The registration clerk returned the charter because the team had forgotten to name an alternate contact.
“We have Leah,” Kellan said.
“She is your primary outside contact. The form asks who can be reached if she is unavailable.”
Tessa took the page back. “We didn’t ask anyone to be the alternate.”
The clerk tapped the empty line. “Then ask them before you write their name. You can return this afternoon. Your application number will stay the same.”
Eli had imagined the moment of registration as a declaration: four names, one team, an official seal. Instead they left the office with a folder that still belonged to them and an appointment to come back before closing.
Sera looked at the page as they reached the street. “We can ask Anik.”
“She has the market and the shelter work,” Tessa said. “She might not be available during a trial.”
