Page 158 of Too Far

One that has the potential to destroy so much, and yet breathe new life into our future.

Subtle heat warms my back as a set of arms wraps around me from behind. It only takes a heartbeat to know it’s Kendrick.

I lean into him, seeking support, craving his strength.

“He’s got this,” he murmurs. With a hum, he presses a kiss to the skin just below my ear.

I nod, trying to convince myself as much.

He’s got this.

He wants this.

We’re worthy of what he’s about to do.

Nicky sidles up on my left side and takes my hand. He squeezes once, and I soak in all the comfort and care he provides.

On the other side, Kylian appears. He scans the wings, examines Decker where he stands behind the podium, and finally focuses on me. With Kylian, I am safe.

We stand together, united.

Waiting.

Hoping.

Dwelling in the last few moments before our lives change forever.

The press conference starts, and the room we can’t see goes eerily quiet.

Decker greets the crowd and introduces himself, then gets right to it.

He admits to doping.

For years.

Using illegal substances—peptide hormones and metabolic modulators, mostly—to enhance his performance on the field.

He lists the website Kylian created that links to all the relevant evidence.

He mentions Dr. Kline, but insists he’s not at fault, because he always used pseudonyms when scheduling appointments.

They’re easy to track, because he was cocky enough to use the names of his friends.

Kendrick Crusade.

Nicholas Crusade.

Treatment protocols and records are all on file. He’s been doping for years, but recently, worried the risks of implicating his friends were too great, so he decided to come clean now, before going pro.

He mostly reads from his prepared statement, but he’s sure to look up often, to focus on the crowd—where I assume dozens of cameras are recording—as he apologizes to his team and his coaches.

“I will not be declaring for the draft as originally planned. I accept full responsibility for my actions, and I want to make it clear that I was not influenced or coerced to seek out these treatments. I will face the consequences from all entities involved—from the NCAA to the academic and athletic departments at Lake Chapel University.”

He clears his throat and glances down at the podium.

The room is utterly silent as they wait for him to continue.

“I understand that I have disappointed many people, and that my announcement inspires more questions than answers. I’ve been advised by my legal team to not take questions today, but rather direct you all to the offices of Hensley and Horr.”