Chapter 10 – 40

Monday, July 25th, 2033

Gabi's POV

I tugged on Addy's hair as I made it perfect for her dance recital. She looked in the mirror as her eyes took in her bare face with a perfect ballerina bun. She was dressed in her part and I kissed her cheek gently. "You go kill it baby," she looked in the mirror with a smile on her face. "I wish Daddy was here." I nodded with sympathy, "I'll send him a video. I promise." Adalyn let out a long sigh as I gently stood up and I looked over at her teacher as I nodded.

"Love you baby, I'll only have my eyes on you." She grinned as I walked off to find all the grandparents and siblings sitting in the crowd. A very pregnant Emily was sitting with Finn, their hands clasped together as they got a sitter for Finn. Cameron was sitting with his girlfriend, Lindsey, and there was finally Lilly and Dean. Everybody was excited to watch Addy, but I knew there was one person missing who really wanted to see her shine tonight.

I inhaled sharply as I sat down next to Grey while Logan was talking to my dad. Everybody was listening and getting excited as the girls had all been working hard. Addy had to make up extra time for being gone but that was worth it for the time we had with Troy. He was in Baltimore right now and was pitching on Wednesday and his birthday is on Thursday. All of us were going to fly out Wednesday morning and then spend his birthday with him in Baltimore.

A tiny grin on Makenli's face told me she was excited for her sister. "Kids, scoot down one chair," Lucille said from behind me, I glanced at her with curiosity, "Who's here?" I questioned as I twisted to face her and she only grinned as I shot her a look. I finally just scooted down a chair while the chair I just left quickly squeaked with movement. I glanced over, and the blue eyes and sand hair caught my attention with a full suit on for a dance recital for his youngest daughter.

"Troy," I breathed, and he grinned. I wrapped my arms around him as we hadn't been together since Friday when he flew off with the team to Minnesota for a three-game set before flying to Baltimore. "Hey baby, I couldn't miss this. Not with everything that Addy is struggling with." I felt tears fill my eyes as the other three kids were quick to jump up and hug on Troy. He greeted each of them individually with a smile on his face.

My eyes took in the black suit with a white undershirt and a dark maroon tie. He was stunning, and I noticed the bundle of flowers on the floor by his feet. "She's going to be so excited." I whispered as I clasped my hand with his and he smiled back knowing that she would be. She might be a strong momma's girl, but I knew she would be happy to put on a show for Troy. I squeezed his hand and the lights went dark as all of our attention was stolen towards the stage.

They slowly began the recital as my eyes were trained on our youngest daughter. Her face composed, and her moves were precise on the stage. She was very good at dancing and I knew that she didn't get the main part because of our constant traveling and not always being able to be here. I would never tell her that though because I didn't want her to fight me on these last few memories. The next big dance wouldn't be till Christmas and I knew she would have a much better shot at a bigger roll.

"She's beautiful," Troy whispered, and my eyes looked over at him, but he was mesmerized by her on stage to even look my way. I squeezed his fingers while I smiled looking back at her. The song ended as they all bowed, and the crowd clapped before they moved into their next dance. She did every single move flawlessly even though she did miss time. I breathed in deeply knowing that she had more grace than either of her parents had. She had patience and was okay with living in the slow lane.

Her identical twin sister was the complete opposite though. Makenli will forever live for the fast lane. My eyes drifted to Makenli for a second as she was watching her sister with the biggest smile on my face. I felt my own smile grow as she was going to be Addy's biggest supporter and the opposite way around. I breathed in a deep sigh of relief as I twisted my attention back to Adalyn on stage. Troy squeezed my thigh as I knew his flight out was probably in only a matter of hours, but I was so thankful that he was here.

That he made time for this.

The show went on for about another thirty minutes before we were all standing and clapping for our little dancer. She was beaming by the end of the show and when she found all of us in the audience her smile grew but when her eyes landed on Troy…they tripled in size. We all made our way to the commons area when she came sprinting out of the back. She giggled before she found us and wrapped her dad in a big hug.

"Daddy!" I smiled watching them as Addy hugged Troy tightly, "Hi, sweet girl. You did absolutely amazing." Troy said to her quietly, she grinned again as she pulled back as Troy gave her the flowers. Her cheeks flushed, and she looked down, "Thank you," he kissed the top of her head as I bent down to hug her next. "You did such an amazing job," I whispered to her and she giggled. She went to talk to her siblings as I hugged on my husband myself.

