The Net Between Us
Denise S. Willard
Fueled by a desperate desire to bridge that gap and maybe, just maybe, catch Alex’s eye for real, Ethan commits to a grueling training schedule. His reach the National Collegiate Badminton Championships. He pushes himself harder than ever, juggling exhausting practices, demanding classes, and the constant, awkward tension of living inches away from the person who motivates his every move.
As Ethan rises through the ranks, facing down rivals and his own self-doubt, everything comes down to the final qualifying tournament. In a brutal championship match against a fierce competitor known for mind games, Ethan plays through searing ankle pain, relying on pure adrenaline and willpower. The score is tied, late in the deciding game. Exhausted, injured, but fiercely determined, Ethan wins a crucial point, reaching Championship Point. The gym falls silent. Nationals hang in the balance. He stands at the baseline, shuttlecock in hand, preparing to serve…

