The Essence of Shade

by Deborah Jean Miller

  Tyler extended his hand. “Nice to meet you, Buzz.”

  “How did tryout camp go?” asked Buzz.

  “Well, sir, they took my name, and I got business cards from a few scouts.”

  “That’s exciting. Would you like to see the bullpen? Maybe you can show me your stuff.”

  “Wow. That’d be great.”

  The bullpen was smaller than Tyler had imagined. “Let me find a catcher,” said Buzz.

  “Don’t bother. I’ll catch for him,” said Brent, putting on a mitt, tossing one to Tyler.

  “I’ll show you my fastball first,” said Tyler. He fingered the ball in his hand and went into his wind-up, raising his left knee high and planting his foot, as his right arm cocked and accelerated, the ball snapping into Brent’s mitt. He threw ten more pitches, demonstrating his slider and changeup.

  “Pretty impressive,” said Buzz, raising his eyebrows and looking toward Brent. “Good arm action. How old are you?”

  “Sixteen, sir.”

  “Well, it was nice meeting you, Tyler. I gotta run, but let’s stay in contact. I like what I saw. You have a lot of potential. I’ll work through Brent.”

  “Nice meeting you, too, sir.”

  Brent dropped Tyler off at the airport. “I’ll be in Michigan in October. I want to talk to your grandmother about your future, but call me if you wanna talk. About anything.”

  “Thanks for everything,” said Tyler, wrapping his arms around Brent. “I’m gonna miss you. I had a great time.” They hugged before Tyler disappeared into the terminal.

  Brent watched him walk away. An empty hollowness taking hold. He looked forward to spending time in Michigan, but he had mixed emotions. It had gotten easier for him over the years, being away from her and the constant cravings choking him.

  Shade stopped at the Emmet County police station on her way to the airport. It had been four months since she’d touched base with Detective Kent Monroe. She spotted him through the glass pane of his office. He waved her in.

  “Shade Lane. What a nice surprise. Have a seat. What brings you here?”

  “I was in the area and thought I’d stop to see if there’ve been any developments. But I’m sure you would have contacted me.”

  “I thought we had a lead, but it didn’t check out. You’re still a priority,” said Kent. “You look good. Things going okay?”

  “Things are well. The bakery business is great, and Tyler is sixteen now. You should see him. He’s over six-feet tall. How about you? You look good. Very distinguished.”

  Kent smiled. “Still single, married to my job. Wondering if I’ll ever retire.”

  “I know the feeling. Well, I’d better get going,” said Shade, after making small talk. “I’m picking up Tyler from the airport. It was good seeing you.”

  “You, too. And in case you’re too embarrassed to ask, I’m free for dinner through the end of the year.”

  “I’ll keep that in mind,” said Shade, laughing. “And stop at the bakery anytime. I’ll buy lunch.”

  Chapter Twenty-Eight

  In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

  Proverbs 16:9

  “I’m making your favorite meal tonight. Breaded pork chops with scalloped potatoes and roasted asparagus. I know you don’t like to eat too much sugar, but I also made a triple-berry pie with crumble topping.”

  “Thanks, Grams,” said Tyler, hugging her from behind. “I missed you. It’s good to be home, but I’ll miss being with Brent. We had so much to talk about. No offense, Grams, but I can talk to him about things I can’t talk to you about.”

  “Oh. Like what?”

  “Man stuff. Private stuff,” he said, rummaging through the refrigerator. “Hey, I’d like to see Leah, and I know I can’t use the car yet. Can you take me to her house after dinner?”

  “I have a surprise. Leah is coming here for dinner. She should be here any minute.”

  “Excellent.”

  Leah came through the front door, and Tyler swept her into his arms and gave her a peck on the lips. “I missed you, babe. You look beautiful.”

  “I missed you, too. You’re so tanned,” she said, gazing into his eyes, before turning to Shade and hugging her. “Can I help?”

  “No. Just spend time with Tyler. I’m sure you two have a lot of catching up to do. I’ll call you when dinner’s ready.”