"When does your flight leave?" I whispered into his ear, he gave me a tight squeeze as I knew it was tonight. "Around ten. I figured I could catch dinner and then head off back to the airport." I almost pouted but I held it back. Troy chuckled as his thumb traced over my bottom lip, "Miss me?" he whispered into my ear, I laughed, "A little bit." He smiled pushing my hair behind my ear. A kiss to my lips as he leaned into my ear, "Mmm…maybe we can sneak off for a little bit of that, too." I laughed as he kissed the top of my head.

"Alright, who wants to go get dinner?" Troy asked as he lifted Grey into his arms and his hand latched with Addy. The kids all were talking to him as my heart warmed watching him walk out with the kids. Troy walked us to our car as his wasn't sitting too far away from mine. He helped all of the kids inside as they buckled up and when he shut the door, he twisted around to face me, "Maggiano's?" he questioned, and I nodded, "Yes, that sounds good. Hopefully they aren't too slow tonight, so I can sneak you home." Troy cracked a smile before kissing me softly, "I'll see you there."

I slipped into the car as all of the kids were talking about Troy being here tonight. "Mom! Did you know Dad was coming?" Makenli asked, "Nope. He surprised all of us." I said as I turned the car over and began the short drive to one of our family favorite restaurants. "Mom is dad staying the night?" Grey asked, "No. Sorry buddy, Dad has to leave after dinner tonight." I said, and the car deflated, "But we'll be back with him on Wednesday in Baltimore." I told them with a look and they all smiled and nodded as it was only a couple more days.

"I have practice tomorrow," Logan told me, "I know." I responded, "Makenli also has a softball practice. Mac, Mrs. Brook is going to come get you, so I can take Logan to her practice. Addy and Grey, you can either come with me or you can go hang out with Grandpa and Grandma Lucille." I offered, and they mulled over their decision. "You don't have to let me know now. Just when we get done with dinner, so I can tell them tonight."

We pulled into Maggiano's and I saw the whole family gathering around. I eased into a parking spot as the kids all began to stumble out of the car. They raced for the door and to their favorite family members. I locked up the car when a hand slid into mine and yanked me backwards. I yelped but quickly laughed as it was his warm hand that wrapped around mine. "I told my mom I needed five minutes with you."

I giggled as he unlocked my car as he pushed me inside before he settled in a captain seat before yanking me on top of him. His mouth landed on mine and I giggled into mouth as he smiled. "I miss you so much," I whispered, and he let his hands grip my hips, "You have no idea. I had all of you for days and now…" he pulled his lips down my face and against my neck. "We'll all be together on Wednesday for a good chunk of time." I reminded him.

"Shut up," he whispered as he kissed me again. I happily obliged.

I read the book over to the three kids that were curled around listening. Dinner with all of the families went well as everybody stuffed themselves. Flipped to the last page of the book and the kids were all half asleep but they asked me to read a story tonight, so I did. I wanted them to stay little forever. I closed the book and I smiled at all of them. "Okay, time for bed kids." I told them, and they groaned and moaned but I shook my head.

Makenli hopped over to her bed while Grey slowly got up. "C'mon Grey, it's time for sleep." I reminded him, and he sighed before running across the hallway to his room. I kissed each of the twin's goodnight while making sure they were tucked in. "Night sweet girls," they both bid me a good-night back before I went to Grey's room. He was playing with cars on the ground. "Grey, in bed." I reminded him, and he huffed before getting up.

He got into his bed and I happily tucked him in, "Mommy, will you still read us stories when you go back to work?" he asked, and I smiled, "As much as I can." I whispered as my lips met his forehead. "You know Daddy loves to read you stories too." He shrugged, and I smiled, "It'll be okay. I love you though." He nodded as I kissed his cheeks before I backed away. I closed the door and I sighed as I looked down at my shorts and t-shirt. I ran my hand through my hair as I poked my head into Logan's room as she was laughing on the phone with somebody.

I smiled before I walked into our bedroom as I picked up my own phone to call Ellie. It rang only twice before she answered causing my heart to ache with missing her. "Hey stranger," I smiled, "Hi. I miss you." I said into the phone, she laughed, "I miss you too. When will the ink be dry?" she asked me, "A week from today." I told her, "Then we are celebrating. Mrs. Bolton is finally going back to work!" I laughed as I sat up.

"Girls night," I declared, "Yes! Mallory, Melissa, Alex, and Rebecca! Yes! Oh my god, we all need it." I giggled, "I am so excited." She went on a mile a minute about the plans and how we should do it. "Maybe I can swing by the café tomorrow afternoon." I told her as I drew my legs up. "Oh…you must be missing Troy and adult conversations." I laughed quietly, "A little bit. I don't know. He actually flew in tonight to surprise us for Addy's show tonight."

