Game Plan: Ch. 6

I admit I'm a little bit nervous at the moment.

See, my mom texted me this morning while I was at batting practice with the team. I didn't see her message until it was over, when I got out of the shower, walked back to my locker, and was grabbing my clean clothes out of my backpack to get dressed, when I picked up my phone to check for any messages from Padmé. There was one from Padmé, yeah, but I noticed right away that Mom had dinged me. She doesn't usually text. She calls instead. So, I was a bit concerned seeing that.

Thumbing open my phone, all her message said was: Call me, Ani.

Automatically assuming something was up, if not a flat-out emergency, I rushed to get dressed so I could dash to my car, call her, and then get to the farm asap if something was wrong, y'know. Seeing me throwing on my clothes like a lunatic, Ryan frowned, watching me. "Uh, what's the matter, Bro?"

Not even sparing him a glance, I yanked up my jeans, zipping and buttoning them quickly before sitting down to put on my socks and shoes, "Got a text from Mom. Not sure what it's about, but you know she never texts, Ry. She calls. I'm just afraid something's happened, y'know." I finish tying the laces of my Nike's, stand up, and pull on my red Under Armour t-shirt before shoving my wallet in my back pocket, grabbing my keys, throwing my backpack over my shoulder, and picking up my phone in my free hand. "I'll call you later, Man."

He nods and slaps me on the back, his look concerned, "Yeah, Bro. Hope everything's alright. Let me know what's up. Ok?"

Nodding my head silently, I rush out of the locker room, heading straight for the exit to the player's parking lot at FP and my Lambo. I unlock it with the key fob, throw my bag inside on the passenger seat, climb in, and immediately hit speed dial for Mom's cell. Tapping my fingers impatiently on the steering wheel, I grit my teeth, waiting for her to pick up. Come on, Mom! Pick up, dammit!

Finally, on the fourth fucking ring, she answers, "Hello, Ani? That you, Sweetie?"

Relief floods through me just hearing her sweet voice. She sounds fine. I mean, she doesn't sound hurt or panicked. She's not out of breath or sobbing. All good signs. So, hopefully, whatever it is, it's not something major. At least not to me.

Now, to my mother…major's a different ballgame altogether, as it turns out.

"Hey, Mom. I just got your text. Is everything alright? I mean, you almost never text me. Nobody's hurt or anything, are they?" I ask in concern, now gripping the steering wheel rather tensely. I mean, this is my mom here. I gotta be sure, y'know?

Confusion sweeps in as she starts to chuckle, and I can't help frowning a little in bewilderment, "Oh no, Dear! Nothing like that. We're all ok."

Letting out a breath of relief, I shake my head, baffled at my mother's rather odd behavior, "Ok. That's…good to know, but that doesn't explain why you'd text me instead of call or leave me a voicemail, Mom."

Unfortunately, my parent is no more forthcoming with the why in her next comment, "Well, I thought it prudent to contact you immediately as soon as I found out the news…only I wasn't where I could call you and talk to you privately at the time. So, I texted instead."

Nope. That's not fucking cryptic at all, is it?

Rolling my eyes, I take a deep breath and let it out slowly, then bluntly get to the point, "Mom, what the hell are you talking about?"

She sighs into my ear and then hits me with a fastball right between the eyes, "Ani, language. Now, when exactly were you planning on telling me about your new girlfriend? It's terrible that I, your mother, had to find out from Twitter, of all places, that you're dating some girl and you hadn't even bothered to tell me about her first? Son, I am rather annoyed and hurt about that."

My jaw fucking drops in shock, and I admit I'm left stunned and speechless for a minute, sitting and staring out through the windshield without really seeing anything. Apparently, I'm silent for so long, my mother must think I've hung up on her, "Anakin Skywalker! Did you hang up on me?"

Jerking back to the present, I shake my head to clear it, and when I speak, my voice comes out in more of a squawk, "No, Ma'am. I'm still here…Uh, Mom…You said you found out from Twitter that I'm dating someone?!" I admit, I'm racking my brain to figure out how in the hell this could've happened. I know I haven't posted anything on my Twitter account about Padmé. Nor Instagram or Facebook either, for that matter. Again, I'm not ashamed of Padmé. Hell, no! Quite the opposite, in fact, but at the same time, we've only really just started dating, and I've not had a chance yet to even talk with her about us being exclusive because my schedule has been so hectic with us in a busy home stretch right now, and I'd hoped to wait to tell Mom and Dad about her until we'd at least established that we were a full fledged 'couple,' before doing the whole parent introduction thing.

Mom clarifies for me, "Yes, Twitter. Ryan posted pictures of you with this really pretty, dark-haired young woman. You were out at a place called King's with Ryan and his fiancee, Dormé, and this girl. Who is she, Ani?"

I can't help the groan that slips out, and I tilt my head back against the headrest as my eyes close, and I reach up to pinch the bridge of my nose. Dammit! That's right. Ryan and Dormé did take pictures of us that night at King's. But I didn't realize he was going to post them on Twitter. Great. Just fucking great.

Not how I wanted to tell the world – let alone my mother – about Padmé.

Well, the cat's outta the bag now. All I can do is run with it, I guess.

