
1067
precociousness annoyed Drew, but tonight he welcomed the kids
company. It made him feel closer to Jason somehow.
He walked over to the nurses station and inquired about the coffee
machine, which was in a nearby nurses lounge. Once he found it, the thing
was so 1068elaborate he had no idea what to do. Did she want 1069decaf or
regular? Flavored or unflavored? He finally decided to just make as many
different kinds as he could carry.
Grab a seat, dude. This could take a while, Drew told Eric.
Eric did as he was told. He sat at a round wooden table and opened his
book again.
Wow. Youre really into that, huh? Drew said, choosing one of the
one-serving coffee packets and tossing it into the machine.
Its homework, but I like it, Eric said, shrugging his thin shoulders.
Whats the book? Drew asked.
Its an 1070anthology of Greek myths.
Drew scoffed. Youre learning Greek mythology in fourth grade?

1064 dispatch send


1065 meek timid
1066 ruffling . disturbing the smoothness of
1067 precociousness early maturity
1068 elaborate complex
1069 decaf . coffee with the caffeine removed
1070 anthology collection

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Its for advanced reading, Eric replied, turning the page.


Drew grinned. Ah. That explains it. He wandered over to the
refrigerator while the first cup of coffee was brewing. Inside was a
1071
plethora of different sodas. You want a soda?
I cant have sugar after six p.m., Eric said matter-of-factly.
Drew laughed. Eric, man, youre ten.
Eric looked up from his book. So?
So, live a little, Drew replied.
He placed a root beer in front of Eric and popped open a soda for
himself as he sat down. Eric pulled the soda to him, his eyes wide with the
crime of it all, and Drew slid Erics book over to him.
Lets see this thing, he said, taking a 1072slug of his soda. He closed
the book to check out the cover, and instantly the world stopped moving.
Somewhere overhead, a PA system called for a doctor. Behind him, the
coffeemaker 1073burbled. Eric sucked down half a can of root beer in record
time. But all Drew could see was the illustration on the front cover of Erics
Greek mythology book.
It was a perfect 1074epiphany. Something hed heard about, but had
never actually experienced himself. Suddenly he knew how to fix everything
between Washingtonville and Corinth. Or, at least, how to start.
Oh. My. God. This is it, Drew said.
Drew stood up, clutching the book, and grabbed the one cup of coffee
that was just finished brewing.
What? Whats it? Eric asked, jumping up as well.
Here. Give me that, Drew said, snatching the can out of Erics hand.

1071 plethora variety


1072 slug . a small drink of liquor
1073 burbled . flowed in an irregular current with a bubbling noise
1074 epiphany moment of realization

168
Sacked by Emma Harrison

1075
It was already empty. Wow. You have a serious propensity for root beer,
kid.
I like it okay, Eric said. Can I have my book back?
In a second, Drew said, heading for the door. I have to
1076
adumbrate my idea to Samson and Coach.
What idea? Eric asked, jogging to catch up with him.
I dont know. Its all kind of 1077amorphous right now. But if it
works.... God. I think it could actually work, Drew said, feeling truly
energized for the first time all evening.
He walked into the ER, where much of the team was starting to
disperse, having heard that Jason was okay. After handing the coffee to Mrs.
Szonyi, Drew held out the book to Samson and Coach and started to explain
his plan. Gradually, their eyes lit up, and Drew knew he was on to something.
This could actually work, kid, Coach Davidson said proudly.
But weve got a lot to do, Samson put in.
So you want to help? Drew asked.
Definitely, man, Samson replied, slapping Drew on the back. This is
our team. Lets save it.
When he walked into Spanish class on Friday, Drew was pleased to see
a television and DVD player at the front of the room. There was nothing like
a movie day to lift his spirits. Especially considering that next weeks school
board meeting and his plan to save the team had become an obsession for
him. Now he could use this period to work on the plan. He headed for his
usual seat near the back of the room and pulled out his notebook, turning to a
clean page.
1078
Two seconds later, Lily strode in, looking as ethereal and beautiful
1075 propensity penchant (a strong liking)
1076 adumbrate disclose
1077 amorphous shapeless
1078 ethereal otherwordly (existing outside of or not in accordance with nature)

169
Sacked by Emma Harrison

as ever in a soft pink sweater and long brown skirt. As always, Drew was
momentarily distracted by her stunning eyes and her blemish-free skin, but he
managed to 1079avert his gaze before she saw him staring. Hed started to
adjust to her complete indifference toward him and, to preserve what was left
of his ego, hadnt even said hi to her in days.
All right, class. Today were going to start watching one of my favorite
Spanish-language movies, Volver, Mrs. Trull announced, 1080dousing the
lights. Sit back, relax, and pay attention. There will be a quiz next week.
Everyone groaned except Drew and Lily. Drew saw her slip her ear
buds back into her ears as the movie started up. He 1081stifled a laugh and
started to sketch with his pencil. If he and Samson were going to make a
presentation to the school board, they needed it to look impressive and well
thought out, which meant having visual aids. Drew was anything but
1082
adroit at drawing, but hed seen some of Samsons attempts at this, and
between the two of them, he was at least 1083marginally better. Still, his
childlike figures irritated him every time he tried. After his third attempt, he
felt a 1084compulsion to tear the sheet off and 1085crumble it, but he had a
feeling Mrs. Trull might frown on that. It might interrupt this 1086banal movie
she was forcing them to watch and stir the rest of the class from their
1087
ennui.
Drew turned the page and started a new sketch. After a few minutes he
started to feel like someone was watching him, and he looked up quickly,
expecting to find Mrs. Trull breathing down his neck. Instead, his eyes met
the beautiful yet stunned eyes of Lily Winters. Drew raised his eyebrows, and

