23 Trouble 8 (1/2)

I heard Mrs. Atkins sigh. ”Even if you boys aren't totally in the wrong, we should still pay for the bat.”

”Tell you what, if you guys pay for the broken bat, I'll give you a discount on a new one.” Mr. Williams spoke up.

I lifted my head, filled with hope. I really like batting with a wooden bat. Even though it felt heavier and different, it was something new.

Mrs. Atkins saw my excitement. ”Okay, deal.” Then she looked at Noah. ”But we're still having a talk with your father when we get home. Just because you're right doesn't mean you're not in the wrong.” Damn. It was like she could see right through her son.

I looked at Noah, nervous that he might get upset since he looks to be in trouble, but I'm not.

He rolled his eyes. ”Don't pity me. Mom's just mad that I was rude and outspoken. She just might ground me.”

”Or no cookies for a straight week.” She countered.

”Nooo. Mommm.” Noah pleaded. ”You know I didn't mean it. It won't happen again.”

She looked skeptical. ”We'll discuss punishment at home.” I shivered at the word. ”First, lets get the appropriate bat. I feel like we should wait until your father gets back. He's more knowledgeable when it comes to this.”

”Jake wants the same one as this.” Noah looked towards me for confirmation and I nodded along eagerly. ”He was excellent with this bat. Twelve for twelve up to the 85 mph cage! And then he fouled all twelve 100mph pitches and put those guys in their place. But then they wanted to count only hits, yet he could still hit some! He was amazing mom!”

”Oh?” Mrs. Atkins tried making eye contact with me, but I looked away shyly. Noah was just bragging; I'm only good in the cages. ”Well how much is a brand new version of this bat?” She looked at Mr. Williams.

He thought for a minute. ”With the discount, I can sell you one for $120. Plus the fifty you owe, it'll be $170. Is that fair?”

She glanced at Noah. ”That's usually on par with your aluminum bats right?” He nodded. ”Okay, but Jake, you'll have to take care of this bat. We can't afford any spares at the moment.”