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simply.
    I found myself staring at her. She was a tiny thing, but there was something big about her spirit.
    â€œYou’re probably right,” I said. “I’m spoiling for a fight.”
    â€œIs it because of Jake?”
    I homed in for signs of gossip gathering, but Poco’s black eyes were soft. As if she truly did give a flip.
    â€œHow did you know?”
    â€œDan asked a few of us to pray. I’d already read the article, but of course they didn’t mention Jake’s name.”
    â€œYeah, well, it’s not what it sounds like in the paper.”
    â€œIt never is. No offense.”
    â€œNone taken. Working for the Sun-News is not my lifetime goal, trust me. I’m just doing it so I can be near my boys.”
    I took a long drink from the water bottle. Why was I telling her all this? I didn’t normally open a vein for perfect strangers, or anyone else.
    â€œJake’s fortunate you’re here right now,” Poco said.
    â€œHe doesn’t think so.”
    â€œHe would be pretty upset. Alex too.”
    I looked out on the field, where Dan had the boys gathered around him. Alex was standing a little apart from the group, ball parked on his not-there hip. He looked small and lonely.
    â€œI’m sure you and Dan will do a great job walking them through this,” Poco said. “But in case they—or you—need another ear, I can totally recommend the Healing Choice Clinic.”
    I pulled in my chin. “You’re talking about therapy.”
    â€œIt’s not like you think. When I was going through a bad time, I saw a woman there—Carla Korman—and she was amazing. I think I would have become an alcoholic or something if it weren’t for her.”
    To avoid any further disclosure, I said, “If it’s warranted, I’ll give her a call. Thanks.”
    Poco formed a fine frown line between her brows. “She left, unfortunately, but I can guarantee you anyone you see there will be wonderful. Are you familiar with Sullivan Crisp?”
    â€œI’ve heard his radio show once or twice.”
    â€œHe’s the founder of the clinics, and the therapists all use his principles.”
    â€œThanks,” I said. “Really, if I see a need, I’m there.” I craned my neck toward the field, where the group was setting up a howl. Even as I watched, Dan quelled it and pulled the team in tighter. Even Alex pressed into the knot.
    â€œWhat’s that about?” I said.
    Whatever it was, J.P. was already taking the steps two at a time, with Victoria sailing behind her. By the time Poco and I reached them, J.P. was practically on the phone to her attorney.
    â€œYou’d better be right,” she said, looking straight at me. “Dan better not be making cuts.”
    As if I had anything to do with what Dan decided.
    â€œWhat about it, team?” I heard Dan say.
    Some kind of tribal shout went up, and this time the players looked a little less hostile. Dan gazed over their heads at the mothers.
    â€œI’ve chosen a team captain. J.P., you ought to be real proud of your boy.”
    Of course. Make the worst kid on the team the captain, or watch his mother file a lawsuit. A typical Dan choice.
    As the boys diverted their allegiance to the moms with the snacks, Dan came over to us.
    â€œYou know,” J.P. said, “Cade doesn’t need to be patronized.”
    Could this woman not make up her mind?
    â€œIf he’s going to be captain, I want him to deserve it, and right now he’s playing horribly. What he needs is some help with his skills.”
    â€œHe’s just suffering from a little lapse in confidence,” Dan said. “I think making him captain is going to give him a boost. Besides . . .” He smiled his slow, crooked smile. “Just because he isn’t David Beckham doesn’t mean he isn’t a leader. I gave him the opportunity. He’ll make himself a