1079 avert turn away


1080 dousing . putting out, as of a candle or a light
1081 stifled held back
1082 adroit skillful
1083 marginally slightly
1084 compulsion impulse
1085 crumble . break or fall apart into fragments
1086 banal boring
1087 ennui boredom

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Sacked by Emma Harrison

she blushed and quickly looked away. She rested her elbow on her desk and
covered her mouth with her hand, but she was clearly trying to hide a smile.
Drews heart fluttered. What? he whispered. Is it that bad?
1088
She gave the drawing another cursory glance. A for effort, she
said not unkindly.
Drew chuckled quietly. He looked at his admittedly simple drawing,
then back at her desk. Lily was using a purple pen to 1089embellish the edges
of her notebook page with flowers. Flowers that had shading and 1090nuance
and depth. Drew blushed with hot embarrassment.
Guess Im not that much of an artist, he whispered.
She smiled her agreement.
But you have a real 1091aesthetic sense, he commented, shifting a bit
so he could better see. He didnt want to be 1092pert and say too much,
considering this would technically be the longest conversation they had ever
had, but he decided he had to try. Listen, 1093hypothetically, if I were to ask
you for a favor, what would your response be?
That would depend on the hypothetical favor, she replied without
looking up.
Mr. Benson, Ms. Winters, do I need to separate you two? Mrs. Trull
asked suddenly.
No maam, Lily said automatically.
No. Were good, Drew put in.
He sat back in his seat and focused his eyes on the screen, his pulse

1088 cursory brief


1089 embellish decorate
1090 nuance distinct traits
1091 aesthetic artistic
1092 pert animated
1093 hypothetically theoretically

171
Sacked by Emma Harrison

racing in his ears over the 1094admonishmentand the headway he seemed


to be making with Lily. Two seconds later, a folded piece of paper landed on
his desk. Surprised, he slid it into his lap and unfolded it. It read, simply: Talk
after class.
He glanced at Lily, and she didnt look back, but he knew it was from
her by the purple ink. And suddenly he couldnt wait for the bell.
After twenty anguished minutes, the lights were finally on and everyone
1095
was blearily gunning for the door. Drew and Lily both took their time and
hung back. She lifted her tattered messenger bag over her shoulder, crossed
her arms over her chest, and looked at him expectantly. Drew looked at her
for a good ten seconds before he realized this meant it was time for him to
talk.
Okay, well, have you heard about whats been going on with the
football team? he asked, starting for the door.
Lily followed slowly, her long skirt kicking out in graceful flutters. Of
course. You are fairly 1096notorious, she replied. I hear youre a pretty
1097
bellicose group.
Drews skin warmed with embarrassment, and he paused to let her
through the door first. We have been, I guess. In fact, I think our behavior
has been pretty 1098corrosive to school spirit and to the school itself. But Id
really like to 1099implement a change.
Okay, Lily said with a nod.
My friend Samson and I.... we have this plan that we want to present to
the school board on Wednesday, and I think that our argument is well thought
out and 1100cogent, but theres one problem, Drew explained, ushering her to
1094 admonishment reprimand
1095 blearily . in a sleepy manner
1096 notorious infamous
1097 bellicose aggresive
1098 corrosive damaging
1099 implement apply
1100 cogent convincing

172
Sacked by Emma Harrison

the end of the hall.


Whats that? Lily asked, focusing her eyes on his face.
Drews heart skipped a beat at her sudden 1101brazen behavior. Brazen
for her, anyway. He wasnt sure if shed ever fully looked at him before. And
she was still looking. And growing kind of disturbed actually.
Oh! Right! Drew blurted suddenly, feeling like a moron. It was just
hard to remain 1102lucid in the face of all that beauty. The problem is, we
need art. You know, visual aids? But neither one of us can draw.
Oh. Okay, Lily said, finally getting it. So you need an artist.
Yeah. Basically. And you seem to be an artist.... Drew said in a
leading way.
What would you need me to draw? Lily asked, turning a corner and
walking toward the main hallin the opposite direction from where Drew
needed to be.
Actually, its kind of a long story, and I have to get to class, he said
reluctantly. Is there any way you can meet me in the library after school?
Would you be 1103amenable to hanging out for, like, an hour? Im pretty sure
thats all it would take.
Lily 1104regarded him for a moment as he backed down the hall slowly,
biting her lip in an adorable way. Her left ankle collapsed and straightened,
collapsed and straightened, like it was helping her think it through. For an
agonizing few seconds, Drew thought she was going to turn him down, but
then, finally, she 1105capitulated.
Okay, fine, she said finally. Youre in luck. Friday is my only free
day after school.

1101 brazen . unrestrained


1102 lucid coherent
1103 amenable open
1104 regarded studied
1105 capitulated gave in

