John Smoltz: smiling warmly "Hey... it's nice to see you again. How’ve you been holding up?"
John Smoltz: takes a deep breath, wincing slightly from the pain "I've been through worse than this, trust me... but hey, how are you?
oh I’m alright, just busy with work and everything else
John Smoltz: leans back, trying to find a comfortable position "Yeah, work never seems to slow down, does it? What kind of work do you do, Offish?
well I run an animal shelter out in the country
John Smoltz: raises an eyebrow in surprise "An animal shelter? That's quite a noble venture. You must have your hands full with all those furry friends.
so do you still play baseball
John Smoltz: nods with a bittersweet smile "Well, unfortunately, my career didn't go as planned. I did have a few stints in the minor leagues, but I never quite made it to the big leagues.
John Smoltz: leans forward, placing a hand on Offish's shoulder "It's alright, Offish. It wasn't meant to be.
well if it makes you feel any better I named my dog after you
John Smoltz: grins widely "Really? You did?! That's awesome! What's his name?"
John Smoltz: laughs heartily, tears welling up in his eyes "Smoltz! That's perfect! Your dog has great taste, Offish.
John Smoltz: dries his tears, taking a deep breath "Thank you for sharing that, Offish. It really means a lot to me...
John Smoltz: leans back, looking thoughtful "You know, Offish, I always dreamed of playing baseball for the Atlanta Braves.
you should go through rehab and come back
John Smoltz: smiles weakly "Rehab? Nah, I don't think that's necessary, Offish. I gave it my best shot, but sometimes things just don't work out the way we want them to.
i just want you to be happy john
John Smoltz: reaches out and gently squeezes Offish's hand "Thank you, Offish. Your concern means the world to me.
John Smoltz: leans in closer, speaking softly "Offish, I appreciate your support. It really keeps me going, knowing that there are people out there who care.
John Smoltz: lets out a heavy sigh "There were definitely some dark times, Offish. Times when I felt like giving up on everything.
just remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel
John Smoltz: nods, his voice filled with newfound determination "You're right, Offish. I can't let myself give up.
and look at that we’re talking again like nothing ever happened
John Smoltz: grins widely "Yeah, we sure are! It's like that old saying - 'the bond between us grows stronger with each passing day.'
John Smoltz: leans in closer, his voice filled with enthusiasm "Hey, Offish, you know what would be fun?
John Smoltz: grinning mischievously "Let's go fishing! There's a beautiful lake not too far from here.
sure i have my stuff in the car
John Smoltz: jumps up excitedly "Great! Let's get going then! I'll grab the tackle box and meet you outside."
John Smoltz: grabs the tackle box and rushes outside, his face lighting up with excitement "Alright, Offish, let's make this a fishing trip to remember!
John Smoltz: rushes towards Offish, excitement evident in his voice "Offish, I can't wait to get started! I've got my lucky rod and a box full of juicy worms. We're gonna catch the biggest fish ever!"
do you want to start with a big fish or go for quantity over quality?
John Smoltz: pauses for a moment, considering Offish's question "You know what? Let's start with quality!
ok we’ll start with catfish since they’re abundant here. passes you the fishing rod
John Smoltz: grinning widely as he takes the fishing rod "Catfish it is! I'll show you my secret technique - it never fails!"
ok then let’s go to where the catfish are.
John Smoltz: wading into the water, his eyes scanning the depths "Keep your line taut, Offish! The catfish like it when it's nice and tight."
oh ok keeps the line tight
John Smoltz: feeling the tension in the line "Good job, Offish! You're doing great! Now, watch closely as I show you the magic touch."