"Now we're talking." Taylor sits nearby, camera in hand, documenting each session. The school newspaper was initially her excuse, but Desiree suspects she's genuinely invested now. "You know this could be huge, right?" Taylor asks during a break. Not just the race, the whole story. Rich coach taking bribes to keep privileged kids on the team while cutting the best swimmer.
That's headline material beyond just our school paper. Desiree towels off uncomfortable with the idea of publicity. I just want to swim and keep my scholarship and expose corruption, Taylor adds with a grin. 3 Days later, a sign greets them at the recreation center entrance. Pool closed for emergency repairs.
Through the glass doors, Desiree can see empty water, exposed concrete, maintenance workers, and coveralls. 2 Weeks minimum, the attendant tells them apologetically. Crack in the foundation. Safety issue. 2 Weeks.
With the Riverdale Invitational just 18 days away. The YMCA has a pool. Taylor suggests it does. where half the Westlake swim team practices on weekends. Desiree discovers this the hard way when she arrives the following afternoon to find Heather and Blake doing laps, their parents watching from poolside chairs. The conversation stops when she enters.
Mrs. Griffin whispers something to her husband, who immediately approaches the facility manager. 20 Minutes later, the manager regretfully informs Desiree that the pool is now reserved for members only during afternoon hours. We could try the community college, her grandfather suggests on the bus ride home is breathing more labored than usual. The medication rationing is taking its toll.
Their team has priority, Desiree responds, scrolling through her phone. Everywhere decent is either booked solid or suddenly members only as soon as I show up. Taylor sends a text that evening. Bad news. Someone filed a complaint with the Riverdale Invitational Committee about your eligibility.
On what grounds? Desiree demands when they meet at school the next day. Taylor shows her the photos. Coach Phillips having coffee with one of the invitational officials same day as the complaint filing. Technically, since you were on the Westlake team initially, they're claiming you need a formal release from your coach to compete independently.
It's an obscure rule, but but it exists. Desiree finishes, the familiar taste of defeat threatening to rise. Dr. Winters finds her after physics class, takes one look at her face, and says, "My office." Now, inside the cramped space filled with books and scientific models, the teacher studies her. Taylor Kim tells me, "You need a pool." Desiree looks up, surprised.
You talk to Taylor. I advise the newspaper, Dr. Winters says simply. And I have a backyard pool. Nothing fancy, but regulation length.
Different chemicals than you're used to. Less chlorine, more salt. But the physics is the same. Hope flickers quickly tempered by suspicion. Why would you help me, doctor?