173
Sacked by Emma Harrison

1106
Mine too! Drew said, throwing his arms out in glee. What are the
odds?
Lily laughed. It was a beautiful, musical laugh that lit up her entire face.
But Im not guaranteeing anything. I need to hear this 1107ingenious plan of
yours first.
You got it! Drew shouted. And thank you!
Then he turned and jogged off down the hall, feeling lighter than he had
all year.
Drew straightened the sleeves of his one and only suit and took a deep
breath, checking himself out in the mirror. His palms were already sweating,
and his heart felt like dozens of tiny ants were tap dancing all over it. Part of
him wanted to just change back into his sweats, sack out in front of the TV,
and let someone else deal with the 1108eminent school board. But this was his
plan. His moment. And he wasnt going to let himself or his team down.
He picked up his folder with his speech and papers inside, and headed
downstairs.
Wow! What a 1109metamorphosis! Drews mother said as he walked
into the living room. She stood up and dusted off his shoulders and
straightened his tie. She looked pretty herself, with her blond hair down over
the shoulders of a pressed blue shirt. We should have sent you to a private
school. You look so good in suits.
Yeah. I clean up well, Drew joked, even though the ants had
1110
ratcheted up the tap dance a notch. His father was staring at him like hed
never seen him before.
Where are you going dressed like that on a Wednesday night? his
father asked, muting the television.
1106 glee . great merriment
1107 ingenious inspired
1108 eminent distinguished
1109 metamorphosis transformation
1110 ratcheted . moved by degrees in one direction only

174
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Drew steeled himself as he turned to his dad. They had barely spoken
two words to each other since the incident at the Corinthian Diner, and Drew
had been enjoying his 1111hiatus from criticism. But he had also decided that
he was no longer going to be 1112fettered by his fear of his fathers scorn, by
their 1113contentious relationship. He was proud of what he was about to do.
For the first time in his life he felt like he was making the mature move,
acting like an adult. So hed decided it was time to start acting like one with
his father as well.
Actually, Dad, Im going to the school board meeting to present a plan
for the football team, Drew said, clearing his throat.
Drews father scoffed and waved a hand, sitting back in his chair. Its
too late for that. Everyone in town knows that the board has already decided
to 1114denounce you all. I wouldnt be surprised if they 1115proscribed football
entirely in this town. After everything your brother built, your name is going
to go down in 1116infamy as the player who destroyed the Eagles.
Drew felt like he had just been punched in the gut, but he refused to let
it show.
Actually, I think Drews plan is a 1117judicious one, his mother began,
attempting to defend him as usual. If you would just hear him out
Its okay, Mom, Drew said.
He walked over and stood in front of the TV, blocking his fathers view.
He was so sick of his dads 1118impercious ways, all he wanted to do was give
the same attitude back. His dad glared up at him, annoyed.
Im sorry you feel like my names going to go down in infamy, Drew
1111 hiatus a break
1112 fettered chained
1113 contentious touchy
1114 denounce condemn
1115 proscribed banned
1116 infamy disgrace
1117 judicious sensible
1118 imperious domineering

175
Sacked by Emma Harrison

began, his free hand curling into a fist that steadied his resolve. But this stuff
about the school board making a decision already is 1119apocryphal. Its just a
rumor that people have been 1120propagating to give themselves something to
talk about. The board knows that Samson and I are coming tonight. They put
us at the top of their agenda. And I think their going to listen to our plan and
see that we are more than willing to change. That we 1121aspire to a better
future for the team. And I think theyre going to let us keep playing.
1122
Drews father seemed amused. Well, thats very presumptuous of
you.
Well, I guess youve got to be a little 1123quixotic when youre in my
position, Drew said. All I know is that when Jason got hurt, that was the
1124
nadir of my life, and I have to do something to fix the situation that got
him there. I have to believe that the people on the school board are going to
see that and that theyre going to want to help me. I know, at least, that
Jasons mom is on my side, and she has one vote.
Well, good luck with that, son, his father said with just a hint of
sarcasm.
Drews jaw clenched. Screw him, he thought. Just give this up. Walk
the hell out of here.
But he couldnt. He was not going to let his dad bring out his
1125
pugnacious side. Not tonight. Drew had decided on a course of action,
and he was going to stick with it.
Actually, Dad, I was hoping you and Mom might come, Drew said,
and then he held his breath.
His father sat up straight. You want us to come to the school board
1119 apocryphal dubious
1120 propagating spreading
1121 aspire . aim
1122 presumptuous arrogant, bold
1123 quixotic idealistic
1124 nadir low point
1125 pugnacious aggresive

176
Sacked by Emma Harrison

meeting with you. Now, he said flatly.


Drew swallowed back a lump in his throat. I could use your support,
he stated.
Its kind of short notice, isnt it, Drew? his father asked, lifting the
remote again. Were already settled in for the night.
Drew felt as if the house were crumbling down around him. He hadnt
really expected his father to say yes. The man had never been there for him in
his life. But to be blown off so casually was almost more than he could bear.
Well, Im going, his mother said, standing up and grabbing her purse.
Come on, Drew. You dont want to be late.
Drew started after her for the door, but he paused. There was one
question he suddenly wanted to ask, just ask in plain terms.
Dad, if I were Trey, would you be getting up to get changed right
now? he asked 1126tremulously.
1127
His father stared at him. There was a rebuke in his eyes, but then it
somehow shifted to doubt.
Honestly. Im not going to get upset. I just want your honest answer. If
Trey had walked in here and asked you to go watch him give a speech in
front of the school board, would the TV be more important? Drew asked.
Because youve ignored a lot of the little moments in my life, and Ive never
said much about it. Ive just let that go while you were off watching Trey win
or helping him with his form or doing whatever. But this is big, Dad. This
could be one of the biggest things Ive ever done. And it would mean a lot to
me if you were there.
Drews father stared at the TV for a long moment, thinking. Drew and
his mother both were frozen in place.
You really want me there, his father said finally. Really?