Sighing, I open my eyes…and tell my mother the truth because I never lie to my mom, "Her name is Padmé Naberrie, and she's Dormé's best friend. She and Ryan introduced us when they asked us to be their Maid of Honor and Best Man for their wedding, and yeah, Mom, we've started dating."

My mother inhales sharply at this last tidbit, and her next words sound excitedly hopeful, "Oh, Ani! That's just wonderful, Sweetheart! I take it you really like this girl, right?"

I can't help grinning at my mother's optimistic enthusiasm…and the fact that she knows me so well, "Yeah, Mom. I really do like her. A lot. A whole lot, actually. Right from the moment we met, I was attracted to her like no other woman I've ever met before, and we've been out together on several dates since we met, both alone and with Ryan and Dormé…I just hadn't said anything to you yet, because I haven't had a chance to talk with Padmé about us being exclusive."

"Oh. I see."

Picturing in my mind the look I know is on her face, I sigh again and explain further, "Mom…Look, you know my reputation with women, and I just…Well, I want to take things slow with Padmé, really court her, woo her. I've never dated any woman before, and I want to give this, give her my very best because..." I pause speaking, pursing my lips. Ok, I've admitted to Ryan how much I like Padmé, true, but I've only admitted to myself that I think I'm actually falling in love with her. Unfortunately, Mom's not going to let me get away with not finishing that sentence.

"Because…what, Ani?"

"Because…I think I'm genuinely falling in love with her, Mom."

I swear, I think this admission is going to make my mother start crying. I hear sniffles in my ear, and when she speaks, her voice sounds choked up, "Oh, Son…I was afraid I'd never hear you say that about any woman, and I…I'm just so happy for you! I can't wait to meet her! Where is she from? Does she live in Boston?"

Time to play Twenty Questions 2.0, Mama's Version, I guess. Figures.

Oh well, here we go…

Though a bit miffed that Ryan didn't check with me first before he posted those pics of me and Padmé – and unwittingly opened this can of worms in the process, so to speak – disappointing my mother isn't something I've ever wanted to do, and I know she's always looked forward to her only son, her only child, settling down and having a family of his own one day. Guess, that day's one giant leap closer now, for both of us, and I'm sure it's only natural that she'd want to know more about the woman her son has chosen for his life partner. She's going to be Padmé's mother-in-law eventually after all; at least, she is if I have anything to say about it.

Knowing she only wants what's best for me, I oblige her and give her the answers she's looking for. "Yes, she's a Boston native, and yes, she still lives here in town, Mom. She went to Boston University and is a former NCAA champion tennis player. She's just turned twenty-six, and she's a middle school teacher. She and Dormé have been best friends since they were little kids, and Ryan's known her for two years, since he started dating Dormé. In fact, Ryan said that he'd wanted to introduce me to her almost a year ago, but that ongoing conflicts in our schedules somehow prevented it before now. He said he thought the two of us would hit it off really well, and he was right about that. We have it hit off. Amazingly so."

Mom's enthusiasm seems to have spiked at this info. "Oh, Ani! This is just wonderful, Sweetie! If Ryan likes her and thinks she'd be perfect for you, then I know I'll like her, too. I've always liked that boy and think he's got good instincts." Chuckling at her response, I'm actually surprised she's not doing cartwheels at this point.

But then Mom hits me with the obvious question next, "Ani, this girl I have to meet. When can I meet her?…Oh, such a lovely and unique sounding name, too, Padme…It'll go well with Skywalker, don't you think?"

Rolling my eyes in good natured exasperation, I huff and shake my head, "Moooom! I know you're excited about this, but chill out, ok? We've only just started dating really, and while I recognize I'm developing deep feelings of affection for Padmé, we're not at the point of saying 'I Do' just yet. So, take a deep breath and relax. We'll cross that bridge when we get to it." Though, secretly to myself, I admit Mom's right. Padmé Skywalker does sound perfect to me, and yeah, only in my own head will I acknowledge that I'm already thinking ahead about rings and vows and kids, the whole nine yards. But love and adore my mother though I do, I'm not going to share those tentative plans with anyone else – no, not even my mother, or Ryan for that matter – this soon. I'm gonna keep a lid on those thoughts for now.

"Ok, ok…I'll back off. But, when can we meet her, Ani?"

Fuck, my mother's persistent. I must've inherited that trait from her. I consider her question. What about at the game tonight? I wonder. It's earlier than what I'd first planned on them meeting, true, but having my mother's approval of Padmé would actually further cement my own feelings about her, I'm sure. And, I do want Mom's approval. I want her and Padmé to get along really well. They're the two most important women in my life, after all. I mean, I don't doubt Mom and Dad will love her, too, of course, but I had wanted the timing to be just right before making the introductions. I don't want Padmé to feel like I'm jumping the gun here or moving too fast with our relationship by forcing her to meet my folks if she doesn't feel comfortable doing so at this point. After all, she's not mentioned anything to me yet about meeting her parents either.

