DON'T TELL

One Friday afternoon, as kids played soccer between the soccer goals in front of FPR casual picnic table conversation led me to ask one of the boys if he had a soccer game planned for the weekend.

He shot me a look, part amused, part exasperated, and without saying a word, made a subtle gesture with his hand for me to come closer. Curious, I leaned in, ready to hear whatever came next.

"Please don’t say that," he said quietly, glancing around to make sure no one was listening. "Soccer is really popular and if the girls find out I play I’ll have to deal with all of them paying attention to me. It’s just... too much."

I paused for a moment, then nodded seriously. "Of course, I’ll keep it between us," I promised, amused at how seriously he seemed to take it.

Apparently, he preferred to stay under the radar, avoiding the inevitable “fan club” that would form if anyone found out about his soccer skills. I respected his wish and made a mental note: some things are best kept off the record.