"Shut up, Troy Bolton is a fucking dream." I smiled, "We were able to do dinner before he was on a plane back to Baltimore." I picked at my duvet cover and I sighed, "I miss him." She giggled, "I bet. You spent all last week together." I sighed while looking at our family picture on the wall above from last summer. "We're good right now and I just…want him all the time. I also do miss adult conversations. These kids have been sucking me dry with the constant practices or recitals or playdates. Lord."

"Ha! The problem with having four children! I can't imagine your life because my two keep me busy." I laughed, "Yup, I don't know what I would do without any of them though." I whispered quietly, "I love them all so freaking much." Ellie was quiet for a minute, "You are going to sign that paper, right?"

I laughed, "Yes, I am. I just miss him. That's all." She sighed, "Good, good, okay, I have to go finish putting my kids to bed. Love you,"

"Love you Ellie!" I hung up the phone as I went back out to shut down the house. I shut off all the lights in the kitchen and living room before going back upstairs to see Logan lying in bed watching TV. She smiled over at me when she saw me poke my head in, "Hi Lolo," she scooted over in bed and I laid down next to her. "Mom did guys only ever talk to you because of who Papi was?" she asked twisting her head to look at me and I raised my eyebrows, but I finally just nodded.

"Yea," I admitted, "A lot." I told her, and she sighed, "I hate it." She whispered, I curled closer to her and I hugged her tightly. "I actually didn't tell your dad who my dad was for a really long time. He loved the Yankees and was a big fan of my dad." I told her honestly, "So I just hid it because so many guys only talked to me because of who my dad was." I played with her hair as I let my fingers slip through it and I sighed, "Yet, when your daddy found out who my dad was, he didn't care who my dad was. He loved me for me."

Brushing my lips together I kissed the side of her head, "I know that you have always had trouble finding friends and people who are true to you because of your dad. I know you deal with that more than you ever tell any of us and I know how much that hurts somedays. I know you don't bring friends over for a reason." She gripped onto me and I held onto her, "I have been there. Girls, boys, or anything in between were hard to find that didn't want something from me just because of who my dad was."

"I just want people to want to be with me."

"I know, baby. I know." She rested against me and I didn't press for any more details, but I just held her close to me. Exactly what she needed.

Wednesday, July 27th, 2033

Troy's POV

I focused on the ball in my hand as I twisted it around once, twice, before I nodded towards Tyler while I readjusted the ball in my hand. I gripped the seams and then I hurled it towards home plate. The batter missed, and the ball hit the back of the mitt. My chest swelled with pride as I fist pumped. I walked off the mound as I knew what was happening around me but at the same time, I wasn't trying to pay any attention to it.

I went back to the dugout and I settled on the bench as I looked around the stadium. I didn't have a chance to see the kids and Gabi before the game today as their flight was delayed twice. Yet, I knew they had arrived with a simple text message from Gabi. I breathed out as Tyler came over and patted my leg, "On your fastball, it's slipping. Your elbow is dropping." He told me, and I tried to fight a smile as I nodded keeping it serious. He needed to make the mindless conversation like we usually do but I could see him fighting it.

"Thanks Tyler," he nodded as my eyes drifted to the scoreboard against Baltimore. Seven zeros stretched across Baltimore's with an extra three at the end. I breathed in deeply as I shook my head trying to focus on something else. I focused on what I wanted to focus on: my wife. Getting to see her after the game. Getting to hug her, kiss her again. Fuck, I missed her. I saw her briefly on Monday, but it wasn't enough. It will never be enough time with her.

I couldn't wait to get my hands on her tonight. To lock the door to our adjourning room with the kids and just spend time with her. I am excited that she is taking the contract that she is because is almost doubles our time together than normal. That's all I wanted. I wanted more time with her.

We struke out quickly as I stood back up readjusting my cap as I clapped my glove with a few players before walking back out as if there wasn't a perfect game on the line right now. The only big feature I have never achieved. I would give anything to add my name to that list before I retire. I shook the thought away as I focused back on Gabi and the kids. I threw my warm-up pitches as I zeroed in on Tyler's glove.

It's a game of catch.

Just back and forth.

Tyler and I successfully navigated through the first two batters. The three batter approached the plate and I let out an even breath as he dug his foot into the ground. Tyler gave me the first sign and I nodded as I hurled the ball to the plate. I felt my breath catch as the ball slipped from my hand, but the batter was overeager and swung anyways even though it was a foot outside the strike zone. I took a deep breath as I took a step back to breathe.