Still, it wouldn't be that unusual for them to meet up at one of my games. My folks do enjoy coming to watch me pitch several games a season when we're in a home stretch, and they always stay with me at my house when they do, and we make a night of it by going out for a nice dinner afterward. Ryan and Dormé have even gone with us several times. The more I think about it, introducing Padmé to my parents at a game sounds like the most…comfortable and easiest way to do so, involving the least amount of pressure on everyone while at it. And, Ryan and Dormé could tag along again with us, just to diffuse any nerves that much further. Sounds like a great idea to me. So, I voice it to her.

"Mom, how about this…Why don't you and Dad come to the game tonight against Miami? I'm pitching, and Padmé's already got a ticket. Dormé's coming with her, and I could get tickets for you and Dad to sit with them, I'm sure. They're going to be in the section right next to our dugout. Then, after the game, all of us could go out for a nice dinner together. We could hit Fire + Ice, that interactive grill I've taken you guys to before. It's just down the road from FP, and you and Dad enjoyed that place a lot, remember?"

They really did enjoy it, and it's a fun place with great food. Very unique atmosphere. It's a happening place but not too hip for my parents to visit, like a lot of other clubs or bistros or restaurants in the area might be. I've not taken Padmé there before, but Ryan and Dormé and I have all been, and I think Padmé would enjoy it, if she hasn't been before. She and I have very similar tastes, after all.

Mom obviously likes this idea, because she immediately jumps at the opportunity, "Oh, that sounds perfect, Ani! I'll tell Cliegg, and we'll swing by your house first and drop off our stuff then head to the game. What time is it?"

Chuckling, I shake my head at my mother, "It's at 7:10 tonight, Mom. Yeah, just swing by the house and drop your stuff off in your and Dad's room. I'll get your tickets now. I'll already be back at the stadium to get ready for the game by the time you and Dad get to the house. You can grab your tickets and your parking pass and head over here. I'll leave them on the kitchen counter for you. Just park where you normally do at Swan Lot. I'll go ahead and reserve a spot for you. Then, we'll head out for dinner after the game. Don't forget your passes to get into the locker room afterward, Ok?"

Mom agrees, "Ok, Sweetie. We'll see you tonight then. I can't hardly wait! I am really looking forward to meeting her, Ani."

Of that, I have no doubts.

"Ok, Mom. See you tonight. Love you."

"Love you, too, Son." Mom blows me a kiss and then hangs up.

I know she's thrilled about this unexpected turn of events. Instead of sugarplums, I'm sure she's already got visions of cooing babies dancing in her head. Smirking, I climb back out of my car, relock it, and head back into the players' entrance to secure tickets for my folks for tonight. While I walk, I thumb open my phone and hop on SpotHero and quickly reserve my folks a parking spot for tonight's game. That done, I walk back inside and happen upon Ryan as he's leaving, likely to go grab some lunch.

He sees me walking back in, and he lifts his chin at me in greeting, "Yo, what'd you find out, Man? Everything ok?"

Well, now that you mention it, Bro…

I stop and narrow my eyes at him, my lips twisting a bit while I tap my phone against the palm of my opposite hand. He knows me well, of course, and his eyebrows shoot up as he stops in front of me, "What is it? Something wrong?"

I love the guy like he was my brother, don't get me wrong, but I really wish he'd have checked with me first before posting those damn pictures. Sighing, I give him a pointed look, "Well, turns out Mom was a little teed off that she found out from Twitter that I was dating Padmé…instead of from me personally."

Ryan's mouth falls open and his eyes grow big as saucers, "How'd that happen, Bro?"

Smirking, I arch my eyebrows at him, "Oh, seems she saw the pictures you posted from King's the other night. That's how."

Ryan groans and curses, rubbing his right hand across his face, "Fuck! Man, I'm so sorry! I didn't even think about your mother when I posted those. Shit! Was she super pissed?" He bites his lip nervously.

He looks so contrite, and I know he loves my mother almost as much as I do and would never knowingly do anything to hurt her, so I can't stay mad at him. So, I wave it off, "Eh, she was annoyed, yeah, but when I told her about Padmé and how us dating all came about, she was so fucking excited about it, she totally let it go. In fact, she said that if you set us up, then she was sure Padmé was the one for me, because she totally trusts your instincts."

Ryan grins, looking instantly relieved. Not that I blame him. He's been on the receiving end along with me of more than one of my mother's 'I'm highly disappointed about this' speeches. He hates to upset her as much as I do. "Awesome! Let me guess…She asked when she could meet her, right?"

Nodding, I cross my arms over my chest, "Bingo. So, I thought about it and suggested she and Dad come to the game tonight to meet Padmé, and then maybe all of us, you and Dormé included, could hit Fire + Ice after the game for dinner. Whatcha think? Sound good?"

He nods in agreement, "Hell, yeah. Sounds perfect actually. It'll be a nice way to introduce them. Y'know, take the pressure off by having them meet up casually like this at the game. Want me to make a reservation for dinner?" He's already pulling his phone out to do so, and since I've got to go get tickets for my folks, I nod in agreement.

"Yeah. Do that. I gotta go get their tickets. I'll see you tonight, Ry," I lightly slap him on the shoulder and walk past him before remembering something else and turn back around while I keep walking backwards, "Oh, go ahead and reserve three parking spots at the garage on St. James while you're at it. Mom and Dad'll have their car, and I'll take Padmé in my car so I can drop her at home afterward." Turning back around, I head off down the hallway.

