Today was the day the couple left for their next adventure. Kim arrived at the district to get Adam so they could leave. "Hey Platt! How are you doing?" Kim asked as she arrived. "Hello Kim. Im great. You here to grab your husband?" She asked knowing they had plans this weekend. "Yes ma'am. We have a plane to catch." Kim just smiled she was just happy to travel again. "Alright I will buzz you up." Platt let Kim up to the bullpen. She headed up the stairs ready to get Adam moving. "Hey darling! Is it that time already?" Adam was shocked the day had flown by. "Yeah we still have a few minutes but yes. I brought the left overs from the last two days so someone can eat them before they go bad." Kim held up the bag feeling Kevin grabbing for it. They laughed hysterically as Kevin looked through the bag to see what was in it. "Enjoy Kev!" Adam laughed a bit. "Oh trust me I will!" Kevin moved to heat up a bowl of chili.
"Does Jim know we are coming to visit him tomorrow?" Adam asked as he packed up his things. "Um he was told. We talked a bit but his memory is fading pretty quick. He doesn't remember my name. He's been sick again. Had Covid, then Pneumonia. Asking why god hasnt taken him yet. Stating he wont be here for Christmas. He looks awful, almost dead. Im really worried about him. I really wish they could just make the damn decision to stop the suffering. Its beyond frustrating." Kim was stressed for what she was about to see. "Its not your fault. You have tried your best for him. Its time for him to go but they have to make that decision. Not you. We go, we support and then we heal, together." He hugged her tight knowing she was crushed. "Oh I know but it doesnt hurt less. So lets get moving." Kim waved as they headed out. She really just wanted to get there and get that part over with. It would be the hardest part of the trip. Harder than visiting her grandmothers grave.
They would head to the airport in silence. The heaviness in the air strangling the couple. They arrived Adam grabbed the bags from the trunk then pulled her into a hug. "Lets enjoy tonight. Tomorrow we can worry again." He felt her nod taking a deep breath. He saw her pulling it together. He saw her putting her game face on. It took several moments before she was ready to move forward. They entered the airport ready to move forward. They barely had time before they needed to board the plane. It was a short flight so Kim had gotten business class seats for them. An 1 hour and 20 minutes in air wasnt a big enough deal to warrant first class in her mind. They both sat waiting for the flight to take off. Kim pulled some snacks out of her bag for them both. It was between lunch and dinner so she was happy to have a snack to hold her over. Plus it was something to do with her nervous energy.
As they took off Kim closed her eyes, leaning her head back. Adam grabbed her hand holding it tight as the flight reached altitude. When the beverage cart came around they both got drinks. "Are you excited for the game tonight?" He asked as he watched her. "Yeah. Its low key fun. I can eat something somewhat healthy and really bad foods. But Im excited to just be around regular people. Its very family friendly, calmer. Im good with enjoying the low key. Are you?" She asked seeing him nodding along. "Of course. Im happy to enjoy some down time with you. But also experience something new. New with you! Its going to be great. Plus it will be relaxing. We both need that." He hugged her best he could. "I still plan on yelling and cheering but it will be more kid friendly." She smirked a bit. "I'd expect nothing less. And I hope to see some epic rants." They laughed knowing it could get ugly. "I think the best part of all this is that no one knows me. I can just be me. I love it!" Kim smiled wide thinking about it. "Yeah thats a great part of this. Once your promotional deal goes viral next month it will get crazy but for now this is great." He kissed her head.
"Next month will be crazy a bit once it goes live but Im excited for it. Im excited to make the difference. And raise a shit ton of money for a great cause. It will be crazy but I cant wait to get there and get it done. I also know I will need to do more photo shoots which is fine. I think those would be in the studio and the Opera house. Which is important for the brand and for who I am. So its very important you know?" Kim looked over seeing him nodding. "I get it. Would Steven be in those as well?" He had no idea. "No. He may be on stage but the photos would be me only. Im the only one in contract with them. I just need to get the photos done so I dont have to think about it later in the year. I just want to focus on us." She watched him smile at her. "Agree!" He winked.
