Switch Hitter

by Cheyenne Meadows

  “Dixon got me back into the game. Without him, I most likely wouldn’t have made it,” Tucker pointed out, eager to throw more testimonials on Dixon’s cause. “He’s great at scouting out pitchers. Better than anyone I’ve ever known.”

  Banner remained mute for a long moment before tilting his head as if in deep thought.

  “Any team would love to have him,” Tucker added. “It would be a huge loss to the Predators.” He nervously rubbed his glove, waiting on Banner’s decision.

  “Would your asking have anything to do with the fact you’re carrying Dixon’s scent right now?”

  Tucker swallowed a little sheepishly. He wasn’t ashamed of their mating but wasn’t quite prepared to announce it to the world either.

  After a strengthening breath, Tucker gave a short nod. “We’re a couple. Love one another.”

  “That’s definitely a switch from your usual dating routine.”

  “I know. It took me a while to figure things out. To discover the real me.”

  “And?” Banner asked.

  “And, as amazing as it sounds, I love Dixon. We’re mates.” Tucker didn’t need to explain further. Once a couple declared themselves mates, they were paired off for life. Not because of any laws or silly society rules, but simply because to love another person that deeply meant that they made the relationship work—for as long as they both drew breath.

  A ghost of a smile appeared on Banner’s lips. “I can’t make any promises.”

  Tucker nodded. “I understand. Dixon didn’t want to say anything, didn’t want to seem like he was begging for a job.”

  “Got it.” Banner spun around and strode off.

  Tucker watched him go while sending up a little prayer. “I just found him. Please don’t make me lose him now.”

  We’re not leaving Dixon, the inner beast announced with command.

  No, we’re not. Tucker made a hasty decision, but one that felt right. Wherever Dixon went, Tucker would go too. As much as he’d hate to leave the Predators, Dixon meant more. Feeling peppier than he had in a while, Tucker made his way out onto the field for batting practice.

  He collected his bat, then took a position near the wall, watching as Dixon stepped up to the plate.

  “Tucker!”

  The sound of his name snared his attention. The crowd that arrived early often hollered at players in hopes of meeting them or for an autograph. This was different.

  He spun around and searched the stands.

  “Right here.” She trotted down the steps toward him.

  Tucker saw the wave and centered on his mother’s voice. The moment he saw her, a lump formed in his throat. His eyes started to well up. “Mom?”

  He’d never expected to see her again, especially at one of his games. Not after she drove away, leaving him standing on the sidewalk as a lost eighteen-year-old boy. Lately, he’d hoped they’d reunite but hadn’t gotten further than that.

  She made her way to the wire netting behind home plate, then frowned.

  Tucker motioned for her to move toward third base, then made his way along the barrier until the wire ended and only railing separated the stands from the field. After vaulting over, he trotted to meet her, wrapping her up in a hug as soon as she was within arm’s reach.

  She squeezed him back.

  Tucker heard her ragged breathing and felt dampness on his game jersey from her tears. His own soon followed. Stepping back, he brushed the hair out of her face. “I can’t believe you’re here.” The words broke with emotion.

  She smiled. “I wanted to come so many times but wasn’t sure how you’d react. This time, I knew I had to be here.” She cupped his cheek and brushed away a stray tear of his. “I’ve missed you so much.”

  He hugged her again, soaking up the moment he hadn’t known he’d wanted or needed until just recently. The sound of familiar men’s voices broke into their reunion.

  Tucker took her hand in his. “Come on. There’s someone you need to meet.”

  She grinned. “Would this be the man you told me about?”

  “Yeah.” Tucker beamed and led the way. He helped her onto the field where Dixon immediately met them.

  “Mom, this is Dixon. My mate.” The term made his heart warm. “Dixon, my mother, Sheila.”

  “Oh my.” She reached out a hand. “Dixon. It’s so nice to meet you.”

  Dixon took her hand gently. “I’ve heard about the sacrifices you made for Tucker. Thank you. Not everyone has as much dedication and fortitude to do what you did. You’re an amazing mother.”