  Tyler took Leah’s hand and led her into his bedroom. “I bought you something.”

  “Door open, please,” Shade yelled from the kitchen.

  The following week, Brent’s plane touched down at Detroit Metro Airport. It felt good to be home. The trees were clothed in glistening golds and scarlets, the earthy smell of autumn lingering in the air. He missed the seasons.

  He stood in the foyer. Home. The large picture window framed the grandeur of Lake Michigan, shards of sunlight sprayed against the waves. He stepped onto the deck, inhaling crisp air. Shade. He missed her. But he vowed to remain passive. This was about Tyler. Nothing more.

  The corridor of Edelweiss High School appeared smaller than he remembered. The placard on the door read, Kyle Beekman, Head Coach. He knocked.

  “Come in,” said Kyle, shaking Brent’s hand. “Good to see you. When did you get in?”

  “A few days ago. It’s good to be home.”

  “We miss you around here. They’re looking for an Athletic Director. They let the last guy go. He wasn’t cutting it. I’m sure they’d take you back in a heartbeat.”

  Brent laughed. “Well, I’m not looking. I like my job in Arizona. Hey, is Tyler around?”

  “Yeah, he’s practicing in the gym. Want me to get him?”

  “No, not yet. Let’s talk first. I was impressed with what I saw while he was in Arizona. I’ve received several calls from scouts. Have you seen scouts hanging around?”

  “Yeah. Last week, when they were practicing on the field. I saw guys with radar guns, checking his velocity.”

  “Did they talk to you? Or Tyler?”

  “No, they were just observing. Minding their own business. Tyler noticed them, too, but he seemed unfazed.”

  “So, how do you think Tyler’s doing? Not just on the field, but off?”

  “He’s uncommon. That’s the word I like to use for him. He’s got this intense focus, and he soaks up everything. If I give him pointers he works at it until it’s perfected. He keeps getting better.”

  “What about off the field? His grades—his character?”

  “He gets A’s and B’s. Gets along with everyone. Teachers, classmates, his opponents. You remember Cody, don’t you?”

  “Yeah. Victoria’s son. He was the catcher on the All-Star team.”

  “Right. You know, he and Tyler were close. Well, Cody rebelled after his mom married that doctor, Roger. He stole his mother’s Mercedes and went for a joyride. Got drunk and pulled into a parking lot. Too fast. And drove over a ledge and into Lake Michigan. A witness said he sat in the car, smoking a cigarette, before trying to get out. Thankfully, he escaped through the sunroof before the current pulled the car under. He claimed he was tracking the GPS, and it guided him into the lake. Well, Tyler told him he didn’t wanna have anything to do with him if he continued to act up. It changed Cody. He looks up to Tyler, as do most kids. Anyway, I see Tyler as a leader—a mentor. A good kid.”

  Brent thanked Kyle before leaving to find Tyler.

  “Brent,” said Tyler, trotting across the gym and embracing him. “When did you get home?”

  “A few days ago.”

  Tyler frowned. “And you didn’t wanna see me right away? I’m insulted.”

  “Just getting settled. Hey, I talked to Kyle. He has great things to say. He told me about the scouts.”

  “Yeah. They’ve been watching, like Russian spies.”

  “I’ve gotten a few calls. They’re interested. I’ll call your grandmother and schedule time for us to talk.”

  “Do you want me to be there, or do you t
wo wanna be alone?” said Tyler, winking.

  Brent grinned. “Let me talk to her alone first. Give her options before we talk to you. I want her to be informed.”

  “I’ll give her a heads-up. She’ll wanna get her hair and makeup done.”

  Shade wore a dusting of flour, as she shaped the dough into a circle and brushed the top with melted butter. She gathered a handful of Turbinado sugar and sprinkled it over the butter before running a floured cutter across the dough, forming eight triangles. She placed the blueberry scones on a baking sheet and put them in the oven.

  Sally came into the kitchen and prepared the sandwiches.

  “You okay?” asked Shade. “You seem down.”

  “Yeah, Drew couldn’t sleep so he climbed into bed with me and Chad. Kept us up all night.”