Tyler called time as he came running out, "You okay?" I just nodded, "What do you have planned for Gabi tonight?" he asked, and I cracked a smile, "Big plans for our bed." I mused, and this caused him to laugh with a nod, "I bet. You're fixed right?" he joked, and this caused another laugh from my mouth, "Yea, for good reason." Tyler shoved my shoulder before returning back to Homeplate. I threw the next pitch for a ball. I dug my toe into the ground as the stadium was quiet.

I glanced around as my eyes caught on the section, they should be in. I scanned when I saw Logan standing up and moving seats, I smiled as I turned away before I went through the motions again. This time for another strike. One more for this inning and then I can breathe. My team had given me a four-run lead and I knew that we were going to win but I didn't just want to win. I wanted this. The next pitch was another ball and I lifted my cap as I brushed my fingers through my hair.

I let it rest back on my head as I pulled it down snug against my head. I then wound up and threw the ball again as the batter swung and missed by a mile. I slapped my glove as I headed back to the dugout to cheering. I breathed again as I walked back in and sat in my same spot as last time. My eyes took in the extra zero on the board.

Holy.

Fuck.

Gabi's POV

I couldn't breathe.

Air was not going in and out of my lungs as I looked at the scoreboard. A whole bunch of zeros stretching across. No errors, no walks, no hits, no hit by pitches. Nothing. He had yet to allow one base runner on and I couldn't breathe. He was going to throw a perfect game if he didn't mess it up in the bottom of the ninth. He only had 80 pitches through eight innings and he looked good. I couldn't believe this. I buried my face into my hands as I tried to breathe.

"Mom are you okay?" I looked up at Addy as I nodded slowly, "Yes, I am just nervous for your dad." I breathed out again as that was nothing new, me being nervous for Troy. Yet, this time was different. I know how much he wants this. I know how much this would mean to him. I could feel Troy's anxiousness from here. He wanted this, and I was so happy that I was sitting right here for it. My phone buzzed in the seat next to me, but I ignored it because I didn't want to talk about it with anybody.

The kids went back to just watching the game as the Royals went down in order. Troy came back out of the dugout as if business was normal. He went to the mound and he bounced the rosin bag up and down on his hands like he does before every inning. Tyler came out to talk to him before he went behind the mound as he patted his shoulder. Troy focused in on the plate as I saw him take several deep breaths.

I squeezed my hands together as I felt the seat unfold next to me and Britt fold into the seat. She grabbed my hand and I squeezed it without looking away from the mound. He threw the first pitch and it was a strike on the outside corner. The batter complained that it was outside the zone, but Troy paid no attention as he prepared for his next pitch. He quickly went through the first batter without hesitation. I heard the pings of phones around us as SportsCenter alerts and MLB alerts are going out.

"C'mon, baby," I whispered as I had my eyes glued to him. The next batter proved to be a challenge. He struggled through the first three pitches as two were a ball and the third was fouled off. Troy bowed his head as he tried to focus in on the demand. The next pitch was fouled off as the count was even at 2-2. He threw the next pitch and the batter swung and made solid contact. My breath left my throat as I felt the tears gather in my eyes as I watched the ball sail towards centerfield. Yet, Brooks was underneath of it and easily caught it. I exhaled loudly, and I saw Troy do the same. He lifted his hat again and wiped away the sweat that was collecting on this late night.

"Mom, what's going on?" Grey asked pulling my shirt and I smiled, "Just watch sweetie, we'll talk about it after okay?" he nodded as I snapped a picture of the kids intently watching before Troy started in on the last batter. Batter number 27.

I chewed on my lip as I tilted forward watching it. I snapped a picture of the situation and I breathed in deeply. Troy looked around again and his eyes settled on our section. I felt like they could connect, and a tiny smile flickered of his over face as he zeroed in on the batter. He threw the first pitch and the batter was desperate. He swung wildly and the crowd in Baltimore was almost rooting for the perfect game. Rubbing my lips together I squeezed Britt's hand again.

I felt my phone continue to vibrate as Troy got the batter to foul off the next pitch. Tears were well into my eyes as I watched my husband. He turned around as his shoulder rose and fell heavily with the weight of what was about to happen. His hat came off again and Tyler got up as he jogged out to Troy. He said something to him and Troy nodded his head. His eyes came back to us and he laughed about something.

