102 Reporters 2 (1/2)

”You didn't know?” Noah asked, shocked.

I shook my head. When would have I learned that if Noah didn't teach me? I knew the very bare basics less than two weeks ago. Most of what I know comes from the videos Zeke made me watch and commit to memory.

”Then why did you swing?”

”The third baseman came in so I knew I could get it over his head.” I shrugged.

Zeke eyed me. ”Five laps.” He then took the lead and walked in front of us.

Now it was my turn for my jaw to dropped. Why?? How did I get stuck with laps? What happened to not giving me any laps for game two? Five laps is a whole mile! And there's still tomorrow's game. Thankfully Kyle took my game one laps or I'd really be crying right now.

I looked at Noah for help.

He shrugged and motioned for us to catch up to Zeke. The three of us found the twins and Mr. and Mrs. Atkins in an open area, but a man with a camera was there too. He was taking pictures of the twins who had their backs up against one another.

”I'd also like a shot of just Kyle. No doubt his perfect game will be a headliner for the sports section. No NorCal high school player has thrown a perfect game in the last three decades.” The man was saying.

Dave moved away from Kyle and joined us and his parents. ”I can do it too.” He mumbled.

”Let Kyle have his moment.” His mom scolded. ”When you do it, we'll celebrate you as well.” She noticed the three of us who stood behind them. ”Hey boys, we were wondering where you were. Mr. Cameron wanted to do a special article on you kids. Isn't that sweet?”

I warily took a step back. Another reporter? We just escaped the first one.

Noah laughed at my reaction. He tugged me back to him. ”Not all reporters are like the guy before. We just have bad history with him. Mr. Cameron here is a good guy. He's the one that made Zeke famous statewide in high school baseball.”

I relaxed.

But Mrs. Atkins didn't. She frowned. ”You guys ran into Thompkins?”

Noah nodded. ”He tried interviewing me and Jake without you present and I even warned him. Then Zeke showed up and said he would report him.”

Mrs. Atkins whipped out her phone. ”I will right this moment. That guy should know better by now.” She went a few feet away and started to make a call.

”Hey guys! You finally showed up!” Kyle was done taking pictures with Mr. Cameron and they rejoined our circle.

Mr. Cameron's eyes lit up at the sight of Zeke. ”Zeke! How's it going?” He held out his hand.

Zeke shook it firmly. ”Can't complain. We're off to a good start.”