The Baseball Diamond Enigma
On a bright, mid-summer Saturday morning, Tad sat in his living room absorbing the relaxing vibrations from the massaging recliner his roommate, Mart, had brought with him when he moved into the apartment the two shared. Periodically, Tad would grab the pencil he held between his teeth and make notations to the line-up he had prepared for his little league baseball team, the Sleepyside Express, who had a game that afternoon. Earlier in the spring, the Community Center, where Tad worked, had sponsored the baseball program, relying on adults and parents to be the coaches. Tad and Trixie had eagerly signed up for one of the teams. Even though their schedules were tight, the two had managed to maintain a practice regimen that had the ragtag, coed team ready by the time the first game rolled around. Humming to himself, Tad rearranged a few of his young players until he was satisfied with the batting order and field positions. Then he stashed his work in his gear bag and put it by the door.
“I’m out,” he called to Mart, who was puttering around in the small kitchen, traipsing back and forth between the counter and the table.
“You’re leaving now? But you’re going to miss my avocado toast. I think I’ve finally perfected a scrumptious version of the currently trendy yet healthy breakfast entree.”
“I think I’ll live.”
“Where are you going?” Mart slid a plate onto the small pedestal table.
“Where do you think I’m going?”
“Trixie’s?”
“Bingo.” He turned toward the door, then stopped. “You do remember about the game this afternoon, right?”
Mart nodded. “A game between your team and the parents. It’s noted on my calendar and Diana’s too. We’ll be there with bells on. And,” he gave Tad a meaningful look, “I can delve into the mystery of the Metro Park lake. I believe you know the one to which I am referring.”
Tad nodded. “You can look into any mystery you want as long as you help out and make sure things are taken care of. But you might want to hold off the bells. Too distracting.”
Mart frowned “I consider that reflection imprecise since you have no concept of how I might appear with bells on.”
“And that’s a sight I never want to see.”
Tad exited the apartment, ran down to the parking lot and hopped into his car. “Today’s game is going to be the best one ever,” he grinned as he started the engine and sped out.
A short time later, he rapped on Trixie’s door. “Hey, Belden! Are you there?” he called out.
“Yes!” Trixie swung open the door. “Where else would I be? I did my show this morning and came home and grabbed a quick nap and now I’m ready for today’s game.”
Tad came into the homey apartment and sat down on the couch. Propping his feet on the table in front of it, he leaned back and stacked his hands behind his head and sighed contentedly. “This is always the game the kids love the most. Probably because it’s so fun to watch the parents try to play. They’re always surprised when they realize how hard it is to actually hit the ball.”
“A fact I myself learned,” grinned Trixie. “Remember the first time I tried to teach a group how to bat. Good thing you gave me a few tips otherwise they’d still be swinging their bats like they were chopping wood.”
“Ah, Belden, that’s true. But you did manage to learn from me and pass that knowledge on to the kids. I’m really glad you were able to fit in coaching between your two jobs. The kids love you.”
Trixie sat down next to him. “I love them too. But I really, really love how the girls never let the boys push them around. Now that’s teamwork I can relate to.”
“You were a good influence on them.”
Trixie ducked her head in a mock coquettish manner. “Aw, shucks, Coach. I just showed them the Belden resilience.” She tucked her hands under her chin and tried to bat her eyes at Tad, but had little success. Abandoning the flirty pretense, she demanded eagerly, “So, give me the details of today’s game.”
Tad sat up. “Well, there’ll be the Sleepyside Express team, which will win and the parents’ team, which will lose. The kids are positively sure of that. We’ll play our usual six innings.” He stopped and rubbed his chin. “My only concern is that we have enough adults who are willing to play. Sometimes getting them onto the field can be a bit tricky.”
“Just leave those benchwarmers to me. I bet I can get them to play. “ Trixie jumped up suddenly. “Hey, I gotta show you what I got for snacks after the game.”
She led Tad over to a large cooler that she’d placed by the doorway to her kitchen. LIfting the lid, she pointed out the variety of chilled juice boxes and individual bags of Cheez Its.
“And then I have these.” Trixie opened her freezer and pointed to several boxes of ice cream sandwiches. “The kids will like these, don’t you think?”
“Yep. Just don’t show them the snack until after the game or they’ll want to nosh in lieu of playing.”
“Nosh in lieu of playing?” Trixie frowned. “Clearly you’ve been living with my brother too long. Time to get you a new roommate.”
“I couldn’t agree more. Who should my next roomie be?” Tad grinned mishchieveloyly.
Rolling her eyes, Trixie stood up and grabbed Tad’s hand. “I’m hungry.”
“Great! Let’s go get some lunch so we’ll be ready for the game. Anybody up for a trip to Wimpy’s?”
**********
Seated at their favorite hang-out a few minutes later, Trixie and Tad placed their order for burgers and onion rings.
“I wonder why these burgers are so good?” mused Trixie. “Sometimes, I think they’re even better than the ones Moms makes.”
“Cuz they’re made with love?” teased Tad.
“I think it’s the greasy grill that Mike has used since this place opened. Just think how seasoned it must be by now.” She studied the popular eatery with a speculative look on her face. “You know, I think I’ll suggest this place as one of my “about town” segments. That way, I’ll have a legitimate reason to get back in the kitchen and see how things are really made.”
“Sounds good. Just don’t tell your brother. He’ll want to be your assistant for sure.”
Trixie scoffed. “Hah! He has his own business to run. Last I heard, Imogene was trying to buy that lot behind the nursery so they could expand.”