When they landed the couple moved off the plane luggage on hand. Neither rushing but keeping a good pace. They moved to get a rental car, Kim didnt care what kind what wanted an SUV since she was used to that. They headed out to the car putting both suitcases in the trunk before Kim took to the driver seat. "Ready to head to the game?" Kim asked as sge started the car. "Yeah lets go!" He sat back watching her drive to the ballpark without turning on the GPS. The ballpark was less than 10 miles away so it was an easy ride. They pull into the parking lot after scanning the ticket on his phone. Kim popped open her suitcase grabbing an oversized jersey from her bag. She threw it on leaving it unbuttoned as they moved to the ballpark. They were hand in hand, bumping hips every so often. The energy was fun, the smiles wide as they scanned their tickets and headed for the seats.
"Wow this is different. Much smaller, low key, I like it." He looked around as they walked. "Yeah its a different vibe here but its still fun. Im hungry and I know they have chicken BBQ here as well as pork. So lets head there first." She moved through the crowds. "Sounds good to me. Are you going to get crab fries while we are here?" He pointed to the stand. "Ooh! Yeah it will be cheaper here. Its like 21 at the other ballpark now. Thats too much for fries with cheese." Kim changed directions to grab the fries first. "I agree completely. They are good but not that good. Thats like ordering 2 batches at the actual restaurant." Adam was shocked by that. "Agree. Lets eat then watch the fun." Kim was giddy to eat the fries she loved. Once they were secure they moved to grab the BBQ and drinks. They stood at a ledge eating their food standing close to each other. Before heading to the seats Adam got a slab of bacon on a stick. He was loving it but Kim looked like she could throw up smelling it.
They got to the seats loving the view. They were so close to home plate. They watched as the starting line up was coming out. Kim was cheering loudly with Adams arm around her. He even took a photo sending it to his team. Both had bright smiles but Kim was full on screaming for the players she liked. Adam broke out laughing when she started to boo really hard. "Why do we not like that person?" He asked when she calmed. "Oh he sucks ass! He strictly has a minor league contract and will no longer be brought up to the big leagues. And his number is double zero! Come on really? That says it all!" Kim laughed. Adam was almost cackling at this point. He loved her rants. "So the guy you cheered hard for Clemens? Is that any relation to the major league pitcher?" He asked trying to take an interest. "Yes! Roger was at spring training throwing batting practice. How cool is that?" Kim looked overly excited. "I have to admit that is pretty cool." He was surprised. "Right its crazy cool! Philly is one of those places people flock to. Not just to visit but to play, to support, to return to. Its insane the number of former players that come back for events, charity events, or just to have fun. Its great. Shane Victorino held the door open for me. I was star struck. I couldnt say anything! I still curse myself for not getting his autograph." She huffed and slumped into her seat.
He chuckled holding her tight, kissing her head. "Sounds like an amazing legacy to be a part of. And a reason to be a fan for life." He knew this was so important to her and to her life. Its one of the few places she really let go. They both truly enjoyed the game. It was wholesome, fun but hot as hell out. "Follow me. I want to show you something." Kim had him follow her. "This is the board where they represent all the players that have left here and gone to the big leagues. I think its super cool seeing the new names added every year." Kim saw him looking over all the names. "This is really cool. Showing it can happen and it does happen. I like it. I like this place a lot." They headed back towards their seats stopping to grab some cinnamon sugar glazed cashews. "These are good." He fed her one laughing when she tried to bite his fingers. They loved the down time together. It was a great time even if the team lost.
"Hotel?" He asked as they moved out of the stadium to the car. "Sure. Im ready to crash for the night." Kim snuggled into his side as they walked to the car. They didnt rush, why bother with the traffic. "We can grab a few drinks before we check in." Kim got in the drivers seat and started the drive out of the parking lot. It wasnt too crazy but it was bumper to bumper. It was slow but they were enjoying the company. "You want Waffle House?" Kim asked as they drove by. "Thanks but Im not hungry." He laughed a bit. "Okay to the hotel then!" Kim got on the highway driving towards the hotel. She really just wanted to relax and shower off the airplane smell. The arrived at Wawa to grab snacks and drinks for their room before heading to the hotel. It was the same one she stayed at when Jim was sick. As they checked in Kim was crashing out so Adam led her to the room. It wasnt fancy at all but it worked for the night.