"Yeah, will do! See you tonight!" Ryan calls out to me, and I just lift my left arm in the air in acknowledgement and keep on walking. I gotta hurry up and get the tickets and get my ass back home to get ready for tonight.

My parents have a remote control for both the gate across my driveway and another one to open my garage. They also have keys for all the outside doors to my house, along with the passcode for the security system. They have their own guest suite over the garage complete with an en suite bathroom, a private bedroom with a nice queen size bed and dresser in it, and a small separate living room with a loveseat, a glider rocking chair for my mother, a recliner for my stepfather, coffee table, a fifty-five inch flat screen TV with cable mounted on the wall, and a small kitchenette area with a fridge, sink, and microwave just for their use. I gave Mom carte blanche to decorate it however she and Dad wanted it, and whenever they come to visit me, that's where they stay. I have an intercom system in my house that is in all the main rooms, including their suite. So, if they need me while they're there, they can comm me.

Anyway, the point is, my folks know the drill here. So, they'll let themselves in, get settled and then head out for the game. All I'll have to do is leave their tickets and prepaid parking pass on the kitchen counter and they'll get it before they head to FP. Now, I just need to let Padmé know what's happening. I mean, I'm sure she'll get along super well with my folks, yeah, but at the same time, I don't want to spring it on her at the game, either. Opening my phone again, I find her contact info and hit dial. Normally, I'd text her, but about this, I'd rather call her.

On the second ring, she answers, and I can't help the flutter of excitement in my gut or the smile breaking out on my face at the sound of her lovely voice reaching my ears, "Hi, Anakin! I wasn't expecting you to call so early. What's up?"

"Hi, Gorgeous," I reply, hearing her quickly inhale and then giggle softly at my compliment, and I'm pretty damn sure she's blushing like a rose right now. Grinning, I chuckle and continue, "We just wrapped up batting practice a little bit ago, but uh, something's come up, and I needed to run it by you real quick."

"Oh? Nothing wrong, I hope." I can hear the instant concern in her voice, and I rush to reassure her.

"No, no…nothing like that. It's just…" I pause walking and turn and lean my back against the wall, glance around to make sure no one's around to overhear me, and then decide to just spill the beans about the situation, because undoubtedly, Mom will mention to her tonight about seeing the pictures of us together online, and I'd rather be upfront and totally honest with Padmé than lie to her and keep things from her. So, setting aside my nerves, I give it to her straight, "Well, see…Ryan posted pictures of you and me together from King's the other night on his Twitter without telling me, and my mother saw them this morning, got upset that I hadn't told her about you yet, and left me a message while I was at practice just now to find out what was going on, and so, I told her that we'd started dating, and long story short, Mom's asked to meet you. Tonight, in fact."

She is silent for a long moment, and just when I feel my nerves start to spike that this is too soon and I'm pushing things too fast, she surprises me by giggling, "Great! I'd love to meet your mother, Anakin. Is she coming to the game then?"

I feel my body sag against the wall in relief, and I can't help smiling because, from the sounds of it at least, Padmé seems ok with the speed this is all happening. "Yeah…she and my stepdad, Cliegg, are both coming to the game tonight. And, I was hoping you'd like to join us for dinner afterward, too. I already asked Ryan, and he and Dormé are coming with us. Of course, they know my parents already, but I just thought that meeting them at a game would be easier for everyone."

"Oh, sure. It sounds wonderful. I'd love to join you! Where are we going for dinner?" she asks, and unless I'm mistaken, she sounds very pleased about all this. God, I hope so, because even though I'm trying to make this as comfortable a situation as I can, I also recognize that first impressions are important, and I want my mother to really be impressed with Padmé, to genuinely like her. Of course, on the flip side of that coin, it's equally important to me that Padmé likes my mother and warms to her quickly. And, I think they'll get along well. I really do.

Suddenly pumped about tonight and the prospect of my almost girlfriend meeting my parents while watching me kick some serious ass pitching tonight, I can't keep the feral grin from my face, "Awesome! We're going to Fire + Ice just down the road from FP. Ever been there?"

She perks up even more, "Oh, I love that place! That sounds perfect, Anakin! I can't wait!"

Nearly giddy with anticipation, I fist pump the air in jubilation, "Great! I can't wait, either. So, see if you can catch a ride with Ryan and Dormé to the game, and then I'll take you home after dinner. My folks have their own car, and they'll be staying at my house while they're in town, and they know the way. Sound good?"

She's definitely onboard with the plan, "Yep! Sounds perfect. I'll call D right now. See you all tonight!"

"See you tonight, Padmé." We hang up, and I take a deep breath in to quiet the sudden nerves jumping round in my belly. The woman of my fucking dreams is meeting my parents. Tonight. Shit. I almost can't believe this is happening! Something that I honestly never thought would happen in my life is now happening. And, I can't deny – nor would I want to – that I'm over the fucking moon about this development. Yeah, sometimes life throws you a curve ball, but if you recognize it and know how to swing when it comes at you, you can still hit a base run, if not a homer.

