Page 99 of Forgotten Sacrifice

“Luna, how does it feel to become a grandmaster?” A reporter shouts.

“Amazing, knowing my hard work and dedication has paid off. I’d like to thank Coach D’Agustino for helping me take my play to the next level.” I make no mention of mymanager.

“How do you feel about your nickname, ‘The Chess Vixen?’” A chess blogger asks, holding up a recorder.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never checkmate me.”

“Based on your T-shirt, you’re aware of the video circulating online of Grandmaster Morrell saying, quote, ‘Luna Barone is all parlor tricks.’ A hot mic catches him finishing that quote with, ’Parlor tricks and…a vulgar word I won’t repeat.’ He has since issued an apology. Has the grandmaster apologized to you personally?”

I shake my head. “But in his defense, I was too busy winning.”

The crowd laughs.

“What would you say to girls looking to get into chess?”

“Come this weekend to the grand opening of Madhouse Chess Club in Atlantic City. The club’s mission is to have the most diverse club in the country. It will also have the best resident Grandmaster, who happens to be my coach, and above all,respectfor every member.”

I give a final wave before exiting the playing hall with my coach and entering an empty skittles room. “Well done.”

“Thanks.” Compliments are rarely given by Coach D’Agostino. “You have much work to do.” He points to me.

And that’s more like it.

“I’m surprised Morrell told the truth about touching the knight,” he comments.

“Yeah, I figure the only thing keeping him honest was the live-stream of the final.”

“I don’t trust him,” Coach admits.

“Do you think we’re both a little biased because of our history with him?” Me, because I despise Wesley for being amisogynist douche, and Coach because he, well, despises him for dethroning him from the number one spot.

“Perhaps, but I was watching him closely. The game you blundered?—”

“Are we still on that?”

“The player, Aspen. She and Wesley were making eye contact when she was in the crowd during his game with you.”

“So?”

“So maybe it’s nothing.”

“It’s not nothing, or you wouldn’t have mentioned it.”

“We can’t accuse players of cheating unless we have something concrete,” he admits.

“Then we drop it for now.” Fucking Vince strikes again.

Coach nods. “No partying tonight; I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow.”

“Yes, Coach.” Ha, like Vince would allow any fun to be had on his watch.

I find Bridget, who makes a bowing down show with her hands, and I laugh. “You’re a legend, my friend.”

We hug. “I wouldn’t go that far.” Glancing over her shoulder, I say, “Are you serious?”

“What?” She turns around, her eyes going wide.

Aldo makes his way through the crowd. “Congrats, Luna.”