658 V2 ch130 (2/2)

”First three batters, come here for a second.” Coach Nate instructed, wanting us to join him at the dugout entrance closest to home plate.

I held my bat tight in my hands and moved through the dugout. The eyes that were focused on me made my skin crawl as I tried not to panic. Rhys gave me a reassuring smile as I joined him and Coach Nate. Marc and Kenny made a small circle with us.

Coach Nate looked at the three of us. ”I know that it's a sudden scrimmage and there isn't much synergy within the team, but that doesn't mean we can afford to lose the game. Understand?”

”Yes sir.” Marc stood tall, flexing his arm muscles.

Kenny and I merely nodded.

”You three had the best batting scores.” He looked right at me. ”You're the best here.”

I stared back at him, not understanding if I had to agree or not.

He glanced at Marc and Kenny. ”Do your best to get on base. By walk or hit. Don't do too much. Jake will be able to bring you home.” He looked at me. ”I won't demand a homerun, but I understand from Rhys, that you can direct your hits?”

I nodded. That's something I can do. The majority of the time.

He looked at the other two. ”First pitch, be ready to take off. You two want to impress me? Make it home.”

”Yes!” Marc didn't question his instructions.

Kenny glanced down at me, unsure. ”Sh-should I wait..? T-to make sure it's going to be a hit?”

Rhys grinned and took over for Coach Nate. ”Jake will get the hit.” He looked at me. ”Try for open gaps if they move in on ya. If they play normally, aim for a corner.”

I nodded.

The umpire, which was just a different coach, called for the home team to take the field. Nine guys got into position and did a short warmup before the umpire called out, ”Balls in!”

Marc and Kenny had left the dugout and were swinging their bats to the timing of the pitcher warming up. With the game about to begin, Marc moved to the batter's box while Kenny stood in the on-deck circle.

I stood beside Rhys, just inside the dugout. Coach Nate had gone to give instructions to the rest of the lineup.

”Play ball!”