TJM21

The sun was setting as Tommy & Sam walked to their table. The restaurant was boasted to be one of the best, you had to wait months for reservations. Tommy got lucky that when he came in earlier to see if he could happen to squeeze in, there was a cancellation. The restaurant manager told him there would be no way he could accommodate Tommy for that evening there was a waiting list & they had a strict policy they enforced.

*********

Tommy pleaded, "Please, are you sure there isn't anyway you can make an exception? I am down here for Spring Training with the Cleveland Indians"

The manager's ears perked up, "The Indians you say." Tommy nodded. "What did you say your name was?"

"Tom Metcalf," Tommy said, he noticed the manager appeared to be a fan of the Indians.

The manager's face went from a disapproving scowl to a huge smile. "Metcalf. As in Jeff Metcalf?"

"He is my father"

The manager turned to Tommy. "Mr. Metcalf, I think we may just be able to make a deal. My name is Alfred Rogersmith."

Alfred Rogersmith was as stuffy as his name would have indicated he would be. Tommy was surprised he was a baseball fan. He extended his hand, "Please to meet you. What exactly did you have in mind?'

"I will get you the table you requested, if you can obtain a picture of you with your father in your uniform," Alfred was 20 years old when Jeff made his debut with the Indians, he was an instant fan of the young Metcalf.

Tommy thought this was more than a fair deal. "Well, Alfie, I go home to River Run in 2 days. I will get you that photo & I will have it autographed by both my dad & myself. Then I will send it to you right away. Just make sure you give me your address."

Autographed!! Alfred was thrilled beyond words. "Your table will be ready tonight at 830pm."

**********

"Tommy, this place is beautiful," Sam said as he pulled out her chair for her. "How were you able to get reservations, I heard someone talking about months of waiting."

Tommy smiled that she seemed so pleased & impressed. "What can I say," he joked. "I used the old Metcalf charm." Sam laughed.

They enjoyed a lovely dinner. Candlelight only added to the glow Tommy saw in Sam's eyes. Soft music played, in the center of the room was a grand piano accompanied by 2 violinists & a harp. The night couldn't get any better.

Tommy admired Sam, she was wearing a navy blue beaded short cocktail dress with spaghetti straps. Her hair was in an upsweep, which accentuated her graceful neck. "You are so beautiful, Samantha, I love you very much."

"Hello, Samantha" Sam was startled by the familiar voice. Her body cringed when she felt his hand on her shoulder.

Tommy looked up at their intruder. "We have never met, I am Derrick McKinley. You must be Tommy.."