516 Jeremy’s Visit 3 (2/2)

Jeremy glanced at me, but my expression didn't change. Noah was right. I'm not one for confrontation. Especially if it's physical. Jeremy sighed. \”I guess it's not for everybody.\” He stood up. \”You want to go hit a few?\”

I nodded.

After clearing the air a little bit, it became easier to get along. Noah was still prickly around Jeremy, however Jeremy didn't make things worse and accepted Noah for who he is. Jeremy let Noah and I bat until our arms were sore and it got dark.

\”Are you staying for dinner?\” Noah asked as we piled into the backseat of his car.

\”No, I gotta get back to Oakland.\” Jeremy glanced at us, using the rearview mirror. He started the car and drove us in the direction of the Atkins house. \”I have to be at the stadium early tomorrow morning and it's probably going to be a long drive back with the traffic.\”

I looked out the window, trying not to feel guilty.

\”Why do you have to be at the stadium so early? The game tomorrow is until 7pm.\” Noah asked.

\”Just want to put in a little extra work. Plus I have some meetings with the front office guys.\”

\”About skipping so many games?\” Noah asked bluntly. I also turned to look at Jeremy's reaction. \”During one of the games we watched this week, the guys said it was surprising you didn't get a fine or penalty of some sort.\”

Jeremy looked a little awkward. \”Well. It's complicated. You guys don't have to worry about me. It'll work itself out. The A's organization has done a lot for me. They just want to expect the same effort in return.\”

\”So you'll only get in trouble if you don't make the playoffs?\” Noah asked.

\”It's too soon to say if we'll make it or not. It's a long season.\” Jeremy said, arriving at the house. \”Anything can happen.\” He watched as we unbuckled ourselves and prepared to get out. Then he followed us. \”I'll walk you guys to the door.\”

\”Smart thinking.\” Noah told him. \”It would make a better impression on my mom. Show a little more sincerity.\”

Jeremy and I both blushed.

Noah looked at me before going on ahead. \”I'll head inside first.\” He grabbed both of our bags and left me behind. With Jeremy.

\”Jake. Thanks for meeting with me today.\” Jeremy shoved his hands in his pockets. \”Are you- Did you-\” He toed the cement driveway. \”What I mean to say is-\”

\”I had fun. Today.\” I told him, trying to stop the stuttering. I could see some of me in him. Confused on what to feel. How to feel. How to process the change.

\”Good. I'm glad.\” He looked relieved. \”I mean, me too.\” He walked me to the front door where Mr. Atkins was waiting. Noah and Mrs. Atkins was in the background, talking. \”I'll see you tomorrow, okay?\”

I froze. \”Tomorrow?\” Did he say something about tomorrow?

Jeremy smiled down at me. \”Yep. It's a surprise.\” He nodded at Mr. Atkins.

Mr. Atkins smiled back at him. \”Have a safe drive home, Jeremy.\”

Jeremy waved and went back to his car.

\”What's happening tomorrow?\” Noah asked, pestering his dad. \”Is he taking Jake somewhere? Impossible. It's a game day. And he said he had to go in early.\” His eyes widened. \”Is he taking Jake to the game?\”

\”Nope. We are.\” Mr. Atkins patted Noah on the head. \”Jeremy gave all of us tickets to tomorrow's game.\”

\”Woo-hoo!\” Noah jumped up and down, excited.