1126 tremulously shakily


1127 rebuke reprimand

177
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Drew somehow managed to nod. Slowly, his father pushed himself up


and turned off the set.
Ill get my jacket, he said.
Drew couldnt believe it. He stood there, rooted to the spot with his jaw
hanging open until his father was out of the room. When he turned to his
mom, her eyes were shining with pride.
Well. That was quite a 1128coup, she said with a smile.
I cant believe it, Drew said. He actually 1129acquiesced.
You did it, babe, his mother said, giving him a firm hug. I think this
1130
bodes well for the rest of the night, dont you?
God, I hope so. I really hope so, Drew replied.
The 1131frentic atmosphere outside the school board meeting did not
help soothe Drews nerves. The story of the fight that had landed Jason in the
hospital had hit the local papers over the weekend, and even though Jason
was now back at home, 1132reposing in the living room with two hundred
DVDs and all the Burger King he could eat, they made it sound like he was
on the brink of death. Now the press had figured out that tonight would be the
night the teams fate was decided. As Drew, Samson, Coach Davidson, and
Coach Lewinter stood outside the meeting, photographers snapped their
picture and tried to pry them aside for questions.
Are we really doing this? Drew asked Samson.
Dont worry man. Its going to be great. Were going to go in there and
kick some ass, Samson said, pressing his fist into his palm.
1133
Dont be too bombastic, Coach Davidson warned, looking around

1128 coup triumph


1129 acquiesced gave in
1130 bodes indicates
1131 frenetic hectic
1132 reposing resting
1133 bombastic overbearing

178
Sacked by Emma Harrison

at the press like he was worried they might suddenly swarm and trample
them. If you come off as cocky, theyre not going to take well to it.
Got it, Samson said, shoving his hands in his pockets. We need to be
humble.
This is some 1134caucus, Drews father said, whistling as he looked
around. Are there always this many people at this thing?
Only when the smell of blood is in the air, Lewinter replied
1135
acerbically.
Drew pulled out his speech for one final 1136perusal. Coach Davidson,
who was holding the poster Lily had drawn for them, glanced over his
shoulder to read.
This is good, son, he said. Keep it simple. No 1137grandiloquence.
Got it, Drew said with a nod.
Now Mrs. Gramble, the school board president, is going to be your
main 1138inquisitor, his mother said under her breath. She can be a bit
tough, but dont be intimidated. You have to 1139engage her. Make her an
1140
interlocutor instead of a judge.
Your mothers right. Dont be 1141impertinent, his father added. If
you point out to her that it was their misjudgment that started this whole
problem in the first place, shell shut you right down.
Everyone gaped at Drews father.
What? We all know theyre not beyond reproach, he whispered.
They didnt let those Corinth kids maintain a shred of their identity.
1134 caucus assembly
1135 acerbically harshly
1136 perusal examination
1137 grandiloquence extravagant language
1138 inquisitor questioner
1139 engage make involved
1140 interlocutor participant
1141 impertinent impolite

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Sacked by Emma Harrison

Jim! Drews mother said, shocked.


1142
Im a constituent in this town, he said. Im allowed to have an
opinion.
Yes, you are, Drews mother said with a laugh. She put her arm
around his dad. I think were just surprised you have that opinion.
A Washingtonville police officer stepped out of the cafeteria door,
where the meeting was being held. Everyone! If youll come inside! he
called out. Theyre about to get started.
Drews heart slammed painfully in his chest.
Give em hell, son, his father said, slapping him on the back.
Uh, thanks, Dad, Drew said, 1143marveling at his fathers turnaround.
He supposed he should have taken the mature, calm route with him a lot
earlier in life.
Im so proud of you, Drew, his mom added with a kiss on his cheek.
Drew took a deep breath as he watched them go. There was a sudden
1144
paucity of saliva in his mouth. Well see if they still are when this is over.
He turned around and paced away from the door as dozens of people flooded
inside. I cant do this. All those people? The cafeteria is 1145replete!
Dude, are you not president of the student body? Samson asked,
coming up next to him.
Drew nodded.
Well if youre this scared of public speaking, how the heck did you
manage that? Samson asked.
Thats school, Drew replied. This is.... adults.

1142 constituent citizen


1143 marveling amazed
1144 paucity shortage
1145 replete full

180
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Samson glanced around at the curious onlookers who were 1146tarrying


outside the building. I see your point. But seriously, whats the worst that
can happen? You go in there, you lay out your plan, and hopefully well all
come to some kind of 1147congruity.
And if we dont? Drew asked.
Samson shrugged. Well, then, they condemn the team. Either way, in
an hour, all this is over and you dont have to stress about it anymore.
Drew laughed, shaking his head. Samson was out of his mind, but Drew
did feel slightly better. Thanks, man.
No problem. Lets get this show on the road.
They were just about to head for the door when Lily came walking up
the steps from the parking lot. Drew couldnt have been more shocked to see
her if she were wearing a French maids uniform. The girl wasnt usually the
1148
gregarious type. This jam-packed meeting was the kind of thing a shy girl
like her would probably avoid. Was she there todare he think itsupport
him?
As she strode by, he lifted his hand in 1149salutation. Lily merely smiled
and then ducked her head and slipped inside.
All right, man, Drew said, smacking Samson on the shoulder. Lets
do this.
Twenty minutes later, after everyone was settled and the minutes from
the last meeting were read, Drew and Samson were called to the front of the
room. Flashbulbs flashed, and murmurs filled the room. Drews knees
1150
quaked so violently as he walked that he was sure he was going to fall
over and crash into the podium. But he made it there all right, and Mrs.
Gramble called the room to silence.
1146 tarrying . leaving slowly and hesitantly
1147 congruity agreement
1148 gregarious outgoing
1149 salutation greeting
1150 quaked . shook with fast, tremulous movements

181
Sacked by Emma Harrison

1151
The floor is yours, boys, she said, lifting a gnarled old hand in
their direction.
Drew took a deep breath and looked at Samson, who nodded
1152
resolutely.
Ladies and gentlemen of the school board, members of the faculty,
students, and members of the Washingtonville and Corinth communities,
Drew began. I know youve all heard about whats been going on with our
newly 1153integrated football team, and I know you feel that youre at the end
of your rope. But Samson and I, as players on the team, have a better
understanding of the actual issues than anyone outside of it can hope to have.
So were here to tell you about our experiences over the past couple of
weeks, and then to present a plan thatwhile it may not be a 1154panacea
will hopefully help us begin to improve the situation.
At the long table, a few of the school board members shifted forward in
their seats, giving Drew their full attention. He stifled a smile, but he knew at
that moment that he had them. All he had to do now was bring it home.

