Game Changer

Jim recognizes how difficult admitting what he had done must be for Ethan. Sarah angrily accuses Ethan of making Teddy seem at fault while Ethan is the victim. The coach denies any knowledge of the Hit Parade, dismissing it as “silly stuff” that “happens everywhere” (259). He defends the Rookie Rumble to build team unity, that anything remotely like the Hit Parade would do exactly the opposite. Sarah dismisses the response. “It turns out you’re no better than anyone else” (262). Alec arrives to support what he knows has been a difficult thing for Ethan to do.

Jim admits to Sarah that perhaps he got too wrapped up in football, and pushed Teddy too much. Sarah asks quietly whether Teddy and Janey can forgive her. The family gathers at Teddy’s bedside, holding hands, and pledges to be there for Teddy. It is then Janey feels her brother squeeze her hand. Teddy comes out of the coma.

Joyful, the family quickly summons the doctor, who is relieved that Teddy has come out of the coma. “You had a good rest, a nice long nap” (279). The doctor removes the intubation tube and brings Teddy water. Alec and Ethan approach the bed.