And, I intend to hit a homer with this one.

Hey, I may be a star pitcher, but that doesn't mean I can't still hit the damn ball. I intend to score BIG off this play.

Starting with hurrying up and getting my parents' tickets and printing up their parking pass and then getting my ass in gear. I've got to get home, dump out my bag, repack it with clean clothes, fix some lunch, and then I need to watch some more footage of the Marlins' batters I'll be facing tonight before heading back to the stadium.

I feel pretty good about my form right now. I've been practicing in the bullpen this week with my slurve and knuckle ball pitches, working with our pitching coaches to improve on my technique. I'm known for my fastballs, the four-seam especially, but all good pitchers, especially those in the top echelon of the MLB, are going to have multiple different types of pitches down to a tee in their repertoire. I'm also good at two-seams, both sinkers and runners, and cut fastballs, but I've struggled at times with my slurve and knuckle delivery. A slurve is a combination of a slider and a curveball and is actually more commonly thrown than a true curveball is. Personally, I don't tend to throw knuckle balls that often because I'm generally a fastball kinda pitcher, and knuckles are usually thrown slower, and they come into the batting zone with almost no rotation on them, thereby making the ball appear to flutter in the air, making them harder to hit. So, my coaches said I needed to practice. And, practice makes perfect, right?

At least it does in baseball.

I've also been going over video footage with our coaches of the last few games where I pitched, really critiquing my form, my stance, the angle and depth of my throws, and working on correcting some issues that they've noticed, and we've definitely seen improvement in my technique and my delivery, which is always what you're aiming for. As I've said before, nobody's perfect, and yeah, everyone can have an off game. I certainly have. So, you can't ever let up. Even if you're on the Disabled List (DL) with an injury, you can still go over video footage with your coaches and make note of what and where you need to improve. You always need to be humble and willing enough to learn.

Because there's always someone out there who's better at it than you are.

At any rate, I've still got a busy rest of the day ahead of me before I have to pitch tonight, but the end result of the evening, whether we win or lose against Miami, is still going to be a Win-Win for me personally when my parents meet my woman for the first time at the game. And, talk about a happy somebody right now, yeah, that'd be me. Doing what I love, being watched by the people I care about the most while doing it, and then enjoying some precious downtime with them over a nice dinner afterward? Can't beat it.

But, yeah, right now, I gotta hustle. I've got some tickets to buy.

And a home game to get ready to win.

Whoosh

"Strike Three!" yells the Ump, and the corresponding roar in FP is almost deafening. Ryan smirks and stands up then throws me the ball, which lands in my glove with a soft smack, and I tilt my head to the right, cracking the tension in my neck. I reach up with my right hand and adjust my jersey and exhale sharply while I wait for the next batter to head to the plate.

We're in the top of the sixth inning, up seven to two over Miami, and I need just one more out to give us a chance to further cement our lead. Resisting the urge to turn and glance over to where Padmé, Dormé, and my parents are sitting next to our dugout, I refocus on the immediate task…sinking the next batter.

And, my eyes are on him like a hawk as he approaches.

Erik Vanderveld strides to home plate, practically screaming confidence with every step. He's having a solid season, batting about .315 so far. He's a leftie, and for that purpose, as a right-handed pitcher, I know automatically I have to adjust my pitching strategy. Left-handed batters can be tough to pitch against for several reasons, one being their footing. Because of the side they bat on, they're automatically closer to first base, making infield single runs easier for them. Another reason is that righties' breaking pitches will often curve toward a left-handed batter, making those balls easier to hit. Not good, and not something I'm willing to chance. So, my curve and slurve are out.

I could throw a screwball, which would break away from Erik's batting zone, but we've still got three more innings to go, and I don't want to put undue strain on my arm, in case Ben allows me to finish the game. If we were in the eighth or ninth inning, I'd consider it, but here in the middle of the game, I won't risk my shoulder like that. What I can do, which is even better for me, is put some tail action on one of my fastballs. Erik's had trouble more than once against my fastball, and if I put in some tailing on my two-seamer, it'll bend slightly away from his batting zone, making it harder for him to hit. Ryan motions with his fingers some suggestions for this one, and I give several almost imperceptible shakes of my head no, until he motions for my two-seamer, and I slowly nod my head once, letting him know what I'm going to throw. He nods once in return, gets into position, and as Erik sets himself to swing at my incoming throw, I stand up tall and straight, inhale and exhale sharply, give Erik my sharp, eagle eye, wind up…and release. Like a damn heat seeking missile, the ball leaves my outstretched hand and hurtles forward with the momentum from my arm and shoulder, and as I complete my throwing motion, I watch as Erik eyes the ball coming toward home plate…only to swing and hit nothing but air as my ball does a surprise breaking move outward just past his reach.

"Strike One!" yells the Ump, motioning outward with his hand, his index finger extended.

Fuck yeah!

