Lupe and Selina Play Through the Storm

The demands of the athletics department, the team schedule, travel arrangements, and Mama’s home improvement project were all running at full speed. Lupe felt overburdened with all these responsibilities, and she was nervous about Clemente being a part of her life again.

“Mom, I missed Sunday lunch last week, but we only have two weeks before the Waves depart for Mexico. I’ve got a million details to settle. We also have two exhibition matches: one this week, one next. Someone’s knocking on my door.” Lupe disconnected the call, expecting the person at her door to be less difficult to talk to than her mother.

“Buen día, Lupe.” The Clemente ghost leaned against her door. This time, he wore white pants and a white sweater. “I figured you could use help at practice. Selina plays first base today. She’ll be nervous.” Lupe resigned herself to treating him like a real person.

“You are going to help her in your clean white clothes? She’s a big girl, Clemente. I’m sure she can handle first without you.” She gathered her clipboard and whistle to head to the field. She looked out of her office window and saw the team gathering on the practice diamond. Everyone looked eager and excited.

“I won’t get in your way, Coach. No one but you and Selina can see me.” Seeming completely human, Clemente pulled his sweater off over his head. “I found this old T-shirt in the men’s locker room. Do I look like a college man?”

“Clemente, today I’m concerned about our pitcher improving her delivery, and our shortstop performing with any kind of consistency, and you want me to notice your stolen shirt?” Lupe tried to ignore his interruption and headed out the door.

“I’ll handle the shortstop. You manage the pitcher. I can be helpful if you let me.” Clemente followed close behind Lupe, still trying to get her attention.