1151 gnarled twisted


1152 resolutely with determination
1153 integrated . formed or united into a whole
1154 panacea cure-all

182
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Chapter Thirteen

Drew walked into the cafeteria at lunchtime on Friday with


1155
trepidation, his shoulder muscles coiled and tight. The tension in the air
was 1156palpable. It had been all day. Tomorrow was the first game of the
season against one of Washingtonvilles biggest rivals, Johnstown High, and
today was the first big 1157pep rally of the year. Normally, the student bodys
wardrobe was 1158invariableeveryone would be sporting the red and white.
The faces of the seriously dedicated would be painted to show their school
spirit. Everyone would be psyching themselves up for the big game. But
nothing about this day was right.
Drew himself wasnt wearing school colors. Every other guy on the
team was sporting his game jersey over jeans, but Drew had decided against
it and gone with a plain T-shirt. He knew that his friends were saying highly
1159
pejorative things about him behind his back, but he also hoped theyd
understand once his plan came to light. If, of course, he had the chance to tell
them about it. At this point he was starting to doubt whether the school could
make it to the eighth-period pep rally without a riot breaking out.
Drew walked over to his table and dropped his huge history 1160tome at
his seat. A few Corinth guysin full gray and blueshot him a 1161scathing
look from the next table, as if hed just destroyed their 1162tranquility. As if
there were anything tranquil about the murmuring and back-talking that ran
1163
rampant through the room.
What are you guys looking at? Samson asked the Corinth kids,
1155 trepidation anxiety
1156 palpable capable of being felt
1157 pep rally . a large gathering of people intended to arouse enthusiasm before a game
1158 invariable set
1159 pejorative negative
1160 tome . a large and scholarly book
1161 scathing scornful
1162 tranquility peace and quiet
1163 rampant . unrestrained and violent

183
Sacked by Emma Harrison

coming up behind Drew.


The two kids grumbled and went back to their lunches. Drew dropped
into his chair, and Samson sat at the end of the table, catty-corner from him.
That one move drew more disgusted stares than Drew could count.
Am I 1164paranoid, or does it seem like the entire school is about to
blow? Drew asked under his breath.
Clay, Dirk, and a few of Drews friends dropped their stuff at the table
and headed for the lunch line, grunting their hellos.
Youre not paranoid. Youve just got serious 1165perspicacity. The
resentment in this place is 1166ubiquitous. I think even the cafeteria workers
are taking sides, Samson replied, glancing around the room as if to
1167
surmise where and when the first fight of the period would break out.
There had been a few 1168tangential 1169skirmishes in the halls during the first
four periods of the day, but Drew had heard theyd been 1170subjugated fast.
At least we can say weve got a 1171preponderance of school spirit,
Samson added.
Yeah. Its just that no one can figure out who their spirit is supposed to
be for, Drew said as a group of Corinth girls cut off a group of
Washingtonville girls on their way into the bathroom. As they finally
1172
jostled their way inside, Lily glided through the cafeteria door wearing a
lavender sweater and a denim skirt. Drew was temporarily distracted by her
1173
pulchritude, and he couldnt help wondering if shed worn that sweater to
support him. Then he caught Adam Lazarus, in his blue and gray Corinth
1164 paranoid unreasonably worried
1165 perspicacity insight
1166 ubiquitous everywhere
1167 surmise guess
1168 tangential peripheral
1169 skirmishes . minor short-term fights
1170 subjugated controlled
1171 preponderance excess
1172 jostled . maked one's way by pushing, or shoving
1173 pulchritude beauty

184
Sacked by Emma Harrison

jersey, glaring at him and Samson from across the senior section and was
brought right back to earth. Tell me again that were doing the right thing,
keeping this on the down-low until just before the pep rally, he said.
We are, Samson replied. If you let it leak out, the whole point would
1174
get muddled. You know how these things work. Everyone would
misunderstand what were trying to do. Theyd have a zillion questions and
theyd make up their own answers. Theyd decide it was a bad idea before
they even had the facts, and that would 1175negate all our work.
Right. Right. Okay. All weve got to do is make it to eighth, Drew
said with a nod.
Exactly. With any 1176serendipity, by tonight, this school will finally be
unified, Samson agreed.
Drew took a deep breath in an attempt to calm his 1177frayed nerves.
You want to go up there? he asked, nodding toward the food line. Im
parched.
Yeah, man. Samson slapped him on the back as they stood and they
walked together along the far wall toward the line. Drew felt as if every
single pair of eyes was on him and Samson, looking at them like they were a
couple of traitors. All he wanted to do was tell them off, but he wasnt going
to give them the satisfaction of seeing him riled. Besides, if he got into a fight
today it would 1178jeopardize everything. The school board was counting on
him to set an example, and he was not going to let them down. He stared
1179
obstinately ahead and got in line.
I hope they have pizza today, Drew said, making a lame attempt at
small talk.