Two more strikes to go, and we move to the seventh inning. Ryan smoothly stands up and tosses me the ball again. Erik steps out of the batter's box for a moment, taps the bat against his feet, takes a couple of practice swings, before stepping back to the plate and repositions his feet, grinding his lead foot and settling into his batter's stance, and focuses his gaze back on me. Once more, Ryan repeats his hand signals for the perfect pitch…only this time, I decide to go with a change-up because I know Erik won't be expecting it. He's likely anticipating one of my renowned four-seamers. So, this should knock him off keel, mentally and physically. A change-up is a pitch that's thrown like a fastball but with much less speed. With a change-up, my pitching motion is essentially the same but my grip on the ball is different, thereby reducing the speed of the pitch without really changing my arm speed, which helps disguise what type of pitch is being thrown. I normally throw two types of change-ups, my straight change and my circle change. Both are effective, but this time, I'm going with my circle change, which basically means I hold the ball with three fingers while my thumb and index finger are held in a circle. The ball is thrown with a sideways break, a lot like a screwball, only it doesn't strain my shoulder as much. I don't throw this one very often in a game, but that doesn't mean I don't practice it frequently. Or know how to deliver it.

And, as I said, Erik won't be expecting it.

Ryan knows every single pitch I throw, and he and I have practiced them all a bazillion times each over the years. He also knows me well, of course, and when he signals through all my usual pitches without my confirmation, he then nods his head, signals for a change-up and then one finger, representing my straight change. I shake my head. He nods again in comprehension, understanding my silent directive for my circle change throw. He gets into position. I stare down Erik, who braces his feet once more as I wind up and release the ball, watching as it heads for the plate. Since the ball looks like a fastball but moves at a much slower pace, the batter, anticipating a fastball, tends to swing early, missing the ball entirely – which is exactly what happens this time.

"Strike Two!" The Ump motions outward again with two fingers up.

Shit, yeah!

Once more, the uproar in the stadium is tremendous as Ryan throws the ball back to me with a smirk. I got this. And, he knows it. Catching the ball easily in my outstretched glove, I step back up onto the top of the mound and turn to face second base for a moment, contemplating my next pitch and decide on my sinker. This is essentially a two-seam fastball but, by virtue of its design, it appears as a strike before it drops, or sinks, out of the batting zone. The risk with a sinker, because it's thrown either low and in or low and out, is often ground-outs, if the batter does manage to catch it with the bat. But it's a risk I'm prepared for, should Erik manage to get a piece of it. Nodding to myself, my decision made, I grasp the ball firmly with my right hand, holding it inside my glove, and turn back to face home plate. Ryan squats again, motioning rapidly through my pitching options, until I nod when he signals for the sinker. He nods as well and gets in position. Erik pulls back with the bat, his feet braced, his eyes focused on me. I nod again, stand tall, wind up, and throw the ball. It comes in just like a fastball but then sinks just as it reaches the batter. Erik swings, and Crack!…Just as I figured he might do, he manages to get a piece of the ball, but – also as I anticipated – he hits a comebacker, sending the ball right back toward the pitcher's mound. As Erik takes off for First Base, I see the ball heading right for me, and in one fluid move, I reach out and grab the ball in my glove as it bounces, pivot, and throw the ball at Teddy Schultz, our First Baseman, who reads the play expertly and grabs the ball in his outstretched glove, his foot firmly on the bag, and instantly, the first base umpire signals the 'Out,' with his clenched right fist, waving down once like a hammer strike, and the stadium crowd goes wild, as our team all moves to depart the field for our dugout.

As I approach the dugout, my teammates all pat me on the back for a job well done, and I glance over quickly to see Padmé, Dormé, and my parents all on their feet, cheering and clapping their hands enthusiastically, and I manage to catch Padmé's eye for the briefest of moments, and I feel elation sweep through me as she winks at me and purses her lips in a quick kissing motion sent my way. Fighting the urge to fist pump the air, more at my woman's private motions of affection for me than actually my besting the Miami batters that inning, I step down into the dugout and plop down on the bench to watch the rest of the game, because I'm pretty sure Ben is going to pull me for the last three innings to give my arm a rest. But no matter. It's fine by me actually, because already, my mind is turning toward our post-game plans, instead of the rest of the game itself. And, for the first time in a long time, I can't fucking wait for the game to end.

"Amazing job, Bro!" Ryan reaches out with his hand and we fist bump as we hoist our backpacks on our shoulders and head out of the locker room and toward the hallway leading to the exit to the Players' parking lot where we're going to meet up with the girls, since my parents will be taking their own vehicle to the restaurant and will meet us there. We ended up winning the game eight to five, and just as I had figured, Ben pulled me after that last pitch against Erik and sent in our relief pitcher, Joey Lamenchi, to take over in the seventh. Granted, he gave up three more runs, but we still came out on top with the win. Because he didn't lose the lead in the game, even though he gave up those three runs, I was the starting pitcher this game, and I pitched a full six innings, so I'm still credited with the win, despite being pulled at the start of the seventh. Which is good for my stats and for the team's stats. That's all that matters.

Well, that and making another amazing impression on my woman with my athletic prowess, of course.

Smirking at my best friend, I nod my head as we continue walking along, "Thanks, Man. I could've thrown a four-seamer that last pitch, but truthfully, I figured he'd be expecting that from me. Besides, I admit my arm was getting kinda tired, and I just wanted a quick last out, y'know?"

