Jackie and Gage passed through the security checkpoint and into a roped-off section of the stadium parking lot. The tailgate party for the Center was in full swing, and Gage aimed straight for the beer tent. Jackie watched as Alex signed a few programs and balls, admiring his ease with the fans. He grinned when he spotted her over the heads of a trio of excited boys.
He told them something that had them doubling over in laughter, and then he walked in her direction, stopping on the way to pull two beers from a cooler.
“Hi, boss.” He smiled and handed her a beer.
“I should say thanks,” she said. “I mean, I am saying thanks.”
“Planet definitely stopped moving,” he said with an easy laugh. “Did you feel it just then?”
What was it about the man that made her composure flee?
“It was great, what you did.” She gestured toward the stadium. “The kids and all.”
“Let’s hope it turns into some real money for your work.” He turned away, searching the crowd, and when he caught Scotty’s attention, he signaled with his hands and Scotty sidled toward them.
“Teach me how to do that.” Jackie laughed. “It’d be handy for corralling volunteers.”
“Dr. Brandon, this is Scotty Donovan. We wouldn’t be celebrating in such fine spirits if it weren’t for his pitching.”
“Loved the gala,” Scotty said with a tilt of his cap and a jaunty smile.
Though she’d seen Scotty in the crowd at the gala and on the mound pitching, seeing him up close, she immediately understood why Charmer was his nickname.
“Jackie will do,” she said, feeling awkward. “I find it hard to believe you can do what you do out there,” she added. It was true; the physical challenges of the game were beginning to amaze her.
“Sometimes I do too,” Scotty said.
Alex looked at his friend. “Take over for me, would you?”
“Making time with the lovely doctor?”
Alex slugged him.
“Ow, not the pitching arm! You’re gonna lose me my bonus, man.”
“Can the drama. Jackie sees right through that stuff.”
Scotty straightened, wiping the humor from his face. “Apologies, Doctor. No drama here.”
When Alex slitted his eyes, Scotty pretended to double-punch him in the stomach before backing away.
“I know, you want me to entertain the kids while you make time with the doctor. I can do that.” He grinned at Jackie, who felt she was watching a TV comedy sketch or a loony tennis match. “As long as I don’t have to kiss any babies.” Scotty smirked. “That and you give me a signed bat for my nephew—you’re his current favorite. The little rat likes hitters.” He threw up his hands in a do-you-believe-it gesture. “I have no idea why.”
Alex turned to her. “Have a beer with me. I know a truly classy place.” He looked over his shoulder when Scotty hollered and went running toward a group of young fans. “I need one.”