Page 134 of Hiding in the Outfield

“When does he leave?” I choke out.

Maddy pulls me into a hug, his arms cinching around me.

But it’s not comfort that settles around me. It’s doom.

“He’s already gone,” he whispers.

I knew it. I knew it before he said the words.

“How is that possible?” I ask faintly. I push Maddy away and start pacing in rhythm with my frantic heartbeat. “Don’t they have to give him time to pack? Jesus, to breathe?”

“These things can happen really fast. Especially when big league spots need to be filled. I mean, there was that game when Seranthony Domínguez was traded mid-doubleheader. He just walked across the field to play for the other team in the second game.”

I glare at him. I don’t want logic and facts right now. I don’t want any of this right now. Fuck.

“He’s starting in tomorrow night’s game. For Berkeley, Frank.”

I pace by him. “Did he even get to take his things? Holy fucking shit. Where’s he going to live when he gets out there?” God, he doesn’t know anyone out there. He’s going to be completely alone. No no no. No. This is not okay.

“He’s got the essentials, gear. I mean, you saw how little he has last night… There wasn’t much to bring.”

Yeah, the stuff he hadn’t even unpacked yet. He’d just officially moved in with me. My heart splinters. We were going to have everything.

“Most young players pretty much live out of suitcases because this is the name of the game,” Maddy says. “The Clippers will ship out the things he couldn’t take with him.”

I flip open my phone and tap Jackson’s text thread.

Jackson

Hey, babe. Call me when you see this.

Frankie, call me.

It’s urgent, babe.

My chest seizes.

Jackson

Shit, Frank. Please see this. Call me.

I’m at the airport, babe. I didn’t want to tell you this through text. God, I hope you see this soon. My plane boards in half an hour.

Fuck. I have to turn off my phone. I got traded. I’m supposed to get in around 1 your time. Stay up for me? I need to hear your voice. I love you.

My eyes burn. “Fuck!”

I can’t believe I missed all his calls and texts. I slam my palm against my car. I have never been more livid with myself. I can’t even imagine how he’s feeling right now. The devastation I’m feeling? Amplify that by fear and anxiety. He’d finally found his place, his home. Me.

I quickly punch out a reply.

Me

I love you too, Jackie. Of course I’ll wait up for you.

I pocket my phone and run my hand through my hair, blowing out a breath.

“You okay, Frankie?” Maddy eyes me, forehead wrinkled.