Again, a new chapter. This is the second to the last one before Part 2 starts. Hope you ejoy it!

Chapter 5

The New Inventor

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"This just in…" said a TV news reporter. "Invent Co. Labs have just come out with a new line of inventions. The Goob Pitch Machine is just one of the two machines created by the new inventor Mike Yagoobian. And now back to Harry for the rest of the story. Harry?"

"Thanks Bill," responded the short reporter. "I'm here with Invent Co. CEO Leslie Harlington. Leslie, what did you think of this man when he entered your company with his pitch?"

"Oh, I thought he was such a nice lad,' she said with a grin. "Poor dear was shaking when he pitched his first invention, but once he saw my interest, I believe his confidence boosted when he presented his second invention.."

"Which is?" asked Harry.

"He called it 'The Baseball Buddy'. It's a robot that will play baseball with lonely children. I personally loved that invention. We are currently mass-producing them in all different shapes and sizes. Even colors now. In fact, I have a Baseball Buddy of my own."

And with that, Mrs. Harlington showed off a purple robot similar to Ted's design only a foot shorter to match Mrs. Harlington's size.

"Well, there you have it folks. Back to you Bill."

"Thanks Harry," said the reporter. "We will now bring you live to a press conference where Michael Yagoobian will answer any questions from any big local news channels."

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Michael could hear tons of people screaming his name. He wished he could have been this popular at school. He was backstage, standing around as people prepared for the press conference. Ted was getting his joints oiled by some pretty girl androids. Once finished, he gave the girls a wink, and they all chirped and whirred. Ted went over to Mike's side and shook him.

"Lighten up Mikey!" said Ted. 'You're a popular inventor now! I'm pretty sure you'll do fine out there."

"Gee…I hope so Ted."

"5 minutes until show time Mr. Yagoobian," said a man as he passed them.

"Better get ready Mike,' said Ted pushing Mike towards the hair and make-up door. "I'll see ya out there!"

And with that, Ted left for the stage, leaving Mike at the mercy of the make-artists and hair-stylists.

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"Um hi," said Mike into the microphone. He, Ted and Mrs. Harlington were at a table before a big audience of TV reporters.

"My name is Michael Yagoobian, and I am the inventor of the "Goob Pitch Machine" and the "The Baseball Buddy," who is sitting right next to me."

"Hiya everybody!" said Ted giving a friendly wave. "Call me Ted. My buddy Mike here invented me to play ball with lonely kids and even lonely adults. Here next to us is the CEO of Invent Co., Mrs. Harlington."

"Greetings everyone!" said Mrs. Harlington with a wave.

"Mrs. Harlington,' said a voice from the crowd. "What made you decide to mass-produce this man's inventions?"

"Oh well, simply because I could see his idea become a reality. Plus, I wanted my very own Ted. He's really quiet fun to play with."

"Mr. Yagoobian," said another voice. "What influenced you to make such inventions?"

"Well," started Mike, "I've always been a big baseball fan and always wanted to play the sport, but never had someone to play with. Now with these two inventions, not only will you have someone to play with, but you can really get good at baseball."

"Plus, you'll be exercising," added Mrs. Harlington, "which I know is probably one of the more important things we want for our kids. To get them outside and staying active."

"Mr. Yagoobian," said another reporter from the crowd. "How does it fell to be nominated for the 'Scientist of the Year' Award'?"

"I am?" asked Mike out loud. "Wow…I had no idea…I guess it feels great! I mean, to be nominated alongside all those scientists? Gee…I guess I really made it big didn't I?"

"So,' said the same reporter, "Now that you've accomplished so much in your life; what with riches, recognition and whatnot, what is next for you Michael Yagoobian?"

Mike couldn't help but grin.

"I'm going to keep moving forward, and try to find my future."

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Hope you've enjoyed it so far! Mike's future really does look good.

-Kim