102 Reporters 2 (2/2)

”Yes, yes. I was able to watch both games. Three homeruns, two intentional walks, and a double. An impressive 1.000 batting average. Definitely living up to your status as the best in the county. Do you mind some questions and pictures? I just finished asking Kyle about his perfect performance.”

”I don't mind.” Zeke replied.

Noah smirked. ”I know a certain somebody who also has a perfect 1.000 batting average and isn't ranked in the top of the county.”

Mr. Cameron's attention shifted to us. ”Ah, right. Noah you had a strong showing as a freshman. And you must be Jake Hollander, the freshman with a 1.000 batting average.”

I shuffled my feet and safely found a spot over Noah's shoulder, trying to avoid his attention. The only reason I have a perfect batting average is because walks don't count for anything and I only have one hit for one plate appearance. Nothing impressive like Zeke's multiple homers.

Mr. Cameron blinked in confusion with my response.

”Don't mind Jake. He's super shy.” Kyle explained my reaction.

”Oh. Well are your parents here? I'd like to ask a few simple questions about how you feel playing alongside the Atkins and what it's like to be one of only two freshman in this tournament.”

I backed up even more, almost bumping into Mr. Atkins. Mr. Atkins put a hand on my shoulder for reassurance. Or to stop me from running away. Too soon to tell. ”Jake is actually staying with us right now. He's in the foster system. We act as his guardians.”

”Oh.” Mr. Cameron paused. ”I'm sorry for being so insensitive. I hope you'll allow him to answer some light questions. Just a little filler in case we have room.”

”Jake won't talk to you.” Noah answered before his dad could. ”I'll answer for the both of us.”

Mr. Cameron looked confused.

”Jake hardly speaks at the moment.” Mr. Atkins explained. ”In the eyes of the state, he's a mute. Diagnosed as selective mutism.”

Mr. Cameron smacked his own forehead. ”I'm double sorry for being insensitive again.”

”It's fine. It's not something you would expect to come up.” Mr. Atkins gave my shoulder a light squeeze. ”Jake, do you want to answer some questions? I'm sure Mr. Cameron can make them yes or no questions. And we can fill in the gaps.”

I immediately looked to Noah. He gave me a bright smile. ”We can do it together. I'll answer for you and we can be grouped together.”

Mr. Cameron sensed my closeness with Noah. ”Yes, I can do that. In fact, it'll be easier to interview the two freshmen together. It can be a nice short side piece. Kyle and Zeke will be getting all the attention, I promise.”

Mr. Atkins gave me a little push to Noah.

Well it doesn't sound so bad if it's just going to be a little. And almost unnoticeable next to Kyle's perfect game and Zeke's multiple homeruns. I gave one last glance to Noah to confirm. He gave me a nod then threw an arm around my shoulder, making us face Mr. Cameron head on.

”We're ready.” He said.