“Oh, good,” exclaimed Tad. “That should keep him busy and out of the apartment.”
“Why do you want him out of the apartment, besides the obvious reasons?”
Tad played with the salt and pepper shakers that were lined up next to the wall. “Lately, he’s been on this weird kick of trying out different fish dishes. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come home and the apartment reeks of the little creatures. Ugh! I thought maybe he was catching them at the pond at the Metro Park, but he said no.” Tad paused as a puzzled look flashed across his face. “The weird thing was, as soon as I mentioned the Metro Park, Mart looked kinda weird and acted squirrely.”
“Mart looked kinda weird? I thought that was normal.” Trixie’s head tilted. “And how does he have the time to go fishing? I know for a fact that he’s been really busy with clearing out the summer products.”
Tad shrugged. “I don’t know how much time he has, but he seems to be a little obsessed about the Metro Park lake.”
“Hmm, the Metro Park lake. I wonder why?”
“It’s not like there are many varieties of fish in that pond,” continued Tad. “So I can’t imagine what is causing all the intrigue. Still, I can’t stand the fishy smell in my apartment all the time.” He made an exaggerated gagging noise, causing Trixie to laugh.
“Slip a bad fish in on him. That’ll fix him from ever wanting to cook or eat it again.”
“Yeah, but that would basically make the apartment uninhabitable and that would drive me out forever. Then where would I go?” He feigned tears. “And we’re back to me needing a new roommate again. Got any ideas?”
Trixie made a silly face. “Maybe.”
Balancing a full tray, the waitress arrived at their booth and laid down two plates loaded with burgers and onion rings plus two cold sodas, the condensation already forming on the sides of the red plastic glasses. After thanking her, the two dug into their lunch.
“By the way,” said Tad as he eyed the hot onion rings. “Spider, Tracy and Baby Bella are coming to the game today.”
“Really? Don’t they have other family stuff they want to do on a Saturday afternoon?”
Tad shrugged. “I don’t know. I’m hoping if I’m short a few parents, Spider will help me out and join the parent team.”
“Does Spider play baseball?” Trixie fussed with her bun atop her burger until she was satisfied with its position. Then she took a big bite.
“Yeah. He plays in the police league, or at least tries to.” Tad stuffed an onion ring into his mouth.
“Ooh, brotherly competition?”
“What?” Tad looked surprised. “ No. It’s just Spider’s so busy with his job and family that he doesn’t have a lot of spare time. And certainly no time to practice or improve any skills he may have. On the other hand, he’s not that old plus he’s physically fit so he’d definitely be an asset to the team.”
Trixie took a big bite out of her pickle. “They’ll probably need him if they have any hope of winning, which we know they won’t because the little rugrats will kick their parents’ butts and then some.”
Tad shook his head. “Tsk! Tsk! Coach Belden. No potty words.”
Trixie replied by shoving an entire onion ring into mouth and grinning.
When the two exited the diner a short time later, they basked in the warm, summer sunshine. The clear blue sky was dotted with a few puffy clouds and a light breeze ruffled the leaves of the trees that lined Main Street.
“What a beautiful day!” exclaimed Trixie. “And it was like this earlier when I was doing my tv segment from the dog park. Which reminds me; we should get a dog.”
“Let’s just focus on today’s game,” said Tad, hugging Trixie close as the two made their way down the sidewalk dappled by the overhead sun.
**********
At three o’clock, Tad, Trixie and the rest of their ball team met at the Metro Park, where several ball diamonds stood raked and ready for the day’s games. Young trees lined the fields and chain link fences enclosed the dugouts. Clean white bases stood out starkly against the fine red dirt while patriotic bunting, hanging from the fencing, danced merrily in the breeze. Minivans with young families, Spider’s among them, filled up the parking lot as parents unloaded wagons, strollers and lawn chairs. A vendor pushing a handcart full of sno cones parked between the different fields and was already attracting young customers.
Wearing their blue and white team shirts and gray baseball pants, the Express members slung their gear bags over their shoulders and jauntily headed toward the ball diamond assigned to them. They stowed their bags under the dugout bench and hung their bats through the fence links. Water bottles placed on the bench represented a spot claimed by that particular player. The kids jostled and pushed each other, their laughter and boisterous shouts ringing through the air.
“They seem really excited, almost overly excited,” noted Trixie as she and Tad lagged behind. “I hope they settle down for the game.”
“They will,” answered Tad confidently “You don’t know how pumped the kids get when they play against their parents. When I was a kid, this was always my favorite game.”
“Hey, Trixie,” yelled one rambunctious boy, pointing to the cooler Trixie dragged behind her. “What’s in there? Is it our treat?”
She grinned broadly. “I bet you’d like to know. But you guys will have to wait until after the game to see what’s in there. Do you all have your water bottles?”
Trixie was met with a unison of yeses.
“Okay, Webster.” Trixie slapped on her ball cap and pulled her ponytail through the back of it. “What do we do first? Warm up the kids or review strategy?”
“Let me get the parents together. I saw Mart’s car in the parking lot, but instead of getting ready he’s standing out by the lake.” Tad scowled. “And he better not be fishing. He’s got too many other things he should be doing.”
Trixie’s eyes narrowed. “Other things he should be doing? Here? Like what?”
“Didn’t I tell you?”
Trixie crossed her arms across her chest. “Tell me what?”
“Mart’s going to coach the adults.”
“What? Why?”
