92 Lunch (1/2)

It was Katella High School versus Pleasant Valley High School. By the time we showed up, our team was spread out in the stands, munching on sandwiches and snacks. Mr. Atkins pointed us to Zeke and the twins and went to go join the other parents.

”Jake!” Dave hollered as we sat down. ”What happened to you, kiddo? Noah said you got sick?” He pushed a plastic bowl over. ”Mom delivered soup for you.”

I bowed my head over the soup.

”What about me?” Noah pouted.

Zeke placed a wrapped sandwich in his hands. ”Ham and cheese.”

”Yum!” He quickly unwrapped it and started to devour it.

”Eat up Jake!” Kyle got up and sat behind me. He started to massage my shoulders. ”You did great this morning! Who knew you would be so talented in fielding!”

His massage wasn't helping me relax at all. In fact, I started to feel nervous. His hands were too close to my neck. He could easily get mad and start to choke me. I gulped and tried to slide out of his grasp.

”Don't get too close.” Noah warned. ”Jake had a panic attack. He needs some space.”

I gave him a weak smile. Even though he wasn't there in the bathroom when I spoke to Mr. Atkins, he still understood that something was off with me, mentally.

Kyle sighed. ”Alright.” He went back to his spot on the other side of Dave. ”You're fielding was spectacular today. I just wanted to show some appreciation.”

Noah wiggled his eyebrows at me. ”Hear that? Kyle wants to treat us to a round at the cages.”

My spirits lifted and I looked at Kyle hopefully.

Kyle scratched his cheek. ”That might be a bit much. You guys are too expensive.”