Tyler left him again and then squatted behind the plate again. The crowd grew anxious around us. Troy threw the next pitch for a ball and I breathed in again and out shaky. Troy gripped the ball again and he focused in on the batter again. His eyes narrowed, and he breathed in one more time and then released the ball forward at a high rate of speed. The batter swung, and I gasped but there wasn't any contact. My eyes went wide with surprise and my eyes swung to Troy as he threw his glove off his hand. His arms raising in the air while he bent forward. Tears ran down my face as Tyler, Casen, and everybody else narrowed in on him. My hands covered my face as I could feel Britt hugging me and other wives were all hugging and congratulating me.

Tears washed down my face as I couldn't believe he did it.

Everybody was hugging and there were cameras running out onto the field. I quickly tugged on the kids, "Go!" Britt said, "I'll get the kids down to the field." She told me, and I nodded as Logan was the only one who truly understood what was happening. "Mom, I want to come with you." She said quickly, and I nodded as I grabbed onto her hand. We went down to the stairs until we got to the security. My eyes were continuously searching for Troy, but he was in the mob in the middle of the field. "Whoa, ma'am, stop," he said, and I shook my head. "No, no, I have to get to him." I said towards the security guard.

"He's my husband," I said as I went in search for my pass, but I forgot it. I didn't know he was going to throw a fucking perfect game. I panicked because I needed to get to him. I needed to be in his arms. "Do you have your pass?" he asked, and I shook my head as I scanned the field before Cal spotted me. "She's good!" he yelled, and the guard nodded as he opened the gate as Logan and I got down onto the field. I was quickly scanning for him in the mess of people when I felt his stare on me. I turned around and our eyes caught. He had tears in his eyes and I had tears in my eyes. I can't believe he fucking did that.

He opened up through the crowd as I took ten fast steps until I leaped into his arms. His strong arms holding me against his chest as I broke down into a heavy sob against his neck. "You did it," I cried into his neck, "We did it," he clarified, and I just held onto him tightly, "I'm so fucking proud of you." I whispered into his ear and he squeezed me tightly one more time. "Dad!" Logan came up and I unwrapped myself from around him as I wiped my tears away as Logan hugged Troy.

"How amazing," I heard her say to him and he chuckled as the rest of the kids slowly trickled down. He greeted all of them with hugs and I watched with pride. Troy stood up again and he glanced at me with those blue eyes and the tears welled again. He laughed before we both took steps together as I collapsed into his arms. Our lips locked, and I grabbed his neck gently, "So proud," I whispered against him and he pressed his face into my neck.

He picked me up off the guard and he held me tightly against him. "Troy, can we get a quick interview?" Troy hesitated but nodded as he kissed me again. I laughed as I looked at him through blurry tears, "This is a good reunion," he laughed himself as we kissed again. He dropped me as he turned away to do the interview. I took the kids to the other side of the camera as we listened in on Troy.

"I think this highlight everything a pitcher could want in his career…" the reporter started, "You've had several no-hitters, you're an MVP, an all-star, a world series champion, and have several Cy Young awards." The reporter tallied, "Now a perfect game…the same year you set to retire and a day before your 40th birthday." Troy laughed with a nod, "It's pretty impressive of everything that I have been able to do. I didn't realize that I had a perfect game until about the 6th inning. I did just about anything to keep my mind off of it."

"What did you think about?" she asked with a smile as a waterfall of Gatorade came tunneling over Troy. He laughed trying to dodge it, but it was no use as it soaked his jersey and then a shaving cream pie was next when he was least expecting it. He laughed as he grinned as somebody threw him a towel to help wipe it off. "Troy, what did you think about?" The reporter asked again. Troy laughed, "My family, my kids, my wife. I haven't got to spend serious time with them since the break. I flew in quickly on Tuesday to watch my daughter's recital and they flew out this morning but was delayed several times so to see them, be with them, and I am so happy they are all here right now."

The reporter smiled as she looked over at the kids and I. "Does this make you want to retire tomorrow? To end on top?" she asked, Troy laughed, "No, not at all. I want one more World Series. I want more. As much as I know retiring is the right decision, it's a hard one and I don't want to waste these last few months of memories. Who knows…maybe I'll do another one?" Troy said with a grin. I shook my head with a smile.

"You turn 40 tomorrow…if this is any indication of your 40s…are you changing your mind on retiring?" The reporter changed questions and Troy laughed, "Nope. I am going to retire. My wife is set to sign her contract on Monday and I do not want to change that. At all. I am so proud of her for getting that contract and I know she is so excited to sign. I am proud of her. It's her turn to shine in the spotlight. To show our daughters that they can do absolutely anything they want to do in life." She laughed, "I bet. You've spent almost 20 years in this league. That can wear on a person." Troy nodded his head again and they asked a few more questions before she began to end the interview. "Troy Bolton, I hope you have a wonderful 40th birthday and congrats on the perfect game. I hope you celebrate proudly."

