Covertjapan - Rosa - After The Track Meet - Jap... Page

“No,” he agreed. “But maybe that’s not why you run.”

Coach Tanaka had left with the team bus, assuming she’d follow. Instead, Rosa stayed, watching the last officials coil up finish-line cables. CovertJapan - Rosa - After The Track Meet - Jap...

“You’re still here.”

The air smelled of rain and rubber. Somewhere beyond the stadium, a shinkansen rumbled through the night. Rosa finally unlaced her spikes. “No,” he agreed

He nodded slowly. “Third place here — that’s faster than first place in most prefectures.” assuming she’d follow. Instead

“If I should stay in Japan for the next meet or go home.”

“Thanks,” Rosa said, accepting the bottle. “Just thinking.”