122 Game Four: Paradise Preparatory 5 (1/2)

I looked at Jordan. After a moment of silence, I spoke up. ”What do you mean?”

His eyes widen, but then quickly went back to normal. ”Zeke is too hopeful about this situation. These prep kids are just toying with us. You've already noticed and you're just a newbie. How do you think this will play out?”

I shrugged, not sure what he meant.

”Option one: they start to play like normal and we barely win. They'll get to say that they gave us a handicap since we're a public school and they had misjudged how well Zeke can carry this team. Option two: they start to play like normal, and come back from behind to beat us. This is the worst between the two. Not only did they give us a handicap, but we blew it. If even you can see their lack of effort, then so can the reporters. They'll attack Zeke no matter which way we go. He'll look bad if we lose our lead that was given to us. But he'll also look like he needed a handicap if we win. It's all psychological.”

”If it's really like that, then we should win at least.” Noah frowned. ”It's not our fault they thought we needed a handicap.”

Jordan rolled his eyes. ”A win like this is meaningless. It's a lose-lose situation.”

”Strikeout!” The umpire called. We turned to see Garret walking back and Mahki walking up to the plate.

”Looks like they're waking up.” Jordan said. ”Garret is a rather good hitter. He at least believes in not striking out.” He looked at me. ”Get your helmet on and experience it for yourself. You'll feel the difference. You probably won't be able to get a hit. As for the team, we'll be held at five runs.”

I won't be able to get a hit? I frowned. ”Zeke said to get a hit and get on base. He'll make sure I score.”

I walked away and grabbed my helmet and bat before stepping out. Mahki was already on his way back from striking out as well.

”Hey! Wait!” Noah caught me before I stepped up to bat. He pulled me away and lowered his voice. ”You're confident you can get on?”

I was taken aback with his question. I didn't realize he was so unsure about this game too.