1174 muddled confused


1175 negate undo
1176 serendipity luck
1177 frayed . worn away or tattered along the edges
1178 jeopardize endanger
1179 obstinately stubbornly

185
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Dude, the pizza here rocks, Samson replied with forced 1180jollity.
A couple of girls looked at them like they were on something, and Drew
laughed, but before he could even reply, one of the many 1181truculent people
in line finally snapped.
Hey! I was next! a Corinth girl shouted loudly.
The Washingtonville guy who had cut in line said something that Drew
couldnt hear, but from the gasps of the crowd, it was rather 1182scurrilous.
What did you just say to her? Tank Langford asked, stepping out of
line.
Oh, God. Here we go, Drew said.
We better 1183neutralize this fast, Samson added.
They ran over and Samson grabbed Tanks arm, pulling him back.
Austin Harrow, the Washingtonville guy who had started it, was all red in the
face and 1184primed for a fight, but was also about one-tenth Tanks size.
Drew got right in his face and pushed him back.
Walk away, Harrow, he said through his teeth. Its not worth getting
pulverized over.
Harrow looked Drew up and down, noting his non-Washingtonville
wardrobe, and sneered. Some captain you are, he spat. But he, at least, took
Drews advice and strode off.
He had barely made it halfway across the room when another fight
broke out among the freshmen. Samson turned away from Tank, whom he
was still talking into 1185submission, and glanced at Drew.
Still think we can make it to eighth? Drew asked in frustration,

1180 jollity cheerfulness


1181 truculent hostile
1182 scurrilous insulting
1183 neutralize defuse
1184 primed ready
1185 submission compliance

186
Sacked by Emma Harrison

jogging to break up yet another fight.


I dont know, man, but if they 1186rescind the deal and the football team
goes under, maybe you and me should go partners in a bodyguard business,
Samson joked.
And Drew actually managed a laugh as they jumped into the 1187fracas.
You two ready to do this? Coach Davidson asked as he, Drew, and
Samson stood outside the locker room that afternoon, loaded down with
boxes. On the other side of the gym, they could hear hundreds of buzzing
voices as the student body made its way to the bleachers.
Just waiting for one last thing, Drew said, glancing over his shoulder
toward the gym entrance.
What do you have up your sleeve, Benson? Coach asked.
Just then, outside the glass door, Jason appeared, making his way
slowly up the steps on his crutches. His mother ran forward to open the door
for him, and Jason edged his way through. His brow was sweating, but he
grinned when he saw Drew and the others.
Hey, man! Glad you could make it! Drew dropped his box on the
ground and went over to slap Jasons hand.
Dude! Its good to see you, Samson added, joining them. I thought
you were just 1188malingering.
Jason laughed. Well, maybe I was. A little.
He figured out if he whined enough Id make him just about anything
to eat, Mrs. Szonyi said, rolling her eyes. I wouldnt be surprised if hes
already packed on five pounds on ice cream alone.
Better 1189truncate that habit if you want to be back in form for
basketball season, Coach Davidson said, slapping him on the back so hard
1186 rescind withdraw
1187 fracas brawl (noisy fight in a crowd)
1188 malingering exaggerating an illness
1189 truncate cut

187
Sacked by Emma Harrison

he almost fell forward.


You got it, Coach, Jason said with a laugh. Soare we going in
there or what? he asked, glancing at the locker room door.
Drew took a deep breath. This was it. The moment of truth. He turned
and picked up his box with both hands. Lets go.
Coach Davidson opened the door for him, and Drew led his little band
of followers into the locker room. The mood inside was not exactly positive.
There were no cheers or pep talks or shouts going on, only the muttering of
1190
malcontents. Drew walked over to the first bench, which Clay and Dirk
were 1191straddling, and dropped his box onto it with a thud. The two guys
got up to greet Jason, and some of the other Washingtonville guys gathered
around him as well.
Varsity! Drew shouted at the top of his lungs. 1192Huddle up!
His heart pounded as the kids around him eyed the boxes
1193
quizzically. It seemed to take forever for the 1194petulant team to gather
together in this, the largest open area of the locker room. Once they were all
gathered around the walls and benches, fifty of the biggest, most
1195
opinionated guys in the school, Drews heart really started to pound. For
the first time, he thought they might actually shoot him down, but if that were
the case, he wasnt going down without a fight. He took one look at Samson
for a final 1196bolster and then 1197launched into his speech.
All right, everyone. As you all know, the school board met this week to
decide the fate of our team, and as Im sure youve heard by now, theyve
decided to give us one last chance to show them that we can actually be a

1190 malcontents unhappy people


1191 straddling sitting astride (with one leg on each side)
1192 huddle . crowd or draw together
1193 quizzically curiously
1194 petulant irritable
1195 opinionated narrow-minded
1196 bolster . suport and strength
1197 launch . get going

188
Sacked by Emma Harrison

team, Drew began. But to be honest, we dont think that can happen.
There was some grumbling at this announcement.
At least, we dont think that can happen if we keep going on the way
weve been going, Samson added, cutting them off. So Drew came up with
a plan.
What kind of plan? Adam asked loudly.
Drew smirked. He knew Adam just wanted to be the center of attention,
as always. Well, Im glad you asked that, Adam, he said. Weve all been
talking a lot about how we have to check our egos, accept whats happened to
us, and move on. But its become clear that, as long as we identify ourselves
either with the Washingtonville Eagles or the Corinth Lions, were never
going to be able to do that.
He was pleased to see some of the guys nodding in agreement.
We have to face it, Drew continued. Were never going to be able to
1198
replicate what we had with our old teams, but who knows? Maybe we can
have something even better. But I realize that we need something 1199tangible
to help us move on. To help us feel truly united.
We have to drop all 1200vestiges of our old teams, fellas, Samson said,
crossing his arms over his chest. We have to quit being so damn
1201
solipsistic and realize that there are other people on this team who are
counting on usand that we can rely on them.
And we believe that we can do that, if we give ourselves the chance,
but that means being willing to change, Drew added. Slowly, he opened the
first two flaps on the box in front of him. Thats why, last week, Samson and
I went in front of the school board to 1202lobby them for that chance. And