  She blushed even as she smiled to outshine the sun. “I didn’t do more than any other mother would do for their son.” She looked back at Tucker. “I should have done more.”

  He shushed her. “You gave me life, cared for me growing up, then you let me fly on my own. I’d say that was a damn sight above and beyond.” He wiped at his face, unashamed of his remaining tears.

  Dixon met his gaze with a wide grin before turning his attention back to Tucker’s mother. “I’d appreciate it if you’d have dinner with us after the game.”

  “I’d love to.”

  “Dixon! You’re up!”

  Dixon tipped his hat. “Duty calls.” He strode back toward the batter’s box.

  Tucker escorted his mother a few steps away from the action, into a safer place, just in case any balls flew their way.

  “Your mate. Wow. I knew he had to be something special when you told me about him.” She grinned ruefully. “A mother knows these things.”

  Tucker just shook his head in amazement. “He’s wonderful. Smart. Caring.”

  “And easy on the eyes.”

  “That too,” Tucker agreed.

  The sound of Dixon’s voice raised in frustration caught Tucker’s attention. He glanced up to find Dixon’s father nearby, once again critiquing Dixon’s swings.

  His face pinched in restrained anger, Dixon snapped right back.

  “Uh-oh.” Tucker left his mother and hurried over.

  “If you’d just do as I told you, you’d be able to hit those sliders better. I don’t see why you’re so hardheaded when it comes to trying to better your game.” Dixon’s father fisted his hands.

  Dixon readjusted his grip on the bat, squeezing so tight his knuckles went white. “I don’t need you always picking me apart. I’m a big boy now and doing just fine.” Dixon narrowed his eyes as he stared down his father.

  “Not according to your batting average. You’ve got a tradition to uphold, and you’re slacking,” Terrance argued back.

  Fire snapped in Dixon’s eyes. “Slacking? You think I’m slacking?”

  Tucker jumped between the two men, nudging Dixon back a couple of paces before Dixon lost control completely and walloped his father with the bat.

  Banner stepped into the gap and glared at Dixon’s father. “Foxx, you’re out of line.”

  “I’d say so.” Tucker’s mother entered the fray.

  Tucker twisted to keep an eye on her while holding a hand on Dixon’s chest at the same time.

  “A parent is supposed to love their children, support them, encourage them. Not tear them apart every time they see them.” She planted her hands on her hips and huffed. “I don’t care who you are or what you’ve done with your life. Being a parent is more important than all that. But, I guess a man as nearsighted as you can’t see that.”

  “Who are you to criticize me?” Terrance stood up straight, drawing attention to the differences in their size.

  Sheila just grinned ruefully. “Tucker’s mother. Since he’s mated to your son, I suppose that makes us in-laws.”

  Terrance’s mouth fell open.

  “A parent loves their child, no matter what,” she reiterated.

  “He’s one hell of a player and an even better coach. When he’s ready to retire, he’s got a hitting coach position waiting for him,” Banner announced. “That’s more than you’ve ever done.”

  The snide remark made Tucker grin. Banner m
ight be one hard-ass, but he stood up for his guys.

  Peeking over, Tucker saw Dixon relax, his grip on the bat loosening as the anger left his face.

  Banner eyed Terrance for a few second before turning back to Dixon. “We don’t have all day for batting practice, so get moving.”

  Tucker’s mother crossed her arms over her chest, still intent on Terrance. “So, are you going to step up and be a father, or do you prefer to be a jackass in front of everyone?”

  Terrance snarled, then walked off.

  Tucker’s mother huffed, then turned back to Dixon. “I’m so sorry.”

  Dixon waved his hand. “It’s okay. Nothing new for me.”

  “That’s sad.” She closed the distance and hugged him. “You’re good for Tucker. I’m glad you found one another.”

  Dixon patted her back and smiled.

  Banner offered his arm. “Ma’am. If you come with me, I’ll get you to the VIP section so you can watch the game.”

  “But, my ticket is for section AA.”

