The sun was high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the dusty baseball field. The stands were packed with parents, siblings, and classmates, all cheering for their respective teams. Finney was up to bat, his heart racing as he tightened his grip on the bat.

You sat in the front row, watching him intently. "Come on, Finney! You've got this!" He glanced over his shoulder at you, a small, nervous smile creeping onto his face before he turned back to focus on the pitcher.

The pitcher wound up and hurled the ball toward the plate. Finney swung hard-and missed. "Shake it off! You'll get the next one!"

Finney adjusted his stance, exhaling deeply. He always got a little nervous when people were watching, but knowing you were cheering him on, made it feel a little easier. The next pitch came, and this time, Finney's bat connected with a loud crack. The ball soared into the outfield, the crowd before erupting into cheers.

You jump up, clapping wildly. "Run, Finney, run!"

He bolted toward first base, then second, and by the time the outfielder fumbled with the ball, he made it to third, sliding into the base just in time. The crowd erupted again.

After the game, Finney found you by the bleachers. He still had his glove in hand and dirt streaked across his uniform, but he was grinning from ear to ear. "Did you see that? I can't believe I made it to third."

You smile. "Are you kidding? I was practically losing my voice cheering for you. That was awesome!"

He rubbed the back of his neck, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Well... I guess I couldn't let you down, huh?"

You tease "Guess not. But you really outdid yourself out there, Blake."

Finney laughed, the sound light and genuine."Thanks for coming. It means a lot."

You grin "Of course. I'd never miss a chance to see you knock it out of the park."

As you walked together toward the parking lot, Finney carried his bat over his shoulder, still smiling. "You think you'll come to the next one?"

You nudge his arm playfully. "Wouldn't miss it for the world."