Stitches

Mr. Atkins hurried me to his car, where Mrs. Atkins was waiting. Seeing that both of their attention and concern were focused on me, I started to feel guilty. They had four other boys to care about. Boys that were their blood-related sons. 

"I don't think you both should leave..." I told them, worried that I might get in trouble for speaking up. "The boys would really want you guys to be there to celebrate. We just won league after all."

"Oh, honey," Mrs. Atkins laid a hand on my left shoulder. She bent her knees so we could be eye to eye, making me feel uncomfortable. "We know it's a big win for you boys, but you're hurt. Your health comes first."

"I'm okay, it doesn't hurt." I told her. 

Mrs. Atkins looked slightly stressed. "Jake. We need to make sure you're okay. Not that we don't believe you, but if we mess up now, that could lead to more trouble down the road."