“Starting outside hitter for this afternoon’s match against Canton High,” Grace said.

“Did Dr.

Ramirez clear you for competitive play?”

“She signed the final clearance letter on Tuesday afternoon,” Grace said.

“The blue plastic binder is right on the hall table next to your purse.”

I reached over and brushed a stray crumb off her collar, resting my hand gently on her shoulder.

Her skin was cool and healthy, her posture straight and relaxed under her gray shirt.

“I’ll be sitting in the top row of the bleachers before warmups start,” I said.