507 Interview (1/2)

”Jeremy Patterson...” Mr. Cameron mumbled. He looked down at me. ”Are you guys now on good terms? I haven't heard of any developments in a few weeks.”

I shrugged, not sure myself. ”We had a talk. We aren't close.”

”But, he's here. You didn't invite him?” He lit up. ”Wait. He has a game himself tonight. He skipped work to be here.”

Noah laughed. ”You sound a little too excited, Mr. Cameron.”

Mr. Cameron blushed. ”Well...it's news. Related to a pro baseball player. And I'm a sports reporter.”

”Come on, Jake, let's go introduce him to Jeremy.” Noah wiggled his eyebrows. ”Maybe let Mr. Cameron give him a few tough questions.”

”Can I?” Mr. Cameron perked up like a toddler in a candy store. He looked at me, trying to tone down his excitement. ”It's up to you Jake. I don't want to say anything that will make you uncomfortable.”

”The only one that should feel uncomfortable is Jeremy. Jake, come on.” He grabbed my arm, taking me outside the dugout where his parents were. And...where the Patterson's stood nearby.

I took solace in the fact that they looked as awkward as I felt. Somehow...it made me want to laugh.

”Mom! Dad! We won!” Noah said excitedly. ”Jake is just a monster at the plate! I can't wait until-” He stopped mid sentence. Then looked up at his dad. ”Do you think they'll let us play summer ball now..?”

”Let's save that conversation for another day.” Mr. Atkins patted his son head. ”Congrats on your big win. We're so proud of you.” He looked at me. ”Both of you. All my boys became state champions on the same day. Not too many parents can say that.” He smiled proudly.

”Mr. Cameron.” Mrs. Atkins greeted politely. ”I hope we didn't interrupt. You went easy on Jake, right?”

”Of course.” Mr. Cameron nodded. ”I've never heard him speak so much. I got enough to write my review of the game. It's been great following your boys all season long. There's no other team I like watching more.”

Mr. and Mrs. Atkins laughed. ”I never knew you were a suck-up.”

”I'm still trying to get that invite for Zeke's draft day party.” He joked.

”Of course you'll be invited!” Mrs. Atkins agreed. ”You've done a lot for us over the years. I'm sure Zeke will agree to even let you interview him afterwards. You'll be the first to know if he decides to go pro or not.”

”He won't.” Noah spoke up. ”You don't know, but before the game, he got Rhys to talk to that Stanford coach. I think if Rhys decides to go here, Zeke will put the pros off for a chance to play in the College World Series.”

Both parents blinked in surprise. Mr. Cameron was just as shocked as he looked down at his phone, still recording. ”Do you guys mind if I go interview Zeke right now?”

”By all means..” Mr. Atkins gave him permission.

Jeremy and Jack noticed the looks coming their way. We made eye contact. I guess they took that as an invite to come over.

”Hey.” Jeremy said in a gruff voice.