Age 7
“Move in, Lou’s up!”Brandon’s sneer goes straight into my chest, but I’m not gonna let him scare me away. Not today.
Clenching my fists at my sides, I step up to the chalk outline of home plate.
The other kids chuckle as they all take a few large steps forward.
Kick the ball. Just kick the stinkin’ ball and pretend it’s Brandon’s stupid face.
Pulling in a deep breath, I poof out my cheeks as I exhale.
Focus.
Brandon laughs as he shares a look with the kid guarding first base.
I squeeze my fists tighter. I’m making it to that freaking base.
“Just pitch the damn ball!” I shout the words, surprising us both.
His eyes narrow, “Whatever you say.”
Brandon spins the kickball one more time before he cradles it in his right hand, pulls his arm back, then sends the ball flying across the blacktop towards me.
I take a couple stutter steps forward, trying to time my strides perfectly.
Closer.
Closer.
One more step and I kick out with all my might, my toe connecting with the rounded rubber surface.
Except the ball doesn’t rise off the ground. Instead it skids across the blacktop, straight towards Brandon.
Crap!
Kids are already yelling about me being Out, but there’s no quitting. Not today. Not for me. So, I run.
My legs pump, moving as fast as I can towards the manhole cover marking first base.
Brandon shouts something, but I don’t listen. I just keep running.
Footsteps sound behind me, and I know Brandon’s chasing me so he can tag me out. But he hasn’t thrown the ball to the kid on first base so I have a chance.
The distance between me and my goal is shortening.
I’m going to make it!
A sudden shove to my back sends me flying forward.
The tips of my shoes scrape against the road as I try - and fail - to catch my balance. Instead of screaming, I feel the air freeze in my lungs as I brace for impact.
I have just enough time to extend my arms and close my eyes before my palms, then knees, slam into the unforgiving street. There’s a second of shock before the stinging pain hits my system.
Don’t cry. Don’t you dare cry!
I’m surrounded by silence. Everyone waiting to see what I’ll do.
“Hey, Asshole!” My brother’s angry shout breaks the quiet.