He thanked her as he took two steps before framing my face and kissing me with his dirty face and I laughed as I wrapped him up tightly in my arms. "I love you, so much," he whispered, and I squeezed his neck, "I love you more."

I curled into Troy as we got back late from celebrating his perfect game. Britt offered to stay with the kids until we got back, and it was well worth it. My eyes watched the TV as Troy turned up the volume on the TV as they were replaying tonight's earlier highlights.

"Tonight, on the eve of his 40th birthday, Troy Bolton took the mound in his last season as a major league baseball player. He went out and pitched a game as if it was a normal game and yet…he threw a game that only 28 other people have thrown. He threw a perfect game." Troy squeezed me tighter to him and smiled into my neck, "He had 15 strikeouts and the other 12 outs came via ground ball or fly outs. No threats were posed throughout the entire game as he handled the game with poise."

They showed highlights of his night on the mound, "It begs to differ that he is ready to walk away from this game. After 19 seasons, he hasn't lost his form. He hasn't had a bad season. He's always been the best of the best. He's the prime ace that absolutely everybody wants on their team. A workhorse…Dan…should he retire?" Dan laughed, "He's 40. The big leagues can wear down a person and why wait until you suck to stop playing? Troy Bolton will only ever be known as the best. He proved himself in this league. He literally sits on top of the world in the baseball community. I mean come on..." Dan stopped as he picked up a piece of paper.

"The man has won 3 World Series, he has 4 Cy Youngs and is well on his way to a 5th." He spoked as he continued with his fingers. "He has 4 no-hitters and 3 MVPS." He laughed, "I mean, Troy Bolton is a SHOO in for the hall of fame and his number will be retired in Kansas City. Absolutely nobody should wear number 14 in Kansas City ever again. He gave them 19 seasons of amazing pitching. Not many people commit to one city for that long and damn he changed it there. He's a legend. His name will die with history as a baseball great."

I squeezed his arm and he smiled softly, "You are quite a legend, Mr. Bolton." He laughed as he kissed my ear and then right below it. "I think if Troy Bolton doesn't retire and things fall apart it won't change everything, but I wouldn't even put it to chance. Troy Bolton is leaving on top and his memory will be forever cherished in Kansas City, in the Major League Baseball community, and I don't know Rick…I think he's making a good move. He has a shoulder injury that does need surgery. Who knows if he would be able to pitch the same after that."

"He hinted that his wife is signing a contract on Monday, any ideas where? She was one of the most sought out announcers once he announced his retirement." Dan laughed, "She had offers from just about anywhere. It'll be interesting to see if she lands back here at ESPN."

Troy muted the TV and I rolled over to face him, "Happy Birthday," he laughed and kissed me softly, "I am so glad you were here for that." I hugged him tightly and he kissed me back hard. We celebrated all night long tonight as the morning was already coming and our kids would be bouncing in the bed soon enough. Kissing him again, I pulled back and yawned resting against him. "A perfect game." I whispered quietly, "I still can't believe it."

"Neither can I. I was literally stunned. I knew it was happening in the 6th inning but I didn't think about it too much and then I made it through the 7th inning. I couldn't breathe when I got back to the dugout and Tyler just sat next to me and was making up some serious bullshit on what I should fix." Troy laughed, "I think he was just as fucking nervous, but nobody talked about it. The inning between the 8th and 9th was really, really hard. I wanted to pace but I did my normal thing and fuck…on the mound." He shook his head, "My mind was racing. I couldn't stop thinking about what was happening around me and Tyler knew when it was getting bad because he would come out and talk to me about you guys. It let me breathe again."

I smiled, thankful, that we were able to provide that to Troy. "When it happened, I was stunned. It was more so than the World Series. I was instantly crying because that was the last big thing I wanted. Of course, I want another Cy Young, I want another World Series. I want those things but that Perfect game basically etches me into the history books for life." A smile formed on my lips as I let my chin rest on his chest, "I'm so proud of you."

He smiled brushing his fingers through my hair and I hugged on him, "40…23 of those together." I whispered. Troy brushed his fingers down his skin and I hugged on him tightly. A tiny knock came at the door and Troy glanced over at it. He groaned as that meant one of the kids wanted in. I sat up as I slipped on Troy's t-shirt and wiggled on a pair of shorts while I tossed a pair of shorts at Troy. He pulled them on and I quickly went over to the door as another knock came.