Tad started to reply, then frowned. “Still at the lake! And he’s just standing there. What’s the big deal with the lake?”
Trixie turned around and looked across the field to the Metro Park pond where she could see her brother standing among the small rocks that lined the shore. “The lake again? Mart coaching? What’s going on?”
Tad kissed the tip of Trixie’s nose. “Don’t worry. Just concentrate on making this a fun afternoon and, if you do that, everybody will have a good time.”
Trixie glanced at the
Tad walked back to the ball field, calling out words of encouragement as he passed his young team, then continued to the bleachers where he sought adult players for the day’s game. Trixie could hear Tad as he pleaded with the adults then, after a quick backward glance, assured herself that everything was under control on the ball field. Her jog turned into a sprint as she headed for the pond.
“Mart,” she panted as she slid to a stop. “What are you doing out here? You do know the ball field is over there, right?”
Mart turned around, a perplexed look on his face. “Just studying the water. Is Tad looking for me?”
“He’s getting the parents together now and was hoping you’d be doing what you’re supposed to be doing. Obviously, he overestimated you.” Her hands on her hips, she studied herbrother. “And why are you so interested in this lake all of a sudden?”
Mart shrugged. “I’m not sure. But I’ve been digging into the history of this locale and it’s quite intriguing.”
“Intriguing?” Squinting against the bright sunshine, Trixie looked across the water. “All I see is a man-made lake with small boats, a few paddleboards and lots of families. What do you see?”
“Infinitely more.” Mart scooped up a handful of small rocks and tossed them back and forth between his hands. “This lake possesses myths, legends, and rumors. What do they all mean? Upon what are they based?”
Trixie rolled her eyes. “What in the world are you talking about?”
Mart waved his hand across the vista in front of him. “This. This lake. It hasn’t been here forever you know. And I’ve been researching the history of this acreage, and I believe there’s something off with the location of the lake.”
“Off? Like what?” Trixie turned and assessed the water.
Mart shrugged. “I’m not sure. It could be nothing. But it definitely necessitates additional research.” He tossed the stones into the water. “Then again, I could be wrong. But me being wrong is such a rare occurrence, why bother entertaining such an absurd notion.”
Trixie sputtered. “C’mon Mart. You’re standing out here, looking at the water like it’s the eighth wonder of the world. Then you say it could be nothing. What gives?”
She walked to the pond’s edge, knelt down, and studied the water. She was startled slightly when a nearby fish suddenly leaped through the surface, its movement causing a bright flash against the darker water, then the gentle rippling caused by the fish’s splash. She pondered the growing ripples then turned to question Mart but, before she could, she noticed Tad had gathered both the kids and the parents together.
“Gleeps! Tad’s handling both the parents and the kids. I need to get back there and help,” she exclaimed as she climbed up the shore. “And so do you, since you’re the one who’s coaching one of the teams, although why is another great mystery to me.” Scowling, she walked past Mart. “C’mon. It looks like Tad needs us.” She started off across the grassy field but stopped when she heard him gasp.
“What?” Trixie spun around and ran back to her brother, who was still staring intently at the pond. “Did you see something?”
Mart shook his head. “I guess not. But for a moment…”
“Mart, seriously, what’s going on? Do you think some type of Sleepy Ness monster lives in this little lake?”
“Sleepy Ness monster?” Staring at his sister, Mart vigorously rubbed his chin then shook his head. “Sometimes, Trixie, you get the craziest ideas. As for the pond, maybe, for the moment, we should just focus our attention and efforts toward the upcoming game.” Turning abruptly, he jogged off toward the ball field leaving Trixie behind.
“Yeah,” she called after her brother. “Like I’m going to forget everything you just said? No way. If you think there’s a mystery going on here at this pond, then I’m going to help solve it, whether you like it or not.”
Meanwhile, Tad had sent theSleepyside Express back to the field to continue their warm-up drills. He had tried to persuade all the adults to join in the fun, but was only able to convince seven parents to play, leaving a hole or two in the team. He gave a nod to Spider, who, after settling his family, joined the parents.
“Hey, Trixie,” Tad yelled. “Can you come here?”
Trixie ran over to the bleachers.
“Just as I thought, I'm coming up a bit short so I’ll need you to play with the adults.”
“What?”
Tad shrugged. “It can’t be helped. Besides, we want this to be fun for the kids and having a full team to play against is important.”
“Okay,” sulked Trixie. “But let me go explain it to the kids.”
“Don’t worry about that. I cautioned them that this might happen. They know you’d much rather be coaching them but also understand that this way they’ll get a fair game with their parents.”
Trixie tucked a stray curl behind her ear. “I’ll do my best.”
“And you don’t have to worry about helping Mart with the parents because I gave him full rein.”
Trixie’s mouth fell open. “Full rein? So you not only want me to play against the on a team coached by Mart, who’s also totally in charge? Mart. The one who routinely struck out when he was a kid. Mart. The one who doesn’t know as much as he thinks he does. Mart. The one who uses a whole slew of ridiculously sounding words when one simple one gets the job done. This isn’t fair. ” She stamped her foot. “And why did he agree to this anyway?”
Tad shrugged. “I guess he wanted to help out his roommate. That seemed like a legitimate reason to me. Of course, there is his weird interest in the lake. Maybe that’s really why he wanted to hang out at the Metro Park today.” Tad swiped at the sweat beginning to form on his brow. “Look, he’s your brother. You know how his mind works better than I do. But whatever he thinks is going on here, he was muttering about it yesterday and I could have sworn I heard him say that something at the Metro Park could be life-altering, whatever that means. But for now, I don’t have the time to deal with Mart’s weird ideas. Damn! I hope he’s not looking for more fish to cook.”