Ryan nods and then shoots me a sly look sideways, "Yeah. Not to mention you just wanted this one over so you could get to the good stuff tonight. That being dinner with Padmé and your folks, yeah?"

Damn, he knows me so fucking well, I swear.

No sense in denying the truth here. After all, he's right. So, I simply grin sheepishly and shrug my shoulders, "Yeah. I admit it. Ever since I talked to Mom this morning, then Padmé, and we worked all the details out for tonight…I've been like hyper-focused on them meeting each other. It's just…" I continue walking but pause speaking, frowning and chewing my bottom lip for a sec as I contemplate my words. "This is all new to me, Ry. You know that. The only girls I've ever introduced to my mother were my Prom dates in high school, girls who didn't mean jack shit to me. So, it's like a really huge deal for me to introduce Padmé to my parents, y'know? And, to do so this quickly…It's just super important to me that Mom likes Padmé and that Padmé likes my mom. I really want – hell, I really need – them to get along well."

I adjust the backpack strap on my shoulder and keep walking, though I don't look over at Ryan and keep my focus on the floor in front of me as I walk. I don't really need to explain any further about my feelings here. He knows why this is such a big deal to me. Better than anyone else, really…except maybe my mother. Still, I don't want to vocalize my own deepest ruminations about just how serious my feelings are becoming for Padmé. At least, not yet anyway. Just the fact that I'm actually dating her – with no sex involved yet - and that I've sought his help on wooing her, on how to have an exclusive relationship with her…Not to mention the fact that I've literally gone off sex cold turkey until she and I do take that all-important step toward physical intimacy with each other…speaks fucking volumes here.

And, we both know it.

Besides, before I bring up my suspected development of the biggest of the three L-words there is, I want Padmé to have the chance to spend time with my parents, my mom especially, and get to know them…just like I hope she'll want me to have the same opportunity to meet and get to know her parents as well. So, hell yeah, tonight is important. Like majorly. I mean, as I said, I'm already considering, pondering, maybe even planning on the whole nine yards with Padmé, so to speak. Y'know, the rings, the vows, the kids…the whole intertwining of our lives into one kinda thing.

And commitment like that bespeaks of one thing to me: Family.

Specifically, OUR family. Mine and hers. Together. As one.

And tonight, is our next big step in that direction.

So, I think I can be forgiven if my nerves are strung a bit tight right now.

Ryan doesn't comment as we continue the rest of our walk in silence. He doesn't need to. He's as aware of the night's implications as I am. If this goes as well as I anticipate it to, then Padmé and I will be one giant leap closer to formalizing and solidifying the nature of our relationship. And, just so I'm clear on what I want here, let me repeat: Exclusivity. Permanently. Legally.

That's my game plan.

We finally reach the exit and find Padmé and Dormé already there waiting for us. As we approach them, I feel my belly flip-flop again as Padmé turns a beaming smile my way, and I can't help the huge-ass grin that breaks out on my own face in return. Dammit, what she does to me! Literally, just her smile alone turns my knees to fucking jelly! Weak knees and all, just being in her presence is still the most incredible feeling imaginable. Nothing else like it, and talk about intoxicating? Oh, hell yeah, that's her with a capital 'I.' No two ways about it.

As we walk toward them, I also take notice of Padmé's outfit for the evening, and shit, she looks divine! She's dressed casually…but nice casual. Instead of my baseball jersey (which I do miss seeing her in), she's wearing dark navy skinny jeans, a pair of light pink leather flats, a soft baby pink and white striped, summer knit, short sleeved sweater with a thicker white, soft-looking, long-sleeved sweater over it. Her long chestnuts curls are streaming down her back, but she has a baby pink headband on, pulling it back from her face, leaving just her bangs across her forehead. She's got on some tiny pearl stud earrings, and a silver chain and pearl bracelet on. She's also got a darker pink leather purse slung over her shoulder with a long strap so it hands by her hip.

Fuck, she's gorgeous with a capital 'G.' I instantly feel my dick perking up as I sweep her from head to toe with my eyes, and I have to swallow hard and will my baser testosterone urges away. That's right. Down, boy! Don't you dare embarrass me here and now!

"Great game today, Guys!" Padmé calls out to us as we come to a stop beside them. Grinning, I wrap my left arm around her waist and lean down to brush a gentle kiss across her cheek, pleased and thrilled when a rosy blush sweeps over her beautiful face.

Dormé echoes her sentiment, "Yeah. You both played really well. Nice ground out there on Vanderveld in the bottom of the sixth, Anakin." Leaning over toward her fiancé, she smiles lovingly when Ryan bestows an equally loving kiss on her temple and then reaches down to twine their fingers together.

Doing the same with Padmé myself, the four of us turn and exit the building to make our way over toward our respective cars, two couples walking hand-in-hand. Grinning, I reply, "Thanks, Ladies. I think I speak for Ryan too when I say we had a lot of fun out there today…and it was great to come up with the win."

Ryan nods in agreement, and I feel another thrill when Padmé gently squeezes my hand in a silent show of pride at a job well done tonight, and seriously, her support of my career makes me want to bang on my chest like Tarzan and let out a jungle yell that'd put that Ape Man to shame.