"I would like a shower. I feel like I smell. Tomorrow I will worry about my hair." She looked tired but he understood. "Well lets do that. Then lets crash for the night. You could use it. I see your eyes struggling to stay open." He watched her move to the bathroom. It was a very quick shower before she was out and drying off. She jumped into bed with a shirt on. She was put before either knew it. He laughed softly seeing her so crashed out but this was emotionally draining for her. For them really. He allowed himself to fall asleep with his body wrapped around hers. He awoke the next morning feeling Kim sitting on him. Her hand braced on either side of his head. Her hair forming a curtain around his face. "Well good morning!" She laughed seeing him waking up. "Apparently it is! You seem like you are in a good mood this morning." He watched her nod. "Yeah I slept good and Im ready to get moving." She winked. "What kind of moving are we talking about?" He asked playing along. "Well I think we should have a little fun. Then head out for breakfast." Kim squealed as he flipped them over.
It was rough, hard and ending too quick for the couple but they were happy. "Shower time! You got me feeling dirty!" Adam winked as he led her to the shower. "Well I did shower last night so lets get you clean!" She started the shower before brushing her teeth. The bathroom was small but they made it work. She jumped in letting Adam have the sink. She started with her hair since it hadnt been washed the night before. When heard Adam join her in the shower but kept working on her needs. They switched places so Adam could wash too. Kim kissed his lips before she stepped out. Pulling her hair into a ponytail still wet. She knew it was hot out so my bother. She was getting dressed while Adam was stepping out to dry off. They made quick work of the day knowing it would soon be crazy. "We ready to head out?" Kim asked looking around the room. "Yeah we didnt unpack so we are good to go." Adam grabbed the suitcases and headed for the door. "Perfect! Im hungry." Kim whined as they headed to the car.
They arrived at Wawa grabbing breakfast sandwiches, coffee and donuts before they headed over to visit Jim. "Have you been to this place before?" He asked watching her. "No so it should be interesting. I heard it is very hospital like and hes sharing a room. And it apparently smells like a hospital. So not looking forward to that at all." Kim cringed as she turned on the GPS. "Well that sucks but remember why we are doing this. Nothing else matters." He squeezed her knee lightly as they drove. It was a pretty quick ride less than 10 minutes before they arrived. Kim parked the car, getting out slowly. She was scared of what she would see. "I got you. Lets do this." He hugged her tight. Still holding her close as they walked in. They signed in and found out where to go. Kim grabbed Adams hand holding on tight as they moved to his room.
"Just see how he is doing. He's in a good place, with good help. He is safe here." Adam watched her nod. They walked into the room seeing his neighbor had visitors. Jim was hunched over drooling on his blanket. "Hey sunshine. How are you doing?" Kim asked moving a chair closer to Jim. He lifted his head enough that he could see her. "Hey." Was all he said. "How are you feeling?" Kim asked looking him over. She watched as he moved his hand in a so so motion. "Did you eat today?" Kim asked. He again made the hand movement. "What can I do for you?" Kim asked. "Nothing." He whispered. "Why am I still here? Why hasnt god taken me yet?" He asked still looking at the ground. "I dont know. I really dont." Kim watched him. She could feel Adams hand on her back. They sat there for awhile in silence.
"Im played out." He whispered shocking both Kim and Adam. "Im sorry what?" Kim asked for him to repeat it. "Im played out, on my way out." He stated again. Kim looked back at Adam with fear in her eyes. "Do you want me to get the nurse?" Kim asked urgently. "No!" He was struggling a bit. Kim could see that clearly. "What can I do?" Kim asked scared. "I want cold water!" He leaned back looking uncomfortable and struggling. "I will get you some thickened water. Be right back." Kim headed out to grab the water. When she returned she saw Jim hunched over again. "Here its not cold but its water." Kim handed him the glass of water. She watched him drink the water before handing her the cup. "Its not cold." He looked at her. "I know but you cant have ice. You have to have the thickened liquid. Im sorry." Kim shrugged a bit.