“Life-altering, huh? And the lake.” Trixie, eyes narrowed, watched her brother who was busy writing down the line-up for his team on a clipboard. “He was out there a few minutes ago, just standing there and staring at it. That definitely screams mysterious to me. Then he suggested that the location of the lake was odd. Maybe it’s a good thing I’m on his team. That way I can keep an eye on him.”
“I agree. And help keep him focused if he gets distracted. I can’t have him disappearing to go check out the lake in the middle of the game. And whatever happens, don’t argue with him. Today is all about the kids and fun.”
“We need to examine your definition of the word fun,’” groused Trixie.
“Word definitions are your brother’s area of expertise.” Tad ran his hand through his hair then replaced his cap. “Feel free to ask him.”
“I plan on asking him quite a few questions. But after today, Webster, you’re going to owe me.”
Grinning, Tad waggled his eyebrows. “I’ll make sure you get a nice surprise when the game is over.”
“I’ve heard that before,” said Trixie as she pushed past her boyfriend.
Tad returned to the Express bench and reviewed the lineup with his players while Trixie sat down on the parental team’s bench and assessed the adults who had agreed to play, Spider among them. After watching a few dads try to swing the bat, she felt certain that not only would the Sleepyside Express win but that they’d win by a lot. She moved to Spider’s side and punched him playfully in the shoulder.
“So, you’re finally going to join your brother on the ball field, eh?”
Spider chuckled. “I guess so. He told me to be prepared but I didn’t really think I’d have to play. I’m sure when this is over Tad will take great delight in telling me how I should stick to my day job and leave baseball to him.”
Trixie shook her head. “What kind of defeatist talk is that?”
Spider shrugged. “I know my limitations. I play with the cop league when I can but that’s about it. Plus, a teething toddler that fusses all night doesn’t help either. I’d much rather be stretched out in a hammock under a tree right now.”
“Come on, Spider,” Trixie took his arm. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”
Leading Spider to a spot behind the bleachers, Trixie watched his swing and immediately saw a few things he could do to improve it. She also reviewed a few additional strategies she had picked up from Tad. As Spider was trying out Trixie’s suggestions, they heard a babbling from above. Looking up, they saw the waving arms of Spider’s baby girl, Bella, who was struggling to get out of her mother’s arms and into her daddy’s.
“I see Bella’s excited about you playing today. Now’s your chance to set a good example.” Trixie waved back at the happy baby.
Spider smiled proudly at his family while Trixie performed a silly dance for the little girl. “Honestly, Spider. I don’t know how you and Tracy manage to go to work everyday and leave that beautiful little cutie?”
“Sometimes, work is way easier than chasing her around the house.”
Spider stepped closer to his wife and took Bella from Tracy’s arms. Tossing her up in the air several times, he elicited a big belly laugh from the little tyke. Trixie, Tracy and the rest of the crowd chuckled at the little girl’s joy.
"Here you go.” He handed Bella back to Tracy. “I guess I have to go take my place on the bench now. Man, if I mess this up, my little brother will hold this over my head forever.”
Spider stopped when Trixie again punched him in the shoulder. “Stop that kind of talk,” she scolded. “You’re supposed to tell yourself positive things.”
“Right. I’m positive my little brother…”
Trixie placed her hand over his mouth. “Enough from you. Let’s go sit down.”
With a quick wave to his family, Spider and Trixie returned to the bench where the adults were listening as Mart was offering some vague tips that seemed to come from a beginner’s guide to baseball. In the other dugout, the kids were huddled around Tad, who was discussing last minute strategies. Trixie sat in the shade and watched while Mart talked.
“He does seem a little nervous, almost antsy,” she decided. “He’s not even using any big words. That means something is really on his mind.” Choosing to ignore Mart’s cliche coaching advice, Trixie looked around the area and saw her own parents setting up lawn chairs under a small tree and Diana and Honey sitting on the top row of the bleachers.
“I’ll be right back,” she murmured to Spider.
Trixie walked outside the gate and hurried toward the bleachers.
“What are you guys doing here?” she called as she climbed up several rows.
“I wouldn’t miss watching Mart play ball for anything,” gushed Diana. “Besides, I hear this game is going to be an epic one.”
Honey pointed her thumb toward Diana. “And I’m with her.”
Trixie offered her friend a quizzical stare.
“Okay,” Honey held up her hands in defeat. “I called Diana to see if she wanted to go shoe shopping. Instead, she invited me to this game and made it sound so exciting that I decided I had to see it.”
“Exciting? Well, this game might not be exciting but it should be good. I hope you enjoy it. And, if you hang around afterwards, you might even score an ice cream sandwich.”
“Ooh, yummy.” Honey licked her lips. “I’m definitely staying.”
Trixie looked toward the big lake that was in the center of the park. “Hey, have either of you heard anything weird about this park, and more specifically, the lake?”
“Like what?” asked Diana, pushing her sunglasses firmly into place.
Trixie shrugged. “I don’t know. Tad said that Mart was interested in the pond. Actually, in my opinion, he almost seems obsessed.”
Diana tapped her top lip with a lilac colored fingernail. “Now that you mention it, Mart was quite insistent that we drive through here the other night. And like you said, he seemed a bit preoccupied with the lake. I thought we were going to be here all night.”