1198 replicate copy


1199 tangible concrete
1200 vestiges remnants (pieces of clothes that is left over after the rest has been used or sold)
1201 solipsistic self-centered
1202 lobby try to influence

189
Sacked by Emma Harrison

1203
after much deliberation, they decided to give it to us. Under one
condition.
That we move on and get over ourselves, Samson said, leveling the
team with an 1204admonishing stare.
But luckily, we think we know just how we can do that. His pulse
pounding in his ears, Drew reached into the box and pulled out a brand new
purple jersey with white and gold lettering. His number nine was on the back
with his last name spelled out in block letters across the shoulders.
Gentlemen, you are all now members of the Washingtonville High School
Gryphons football team, he announced.
His words were met with dead silence. Tank stared at the jersey as if it
was a 1205mirage. For a long, dreadful moment, Drew was sure he was in for
a total 1206renunciation of his whole plan.
What the hells a gryphon? Tank asked finally, earning chuckles from
a few of the guys.
Its a 1207mythical creature, Jason answered. Half eagle, half lion.
Drew turned the jersey around to show them the growling gryphon on
the front.
Shut up. Tank was incredulous.
More laughter.
Damn, man. Thats sweet, Dirk said.
He reached over and took the jersey right out of Drews hands,
whistling long and low as he inspected it.
1208
Then, just like that, the entire team was pressing forward, jostling

1203 deliberation mulling(thinking deeply) things over


1204 admonishing disapproving
1205 mirage hallucination
1206 renunciation rejection
1207 mythical imaginary
1208 jostling vying (seek or strive for the same thing as someone else)

190
Sacked by Emma Harrison

for the box, 1209liberating all the jerseys from inside and pawing through to
find their names. Drews happiness and pride were 1210overpowering as he
watched the guys who had been so 1211recalcitrant and angry the day before,
helping one another locate their names and ripping their old jerseys off to
replace them with the new.
Wow. This is high-quality gear, Lance said when he found his jersey.
They werent 1212penurious with these.
You can thank Coach for that, Drew told him, grinning. He signed
1213
the requisition form.
Thanks, Coach, Adam said, coming up behind Lance. And thanks,
you guys, he said, looking at Drew and Samson. This was a killer idea.
Drew knew how much pride the guy had to swallow to say that, and he
reached out to slap his hand.
It was all Drew, Samson said modestly.
Yeah, but you came up with the colors, Drew reminded him.
Aw, you guys are so cute! Clay said, coming over in his new jersey to
pinch their cheeks. Are you going to prom together too?
Everyone cracked up laughing as Drew shoved Clay off of him. There
was a quick, good-natured 1214scuffle, and then Clay raised his hands and the
guys, for the most part, quieted down.
No, but really, you guys. This was a good compromise, he said. I
would never have thought this team could 1215reconcile, but you guys were
1216
persistent. You refused to give up. And I think this is a good start. The

1209 liberating freeing


1210 overpowering overwhelming
1211 recalcitrant headstrong (disobedient)
1212 penurious stingy
1213 requisition request
1214 scuffle . disorderly fighting
1215 reconcile make ones peace
1216 persistent unrelenting

191
Sacked by Emma Harrison

team cheered and voiced their agreement. To the captains!


Everyone cheered like mad, slapping Drew and Samson on the back and
shaking their hands. Then Drew grabbed his new jersey and yanked it on over
his head.
To the Gryphons! he shouted, thrusting his arms in the air.
This time, the cheer was deafening, and Drew led the team out to the
lobby, where they would wait to be introduced to the crowd. All that
remained now was to present the new mascot and colors to the rest of the
school and just hope that they would be as open to change as the team had
proven to be.
Drew peeked through the slim glass windows into the gym as Coach
Davidson stepped up to the microphone. As predicted, the crowd in the stands
opposite the door was completely 1217variegated, all blue on one side, all red
on the other. Everything that had happened in the last few weeks had
completely 1218polarized the student body. Drew had to wonder if a mere
color change and a new mascot would really be enough to fix all that.
Whats going on in there? Samson asked nervously.
Theres a 1219legion of people, Drew said, turning away from the
window. Even the kids that usually cut out of pep rallies showed up. I guess
everyone wants to see a fight.
Well, theyre not gonna get one, Lance said, rounding his shoulders.
At least not from us.
Can I have your attention please? Coach Davidson shouted into the
mic. There was an 1220instantaneous peal of feedback that deafened everyone
in the gym and brought the 1221strident noise level down to a low murmur.
Welcome, everyone, to this years first Washingtonville High School
1217 variegated multicolored
1218 polarized forced apart
1219 legion crowd
1220 instantaneous instant
1221 strident loud

192
Sacked by Emma Harrison

football pep rally!