We reach our vehicles, and as Ryan unlocks his and assists Dormé into her seat, I do the same on my Lambo, unlocking and opening the door and offering Padmé my hand to help her climb into the passenger seat. Once she's settled, I shut the door for her, and walk around the car to get into the driver's seat. I call out a quick, "See you guys there, Bro!" which Ryan responds to with a quick wave and nod of his head, and then I climb into my own seat and glance over at Padmé with a grin, and start up the car. Putting on my seatbelt, I wait for Ryan to pull out first, and then put my car in gear, and we follow behind our friends, exiting the parking lot and heading for the restaurant. My parents are probably already there, I'm guessing. Especially since Ryan and I both had post-game interviews to do with several of the media outlets before we could take our showers and get cleaned up for dinner.

But, that's okay. My folks have done this before…the whole having to wait on my post-game PR duties thing. So, they're used to it. They're probably just waiting at the restaurant for us, just like they normally do. Glancing over at Padmé as I maneuver the car through the crowded post-game streets around FP, I smile softly and ask, "So, did Dormé introduce you to my parents before the game?"

Padmé turns to look at me and smiles, nodding, "Yeah. She did. Your mother is lovely, and your stepfather seems really nice. They're very proud of you. As they should be."

I feel a slight pang in my chest at her words. I admit I wish I could've been the one to actually introduce them, but circumstances prevented it, since I was down in our locker room getting ready for the game. But, I'm ecstatic to hear her say that. From her words, it sounds like they got off to a great start. Which is a fucking relief, I gotta admit. Oh, sure…I really didn't have any doubts that they would, of course, but still, hearing her speak like she just did about my parents takes a weight off my shoulders, to be sure. This is all going to work out. I'm certain of it.

"Great! I'm so glad to hear that, Babe. I-I…," I pause and wet my lips before starting again, "It's really important to me that you like them and that they like you." I reach across with my right hand and wrap my fingers around her left hand and give it a gentle squeeze. She turns her hand over and twines our fingers together and she gives my hand a gentle squeeze back. Smiling softly, I glance at her quickly before turning my attention back to the road. I noticed the soft, yet questioning look in her eyes, and I sigh and try to explain. "Look, Padmé, I know you're aware of what kind of reputation I have. With women that is. And, well, the only girls I've ever introduced to my parents were my Prom dates in my junior and senior years of high school. That's it. Even then, it was just for some quick pictures. I didn't date girls in high school either. But the thing is…"

I pause speaking again and take a deep breath in, exhale slowly, and bite my bottom lip for a moment. This is the moment of truth for me. For us. I can feel it. It's time to bring up my desire, my wish, for the two of us to date…exclusively.

"What is it, Anakin?"

Her question, though softly spoken, is filled with both curiosity and concern.

Turning, I glance at her, and smile reassuringly before I look back out the windshield and continue my comment. "But, with you, it's all different. I want you to meet my family. I want you to get to know my other friends, and I want you to like them and get along with them. Just like I want to meet your family and your other friends and get to know them, too. What I'm saying, Padmé, is that…I-I want us to date each other. Exclusively, I mean."

An audible gasp reaches my ear and causes me to whip my head around to look at her, and I see an incredulous look on her lovely face. Her eyes are wide, her lips hanging open in surprise, and a beautiful blush has covered her cheeks. But, in her eyes…in her eyes I see genuine affection coupled with…hope. "Oh, Anakin," she gushes softly, and I am stunned when tears suddenly flood her eyes, making them sparkle in the dim light from the dashboard.

Taken aback by her response, all I can do is stare at her for a moment. She snaps her mouth shut, and I can't help but notice her lips are trembling, and then a single tear slides down her right cheek, and before I realize what I've done, I reach over with my right hand and brush the back of my index finger gently across her cheek, catching the lone droplet of water with my knuckle. Then I brush the backs of all my fingers against her cheekbone in a barely there caress. Damn, her skin is so incredibly soft, and I feel a shudder sweep through my body at the innocent contact.

Smiling softly at her in encouragement, I need to be sure I'm not misunderstanding her vibe here, "Is that a 'yes,' then, Padmé?" My belly clenches as I await her answer. All I can think is Please say yes! Please say yes! Please. Say. Yes!

As if she heard the silent mantra clanging away inside my head, she returns my smile somewhat shyly, a darker blush painting her cheeks, her look one of tender affection and softly utters the words I am longing to hear, "Yes, Anakin. I would love to date you exclusively."

Pure unadulterated joy bursts open inside me at her affirmation, and I couldn't be any fucking happier if I'd just won the World Series. Too choked up to respond verbally, I reach over, grasp her hand tenderly in my own, bring it up to my lips and place the gentlest of kisses across the backs of her fingers.

Clearing my throat, I can't help the mile-fucking-wide grin that suddenly splits my face as I shoot her a wink and press down on the gas. I'm more eager than ever to get to the restaurant…and introduce my new girlfriend to those most near and dear to me. Finally. I can't fucking wait, and they can't wait either, I'm sure!

Talk about a game changer!

And, I am one gigantic step closer to fulfilling my game plan with her acceptance and approval. Hell yeah, people!

Let's do this thing!