“Hmm….” Trixie spun around and again studied the rippling water and the small banks dotted with hopeful fishermen. “Maybe I’ll go over there after the game.”
“Sounds like a potential mystery,” quipped Diana. “Enjoy it.”
“Yes,” echoed Honey. “Might be time for the Belden-Wheeler Detective Agency to get into the act.”
Trixie nodded her head cockily. “You can say that again.”
Stepping quickly down the risers, Trixie returned to her team and sat down on the bench next to Spider.
“Hey, Spider, have you guys had any complaints about anything going on here at the park, specifically around the lake?”
Spider shook his head. “No. Why?”
In a low tone, Trixie replied, “Just wondered.”
**********
The Sleepyside Express was playing the outfield first, so, after getting their assigned positions, the kids took off running. Mimicking the professional players on television, they adjusted their hats and pounded their gloves. One puckered his lips, preparing to spit, but appeared to change his mind after Trixie loudly cleared her throat and shot him a disapproving look.
Meanwhile, the adults were stretching back and forth and trying to touch their toes. Spider jumped up and down, twisted side to side, then executed several squat thrusts.
“Nice warm-up,” grinned Trixie. “See! You’re already off to a good start.”
As a weary Spider stood up, Mart yelled, “Okay, team, listen up.”
He called out the lineup. The first batter went into the box and practiced a few swings while the one on deck continued stretching. Since Trixie wasn’t among the first batters, she returned to her place on the bench and watched the action.
Meanwhile, the spectators and parents, anxious for the game to begin, chatted among themselves while occasionally calling out encouraging words to their youngsters. As the sun beat down, several moms pulled on colorful panama hats while the dads adjusted their ball caps. Trixie saw a few parents passing bottles of sunscreen around while her own parents took long drinks from the water bottles they had brought with them.
“Seriously,” Trixie thought as she assessed the gathered fans, “This town needs more activities for its citizens. If this is the big event for a Saturday afternoon, Sleepyside needs to get on the ball.” A sudden thought occurred to her. “Maybe the tv station isn’t publicizing enough family events” She made a mental note to email to her boss regarding just that.
Seeing her parents watching, Trixie sent them a friendly wave then returned her attention to the ball field where the Express team was now tossing their gloves into the air and practicing their home run dance while the ones on the bases were crouched down low and snagging ground balls that Tad kept rolling out.
“Batter up!” yelled the umpire.
The kids took their positions and waited as a nervous father stepped into the batter’s box. The young pitcher wound up then sent the first ball toward the home plate. When the father swung and missed, the young pitcher jumped up and down in excitement.
“Strike one!” yelled the umpire, sending all the kids into a rousing cheer.
The batter also missed the second pitch. But on the third pitch, he connected with the ball and sent it toward second base. The kids scrambled but the father beat the ball to first base, panting heavily when he got there. The next three parents struck out, sending Tad’s team whooping and hollering to their bench. In their dugout, the kids hurriedly got out their safety helmets and put them on. Then, the first few up at bat practiced their swings. In Trixie’s dugout, Mart assigned the parents outfield positions and bases.
“Trixie!” yelled Mart. “How about you play catcher.”
Trixie grabbed the protective gear and strapped it on. Then, after a brief conference with the father who had agreed to pitch, she crouched down behind home plate and got ready for the first play.
The first three Express members made strong hits and got to base. Then the fourth one, a small boy came up to bat. With the bases loaded, Trixie knew the youngster would be even more nervous. As he took his place in the box, Trixie coached him quietly from behind. On the first pitch, he earned a strike.
“Take it easy,” mumurred Trixie. “Let the ball come to you.”
The boy connected with the second pitch and sent it over the heads of the pitcher and the second basemen. He took off running as his teammates headed to home plate. As they all crossed the plate, they high-fived and congratulated each other. Trixie couldn't help but high-five them too.
“Hey,” yelled Mart. “No fraternizing with the enemy!”
Trixie scowled at her brother. “Good sportsmanship is always important.”
After several batters’ turns, a small, shy girl named Lily slowly approached the box, dragging her feet in the soft dirt behind her. Her eyes traveled over the crowded bleachers then at Trixie.
“Come on,” said Trixie quietly. “I know you can do this. Just take your time and keep your eyes on the ball.”
Lily frowned. “But you’re on the other team. I can’t play if you’re not on my team.”
Trixie reached out to the girl and gave her a one-armed hug. “I’m still coaching you,” she whispered. “And know that more than anybody else, I’m rooting for you.”
Lily smiled then, after tapping the home plate with her bat, took her position. The first pitch whizzed right by without her even swinging.
“That’s okay,” said Trixie encouragingly. “Make the pitcher pitch to you. You’ve got this.”
The second pitch also went right by the girl. Lily turned to Trixie, her eyes full of tears.
“Now what?”
“Now you get back into position, watch that ball, and smack it. You don’t have to hit it hard, but if it comes over the base, you have to hit it.”
“Okay.”
Trixie crouched down behind the girl and watched the pitch that went off to one side. Lily watched it go past.
“Good eye,” whispered Trixie. “That was a ball, not a strike.”
The next two pitches also went wide, leaving Lily with a full count.
“This one is it. Are you ready?” asked Trxie.
Lily nodded and worked her small shoes into the dirt. Then, to Trixie’s surprise, Lily took off her hat, pointed it toward second base, then put it back on her head. The father pitched the ball and Trixie held her breath as Lily swung and connected with it. Lily was so surprised that she stood still until Trixie reminded her to run. With a happy toss of the bat, Lily took off and safely made it to first base.
