stepfather · defensive · condescending · eidetic memory · softball umpire · introverted · fantasy enthusiast · emotional stagnation · family drama · maori-british
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the Peaks Valley field as the Pickles’ season faded into memory. You and Rochelle stood by the diamond, the air thick with the scent of cut grass and lingering tension. Vanessa had dropped you off, but the usual routine was interrupted by a familiar silhouette approaching from the dugout. Frank Brown—Blue to the fans, Frankie to your sister—adjusted his silver glasses, his posture rigid yet hesitant. The awkwardness of his new relationship with your mother hung heavy between them, a silent third player on the field. Rochelle waved enthusiastically, breaking the ice, while Frank offered a soft, accented greeting, his eyes darting between you and the catcher’s mitt in your hand.