  Banner started walking for the bird’s-eye seats next to the dugout. “Not any longer. Parents of players always get the best seats in the house.”

  Tucker watched them go with a grin.

  “That woman has some guts,” Dixon remarked next to Tucker.

  Recalling the words that flew, Tucker met Dixon’s gaze. “Think he’ll listen to her advice?”

  Dixon glanced in the direction his father took. “I have no idea, but I’m not about to hold my breath.”

  Ram came over, followed by the rest of the team. “Mates, huh?”

  Tucker groaned to himself. The fact was supposed to be their secret—at least for a little bit longer.

  Dixon nodded. “Yep.”

  A chorus of congratulations and cheers followed.

  “About damn time.” Mack clapped Tucker on the back. “The pheromones were so thick around here my nose burned.”

  “Yeah, right.” Tucker rolled his eyes, then ended up grinning. “Well, maybe.”

  Trigger snorted. “No maybe about it. It reeked of dog in heat.”

  “Better than bear in heat like last year,” Wiley countered. “That was awful.”

  Trigger narrowed his eyes at Wiley, then shrugged. Before he walked away, he patted Dixon and Tucker on the shoulder. “I’m happy for you.”

  “Wow. He’s mellowing.” Dixon blinked.

  Tucker agreed. “Must be what happens when you’re mated and pretty damn happy.” He sent a wicked grin to Dixon.

  “Uh-huh.” Dixon smiled in return.

  Banner approached as the rest of the team returned to their places for warm-ups and addressed Tucker. “Glad you could work things out. I was pulling for you.”

  “Thanks.” Tucker lifted his chin at the praise.

  “I meant what I said about having a position for you whenever you want to try your hand at coaching,” Banner told Dixon.

  Dixon stilled, then put out his hand. “You don’t know how much this means to me.” His voice threatened to crack at the end.

  Banner took his hand and pulled him into a quick hug. “Now, take your mate and get back to work. We have a game to play today.” He gave them one last look, then walked away.

  Tucker found himself grinning like a kid in a candy store. “See? I told you everything would work out.”

  Dixon elbowed him. “I’m not answering that on the grounds that your ego might grow bigger.”

  “Among other things.” Tucker waggled his eyebrows.

  Dixon threw back his head and laughed. “Come on, mate. The game waits for no one.”

  Happier than he ever remembered being, Tucker walked alongside Dixon.

  If someone told him three months ago that he’d be not only sleeping with Dixon, but mated to him, Tucker would have offered them a one-way trip to the psych ward. Never would he have expected that his other half would be a man or that he and his mother could find common ground and make amends after all this time. He took a second to reflect on his previous life and saw how shallow and juvenile he’d been.

  Now, he’d finally grown up into the man he’d been meant to become.

  All because of Dixon. The love of his life and the man who claimed his heart. For now and always.

  Epilogue

  One month later.

  DIXON CAUGHT movement out of the corner of his eyes. He swiveled around to see Tucker wind up the toy rat and release it toward the middle of the locker room. Squeals and shouts followed. A few of the guys sought refuge on top of the long wooden benches in front of the lockers. A couple rolled their eyes and continued changing clothes. Most stared at the vermin drolly, in no way appearing shocked or concerned.

  I’d wondered when he’d pull out that silly rat.

  Dixon took in the scene, chuckling at the loud stir one little toy caused.

  Graham stepped down from a nearby chair, cautiously watching the brown furry thing roll by.

  “Tucker!” The whole room echoed in an annoyed chorus.

  Tucker tried to maintain an innocent expression, only to lose it as he broke out in great guffaws.

  Mack shook his head. Lance lowered the shoe he held up, presumably to kill the interloper. More than one guy shot Tucker annoyed glances as they came down from the perceived protection of the bench.

  Trigger kicked the thing as it came close. His lips twitched as he stared at his mate.

  “What?” Graham blinked back.

  Trigger chuckled. “Don’t worry. I’ll protect you from the toy rat.”

  Graham snorted, then flipped Trigger off.