“I take it she has some struggles.” Mart had come over to his sister.
Trixie nodded. “Yeah. She’s afraid of getting hit by the ball. But today she owned it. Good for her!”
“Kudos to you for being such a good coach.” Mart walked away, leaving a visibly surprised Trixie crouched behind home plate.
The game continued with the adults getting more confident and the kids getting more boisterous. By the sixth inning, the Sleepyside Express led eleven to one. But the adults had one more turn at bat. In the Express dugout, Tad knelt down and talked seriously with his team, then dug through his gear bag and showed the kids something in his hand.
“What’s he doing?” wondered Trixie.
When she glanced back at the adult team, she saw Mart fiddling with an old gym bag that was plopped against the backstop. “And what’s he doing?” She thought for a moment, then rolled her eyes. “He’s probably getting himself some kind of monstrous snack. After all, he hasn’t eaten for at least two hours. Good thing the ice cream sandwiches are with Tad.”
Wanting to offer her own final coaching advice to the Express team, Trixie started over to their bench, but Mart stopped her when he called out. “Hey, Trixie, I’ve decided you’ll be the clean-up batter.”
Trixie stopped and turned. “Shouldn’t you have Spider do that? After all, he’s been hitting really well today. If the bases are loaded, a strong hit will bring everybody in. I think you should reconsider your line-up.”
Mart shook his head. “No. I like my line-up the way it is. Can you get me my water bottle?”
“No.”
Mart huffed loudly. “Need I remind you that I’m the coach and I’m the one in charge. And look, Tad’s finishing up with his team so I don’t think he needs your help at this moment. Now, would you please get me my water bottle.”
Biting down the urge to argue with her brother, Trixie got his water bottle. But when she handed it to him, she couldn't resist stepping hard on his toes.
“Hey!” yelled Mart. “Watch it. I can always sit you out.”
Trixie made a face. “Fine. I’ll go sit with the Express team.”
She started to walk away but was stopped by Mart’s polite request for Trixie to get the batting gear together. While gathering the helmets and bats, Trixie noticed Tad putting on the catcher’s equipment and taking his place behind home plate.
“Why are you playing catcher?” she asked. “Madelyn’s been doing a great job today. Why take her out now?”
Tad put on the face mask. “She said she wanted to play second base.” He shrugged. “Nobody else wanted to play catcher, so here I am. And judging from the interaction between you and Mart, I guess that’s a good thing.”
“Gleeps, Tad! Mart can make me so mad. He said…”
Tad caught a ball that the pitcher threw to him, ending any more discussion between him and Trixie. After a few more catches, he paused in his crouched position.
“What were you saying, Trixie?”
She shook her head. “Never mind.”
“You sure?”
Trixie nodded then prodded Tad’s thigh with the tip of her shoe. “Have fun down there. I’ll try not to nail you with the bat when I make that grand slam play.”
Tad pulled his face protection into place. “I’ll be sure to watch out for any flying bats.”
The inning started off with the adults managing to make a few hits that got them on the bases, but, due to the strong field work of the Sleepyside Express, none of them could actually turn any of the hits into runs. When the umpire called the second out, Mart hollered for Trixie.
“I’m putting you in now,” he said.
“What? Why? I think Spider’s the better choice. After all, there’s still one player on base. Spider could easily bring him home.”
“We’ve already had this argument and I say you go in now.” ordered Mart. “And do I have to remind you that you’re supposed to be setting a good example.”
“Fine, but…” Trixie’s argument faded when she saw Imogene sitting in a lawn chair next to her parents. “I had no idea this game was such a big deal,” she mumbled. “Somebody really needs to come up with more activities for this town.”
“What?” asked Mart.
Trixie pointed toward the bleachers. “Imogene’s here. I wonder why?”
Mart eyed his and Trixie’s boss. “Oh, yeah. I think she’s interested in sponsoring a team next year so I suggested she come watch today’s game. So, younger sibling, are you prepared to execute your swing?”
“Fine. But when we’re done with this game, you and I are going to have a little talk about what you think is going on here at the Metro Park. And don’t try to deny it.”
“Whatever. Now, are you going to go bat or not?” asked Mart as he held out the batter’s helmet.
Trixie snatched the helmet from Mart’s hand and pulled it down over her ponytail. Then she took her position in the batter’s box, grumbling to Tad as she lined herself up for the pitch. “I don’t know why I’m batting. Gleeps! Spider would be a much better choice. Maybe having Mart coach wasn’t such a hot idea.”
Tad adjusted his crouching position. “That’s water under the bridge now.” He stretched out his right leg. “I wasn’t sure how long you and Mart were going to argue. I can’t hold this position all day, you know.”
“I know,” replied Trixie, glaring at her brother.
Tad tapped her ankle. “Cheer up, Belden. The game’s almost over then Mart will be out of your hair.”
“Except for that strange mystery he seems to have found.” She brightened. “But, Tad, if I make this hit, and I manage to make it a homerun, we’ll still be in the game. You do realize that, right?”
Tad laughed. “Like you’d do that to the kids. However, seeing how the kids are fielding, I don’t think the odds are in your favor. But if you make it all the way around, I’ll give you a special treat.”
“Will it be an ice-cream sandwich?” teased Trixie. “Cuz if it is, I think you should know that I have an extra box in my freezer at home so that wouldn’t be that special.”
