The whistle had come from the referee.
A stern-faced woman in black and white stripes who looked like she'd seen enough Legacy drama to last several lifetimes and had zero patience for any more. She stood at center court, ball tucked under her arm, waiting for the circus to end so she could do her actual job.
Landon and Brian finally released Phei's shirt.
It fell back into place—covering that impossible body, hiding it from the hungry eyes that had just memorized every ridge and shadow. The fairy's hold released at the same moment, and Phei rolled his shoulders, shooting his teammates a look that promised retribution.
They grinned back.
Worth it.
"Captains," the referee called. "Center court. Now."
Marcus walked forward first.
Unhurried. Unbothered. Every step radiating the absolute certainty of a man who had never lost anything that mattered.
Phei approached from the opposite side.
They stopped three feet apart.
The referee looked between them.
