The Autumn Engagement
by Stephen Cote
When Baseball is used to settle political disputes, one bad pitch cost Janus Franko his wife, career, and reputation. Eight months later, he is presented an opportunity to prove that he didn't throw the game. However, he will have to attend a party that caters to the ultra-wealthy where the dress code includes a robot date on his arm.War is extinct. Baseball games are the preferred method to resolve disputes, and Janus Franko is a genetically engineered pitcher for the United States of North America national team. But, one bad pitch cost him his wife, career, and reputation. Eight months later, he is presented an opportunity to prove that he didn't throw the game. To find the persons responsible, he will have to attend a party catering to the ultra-wealthy where the dress code mandates a robot date on his arm.