  She noticed Sally wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. “Sally, what’s wrong?”

  Tears filled Sally’s eyes and spilled down her face. “I’m pregnant. We wanted to wait because we’re financially strapped. I know I should be excited, but the timing stinks. And Chad’s trying to pretend like he’s happy, but he’s worried.” Her shoulders slumped as she sobbed.

  “Oh, Sally,” said Shade, taking her into her arms. “This is wonderful news. A baby. The timing never seems right, but things will work out. How strapped are you?”

  “We got behind on our mortgage when Drew got sick. Doctor bills piled up and Chad tried working extra shifts, but we can’t get ahead.”

  “I don’t mean to pry, but how much do you owe?”

  “About ten-thousand dollars, between the mortgage and our credit card balance. And we need a new furnace. You know, police officers don’t make the money they should for what they do. He puts his life on the line every day. He’s trying to get promoted, but everything takes time.” She wiped her eyes. “I’m sorry for dumping on you.”

  “Hey, you’re not dumping on me. And don’t worry about your situation. I know you’re not a religious person, but I’ll pray for you.” A wide smile crept across Shade’s face. “Oh, Sally, I’m so excited. You’re having a baby. And Drew will have a new brother or sister.”

  “Thanks for being there for me,” she said, carrying the tray of sandwiches out of the kitchen. “By the way, Brent’s in town. He called Chad last night. He’s coming over tonight for dinner. It’ll be good seeing him.”

  “I knew he was coming home, but I wasn’t sure when.”

  Her insides rolled at the sound of his name. She didn’t realize he was in town and was disappointed he didn’t call her—or Tyler.

  Her thoughts turned to Sally. Such a dedicated employee and a dear friend. She would help them out, whatever way she could.

  Sally came in the kitchen with someone following. “Hey, speaking of the devil.”

  Brent. She froze, her heart bashing her chest. She was a mess—covered in flour, her hair haphazardly piled on top of her head, no makeup.

  “What a nice surprise,” she said, wiping her hands on her apron. “Sally told me you got in a few days ago.”

  He walked over and embraced her. He looked more handsome than she remembered. Her face burned hot. Why couldn’t he have ballooned out and lost his hair?

  He held her out, surveying her. “You haven’t changed. Except for the blast of flour in your hair and on your face.”

  “Hey, I’ll leave you two alone,” said Sally. “I have work to do. See you tonight Brent. Six-thirty?”

  “Sounds good. I came to pick up a cheesecake. Remember, you said I could bring dessert.”

  They stood awkwardly, staring at each other. She felt like a blushing schoolgirl and struggled to find words.

  “Hey,” said Brent, breaking the silence. “I saw Tyler today. He gave me the third degree for not letting him know I was in town.”

  She laughed, fumbling with her hair. “He’s been so excited about you coming home. It’s all he’s talked about since he got back.”

  Brent smiled. That smile. Little creases at the corners of his eyes. Her heart liquefied.

  “I told him you and I needed to talk. Alone. I was thinking we could go somewhere neutral. Maybe out to dinner. Are you available tomorrow night?”

  “Yes, I’m free after six.”

  “Good. I’ll pick you up around seven. Does that work?”

  “Perfect.”

  He smiled and left. Her pulse was still thrashing. Neutral? What’s that supposed to mean? Is he afraid I’ll attack him if we’re alone? It had been four years since she’d seen him, and it was as though he had never left—the same lovesick sensation playing havoc with her thoughts. She inhaled deeply and went back to work, her mind on Brent.

  The following night, she burst through the cottage door and ran into her bedroom. She had hoped to leave work early, but the bakery was bustling. Stripping off her clothes, she jumped into the shower. After blow-drying her hair and applying makeup, she pulled an outfit from the closet. She chose a pair of black, straight leg pants with black leather high heels. Fingering the blouses in her closet, she went with the plum-colored silk blouse with a strand of pearls. She stood in front of the mirror, turning and looking over her shoulder. Good enough. She dabbed perfume on her wrists before grabbing her clutch bag and emerging from the bedroom.

