"Guard the back line, ya got that? Good, let's go."

The referee's whistle sounded, and that's how the time-out ended. The London Panthers left their water bottles and towels and returned to the court, taking up their positions in the lineup. The opponent was strong, the guys put in more effort than usual, and the questionable moments only added more nerves.

You've been working for the London Volleyball team for a little over a year, it was your second season. You were also on the court, wearing a uniform as well, but most of the time you were on the side bench, holding a light laptop in your hands and constantly monitoring every mistake of the opponent.

Because you were the statistician. The quality of your work depended on how well the guys would be prepared to face their next opponent. It was necessary to know everything – the weaknesses, how insecure each rookie was, and which of the players received the serves the worst. All the columns were filled by you quickly and clearly, while you were focusing all your attention on the site.

Price gave you these instructions. The head coach of the team was very demanding when it came to the match season.

Sullen, with a fierce look, but a kind heart – that's how you got to know him in the first months of your work. But now you knew a lot more about him. For example, that he never wore socks at home, couldn't live without at least three cups of coffee a day, and also always calmed down when you stroked his hair in the evenings after a nervous day. You have become closer during your work. And he wasn't so much your boss as your man.

"Garrick doesn't pass much to Riley. Simon can score more often." You said when you returned to the bench reserved for the coaching staff.

"He can, but he needs to rest now." John nodded, scratching his beard.

"He'll lose motivation without passes." You insisted.

And then his eyes flashed. A player by nature, even if he was called a coach, that's who John Price was.

"We'll talk at home, alright?" He purred, stretching his lips into a grin.

And you nodded. Because home meant being with him. Because he was your home.