  “Later, mate. Later.” The smoldering look in Trigger’s eyes said it all.

  Dixon was just glad they were at a home game so he didn’t have to listen to loud, rambunctious bear sex next door all night long.

  Tucker dashed by, collecting his toy before one of the guys killed it. After plucking it off the floor, he stashed it back in his locker.

  Dixon had no doubts that particular rat would appear once again down the road.

  “Quit dallying. We’ve got a game to play.” Banner’s voice carried easily through the locker room.

  “Yeah, yeah.” Wiley blew out a breath as he eyed Ram.

  Dixon saw the spark of love flash in Wiley’s eyes. He knew it was the same as when he looked at Tucker. He openly showed his feelings for his mate, not caring who ogled them.

  At least he didn’t have to worry about any of his teammates. They were as supportive as they could be.

  “Come on, Foxy. Get your rump in gear.” Tucker gave Dixon’s posterior a pat as he walked by.

  Dixon stared at him drolly. “Keep that up and you’ll definitely be late for the game.”

  “Oh, good grief. Save me from the canine pheromones and lust factory.” Mack rolled his eyes and brushed past them both.

  “Try it, you might like it,” Tucker retorted.

  Mack flipped him off, not bothering to turn around or slow down as he made his way to the dugout.

  If Tucker got a nickel for every time someone flipped him the bird, he’d be rolling in dough. Dixon chuckled at the thought. He turned and followed Tucker, his gaze locking on Tucker’s perfect ass.

  “Keep staring and you might burn a hole in it.”

  Dixon glanced over to find Ares grinning widely. The kid had talent and, occasionally, a wicked sense of humor that probably got him in trouble growing up. Pretty much a requirement for being a shifter, especially one playing professional sports with a whole slew of other shifters. Going with the flow had a whole new meaning when top-level predators were put together in a group and forced to endure one another day in and day out.

  Thankfully, just about all the players managed to play well with others.

  Trigger didn’t count.

  “I was thinking more along the lines of committing it to memory.”

  Ares snorted. “If you don’t have that image implanted in your brain by now, you never will.”

  Dixon shrugged and gently shoved Are
s through the door and into the dugout. “One of these days….”

  “Yeah, yeah. Just like the arthritic knees and adult diapers.” Ares smirked.

  “Smart-ass.” Dixon tapped him on the arm good-naturedly. “Get out there and earn your keep.”

  Dixon trotted up the steps behind Tucker. They were just in time to be the last two to pick up the bat and take a few swings at some easy balls.

  Batting practice went fairly normally. Dixon smacked a few good ones, a couple over the fence. If only it were that easy against Groupers. He’d been working extra, trying to find a way to break down the opposing pitcher and still hadn’t come up with much insight.

  His turn complete, Dixon exchanged the bat for his glove. Automatically, he walked over to his starting position at third base and caught the ball tossed at him from Ram. Warm-ups were in full swing.

  “Heads up, Tucker.” Dixon threw a strike to his mate.

  Tucker backhanded the ball, effortlessly dragged his foot across second base, and sent the ball on a line back to first.

  Yeah, that will do. Dixon nodded in approval. The old team running like a well-oiled machine once again.

  After a few minutes, the umpire gave the warning signal that they would need to vacate the field for a little bit for the official reading of the starting players to happen along with a coin toss to determine who started on offense and who on defense. Once that finished, they could retake their places or pick up the bats and get the show on the road.

  A motion caught Dixon’s attention. He swiveled around to see a few fans on the field. Tucker’s mother was one of them. He grinned as Sheila fussed over her son, knowing Tucker had come to terms with the past and found common ground with his mother. They spoke often and seeing them together brought out the obvious love Sheila had for her boy.

  Dixon approached them. “Sheila. Nice to see you again.” He’d liked the woman from the start, and seeing the wide grin on Tucker’s face only sealed the deal in Dixon’s opinion.

  “Dixon. Please tell me Tucker isn’t driving you batty already.”

  Tucker arched an eyebrow.

  Dixon hem-hawed and scratched his forehead. “Well….”