By the time Mart, Tad, and Trixie arrived at the pizzeria, the team had snagged a big table in the back. The smell of pizza wafting through the air made Mart’s toes curl. He waited while Tad allowed Trixie to slide into a seat in the corner. Tad then took the seat next to her and Mart sat beside Tad. Pitchers of soda and beer were placed on the table and everybody held out their glasses. The chatter and laughter of the team flew around the table. Mart found the group very welcoming and was drawn into their camaraderie. After much discussion, several pizzas were ordered. Mart leaned forward and tapped Tad on the shoulder.

"Seriously, dude, can I play on your team? You guys look like you have a lot of fun".

Tad studied Mart’s earnest face.

"We do have fun, Mart, but we also play hard. In case you haven’t noticed, Trixie runs a lot and also works out. She and I even go to the park and practice. Having fun is great, but we are also a group of very competitive people who like to win."

Mart nodded at Tad

"I can get myself in shape. I don’t even have to play a lot at first. I just can’t believe how much fun you guys are having."

Tad glanced over his shoulder at Trixie, who was laughing with the girl who was sitting on the other side of her. Tad returned his gaze to Mart.

"There might be a place for you on the team," he said slowly.

Mart’s face lit up at the prospect of joining the team.

"But," Tad cautioned. "you have to pull your weight. And we all work together. No one person is the star."

Mart nodded. He looked up as several piping hot pizzas were delivered to the table.

"Here, Mart," said Tad. "Let me get you a piece."

Tad grabbed a nearby plate and a slice of pizza. He waved the slice slowly under Mart’s nose. Before he slid it onto the plate, he paused, the pizza in mid-air.

"One more thing, Mart," Tad cautioned. "I plan on asking your sister out."

Mart looked at Tad. He looked at the piece of pizza Tad was holding up. Mart saw that the cheese was oozing down the sides and that the pepperoni was slightly curled up at the edges. He saw the steam rising up from the bed of tomatoes and onions. His mouth watered. He looked back into the face of a determined Tad.

"Well played, Webster," said Mart as Tad slid the pizza onto the plate and laid it down in front of Mart. "Well played."