When the whistle blew, Grandpa leaned forward like a much younger man. Brandon smiled whenever he commented on the formation, saying he sounded exactly like his own grandfather.

By halftime, they were debating tactics as though they had known each other for years.

Brandon’s father watched from above. His anger was gone. What remained was the slow realization that his son seemed happier beside Grandpa than he had beside him.

During the break, he came down and asked Brandon whether he could wear the old armband during the second half.

Brandon considered him carefully.

“Not today, Dad. You haven’t earned it yet.”

The answer visibly hurt, but for once, the man did not argue.

Grandpa leaned toward Brandon.

“That took courage.”

“It felt awful,” the boy admitted.

“Most courage does, son.”

PART 3: UNTIL THE FINAL WHISTLE