Page 59 of Forbidden Love

A few had inquired about a way to recognize those who’d contributed. I promised we could either put up a banner on the fence or put their names on the team shirts or somewhere on the dugout as a sponsor. We’d need to work out the details and get back to them.

So far, the business owners were the biggest donators, and I wanted to make sure they were acknowledged appropriately. When the idea for plaques in the dugouts came to mind, I noted it in my phone. If we did that, we’d need to ensure we raised enough money for every field that needed a dugout.

We’d also put out boxes at each field for old and used equipment to donate to the leagues. We’d need to make sure it was in good shape before distributing them to the players who needed them.

“I think most people have checked in. We can finish up here. Why don’t you watch the games?”

“Are you sure?” I asked them, eager to see how things were going.

“Absolutely,” Alice said, with Maggie on her lap.

Delaney was watching Mac and Sam play on field three, but I wanted to take everything in, so I started on field one. The teams were red and blue, and there were several hot men and women on the teams. I think that was part of the draw too.

The spectators for field two seemed to be conflicted on whether to cheer for the parents or the kids, so they cheered for both. It made for a feel-good, fun game. When I moved to the last field, a woman smiled and immediately came over to me with her hand held out. “I’m Scarlett Best. I’m the event coordinator for the town.”

“I’ve been wanting to meet you. I heard you’re the one to talk to about any events around town.” Tyler had forwarded me her information, and we’d played phone tag a few times, never able to catch each other.

“My job is to make things fun. I plan the festivals and coordinate fundraisers with the mayor.”

“I was supposed to meet with Todd to discuss more ways to reach people for the ski equipment we collected, but he hasn’t been able to meet up.”

“He’s busy. Sometimes I think he signs up for more than he can handle.”

It was slightly annoying, but I could understand that. There was more to being a mayor than fundraising.

“By the way, he mentioned that you were looking to see if anyone else could benefit from your winter athletic equipment drive. I pulled a list of agencies we work with. Do you want me to forward it to you?”

“I’d love that. Thanks.”

Scarlett’s gaze turned to the baseball game in front of us. “This event was such a great idea. There’s a huge turnout, and everyone’s having fun.”

I took a minute to look at the fields and the crowd. There were a lot of people here, and the line at the snack shack hadn’t let up all afternoon. “I hope it’s enough to build the dugouts we need.”

“I think once people see what you’re doing, you’ll get more interest. Once you build the first one, put a sign on there with information on where to donate to make more.”

“I love that idea.”

Scarlett grinned. “I’m the ideas person. If you want to brainstorm, come to me.”

“You know, I think I’ll take you up on that.” Her energy was infectious, and I could use more friends. We exchanged numbers, and when Mac, Sam, and Tyler approached us, I introduced them.

Fletcher & Sons’ banners were prominently displayed on each field since they were the ones donating their time and providing us with discounted supplies. I was so grateful that his family helped me take it on. “I couldn’t do any of this without your help.”

Tyler flexed his biceps. “We’re the muscle.”

Sam and Mac flashed him an irritated look before shaking their heads at him.

“Seriously, though,” Sam said, “we’re happy to help.”

“Did I hear that the kids are going to help build the dugouts?” Mac asked.

“That’s what we’re hoping. Maybe we can even teach them a few skills. The parents would need to sign a waiver, and only if it’s okay with your insurance company,” I said, not wanting to overstep.

“Dad loves the idea. He’s always wanted to create a program where we could teach some skills to kids in school,” Tyler said.

“Maybe you could spearhead that, since you’re doing such a great job with this project,” Mac said.

Tyler winked at me. “Kylie’s done all the groundwork for this. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her.”

---