I opened it up to reveal Addy with tears running down her face as she was holding her blanket. "Sweetie," I whispered as I bent to her level and welcomed her into my arms. "I had a bad dream," she whimpered, and I gently picked her up and I took her over to the bed. Troy sat up concerned as I pulled her into bed with us. "What was it about?" I asked her quietly as Troy rolled onto his side and laid with us.

"I got lost and I couldn't find you guys. I was scared." I kissed the top of her head, "Your daddy and I will always know where you are." I told her, and Troy kissed the side of her head. "I love you, Addy Mae." Troy whispered, and she curled up into Troy's strong arms. I understood why all of my kids liked doing that when they were scared because even, he made me safe. He made me feel so safe wrapped up in those big, strong arms.

"Daddy, Aunt Britt said that you pitched really well today." Troy laughed quietly, "Yea, I did." He said, "I had a perfect game." He told her, and she scrunched her eyebrows looking at him. "In baseball, you have to get 27 outs, especially on the road. I pitched to only 27 batters and none of them got on base. I didn't walk anybody, nobody got a hit, and I didn't hit anybody. There wasn't an error made. Nothing. Not one person got on base and only 28 other people have done that. I am the 29th since baseball ever started."

Addy grinned, "That's really cool, daddy." Troy smiled as he hugged her, "Get some more rest, Addy." She nodded as she made herself comfortable. We both made sure she fell back asleep before he caught my eye. "I love you." I told him and he cracked a smile, "I love you, too."

Thursday, July 28th, 2033

Troy's POV

"Troy. Bolton." I laughed with Gary on the other end of the line, "A PERFECT GAME?!" I just laughed harder as I sat in the sitting area of our hotel room. "I know, I know," I told him, "I don't know what the hell I did but I am paying for it today. My shoulder hurts like a bitch today." Gary laughed, "I can't believe it. I was watching, and I wouldn't move from my spot. My wife was yelling at me." I chuckled at him as I took a sip of my coffee.

"Troy…what an amazing accomplishment but I am so proud of you." I smiled down in my lap, "Thanks Gary,"

"Also…Happy Birthday. I can't believe you are 40. You make me feel fucking old." I laughed again and shook my head," You're not old, Gary." He laughed himself this time, "Whatever Bolton," I shook my head as I tilted my head back against the wall. "I wish you could have been there last night for it." I told him, "Me, too," he told me with a sigh, "But the next best thing was my couch. I cursed a lot and I about fucking peed my pants." I laughed as I titled my head forward again.

"Thanks, Gary. For everything."

"No problem, Bolton."

I told him good-bye and I then went down my list to the next person. The only person I talked to last night was my mom and dad. They wouldn't stop calling my phone, but I had the most important people with me last night. I didn't need to talk to anybody else because she was here. My kids were here. I dialed Cody's phone number and he answered on the first ring. He sent me several text messages last night but I didn't respond to anybody. I took it in last night.

The after-party and then my own after-party with my wife. It was a good damn night.

"WHAT THE FUCK BOLTON," I laughed again as I looked over at Gabi and Addy sleeping in bed together. "I'm sorry," I told him, "I just tried to keep it low-key last night and celebrate last night. I took it in. It was a damn good night and I saw your text messages. I just was soaking everything in." I smiled, and Cody laughed, "No problem dude, I just, what the actual fuck." I laughed again, "I don't know man, it was crazy. The whole thing was surreal and crazy."

"I'm glad Gabi and the kids were there." I smiled, "Me, too." Cody laughed, "I was fucking freaking out here. Like, freaking out." I laughed, "Yup, I was too. I cried dude. I was crying." Cody laughed, "I would have cried with you. You've done it all man. You just wrote your entrance into the hall of fame in five years." I smiled with a shake of my head, "Also happy birthday dude, you're officially old as fuck." This time a laugh slipped through my mouth.

"I miss ya dude,"

"Me, too. We need a dude's night soon."

"Agreed."

"I know you probably have other calls to make, I'm just…I'm proud of you dude. A perfect fucking game." I laughed with a nod, "Yea, it was quite a perfect game." I shook my head and I laughed tilting my head back as Cody and I talked for a few more moments. Once we hung up, I knew who my next call was. He was the only other person to send me a thousand text messages. I called him and he quickly answer the phone.

"A perfect game."

"A perfect game," I confirmed.