“Don’t worry about it, Belden. I’ll think of something.”
Trixie placed the bat on her shoulder, then adjusted her stance until she was satisfied with her position. She watched as the first ball went wide.
“Come on, Blake,” she yelled to the young pitcher. “You can do it.”
The next pitch went over the base, but Trixie swung and missed.
“Good job, Belden,” mumurred Tad. “You do know how to play this game, right?”
“Grrr,” responded Trixie good naturedly.
The next pitch came right to her and Trixie hit it. But the ball went out of the baseline.
“Foul ball,” yelled the umpire.
Behind her, Trixie heard Tad groan. “What?” she asked, turning around.
“Nothing. Just hit the ball.”
Blake pitched another ball that totally missed the plate. But his next pitch went across it. Trixie, her eyes on the ball, swung and sent it soaring toward second base. She tossed the bat and took off, making sure to tag first base before continuing on to second. As she passed second base, she gleaned that the Express team seemed to be scrambling with the ball, so she kept on running. She touched third base, and headed for home. But when she looked toward home plate, her run faltered, then she stopped. Her eyes widened and her breath caught. In front of her was Tad, his catcher gear off with the entire Sleepyside Express team standing behind him. The kids were grinning and each one held a flower. An expectant hush fell over the team as well as with the spectators. Tad got down on one knee and held out a small box.
“Trixie,” he called to her. “Life is a series of hits and misses; runs and outs; wins and losses. Yet, we still play the game in hopes that we’ll connect with that one big play or snag that one great catch. I think that I’ve made that great catch with you. Everything we do together is fun and exciting. Every outing is an adventure. Every moment is memorable. I can’t think of anybody else I’d want on my team and anybody else whose team I’d want to be on. Will you marry me?” Tad opened the box, displaying the diamond ring inside.
Standing perfectly still, Trixie inhaled. As she looked at the diamond ring that had caught the sun’s rays, she felt her heart pounding widely in her chest and her breathing turning choppy. Then, with a smile spreading across her face, she broke into a run, meeting Tad’s waiting arms.
“Yes. Yes,” she cried as the crowd burst into cheering and clapping.
The kids started jumping up and down and clustered around the hugging couple. When Trixie and Tad broke apart, he slid the heirloom ring that had belonged to her mother onto her left ring finger.
“I told you I’d give you a treat if you played for the other team.”
Trixie laughed. “And here I was thinking it would be an ice cream sandwich.”
The kids pressed in on the happy couple, giving Trixie the flowers they all held.
“I love these,” she exclaimed. “You guys are the best!”
Beyond the backstop fencing, Honey, Diana, Trixie’s parents, Imogene and Tracy all clapped and cheered along with the rest of the spectators. Trixie waved to her family. She gave Tad another hug, then suddenly pushed him away, ran behind him and touched the home plate.
“Homerun!” she yelled as she waved her arms over her head, imitating a champion fighter.
The kids shrieked, then came in for another hug, nearly knocking Trixie to the ground in their excitement. Tad stood by, a huge smile on his face, while Mart lounged against the backstop, arms crossed, his head nodding in approval.
Catching his smug and satisfied smile, a realization hit Trixie.
“You knew,” she cried as she pointed an accusing finger at her brother. “You not only knew, you were in on this.”
“Natch,” smiled Mart. “Who else could have assisted with such a devious scheme to keep your mind in an unsuspecting state?”
“Huh?” She looked up at her friends and family in the bleachers. “And they knew?”
Mart nodded. “Basically, everybody knew. That is everybody except you. How Tad managed to pull this off is beyond me. But he has earned my eternal admiration.”
Tad came up behind Trixie. “I needed him to help keep you busy and occupied. Did it work?”
Trixie thought for a minute. “I guess so. I mean, he did need a little bit of help with the team.”
Mart and Tad laughed. “The team was only one of your preoccupations today,” crowed Mart. “Do the words “something’s off with this lake” ring a bell?”
Trixie’s brow furrowed. “You mean the mystery of the lake?”
Mart grinned. “Or, as I prefer to call it, the non-existent mystification of the reservoir. We can count on you to get distracted any time the word ‘mystery’ is mentioned.”
Trixie stared at Tad and Mart. “Wait! Are you trying to tell me…..”
Laughing, Mart nodded. “Yes, there is no mystery. Just a very smart sibling who knows which buttons to push. But let’s, for a moment, review the strategy. By focusing on the lake, it kept you away from the field long enough for Tad to review his plans with all the kids and parents.” Mart held up his index finger, “However, Trixie, the Sleepy Ness monster suggestion was a good one. I had to exite the immdediate area quickly to keep from busting my gut.”
Trixie spun around to Tad. “So, Mart’s not cooking different fish entrees that leave the apartment smelly?”
Tad opened then closed his mouth.
“What?” Mart looked annoyed. “Do you mean to tell me, Webster, that you don't like the delicious cold water vertebrate culinary masterpieces that I’ve been creating?”
Tad dropped his head then lifted it and stared Mart directly in the eyes. “No. And they really do make the apartment stink.”
Mart grabbed his chest. “I’m deeply wounded.”
“You’ll live,” declared Trixie.
The Expressteam gathered around Tad and Trixie. “But coach,” cried Madelyn. “The game isn’t over. The parents only have two outs.”
“True,” answered Tad. He clapped his hands. “Okay, Express, get out in the field. Next batter?” he looked questioningly at Mart.
