Page 27 of The Backup Plan

Hayden

I can hear you, you know.

Dale

There’s positive thinking, and there’s denial.

Cameron

Getting past the apology was a hurdle. At least I know where I stand now, and I have time to get my act together.

God, it’s like I’ve forgotten how to say anything besides “We executed well in all phases of play. I’m proud of how my guys battled today” and crap like that.

Dale

You sound like the pros. My media friend is about to send me to speech class. Thank God I don’t have the needy alumni some of you guys do.

Hayden

What, you don’t have to justify your existence every time a receiver misses your perfect throw?

Dale

This is what you get for picking that school. Your fans are merciless and your alumni are worse.

Hayden

That’s LOYALTY.

Cory

No, that’s an echo chamber. Your fans are big, red meanies. Excuse me, SCARLET.

Cameron

Here’s Thatcher with the unsportsmanlike conduct. That’s a first.

Hayden

MAIZE. Dude, it’s yellow.

Cameron

That’s right, meet him at the bottom.

Dale

Cam, back to the point… I’m going to sound like a real dick, but if she just met this guy, maybe you can kind of… nudge.

Hayden

Unless he’s your O-line. Do not nudge the O-line.

Cameron

Linebacker. Her brother is, too.

Hayden