  “Wow, Grams. You look nice. And you smell nice. What time will Brent be here?”

  “Any minute,” she said, trying to steady her nerves.

  “Hey, Leah’s coming over. I hope that’s okay.”

  “Leah is welcome here anytime. You know the rules, and I trust you.”

  “And I hope I can trust you with Brent.”

  The doorbell rang, startling her. Tyler opened the door and escorted Brent in, giving him a hug. “Hey, Brent. Where are you taking Grams tonight?”

  He smiled, catching sight of Shade standing in the kitchen. “I’m taking her to that little Italian restaurant on the water. What are you doing tonight?”

  “Leah’s coming over. We’re ordering pizza.”

  Her heart thrashed like a caged animal. He looked striking in his pale blue shirt, opened at the collar, black wool pants hugging his long, muscular legs. He didn’t have an ounce of fat on him. She wondered if he spent his free time working out.

  “Well, are you ready?” Brent asked.

  Shade grabbed her coat, Tyler looming over them.

  “I want you both home by 9 p.m. sharp. Understand?” said Tyler.

  Shade and Brent laughed. She kissed Tyler’s cheek and walked out the door, Brent’s hand on her back.

  The maître d' escorted them to a window table overlooking Lake Michigan. The sun dipped into the calm water, an orange glow igniting the sky.

  “I miss Michigan,” Brent sighed, taking in the scenery. He turned and stared into her eyes. The votive candle glimmered on the table in the dimly lit restaurant, dancing off of her face. She was beautiful. He caught himself lingering and reached for the wine list.

  “How about a bottle of red?”

  “Please,” said Shade, without hesitation. “I’m nervous tonight—being here with you.”

  He considered her. “To be honest, I was anxious myself. It’s good seeing you, Shade. And you look great.”

  She felt the intensity of his gaze. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”

  The waiter cleared his throat. “We’d like the Renato Ratti 2006 Marcenasco Barolo,” said Brent.

  “I’ve been learning more about wine,” she said, swirling her glass. “I took a few regional wine tasting classes with Victoria last summer.”

  “That’s great. Hey, speaking of Victoria, did I hear correctly? She married Roger?”

  Shade laughed, her nervousness fading. “It’s true. After the unfortunate Watusi episode, she changed. Became more responsible. Roger chased after her, but she held him off. She wanted to pull her life together and wasn’t interested in a casual relationship. She wanted more, and he caved. They got married a few years ago. She quit her job and now spends her time shopping and hosting
philanthropic events. She’s a different woman.” Shade sighed. “I’m happy for her.”

  After they had eaten, Brent leaned forward and clasped his hands atop the table.

  “Let’s talk about Tyler. Scouts have been calling, and I understand they’ve shown up at school. They’re watching him—waiting for him to graduate, then they’ll pounce. Try to get him to go pro before college. The Major League draft happens in June, right after he graduates. You’ll need to think about options.”

  “If they’re willing to sign him after high school, does it make sense to jump at it?”

  “I think he needs to apply for a scholarship, regardless. A university with a solid baseball program like Vanderbilt, Texas Christian, or Rice. If he gets picked in the draft, he can go pro right away or wait until after college. If I wasn’t so impressed with him I’d say hold off and go to college. But Tyler is different. He’s ready mentally and physically. My gut is telling me he should turn pro after high school, but it shouldn’t be taken lightly. He needs an airtight contract with a clause stipulating the club pay for his education if his baseball career ends. And you’d want a bigger signing bonus. Salaries in the Minors are low. Generally, high school signees have the most negotiating leverage.”

  “A lot to think about.” She fingered the stem of her glass. “Can you come over Sunday for dinner? We can all talk together.”

  “I’d like that. He needs to be part of this decision, but I wanted you to have as much information as possible.”

  “I wish you weren’t so far away. I’d be so much easier having you close.”

  Brent’s gaze didn’t break. He remained silent, reaching for the check.

  His stare sent shivers through her body. She reached across the table, her hand open. “Let me pick up dinner. It’s the least I can do.”