They waited a bit with him watching him take his socks off. Kim gasped softly. Jims feet red and purple, his legs skin and bones. Adam was behind Kim the whole time. A nurse came by a bit later. "Are you family?" The nurse asked. "Not biologically but yes." Kim wasnt pulling punches. "Well I want you to know that the doctor was here a bit ago. Jim is down to 105 pounds and losing weight rapidly. We have talked about palliative care but at this point hospice is the only option left. Its beyond time. He maybe has a few months left. I wish I had better news. Im so sorry." The nurse checked his vitals, shaking her head as she left. Kim turned to Adam grabbing him pulling her into his chest. She sobbed into his chest. They knew this was coming but it didnt hurt anyless. They stayed watching Jim sleep a bit longer before they headed out again. Kim whispered I love you before they left. Her heart broken.
"How about I drive to the next stop?" Adam offered knowng Kim was struggling. "Yeah thats fine." Kim nodded looking out the window as they drove to the cemetery. Kim watched the scenery go by. She saw the cemetery on the right as they pulled up. "I have the map with the tombstone labeled. So we can find it easier." He parked close by and parked the car. He opened the door for her helping her out of the car. They walked towards the tombstones looking for the right one. Adam's arm around her the whole time. "Look its right there. What do you want to do, say?" He asked her. "I dont even know." Kim sat down looking at the grave. "I feel like this is strange. This is literally a stranger but hes literally family." Kim looked back seeing Adam watching her. "Maybe just introduce yourself." Adam wasnt sure either but it seemed right. "Okay well. So its nice to meet you Thomas. Surprise we are family. Your father was my grandfathers brother. Im Kim, I live in Chicago where Im a professional dancer. Im estranged from my whole family so biologically you are all I have. Its so strange I have driven past this exit so many times and never knew you were here. But Im happy I found you. I promise to visit more often. Take care." Kim got up and started to walk back to the car. Adam followed behind her, closely just in case.
"Whats the next stop?" He asked hoping to make her smiling thinking about something other than dread. "Oh yes let me type in to the GPS. Its still hard for me to get there." Kim shrugged a bit. "What are we getting at this next stop?" He asked knowing she was crushed. "So the next stop has the 100 year old recipe for tomato pie. A small is 8 pieces and only 5. Plus Sant Tarts which are really thin sugar cookies with colored sugar on top. And maybe a sandwich to share." Kim smiled a bit. "Sounds good to me. Cant wait to see you eat this tomato pie in person. And of course cant wait to try it." He was smiling watching her happy to eat more food. "So be honest. Is it always this freaking out here?" It was around 1pm and close to 90 already. "Yeah pretty much. The east coast is crazy for summer heat. The further south you go the hotter it gets. But this is why I normally spend all May and part of June going to pools and beaches. I do love the hot weather." Kim smiled wide. "Sounds crazy. Im not used to this heat and humidity. Its insane!" Adam was thankful for the AC in the car blasting cold air all over the car.
"Yeah it was hard adjusting when I got back to the US but I got my Southern blood back quickly. I feel like I need it to survive. Well that and the water. Being at the ocean is healing, even the bay is healing. I promise you will love it." Kim winked. "I cant wait to see it. I love that we are doing these things together. Its awesome." He reached out for Kims hand. They rode the next hour jamming out to the radio. As they got closer to the next stop Kim started to salivate. Adam was chuckling a bit. "Ready to get this tomato pie?" He asked as they pulled in. "Hell yeah! I promise its so good!" Kim jumped out heading in knowing exactly where it was. Adam followed her loving this side of her. "I will order the sandwich while you shop for the other things you want." He kissed her forehead knowing what she would eat but also letting her shop for goodies. After he ordered the sandwich he found her with the tomato pie, cookies, drinks and a shirt. "Looks like you found some goodies." He smiled seeing her so happy. "Of course. Nothing but the best here!" She laughed heading to check out. Adam paid for everything and then waited for the sandwich.
They heard his name called so he grabbed the sandwich and they headed outside. They found a spot in the shade to eat so they sat ready to eat. "Okay Im going to start a video while you try the pie!" Kim was giddy so Adam just went with it. He opened the box checking it out. He grabbed a piece knowing he was on video. He took a bite slowly letting the flavors hit his taste buds. "My god this is really good! Its so simple but amazing!" He took another bite while Kim took a piece for herself. He took several photos of her eating. Her dreamy smile as she ate was beyond adorable. "Lets try this sandwich. Its huge and I ordered the small." Adam shook his head a bit opening the sandwich. He handed her half of it as they continued to sit in the shade. It was nice just being a normal couple. When the sandwich was finished the couple headed back to the car. "Should we stop at the zoo on the way?" Kim suggested. "Yeah sounds good. I could use some movement." He saw her typing it in to the GPS. She knew how to get there but Adam was driving at the moment so she gave him the help.
