It started out like any other day. James Thompson hopped out of bed, a spring to his step. After showering and getting dressed, he rehearsed in front of the mirror.

“If you turn to page 27 of your program and you find the autograph of Brandon Villafuerte, report to the special promotions booth because you have won the Coca-Cola Take Your Friends To The Ball Game Contest! Pick up your five free tickets to Saturday night’s Albuquerque Isotopes game. Remember it’s Always Coca-Cola!“

His beautiful, if not slightly amused, wife Barbara laughed. “You are the best PA announcer in the world, honey. The way ‘Villafuerte’ rolls off your tongue gets my blood pumping.”

“I dunno honey,” James disagreed. “I think your ‘Villafuerte’ eclipses mine.”

“Never,” she said, with a wink.

“I can’t believe it’s already the first game of the season! I love my life!”

James glanced at his watch. “Oh, crap. I better get a move on. Don’t wanna be late for my first day back.” He kissed her cheek. “Wish me luck.”