He laughed, "Dude, I can't believe it. I wish I was there. Fuck." I smiled listening to my younger brother, "I can't wait for you to hit the cycle." Luke laughed from the other end of the phone, "I am so excited for you, Troy. So excited." I bit down on my lip, "I wish you could have been here, but it was a really good night. Gabi and the kids were here. I know I should have talked to everybody last night but I enjoyed my dinner with the kids and then the after party and then then the after after party in my bed." Luke laughed, "I bet it was a good night. I am so damn proud, Troy."

I closed my eyes with happiness and I tried to keep all emotion at bay, but some was slipping through, "I really appreciate that, Luke. I cannot wait to cheer for you." Luke laughed, "Me, too. I think next year will be the year. I am having one hell of a season here."

"I know, your stats have been killer." I told him, "I bet Emily, and everybody was happy." I laughed, "Yea, I had about 200 hundred text messages. 100 of them came from you and Cody alone. Another 50 from Zach and Josh." He laughed on the other end of the phone as I chuckled, "It was a good night. I am trying to call everybody back." Luke chuckled on the other end, "I about shit myself watching you yesterday. The whole clubhouse was watching the last three innings together. It was surreal."

"Tell me about it. I didn't really catch on until the 6th inning when I started replaying the innings and my head like snapped over to the scoreboard and I saw a whole lot of zeros. I was just doing my thing and then I was nervous. I could only think about that and it was nerve wracking. Tyler had to keep telling me to focus on something, anything else than the game on hand. It was a damn good night."

"I can only imagine, also, happy birthday."

"Thanks dude, I appreciate it."

"Any big plans?" I laughed, "Celebrate. My wife and kids are here so it'll be even better. I think we're going to a late brunch soon and then maybe something else in Baltimore. I don't know. We'll see." Luke laughed, "Sounds amazing. I'll see you soon. Tell the kiddos I say hi," I nodded, "Will do. Tell Emerson I say hello." Luke and I bid good-bye as I breathed freely as I hung up the phone. I went over, and I slid into bed with Gabi as I pulled her against me.

Gabi smiled, and I kissed her temple, "Happy birthday, baby." I laughed, "You've said that a few times already." She laughed, and her eyes opened, and I stared into those deep brown eyes, "You're so fucking beautiful," I whispered brushing her dark hair away from her face. She smiled against my touch and I pressed my lips to her as I glanced at our daughter in the bed when the door burst open from the other side. I was getting tackled by two other kids.

"Happy birthday, Daddy!" Logan screeched, and I laughed as Gabi laughed rolling out from underneath of me. Grey bounced on me as I shook my head, "I am so happy that you guys are here," I said squeezing both of them tightly. "Dad, how old are you?" Grey asked as he curled into Gabi's lap. Gabi smiled, "Your daddy is old." She teased, and I rolled my eyes, "In 7 months you'll be the same age." I taunted back. She smiled, "Dad is 40," Logan told Grey and Grey squinted, "Old." He clarified causing both Gabi and I to laugh.

Addy woke up and she smiled, "Addy, it's dad's birthday!" Logan said, and I laughed, Addy grinned, "Happy birthday," she said snuggling into me other side. I kissed the top of her head as it didn't take long for Makenli to join us. All six of us lying in bed together. "You guys know, this is the best thing ever." I told them quietly, my eyes caught Gabi, those brown eyes filled with tears as I grabbed her hand. "Having all five of you here with me? I didn't need last night. I just need this morning." Gabi closed her eyes and I squeezed her hand as the kids all smiled at me.

"I love you guys,"

"I love you too," we bid out from all the kids and I just held onto all of them because this was truly all I needed. My beautiful wife, and my four kids. If I couldn't have them, then I wanted nothing.

HELLO! I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter! It was definitely a fun one to write! Such a fun memory for the Bolton family!

On another note: I am so thankful for your comments on Grey. You guys are right. There is a lack of development with Grey but I think it kind of develops throughout the story. I know there are some scenes in future chapters that are more Grey involved. I also think Grey doesn't have "one" thing he is good at because…he is still trying to find what he wants to be involved in and good at. I think it's hard to make him great in school when he's just entering first grade and he's still testing out different areas of sports. So, that's mostly why he doesn't have one thing. Grey is just the funny go lucky kind of kid! I really do love the discussion though and I do think more about it as I write future chapters. The next several chapters have been written for quite some time so it may be a while before you see more. I really do appreciate it!

Also: people have asked about His Girl the sequel to Coach's Daughter…It will debut the moment it has 10 chapters completed! That way it has a really, really good head start. Especially with me entering nursing school! I have completed 5 chapters and am almost finished with the 6th so not too much more! I'll give you notice before it goes live though!

Thank you for all of the reviews and love! Let me know what you guys thought!

Jo

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