"Its the first zoo right?" Adam asked. "Yeah. And they made a ton of upgrades that make it so much cooler. You will see. Im excited to see the lions and tigers. And the otters!" Kim was excited to walk around again. She loved being outside and getting exercise. Just about 30 minutes later they arrived at the zoo. They parked in the garage and headed down to the main zoo. "Oh wow I love these old buildings in the front." Adam looked around checking out the surroundings. "I know! I love it!" Kim hugged him tight as they walked into the zoo. They bought the tickets and paid for parking heading to the gates. "Whats first?" He asked looking around. "Some monkeys." Kim shrugged as they moved to see them. "Oh wow this is an area where we could get hit with monkey poo! Lets be careful!" Adam laughed looking around watching them swinging around. They headed through the exotic animals before they headed to the emu. "Whats the trailway above us?" Adam asked pointed up.
"Trailway 360. It allows animals to move around more freely. They have sections where even the tigers can be up there. Its really the coolest thing." Kim was still walking looking at the turtles. "I love that! Allows them to be more free but still contained." Adam watched the turtles moving around. He noticed a sign that showed how old each turtle was. He was amazed that most were over 100 years old. Kim grew bored and wanted to see the lions and tigers. They were her favorite. Adam was looking around as they walked. He could see Kim getting more excited. He knew they had to be close. They both heard a roar fairly loud. They both looked up to see a lion in the trailway over head. Kim was smiling wide looking at the lion. "Thats awesome! I love that! Lets go see more." Adam moved them in to the Big Cat Country area.
They saw more lions right away. Kim staring at them watching them play a bit. She moved them closer to where the cubs were playing. "I came here with Justin when they were first born." Kim looked over to see Adam smiling at her. "Thats awesome. You want to move on?" He watched her nod and them moved on to see the snow leopard's, the pumas and the tigers. "The enclosures are huge. Yeah the animals are caged but have plenty of room to move and play. And its really nice for the humans too. All the shaded areas, all the concession stands, the stuff for the kids. Its been great." He loved the zoo. "And there is a beer garden!" Kim smiled as they walked around more. "Well lets keep moving in that direction. I could use a cold drink." He scooped her up to hug her but move her in the right direction. They saw more animals as they walked before stopping at the beer garden. They each got a drink before they moved on.
Kim was excited to see the cheetas but the otters caused pure joy to break out. They were up and down the slide and playing in the pool. They were having a great time and Kim was loving watching them. Adam wrapped his arms around her resting his head on her shoulder as they watched the otters. But they couldnt stay still too long since they had places to be. They kept moving past the hippopotamus, rhinoceros, giraffes, zebra and penguin. They loved it. It was more about being outside and together than the actual zoo but they enjoyed it all the same. "I think we have to get moving. We have to check in to the hotel before the game." Kim sighed and pouted a bit. "Sounds good. Lets start walking to the car." They walked bumping into each other as they walked. From the parking garage to the hotel was a short ride milage wise but it was a lot of traffic. Kim did point out the Rocky Statue as she drove by. Once at the hotel they left the car out front since they werent staying long. "Wow this hotel looks crazy expensive darling." Adam was looking around a bit. "During the week yes, but the weekends are cheap. It was under 200 for the night." Kim shrugged a bit knowing it wasnt bad.
"Thats not bad. Alright lets get this moving." Adam wanted to move again. They checked in and headed to the 21st floor. In the room they dropped the suitcases, checked out the view, used the bathroom and back out again. They arrived outside the stadium at just about 6pm. Kim was buzzing with excitement. Adam was highly amused watching her. They got inside walking around a bit checking out all the options for food. Adam found food easily, he always did. Kim wanted a crab cake which meant they needed to head upstairs. They didnt have to wait long since they were early for the game. Once she got her sandwich they moved to a table to sit and eat inside the air conditioning. The couple enjoyed the time together. Kim was looking all over checking out the people walking by.
