Paragon Program  Chapter 1  The Party        Page 3

"Strike Two"

The ball stung my hand, as the glove talked with a very loud pop. This crazy Cuban was throwing 89 mile per hour fast balls, in a yacht with 7' ceilings.  The crowd was roaring from the excitement in disbelief.  Apparently Summers figure had no effect, when it came to baseball Pedro concentrated on playing the game.  He even had a big grin on his face, and laughed excitedly.  "This gringo is much good.  Catch my brother he throws harder. " 

"No thanks, I'm no professional ball player."

Summer said;  "Isn't Stephen one crazy bastard.  Who would throw a party with you as the entertainment." Summer shouted, "Stephen I love you, you crazy bastard.  Come on baby catch his stuff, or do I say his shit, give me the proper terminology."

"Summer just pray you don't need a plastic surgeon when Carlos pitches."

"Come on Carlos pitch your shit."

She sure excited him with her language, the next fast ball popped the glove, and I sat on my ass from the force of the pitch.  Summer roared in laughter.

"Strike baby, come on killer."

"94 Miles per hour."  Stephen had a radar gun, and was clocking the pitches and sports announcing.  I set myself for the awaiting the pitch and shouted.  "Your wife is right, you are one crazy bastard.  How the hell did you come up with this idea."

Stephen was almost in tears, from laughter.  "You better focus."  Between laughs he told jokes.   "He throws hard. Please don't sit on my wife."

I was glad I did not a drink.  I could hardly see the ball.  The pitches were accurate, making catching fast balls a lot easier.  My reactions would have been to slow if they were wild.  Stephen did have a few screws missing.   He never saw me play ball on a sandlot or a yacht. This was daring to say the least, but I felt good I was catching the best they had. 

"93 miles per hour.  94 miles per hour.  92 miles per hour  That's popping the glove guys.  I can hardly wait for the season opener.  Philip you going to the season opener with me."

"If I'm alive, nutto.  Buy me a drink and get me out of the game, if you value my friendship."  

Stephen was having so much fun with his prank, he hated to quit.  He looked at Summer, she was excited and having a hell of a time.  He knew how to excite her, and he knew what happens when he was successful.  He was in for one fabulous night, and owed it to his imagination, and his dear friend for coming through again.  He knew if he every needed to go to a battle, he would want his warrior friend Philip with him.  "Play the music, pour a round of drinks.  Happy birthday Phil.  By the way the evening has just begun for you, Summer and Sherry, are going to make this evening memorable, maybe the best birthday you ever had."