Sliding into Home (A Frank Adler AU x MLB)

Do You Know How to Spell Assume?

"This thing is trying to kill me," Frank grunts, struggling with his bow tie. "Why do they insist on making this shit black tie?"

"Because of the fancy people Frank," Mary piped in as she lay on his bed, watching.

"Thanks, Nugget, for your insight."

"What's insight?"

"Never mind," Frank muttered.

"It means your opinion," Scott said as he walked into the room. He reached up to tie the tie for Frank. "You have to explain it to her," he told Frank. He adjusted and stepped back. "There, perfect."

"Thanks." Frank looked in the mirror and turned back to his gang. "How do I look?"

"Like a penguin," Scott replied and begin to waddle around, mimicking a penguin, making Mary giggle.

"You're hilarious," Frank deadpanned. "Why am I so nervous?"

"Because you have a date," Scott said with sympathy. "Its been five years."

"Its not a date."

"Its something. Its spending time with a woman." Scott pats his shoulder. "And its not Abby."

Frank arrives at the charity event in the limo, alone. He makes his way through the red carpet, taking photos and speaking with some reporters. The questions are simple, and Frank is somewhat relaxed. As soon as he finished up, he headed into the event. Looking around he spotted Johnny with his date and his sister. Susan was in a sleek navy blue gown that was modest and elegant, allowing her golden blonde hair to shine. The other woman was in a black gown that left little to the imagination. Frank smiled and headed over. "Hey Torch, hey Susie. Sorry," he glanced at the woman on Johnny's arm. "Frank Adler," he offered his hand.

A breathy giggle emerges. "Bethany," she said.

"Nice to meet you. Susie," he offered his arm to Susan, who took it. As they walked away, he groaned. "Jesus, is that all Storm wants in a woman?"

Susan stifled a laugh. "Apparently. She's a makeup artist. I use that term loosely. She works at a makeup store selling make up. And hopefully tit tape since that is all that is holding that dress up."

Frank snorted a laugh. "Why am I not surprised." Frank shook his head. "Thanks for doing this, Susie."

"Its not a problem, Frank. You help me out and I'm returning the favor."

A two weeks prior... at the coffee shop.

"I could always give you guys a tour at JPL. I mean if you want," Susan offered with a smile.

"And that's my cue for a refill," Johnny stated, jumping up and heading to the counter.

Frank sighed. "Look, Susan, I think you are very nice, but I am not looking for anything serious."

Susan laughed. "I know, I'm not either. But I know you need to keep... umm.. Eager women..."

"Jersey Chasers," he clarified.

"Fine, jersey chasers off of you. I can help if you let me. Just as friends. Promise." She offered her hand.

Frank took it and shook it. "Friends. But why?"

"Haven't had the guts to tell Johnny that I met someone." She blushed slightly.

"Why? Wouldn't that be great?"