“Let me get my line-up.” Mart headed toward the bench, but Trixie stopped him.
“Don’t bother. I think the next batter is you. Put on the helmet.”
“Come on, Trixie. I’m here to coach, not play.”
“I believe Diana said she didn’t want to miss seeing you in action. Now’s your chance.” Trixie held out a bat.
“Okay. I’ll show you how a real player hits the ball.”
Tad and Trixie rolled their eyes. Tad got back into the catcher position and watched as Mart took a few practice swings.
“Okay, Blake. Send it in,” he called to the young pitcher.
Crouching down, Tad held up his glove. Blake pitched the first ball, then the second one, and finally the third one. Each time, Mart swung and missed, sending the kids into a rousing cheer.
“We won! We won!” they yelled as they flung their hats and gloves into the air then raced back to the dugout.
The parents clapped enthusiastically at the Express’s victory then, after gathering their possessions, climbed down off the bleachers. Trixie’s parents came over and hugged Trixie, then Tad. Diana and Honey couldn’t wait to see the ring and relive the exciting moment that had occurred on the ball field.
“I swear, Trixie,” exclaimed Diana. “When you asked about the lake, I knew Mart and Tad’s plan had worked.”
“Why would you be surprised?” questioned Honey. “Our girl can’t resist anything that even faintly smells of a mystery. And, you have to admit, Mart played his part well. Everytime he looked at the lake, you could see Trixie’s antenna go up.”
“You two were in on it too?” Trixie shook her head. “Mart did a good job. I wonder how long he practiced his staring action.”
“Oh, pooh.” Diana gave Trixie a hug. “He was really so excited to be in on this proposal.”
Trixie looked down at her ring. “I’m surprised the station wasn’t here filming it.”
“If they had known, they probably would have been here. But that would have really raised your suspicions. Besides, Tad knows how you’d hate that kind of attention. But don’t worry. I caught it all with my phone.”
“Oh, Trixie,” giggled Diana. “The look on your face when you saw Tad. Then you slowed down to the point that It looked like you were walking in slow motion.”
Trixie grinned. “What else could I do?”
Tad walked over and joined the group. “So, am I forgiven for leaving you out of the proposal loop?”
Trixie smiled up at him. “I guess so. As long as you guys saved me an ice cream sandwich, that is.”
Tad winced. “Ooh, you might have to dig into that box in your freezer. What the kids didn’t eat, the parents did.”
“That’s okay. They totally earned a treat. Besides, I’m not sure I could eat one right now anyway. Gleeps! This game was amazing.”
Tad wrapped his arms around Trixie. “Just think: you’re going to be a wife, an auntie and a sister-in-law. All because you finally managed to hit that ball!”
“Ooh, that’s a lot of hats at once. Maybe I should take it slow and try one at a time.” Trixie giggled at Tad’s worried face. “Just kidding, Webster. I can’t wait to be an official auntie to Bella. I’ll teach her to do all sorts of fun things like fishing, hiking, horseback riding, exploring…”
Tad burst out laughing. “Yeah. Like Spider would ever let you take his daughter exploring. The last thing he would want is for you to lead her into some mystery.”
Diana frowned. “And Trixie, have you ever considered that Bella might not want to fish or hike? Maybe she’ll want to go shopping or play with dolls or have tea parties.”
“Hmm. I didn’t think of that.” Trixie shrugged her shoulders. “Oh well, I still get to be her official auntie.”
“As well as my wife,” reminded Tad.
“Yes, there is that bonus,” grinned Trixie.
The Belden parents interrupted the lively discussion.
“There’s a celebration cookout at the farm tonight,” said Moms. “Burgers and potato salad followed by s’mores around the fire pit. We thought we’d include the whole team since they were in on the proposal.”
“Yum,” said Tad.
“Really?” asked Trixie, turning to Tad. “I thought we were taking them out for pizza.”
Rolling his eyes, Tad nodded toward Moms.
“Yes, I know, dear,” smiled Moms. “But this was such a fun day we couldn’t resist continuing it by having a big celebration at the farm.”
“So there never was a pizza party either?” Trixie folded her arms across her chest.
Moms shook her head. “No, just another part of the plan.”
“Okay. We’ll finish up here then head to the farm.”
“And tomorrow,” said Honey as she grabbed Trixie’s arm, “we can start looking at bridal magazines.”
“Noooo.” Groaning, Trixie gave Tad a hopeful look. “Don’t we have plans tomorrow?”
Tad grinned. “I might be able to bail you out.”
“Please. I’ll give you an ice cream sandwich,” she said in a pleading, melodic voice.
“Sold.” Tad offered Honey and Diana an apologetic look. “Sorry.
Trixie and I are busy tomorrow.”
“That’s okay,” smiled Diana. “There’s always the next day or the next day or…”
Trixie raised her hands in defeat. “Fine. But give me a few days of peace. That’s all I ask.” She looked at Tad. “Thanks. I owe you.”
“I’ll hold you to that,” murmured Tad as the two kissed, relishing the perfect Saturday afternoon.
Author notes: Thank you to the Trixie Belden characters created so many years ago. I simply borrow them to tell my story. Also, thank you to my sister and my daughter for their editing and suggestions. And a special thank you to Mary for all her advice and encouragement. Photo by google clip art. Background courtesy of Vivian. And thank you to all who read my tales. I hope they provide you with a brief respite from life’s daily hassles.
Cheez-its - a snack cracker manufactured by the Kellogg Company.
Word count - 8620
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