"Ready to head to the seats?" Adam asked holding her hand. "Yeah. Im excited but akso bummed that my dream of watching Cole again will never come true." She pouted a bit. "Kim Im sorry but his career is over. He cant hack it anymore. But you are allowed to be sad. Come on." He wrapped his arm around her shoulders pulling her close as they walked to the seats. The couple took photos as they waited for the ceremony to start. When it started Kim was excited but also sad. Adam just held her close as speeches were made. Once Cole made his way to the podium Kim stood up cheering. As were all the other 45,000 fans. When the fans settled he started to speak. Kim was in tears as it continued. Adam couldnt help but take a photo of her tears on her cheeks. He thought she was adorable. When it ended everyone was back on their feet cheering as the retirement was made offical. Kim was still in tears so Adam just held her letting her feel her emotions.
He had a feeling that part of the tears was about Jim. Not just the retirement of her favorite player. "We came here for my birthday a few years back. We got a suite. It was 2021 so we could only have 6 people in the suite with Covid rules. Anyway Jim was one of those people that came to the game. We took a limo, it was a really late night but it was so much fun. He had such a great time. Hes a yankees fan but he was still cheering for Philly with us. Otvwas such a great day and so ridiculously fun." She stared at the field as she spoke. "Sounds like a ton of fun. And sounds like a great memory to have of your time with him. Just keep remembering those times. It wont get easier unfortunately but its good to remember the good times." He kissed the side of her head. "I know. Its just hard saying goodbye. Especially someone who I consider family. I honestly think I love him more than my own family. Maybe thats just because its in the current time frame but it feels crazy strong." She watched him nod like he was understanding her.
"You want to wash up a bit?" He wondered how she felt about her tear stained cheeks. "Yeah give me a few minutes." Kim moved to the bathroom to wash up. She returned with popcorn and tastycakes. "Yummy! Wait can you eat that?" Adam looked seeing peanut butter. "For whatever reason these dont bother me. I can actually eat organic peanut butter since it doesn't have all the junk in it." Kim shrugged a bit unsure which chemical she was actually allergic to. "Interesting. Well lets just enjoy tonight." He kissed her softly before returning to watch the game. While the couple was having fun Kims team didnt win. She was upset but she kept her head up. "So I was told when they lose Im supposed to get you ice cream. So where are we going for that?" Adam asked smiling at her surprise. "Franklin Fountain. Its open late, super old school soda fountain looking. Cash only, long lines during the summer months." Adam smiled taking her hand as they headed out.
They headed to the car and started the drive to the ice cream place. It wasnt a long ride but finding parking wasnt easy. They finally parked and walked to get ice cream. The line wasnt too bad since it was late. The couple shared a mint chocolate sundae, sitting outside. "Is that a chocolate shop?" Adam pointed. "Yeah its the same owners of the ice cream shop. We can go there next. Its still open apparently." Kim looked over wanting go in. As soon as they finished the ice cream they headed into chocolate shop. Neither really needed anything but it was still fun to look around. They both looked at a few small pieces to try. They paid for the pieces and headed to the car again. It had been a long day so they were ready to head back to the hotel to sleep. They dropped off the car in valet and headed across the street to 7-11 to get a few drinks. It was much cheaper than the hotel shop which was also closed for the day. "Ready for bed?" Adam asked. "Yeah Im ready for bed time with you." She winked as she headed back towards the hotel. "Well lets go then." He was rushing her to get back to their room.
As they reentered their room Adam placed the drinks down on the counter top. They each took a drink and grabbed their chocolate pieces to try as they settled on to the couch. The couple fed each other bites of chocolate as they cuddled together. "It felt like a roller coaster today. Right now feels like a lull. Nothing overwhelming in either direction." Kim sighed looking out the floor to ceiling windows. "That doesnt surprise me at all. It has been a roller coaster today. Thats kind of normal with what you were told this morning. It would actually concern me if you didnt feel that way. So how about tonight we just sleep and tomorrow we can start again." He watched her smile softly but nodded. "Thank you!" She kissed him on his lips before heading to the bathroom. When she returned he was undressed in the bed waiting for her. "Rest tonight my love." He kissed her on her forehead letting her snuggle into his body. "Night baby. Love you." Kim kissed his chest as she drifted off. He waited till she was sound asleep before he let himself fall asleep.
They were both drained from the days events. But tomorrow the fun would really begin. And he couldnt wait.