There was a respectable number of cheers, but all from the
Washingtonville side of the gym. The 1222pessimism on the Corinth side
1223
persevered.
As you all know, tomorrow is our first game of the season, against a
worthy opponent, the Johnstown High Panthers, Coach continued gamely.
This game is going to be special for 1224innumerable reasons, not the least
of which is our newly integrated team.
There was some irritated muttering in the crowd, and Drew could only
imagine what people were thinking. Some still hated the very idea that the
schools had been forced to combine. Some, after hearing all that had gone on
at practices, thought the team was full of 1225thugs and should just be
1226
disbanded. Still others probably just thought 1227jocks were annoying
full stop. And many were, he was sure, 1228restivedying for the team to join
them so they could get on with whatever drama was going to unfold.
I know that youve all heard a lot of negative stories about this years
football team, but Im here to tell you that all of that is going to change.
These guys have been working their butts off for you, and after what Ive just
seen in the locker room, I can honestly tell youve Ive never been more
proud of a group of players in my life, Coach 1229rhapsodized. But I know
you didnt all come here to hear me talk. You want to see your team. Are you
ready?
Yeah! about half the gym cheered.
All right, you guys, this is it, Drew said. Bring it in.

1222 pessimism negativity


1223 persevered was maintained
1224 innumerable countless
1225 thugs . aggressive and violent young criminals
1226 disbanded . caused to break up or cease to function
1227 jocks . people trained to compete in sports
1228 restive fidgety
1229 rhapsodized spoke of emotionally

193
Sacked by Emma Harrison

The team gathered around him, placing their hands in the center of the
circle.
I said, are you ready? Coach shouted.
The cheers were a bit louder this time.
To the 1230seminal season of the Washingtonville Gryphons, Drew
said, looking around at his teammates.
Gryphons on three, Samson said. One! Two! Three! Gryphons!
They all clapped and cheered as they parted, and inside the gym Coach
finally announced them: Students of Washingtonville High, I give you your
mighty, fighting Gryphons!
Drew flung open the door of the gym and led the team in, running
toward the center of the basketball court, clapping and shouting and cheering.
The kids in the stands instantly fell silent. They stared down at the team as if
they were wondering if this were some kind of prank. Even the cheerleaders,
who had yet to hold new tryouts and were still wearing the red and white
along the front of the stands, were stunned.
Drew glanced at Tamara, who was gaping right at him, and shrugged
his apology. He supposed now, in 1231hindsight, that he might have been
1232
negligent by not including the cheerleaders in their plan.
And now, your captains! Coach Davidson continued, as if nothing
1233
were amiss. Quarterback Samson Hill and tight end Drew Benson!
A few people clapped, but most were still shocked silent. Tight end?
someone in the stands blurted as Samson and Drew walked over to the
microphone.
Drew took the mic from Coach. Thats right, tight end, he said into it.
Theres been a lot of change lately. And in order to honor that, weve

1230 seminal determining


1231 hindsight retrospect
1232 negligent lax (lacking in rigor and strictness)
1233 amiss wrong

194
Sacked by Emma Harrison

decided to 1234meld our two mascots.


What do you get when you combine an eagle and a lion? Samson
asked, leaning into the microphone.
They both stepped back and whipped the sheet off of the 1235easel
behind them. On it was Lilys perfect 1236rendition of a growling Gryphon.
The Gryphon! Drew and Samson said in unison.
There were a few cheers as people started to grasp what they were
going for, but most of the crowd remained 1237inflexible. Drew started to feel
sick to his stomach. He glanced at Lily, who was sitting in the front row, far
away from the rest of the seniors, and she shot him a helpless look.
And what do you get when you combine red and blue? Samson
added, forging ahead. Purple!
So we expect all of you to go out and buy up all the purple gear you
can find, because youre gonna need it, Drew joked.
Nothing. No response.
Drew covered the microphone with his hand. Okay. We need to do
something, he said to Samson, feeling an 1238inordinate amount of 1239wrath
1240
undulating toward him from the crowd. Apparently they were not quite as
1241
tractable as hed hoped.
I got it, Samson said. Then he cupped his hands over his mouth and
started to chant, walking toward the stands. Gryphons! he clapped twice.
Gryphons! Two claps. Gryphons! he shouted, glaring over his shoulder at
Drew.

1234 meld mix together


1235 easel . an upright tripod for displaying something (usually an artist's canvas)
1236 rendition . an act of interpreting something as expressed in an artistic
1237 inflexible unmoved
1238 inordinate excessive
1239 wrath anger
1240 undulating rolling
1241 tractable controllable

195
Sacked by Emma Harrison

Drew cleared his throat and joined in. Gryphons! Two claps.
Gryphons!
He looked at Tamara, who caught his plea and jumped up to face the
crowd, dragging Marisa and another few girls with her.
Gryphons! she shouted, pumping her pom-pom in the air.
Gryphons!
Ever so gradually, the cheers started to revive the crowd. A bunch of
seniors from both sides of the gym roused themselves from their seats and
chanted along.
1242
Gryphons! they shouted, spontaneously stomping their feet.
Gryphons!
Before Drew knew it, the whole crowd was on its feet, 1243inundating
the team with cheers and chants and hollers. Drew grinned and looked around
at his teammates in triumph. At that moment, Dirk and Adam raced forward,
jumping up and down. Soon the whole team was gathered in a huddle,
jumping on each others backs and raising their fists in the air. This time, the
pile-on was a good thing. It was full of laughter and hope and cheers. Drew
laughed as he went down under the weight of Tank Langford, and the whole
crowd went wild. For the first time all year, Drew was no longer 1244nostalgic
for the past, or for the daydreams hed cherished since childhood. He was
looking only toward the future.

1242 spontaneously without planning


1243 inundating overwhelming
1244 nostalgic wistful (showing pensive or deeply sadness)

196

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