A week later, the Toledo Mud Hens were crowned as national champions of the Triple-A league. After defeating the Durham Bulls in two straight games, they faced the winners of the Pacific league and easily overcame them.
With the emergence of Daichi, Ken and Jeremy, their performances had catapulted the Mud Hens to the top and into the spotlight.
Many of the Detroit Liger fans online were campaigning for their call-up to the team. Of course Ken did not think that it would happen, at least not yet. It had only been 3 months since he'd been drafted.
At the very best, he would probably get called up to the majors in the middle of the following season, provided he could keep up his performance.
So with the end of the season, the off-season now began.
Ken didn't really have any plans. He could stay in New York, but he was worried about distracting Ai from her final exams at college. She was set to graduate in January which was only a couple of months away, he could wait until then.
"So, what are your plans?"
As if reading his mind, Daichi asked. They had just gone for their morning run and were stretching in the park. They had restarted the ritual, just like old times.
"Haven't really thought about it. I might go stay with mom and dad for a month, what about you?" Ken asked.
"We will probably do the same before heading back to Japan to stay with Miho's Grandpa for a while."
"Oh cool. I'm sure mom will be happy to have us both in the house at the same time." Ken stated with a smile. His mother had always complained that the house was empty, she would surely be thrilled upon finding out.
"Have you told her yet?"
Daichi shook his head, "I was going to ask her later today."
Ken grinned, "How about we surprise her?"
"Are you sure? Won't she get mad?" Daichi didn't seem too keen on the idea.
Ken waved his hand dismissively, "She'll be fine. Steve comes round unannounced all the time, mom's probably used to it by now."
Thinking of his friend Steve, Ken smiled. They hadn't spoken in a little while, he would need to catch up with him when he returned back to Texas.
"Steve?" Daichi tilted his head in question.
"Ah, I keep forgetting you two haven't met before. I played with him in High School and College, he's been my catcher for 5 years now."
"I see… And he visits mom and dad often?" Daichi's expression was unreadable.
Ken felt that something was a little off, but he didn't pursue it further. "He's in Texas, so he comes round every now and then to check on them."
"Mmm…"
"Anyway, did you want me to book the flights to Texas?" Ken asked, changing the subject.
"Sure, thanks. That would help."
Ken nodded. "I'll book them for tomorrow, that okay with you?"
"Sounds good."
And like that, the two decided to head back to Texas to surprise their parents. The next day, Daichi found out that Ken had purchased business class tickets for himself and Miho, only when they were checking in their baggage.
"Ken… It's only a 2 and a half hour flight. Why would you waste money on a business class seat?" Daichi asked in confusion. The Ken he knew was smart with his money.
"It wasn't as expensive as you think. I have a frequent flyer card since I fly a lot." Ken replied with a grin. "Once you go business class, it makes it hard to go back to going economy also."
Daichi was still a little reluctant, but Miho accepted the gift graciously.
A few hours later, they arrived at Austin and caught a taxi all the way to Chris and Yuki's place. Upon arrival, a red silverado was parked out the front, causing Ken's heart to surge.
As they got out of the cab, they could hear laughter coming from the house.
"Mom, we're home." Ken called out as he reached the door.
"Kenny?" Yuki's voice called in shock.
"KENNNNN! I MISSED YOU!"
Before Yuki could come over and hug him, Steve shot up out of his chair and lunged towards Ken, wrapping his arms around him.
Ken laughed, happy to see his friend once more. "Hurry up and get off me, we have other guests too."
"Hmm? Other guests?"
At this, Daichi and Miho walked in the door, "Hi mom, sorry to barge in."
"Daichi dear! Miho. Oh my goodness, what a surprise." Yuki exclaimed, a bright smile appearing on her face. She waltzed forward and grabbed them into a hug, pulling them tight.
Ken took the opportunity to hug her afterward, planting a kiss on her cheek. "Hope we haven't come at a bad time."
"Of course not." Yuki balked, "Your father is just at the shops getting some groceries, he'll be back soon. Come inside quickly." She motioned.
"Oi Ken, who are they?" Steve said, nudging Ken. They had been talking in Japanese so Ken understood why the guy would be confused.
"Steve, this is my brother Daichi and his fiance Miho. He just joined the Ligers organization and is currently playing for the Mud Hens alongside me." Ken said, introducing the two.
Steve's expression turned solemn, as did Daichi's. The two looked at each other, as if sizing one another up.
Steve held his hand out, "I heard you play catcher… You any good?"
Daichi let out a small grin and seized the outstretched hand. "I amu best catcher, Japan."
"Oho? Seems like you're confident. How about we have a match?" Steve said, his mischievous grin creeping onto his lips.
THUD
"OW~"
"Be respectful, I won't let you two start a fight." Ken said after sending a Karate chop to the top of Steve's head.
Steve rubbed his head, grumbling a few words under his breath.
Yuki laughed, covering her mouth with her hand. "My my, some things never change. Come, I'll serve us a few snacks while we wait for your father."
"Yay, snacks!" Steve's attitude did a complete 180 at the mention of food.